How to Change Registered Agent in Florida – A Complete Guide


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Change registered agent in Florida

Change Registered Agent in Florida: A registered agent in Florida is a point of contact between your LLC and the state. You must appoint a Registered Agent when you form an LLC in Florida. At any point in time, you might need to replace/change your Registered Agent in Florida. When it comes to changing the registered agent in Florida, it is a straightforward method. To change your Registered Agent in Florida, one has to submit the statement of change of the Registered Agent. It can be filed online or by mail.

In this article, you will learn how to change registered agent in Florida. Also, you will get to learn when and why you have to change your Registered Agent, appointed for your Florida LLC.

What is Registered Agent in Florida

The Florida Registered Agent, appointed by the limited liability company, is a person who receives all the legal documents on your company’s behalf. To become a registered agent in Florida, one must meet the following requirements,

  1. The person must be or above 18 years old
  2. The person has to be a permanent resident of Florida
  3. The person should have a legal permit to conduct business in Florida
  4. The person must be available during business hours at the designated office address in Florida

You can also be your own registered agent in Florida. However, it is not wise to be your own agent as it can divert your attention from the core of your business.

How to Change a Registered Agent in Florida

To change the Registered Agent in Florida, one has to file the statement of change of the registered agent. You must pay the filing fee of $25 to complete your application. To file for the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Office Address with the Florida Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

To file the statement of change of registered agent in Florida online, you must search for the appropriate online form. You can file your change of Registered Agent statement online if the online form is available through the Secretary of State. Follow the below-given instructions:

  • Visit the Florida Secretary of State’s official website
  • Log in to the portal using your credentials.
  • You will find the ‘Update’ option in your dashboard if the online update option is available.
  • Click on the ‘update’ option to find the ‘registration’ option.
  • You will get an online form (or in PDF format)
  • Fill out the form (or download it on your PC, then fill it out) with the old and new registered agent’s details.
  • Submit (or upload) the completed form to the portal.
  • In the next section, you will get payment details (if applicable) and pay the fees using a credit card.

Your online updation is done! It takes some time to update the details on the portal. Once it is updated, your new registered agent can start conducting business on your behalf.

Filing Through Mail or In-person

If you want to file the statement of change of registered agent via mail or in person (if available), then you should follow the rules. For in-person or mail filings, you need to download the Florida Statement of Change of Registered Agent (PDF) from the official website of the Florida Secretary of State. Complete the form by filling in all the information about the LLC and both (new and existing) registered agents. The form has to be signed by the new registered agent. This will provide the consent of the new agent. Once completed, submit it to the below-mentioned address:

Important LinksSubmit Offline Form
Change of Registered Agent – Online
Florida Statement of Change of Registered Agent – PDF
Florida Registered Agent – Requirement		New Filing Section, Division of Corporations, P.O. Box 6327, Tallahassee, FL 32314

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the Florida registered agent is $25. This fee will be paid to the Florida Secretary of State by check or credit card.

If you hire a Registered Agent service, filing the Statement of Change would be much easier. Also, the registered agent will help you with the consent letter the new registered agent has to sign. LLCBuddy editorial team suggests a list of the best LLC services that offer registered agent services. Some of them offer standalone registered agent services.

Recommended: You can get the best registered agent service at a reasonable price with online LLC service providers. We recommend using –

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LegalZoom Registered Agent – $299 Per Year

Registered Agent Consent Letter in Florida

The registered Agent’s Consent letter is a document that a new registered agent must submit along with the formation document. It is a statement that the agent submits upon agreeing to work with the LLC. When you change the Registered Agent, you must also submit the consent letter signed by the new agent. In many states, submitting the Change of Registered Agent form does the job; sending any additional consent document to the SOS is unnecessary. However, there are many states where you must submit the consent letter separately and pay a certain fee (if applicable). This consent must include the following details-

  • LLC name
  • A letter that says the person gives consent to serve the LLC as a registered agent
  • The execution date
  • Name of the registered agent
  • Signature of the registered agent

In Florida, there is no separate document. The newly appointed registered agent must sign the Acceptance of Appointment in the Change of Registered Agent form. The previous agent has to resign by submitting the Letter of Resignation. You must get the Change of Registered Agent Form, fill it out, and submit it to the SOS. The agent must sign the form or self-attest. It is proof that the new Registered Agent has given the nod to provide their services to the LLC. An additional filing fee (or expedited fee) might be charged. Check Florida Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Florida

There can be several reasons why LLCs want to change their registered agent in Florida. Some of the main and most important reasons are listed below,

Be Your Own Registered Agent

A very common reason is that if anyone wants to be his/her own registered agent. Any LLC owner can be the registered agent himself/herself as per the Florida Secretary of State. So, you may want to change the registered agent and become one yourself for your LLC. In that case, you must submit the change form with your details.

Want to Hire a Professional Registered Agent

You may have designated yourself or someone from the family as the registered agent for your LLC in the initial phase. But with expansion in business, your roles and responsibilities also expand. You may not be present at the office during working hours. And a registered agent is required to be available in the office. So, you must hire a registered agent who could replace you.

Existing Registered Agent Resigns

If your current registered agent resigns or your service provider is out of business, you can change your Registered Agent in Florida. You must change the registered agent if the existing one resigns or is out of service.

Forming foreign LLC

This is to be noted that a person is eligible to be a Florida Registered Agent only if they are the Florida resident. So, if you are forming a foreign LLC in Florida, you might need to change your registered agent because not all registered agents are eligible to work in different states.

FAQs

What is a registered agent in Florida?
A registered agent is a person or entity that is designated to receive legal documents and official communications on behalf of a business entity in Florida.
Can I change my registered agent in Florida?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Florida at any time by filing the necessary paperwork.
Why would I need to change my registered agent in Florida?
There are many reasons why a business entity might want to change its registered agent in Florida, such as if the current agent is not fulfilling their duties or if the business is moving to a new location.
How do I change my registered agent in Florida?
To change your registered agent in Florida, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Florida Division of Corporations.
What is the cost to change registered agent in Florida?
The fee to change your registered agent in Florida is $25.
Can I serve as my own registered agent in Florida?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent in Florida if you are a resident of the state and have a physical address in Florida that can be used as the registered office address for the business.
What are the requirements for a registered agent in Florida?
A registered agent in Florida must be a resident of the state or a corporation that is authorized to do business in Florida and has a physical address in the state.
How long does it take to change registered agent in Florida?
The processing time for changing your registered agent in Florida depends on the method of filing and the current workload of the Florida Division of Corporations.
Can I change my registered agent and registered office address at the same time in Florida?
Yes, you can change your registered agent and registered office address at the same time by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Florida Division of Corporations.
Can I change my registered agent in Florida online?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Florida online through the Florida Division of Corporations website.
Is a registered agent required for all types of business entities in Florida?
Yes, all types of business entities in Florida, including corporations, LLCs, and partnerships, are required to have a registered agent in the state.
What happens if I don’t have a registered agent in Florida?
If your business does not have a registered agent in Florida, you may lose your right to receive important legal notices and risk being held in default in court.
How do I know if my registered agent in Florida is up to date?
You can check the status of your registered agent in Florida by searching the Florida Division of Corporations’ database.
Can I change my registered agent in Florida myself or do I need a lawyer?
You can change your registered agent in Florida yourself, without the help of a lawyer.
Can I file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form in person in Florida?
Yes, you can file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form in person at the Florida Division of Corporations’ office in Tallahassee, Florida.
Can a PO box be used as a registered office address in Florida?
No, a PO box cannot be used as a registered office address in Florida. The registered office address must be a physical street address.
Is a registered agent the same as a statutory agent in Florida?
Yes, a registered agent is also known as a statutory agent in Florida.
Can I change my registered agent and keep my current registered office address in Florida?
Yes, you can change your registered agent and keep your current registered office address in Florida.
Can I change my registered agent for all my business entities at the same time in Florida?
No, you must file a separate Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form for each business entity you wish to change the registered agent for in Florida.
How many registered agents can a business entity have in Florida?
A business entity in Florida can have one or more registered agents.
Can I change my registered agent immediately and receive confirmation on the same day in Florida?
No, the Florida Division of Corporations typically takes several business days to process a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form.
Can I change the registered agent for a foreign entity in Florida?
Yes, you can change the registered agent for a foreign entity doing business in Florida by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office form with the Florida Division of Corporations.
Is a registered agent responsible for the actions of a business entity in Florida?
No, a registered agent is not responsible for the actions or finances of a business entity in Florida.
Can I appoint a family member as my registered agent in Florida?
Yes, you can appoint a family member as your registered agent in Florida if they meet the requirements.
Can a registered agent be listed at a virtual office in Florida?
Yes, a registered agent can be listed at a virtual office in Florida if it is a physical address that can receive legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of the business entity.
Can a business entity change its registered agent more than once in Florida?
Yes, a business entity can change its registered agent multiple times in Florida.
How long is a registered agent’s term in Florida?
A registered agent’s term in Florida is for the duration of the business entity’s existence, unless the agent resigns or is removed.
Can I change my registered agent and registered office address to another state in Florida?
No, you cannot change your registered agent and registered office address to another state in Florida. The registered office address and registered agent must be located in the state of Florida.
Why do I need to change my registered agent in Florida?
You may need to change your registered agent if your current one is retiring or becomes unavailable, or if you want to switch to a better service provider.
How do I notify the state of Florida that I want to change my registered agent?
You must file a Notice of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office with the Florida Secretary of State.
What information do I need to provide when changing my registered agent in Florida?
You will need to provide the name and address of your new registered agent and the effective date of the change.
Can a registered agent in Florida be a lawyer?
Yes, but the registered agent must have a physical street address in Florida, and P.O. boxes are not allowed.
Can I change my registered agent online in Florida?
No, you cannot change your registered agent online in Florida. You must file the necessary paperwork by mail or in person.
How much does it cost to change a registered agent in Florida?
The filing fee for changing a registered agent in Florida is $35.
How long does it take to change a registered agent in Florida?
It typically takes a few days to a few weeks for the change to take effect once you have filed the necessary paperwork.
Do I need to notify my old registered agent in Florida when I change to a new one?
Yes, you should notify your old registered agent in writing that they have been replaced.
Do I need to inform my business partners or customers when I change my registered agent in Florida?
No, you do not need to notify your business partners or customers, but you should update your business records to reflect the change.
Can I change my registered agent in Florida at any time?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Florida at any time by filing the necessary paperwork with the state.
Can my new registered agent change my business’s physical address in Florida?
No, changing the physical address of your business requires a separate filing and approval with the state.
After changing my registered agent in Florida, do I need to obtain a new EIN from the IRS?
No, you can continue to use your existing EIN after changing your registered agent in Florida.
Can I hire any registered agent in Florida?
No, your registered agent must be a legal resident of Florida or a Florida-based entity authorized to do business there.
Can I appoint an individual or entity to serve as a backup registered agent in Florida?
Yes, you can appoint a backup registered agent in Florida in case your primary agent becomes unavailable.
What is the role of a registered agent in Florida?
The registered agent is responsible for receiving legal and official documents on behalf of the business entity and ensuring they are communicated promptly.
Can my registered agent in Florida refuse to accept service of process?
No, your registered agent cannot legally refuse to accept service of process in Florida.
Is there a governing body that oversees registered agents in Florida?
No, there is no governing body specifically for registered agents in Florida.
Can my registered agent change my business’s name in Florida?
No, changing your business’s name in Florida requires a separate filing and approval process with the state.
Will changing my registered agent affect my standing with the state of Florida?
No, changing your registered agent will not affect your standing with the state as long as you pay the required filing fee.
Do I need to provide a reason for changing my registered agent in Florida?
No, you do not need to provide a reason for changing your registered agent in Florida.
Can I change my registered agent to a foreign entity or an out-of-state agent?
No, your registered agent in Florida must be a Florida-based entity.
What happens if I don’t change my registered agent in Florida when necessary?
Failure to maintain a registered agent in Florida can result in negative consequences, including loss of good standing, regulatory fines or penalties, or legal problems.
Can I change my registered agent for free in Florida?
No, you must pay a $35 filing fee to change your registered agent in Florida.
Can a business entity be its own registered agent in Florida?
Yes, a business entity can serve as its own registered agent in Florida.
Can I use a registered agent service company to change my registered agent in Florida?
Yes, you can use a registered agent service company to change your registered agent in Florida.
Do I need to provide a mailing address for my registered agent in Florida?
Yes, you must provide a physical street address for your registered agent that is open during normal business hours.

Also Read

Why Change Registered Agent in Florida is So Important

One of the primary reasons why changing your registered agent in Florida is so important is to ensure that you have reliable and efficient communication with the state government. Your registered agent is the designated contact person for your business in case the state needs to reach out to you for any reason. This could include receiving important legal documents such as notices of lawsuits or tax forms, as well as any official correspondence from regulatory agencies. Having a registered agent who is responsive and reliable can help ensure that you never miss important deadlines or appointments.

Another important reason to consider changing your registered agent is to protect your privacy and maintain confidentiality. In Florida, your registered agent’s name and address are publicly available information that is easily accessible to anyone who knows where to look. If you value your privacy and want to avoid having your personal information readily available online, changing your registered agent to a professional service can help keep your personal details off public record.

Furthermore, changing your registered agent can also be a strategic business decision that allows you to improve the efficiency and professionalism of your business operations. Professional registered agent services typically offer additional benefits beyond just serving as a go-between with the state. They often provide services such as document storage, mail forwarding, and compliance management tools that can help streamline your business processes and ensure that you stay on top of your legal obligations.

Lastly, changing your registered agent can also be a financial decision that can help you save money in the long run. Professional registered agent services often charge a nominal fee for their services, which can be well worth the investment when you consider the time and resources that they can save you in the long run. Additionally, having a professional registered agent can also help you avoid potential legal pitfalls or penalties that could arise from failing to meet your obligations under Florida law.

Overall, while changing your registered agent in Florida may seem like a minor task, it is actually a decision that can have far-reaching implications for your business. Whether you are looking to improve communication with the state, protect your privacy, streamline your operations, or save money, changing your registered agent is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. By choosing a reliable and professional registered agent service, you can help ensure that your business stays compliant and well-positioned for success in the future.

In Conclusion

During your business, you may arrive at a point where you need to change the registered agent. The need may arise when the existing agent wants to quit, or you are terminating the existing agent or expanding your business. Changing the Florida registered agent can be necessary in various situations. It is quite simple as it can be done online and through mail filing. This article has it all. If you have any queries about changing a registered agent, you can drop a comment below in the box.

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