How to Change Registered Agent in Tennessee – 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 Tennessee

Change Registered Agent in Tennessee: A registered agent in Tennessee is a point of contact between your LLC and the state. You must appoint a Registered Agent when you form an LLC in Tennessee. At any point in time, you might need to replace/change your Registered Agent in Tennessee. When it comes to changing the registered agent in Tennessee, it is a straightforward method. To change your Registered Agent in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee. Also, you will get to learn when and why you have to change your Registered Agent, appointed for your Tennessee LLC.

What is Registered Agent in Tennessee

The Tennessee 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 Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
  3. The person should have a legal permit to conduct business in Tennessee
  4. The person must be available during business hours at the designated office address in Tennessee

You can also be your own registered agent in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee

To change the Registered Agent in Tennessee, one has to file the statement of change of the registered agent. You must pay the filing fee of $20 to complete your application. To file for the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Office Address with the Tennessee Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

To file the statement of change of registered agent in Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee Statement of Change of Registered Agent (PDF) from the official website of the Tennessee 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
Tennessee Statement of Change of Registered Agent – PDF
Tennessee Registered Agent – Requirement		Corporate Filings, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 6th Floor, William R. Snodgrass Tower, Nashville, Tennessee 37243

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the Tennessee registered agent is $20. This fee will be paid to the Tennessee 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 Tennessee

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 Tennessee, there is no separate Consent Letter to be produced to the Secretary of State. You must get the Statement of 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 Tennessee Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Tennessee

There can be several reasons why LLCs want to change their registered agent in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee. 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 Tennessee Registered Agent only if they are the Tennessee resident. So, if you are forming a foreign LLC in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a registered agent is a person or business entity designated to receive important legal documents and state communiqués on behalf of a company or corporation.
Why would I need to change my registered agent in Tennessee?
You may want to change your registered agent in Tennessee if the current agent can no longer provide those services, is moving out of the state, or if you want to work with a different agent for some reason.
Is it possible for me to be my own registered agent in Tennessee?
Yes, it is possible for you to be your own registered agent in Tennessee as long as you meet the state requirements.
Can I use my attorney as my registered agent in Tennessee?
Yes, you can use your attorney as your registered agent in Tennessee, provided that they are willing to take that responsibility.
How do I change my registered agent in Tennessee?
To change your registered agent in Tennessee, you must file a Change of or Resignation of Registered Agent/Registered Office form with the Secretary of State.
How much does it cost to change registered agent in Tennessee?
The fee for changing registered agent in Tennessee is $20.
Is there a specific time period for me to change my registered agent in Tennessee?
No, there is no specific time period for changing registered agent in Tennessee, but it is recommended to do it as soon as possible when you know that this change needs to be made.
Can I change my registered agent myself in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change your registered agent yourself in Tennessee by filing a Change of or Resignation of Registered Agent/Registered Office form with the Secretary of State.
Are there any restrictions on who can become a registered agent in Tennessee?
Yes, the registered agent must be a resident of Tennessee or a corporation authorized to do business in the state of Tennessee.
How long does it take to change my registered agent in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, it typically takes 2-5 business days to change your registered agent.
Do I need to notify my old registered agent when I change to a new registered agent in Tennessee?
No, you do not need to notify your old registered agent when you change to a new registered agent in Tennessee.
Do I need to have a physical address in Tennessee to have a registered agent in the state?
Yes, you need to have a physical address in Tennessee to have a registered agent in the state.
What happens to any of my current legal documents if I change my registered agent in Tennessee?
Any legal documents that were previously sent to the old registered agent in Tennessee will be forwarded to your new registered agent.
Can I have more than one registered agent in Tennessee?
No, you can only have one registered agent per business in Tennessee.
Do I need to notify the Tennessee Secretary of State before changing my registered agent?
Yes, you need to file a Change of or Resignation of Registered Agent/Registered Office form with the Secretary of State in Tennessee.
What information do I need to provide on the Change of or Resignation of Registered Agent/Registered Office form in Tennessee?
The information required on the form includes the name and address of the new registered agent, the effective date of the change, and the signature of an authorized officer of the company confirming the change.
Is it possible for me to change my registered agent and registered office address in Tennessee at the same time?
Yes, you can change your registered agent and registered office address in Tennessee at the same time on the Change of or Resignation of Registered Agent/Registered Office form.
Can I change my registered agent when I form a new business in Tennessee?
Yes, you can choose a new registered agent when you form a new business in Tennessee.
What happens if I don’t change my registered agent in Tennessee?
If you don’t change your registered agent in Tennessee and the legal documents cannot be served, the Secretary of State will consider the business ‘inactive’.
When is the best time to change my registered agent in Tennessee?
It is best to change your registered agent in Tennessee when the new agent is ready to take over the responsibility.
Do registered agents in Tennessee renew their services?
Yes, registered agents in Tennessee renew their services annually.
Can I change my registered agent and registered office address to a PO Box address in Tennessee?
No, you cannot change your registered agent or registered office address to a PO Box address in Tennessee.
Can I file a Change of or Resignation of Registered Agent/Registered Office form in Tennessee online?
Yes, you can file the Change of or Resignation of Registered Agent/Registered Office form in Tennessee online through the Secretary of State’s website.
Can I change my registered agent without the company’s consent in Tennessee?
No, you cannot change your registered agent without the company’s consent in Tennessee.
Does Tennessee require my registered agent to have a physical office in the state?
Yes, Tennessee requires your registered agent to have a physical office in the state.
Can lawyers be registered agents for Tennessee businesses?
Yes, lawyers in Tennessee can be registered agents for Tennessee businesses.
Can I change my registered agent as part of a company merger or acquisition in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change your registered agent as part of a merger or acquisition in Tennessee.
Do Tennessee registered agents have to provide document storage services?
No, Tennessee registered agents are not required to provide document storage services.
Can I change my registered agent in Tennessee from another state?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Tennessee from another state. You just need to choose a resident or organization in the state of Tennessee to serve as your new registered agent.
What information do I need to provide on the change of registered agent form in Tennessee?
You need to provide the name and contact information of the new registered agent, as well as the name and contact information of the old registered agent.
Is there a fee to change my registered agent in Tennessee?
Yes, there is a fee of $20 to file a change of registered agent form in Tennessee.
How long does it take to process a change of registered agent in Tennessee?
Processing times vary, but it usually takes the Secretary of State’s office about 7-10 business days to process the form.
Can I change my registered agent online in Tennessee?
No, you cannot change your registered agent online in Tennessee. You must file a paper form.
Can I fax my change of registered agent form to the Secretary of State in Tennessee?
No, you must mail the form to the Secretary of State’s office.
Can I hand-deliver my change of registered agent form to the Secretary of State’s office in Tennessee?
Yes, you can hand-deliver the form to the Secretary of State’s office in Tennessee.
What happens after I file my change of registered agent form in Tennessee?
The Secretary of State’s office will process your form and update your records to reflect the new registered agent.
Do I need to notify the old registered agent that I am changing to a new agent in Tennessee?
No, you do not have to notify the old registered agent, but it is recommended.
Can I list myself as the registered agent for my Tennessee business?
Yes, you can list yourself as the registered agent for your Tennessee business.
Does my new registered agent in Tennessee have to be located in the state?
Yes, your new registered agent must have a physical address in Tennessee.
How often can I change my registered agent in Tennessee?
You can change your registered agent in Tennessee as often as needed.
Are there any restrictions on who can be a registered agent in Tennessee?
Anyone with a physical address in Tennessee can be a registered agent.
What happens if I don’t have a registered agent in Tennessee?
You must have a registered agent in Tennessee. If you don’t have one, your business may be subject to fines and penalties.
Can a Tennessee registered agent serve as an agent for multiple entities?
Yes, a Tennessee registered agent can serve as an agent for multiple entities.
Can I change my registered agent with the Tennessee Department of Revenue instead of the Secretary of State?
No, you must file a change of registered agent form with the Secretary of State in Tennessee.
Can I use a registered agent service to change my registered agent in Tennessee?
Yes, you can use a registered agent service to change your registered agent in Tennessee.
What happens if my new registered agent in Tennessee is not available when legal documents are served?
If your new registered agent is not available when legal documents are served, the documents will be forwarded to your business’s principal place of business or mailing address.
Do I need to provide a copy of the change of registered agent form to my new registered agent in Tennessee?
Yes, it is recommended that you provide a copy of the form to your new registered agent in Tennessee.
What happens if my business’s name changes in Tennessee?
If your business’s name changes in Tennessee, you must file a change of name form with the Secretary of State and update your registered agent information accordingly.
Can I change my registered agent and business address at the same time in Tennessee?
Yes, you can change your registered agent and business address at the same time in Tennessee.
Do I need to hire a lawyer to change my registered agent in Tennessee?
No, you do not need to hire a lawyer to change your registered agent in Tennessee.
What is the penalty for failing to maintain a registered agent in Tennessee?
There may be fines and penalties assessed for failing to maintain a registered agent in Tennessee.
Can I change my registered agent without informing the state licensing board in Tennessee?
It depends on your type of business and licensing requirements. Check with the board to see if you need to inform them of the change.
Can I change my registered agent if my Tennessee business is in the middle of a lawsuit?
You must file a motion with the court and obtain permission to change your registered agent if your Tennessee business is in the middle of a lawsuit.
What is a registered agent agreement?
A registered agent agreement is a contract between the business and the registered agent that outlines their responsibilities.
Can I have my Tennessee accountant or attorney serve as my registered agent?
Yes, you can have an accountant or attorney serve as your registered agent, provided they have a physical address in Tennessee.
What happens if I sell my Tennessee business?
If you sell your Tennessee business, you must file a change of registered agent form with the Secretary of State to reflect the new owner’s information.

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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 Tennessee 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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