How to Change Registered Agent in Virginia – 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 Virginia

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

What is Registered Agent in Virginia

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

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

To change the Registered Agent in Virginia, one has to file the statement of change of the registered agent. You must pay the filing fee of $0 to complete your application. To file for the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Office Address with the Virginia Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

To file the statement of change of registered agent in Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia Change of Registered Agent Form Request (PDF) from the official website of the Virginia 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
Virginia Change of Registered Agent Form Request – PDF
Virginia Registered Agent – Requirement
State Corporation Commission, Clerk’s Office, P.O. Box 1197, Richmond, VA 23218-1197

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the Virginia registered agent is $0. This fee will be paid to the Virginia 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 Virginia

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 Virginia, 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 Virginia Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Virginia

There can be several reasons why LLCs want to change their registered agent in Virginia. 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 Virginia 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 Virginia. 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 Virginia Registered Agent only if they are the Virginia resident. So, if you are forming a foreign LLC in Virginia, you might need to change your registered agent because not all registered agents are eligible to work in different states. 

FAQs

Why do I need to change my registered agent in Virginia?
There may be several reasons, including dissatisfaction with the current agent’s service, relocating out of state, or wanting to consolidate services with another provider.
How do I find a new registered agent in Virginia?
You may search online or consult an attorney for recommendations.
Can I serve as my own registered agent in Virginia?
Yes, but you must have a physical address within the state and be available during business hours.
How do I file the change of registered agent form in Virginia?
You can file online through the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s website or submit a paper form by mail.
Is there a fee for changing the registered agent in Virginia?
No, there is no fee to change your registered agent.
How long does it take for the change of registered agent in Virginia to take effect?
The change is effective once the new agent accepts the appointment and a filing is made with the state.
What information do I need to provide to the Virginia State Corporation Commission when changing my registered agent?
You will need to provide the name and address of the new agent, the new agent’s signature, and a statement consenting to the appointment.
Can I change my registered agent at any time in Virginia?
Yes, you can change your agent at any time as long as you follow proper procedures.
Can my new registered agent terminate their appointment in Virginia?
Yes, the agent may terminate their appointment at any time by submitting a notice to the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
Do I need to notify my current registered agent in Virginia before changing agents?
No, notification is not required, but it may be a courtesy.
Can I change my registered agent on multiple entities at the same time in Virginia?
Yes, you may appoint a new agent for multiple entities with one filing.
How do I update my business records with the new registered agent information in Virginia?
You may need to update your articles of incorporation, bylaws, and other filings accordingly.
Is Virginia a state with strict regulations for registered agents?
No, Virginia’s regulations for registered agents are relatively flexible.
Question:What qualifications must a registered agent possess in Virginia?
The agent must be a resident of Virginia, have a physical address in the state, and be available during business hours.
How many registered agents can I appoint for my business in Virginia?
You are only required to have one registered agent, but you may appoint a co-agent as well if desired.
Can a Virginia registered agent be a business entity or must it be an individual?
It can be either an individual or a business entity.
What happens if I fail to change my registered agent information when I move to a new state in Virginia?
You risk losing certain legal and regulatory protections, fines, and penalties.
How do I make sure my Virginia registered agent is serving me properly?
Periodically review their services to ensure they are fulfilling their duties.
If I’m registered as a foreign company operating in Virginia, do I still need a registered agent?
Yes, all companies registered to do business in Virginia must have a registered agent in the state.
Can my Virginia registered agent also serve as my legal representative?
No, the registered agent’s role is limited to receiving legal documents and other official correspondence.
Is there a confirmed notice of appointment available when changing your registered agent?
Yes, you will receive a notice confirming the change of agent in Virginia.
I am filing an LLC with articles of organization — can I include the new registered agent’s information in the same filing?
Yes, you may do so in Virginia.
Are there any tax implications when changing registered agents in Virginia?
No, changing registered agents does not directly affect your tax status or obligations.
Is there a specific time period for submitting a change of registered agent form in Virginia?
No, the form may be submitted at any time.
Can I change the registered agent for a Virginia non-profit corporated?
Yes, the same procedures apply for both non-profit and for-profit corporations.
What happens with a registered agent in Virginia is no longer available or disappears?
The state may contact the company directly through its public records to give notice of any further legal issues.
Can I represent myself if I don’t hire a registered agent for my business in Virginia?
No, you cannot represent yourself directly owing to the regulations of Virginia State Corporation Commission.
Is a registered agent considered the business’s main point of contact?
No, although the agent quite frequently receive legal documents serving for their client, owners and member are responsible to be fully aware at all times of the correspondence received by a registered agent.
What is a registered agent in Virginia?
In Virginia, a registered agent is a person or business entity that receives legal documents and official state communications on behalf of a business or corporation registered in the state.
Why would I need to change my registered agent in Virginia?
There are several reasons why you may want to change your registered agent in Virginia, such as if you want to switch to a more reliable or responsive service, or if you have relocated your business to a different state.
How do I change my registered agent in Virginia?
To change your registered agent in Virginia, you need to file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Agent with the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
Do I have to notify my current registered agent that I’m changing to a new one in Virginia?
Yes, Virginia law requires that you notify your current registered agent of the change in writing.
How long does it take to change a registered agent in Virginia?
The time it takes to change a registered agent in Virginia depends on several factors, such as how quickly the necessary forms are processed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
Can I change to any registered agent in Virginia?
No, you must choose a registered agent that is authorized to conduct business in Virginia, has a physical address in the state, and is available during normal business hours.
What information do I need to include when filing a change of registered agent in Virginia?
When filing a change of registered agent in Virginia, you will need to provide the name and address of the new agent, as well as the old agent.
Do I have to pay a fee to change my registered agent in Virginia?
Yes, there is a fee of $25 to change your registered agent in Virginia.
How often can I change my registered agent in Virginia?
There are no restrictions on how often you can change your registered agent in Virginia.
Can I appoint myself as my own registered agent in Virginia?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent in Virginia if you have a physical address in the state where legal papers can be delivered during normal business hours.
What are the benefits of using a professional registered agent in Virginia?
A professional agent can offer a higher level of reliability and security, and ensures that legal papers and other important documents are handled promptly and correctly.
How can I find a registered agent in Virginia?
You can find a registered agent in Virginia by searching online, asking for referrals from trusted contacts, or reviewing listings on the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s website.
Can I change my registered agent and file my annual report at the same time in Virginia?
Yes, you can change your registered agent and file your annual report at the same time in Virginia.
What happens if I don’t update my registered agent information in Virginia?
If you don’t update your registered agent information in Virginia, you may miss critical notifications and deadlines, and your business may be at risk of falling out of good standing with the state.
Can I change my registered agent with the Virginia state government directly?
Yes, you can change your registered agent with the Virginia state government directly by filling out the appropriate forms and paying the fee.
Is it difficult to change a registered agent in Virginia?
No, changing a registered agent in Virginia is a straightforward process, but it’s important to make sure you follow the correct procedures.
Do I need a physical office in Virginia to serve as a registered agent?
No, you do not need a physical office in Virginia to serve as a registered agent, but you do need to provide a physical address where legal documents can be delivered.
Can I change my registered agent online in Virginia?
Yes, you can change your registered agent online in Virginia through the State Corporation Commission’s website.
How do I know whether my registered agent is properly registered in Virginia?
You can check whether your registered agent is properly registered in Virginia by looking them up on the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s website.
How long does it take for my registered agent change to take effect in Virginia?
It typically takes about 24 to 48 hours for a registered agent change to take effect once it’s received by the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
Can I change my registered agent using a name change form in Virginia?
No, you cannot change your registered agent using a name change form in Virginia; instead, you must file the appropriate form specifically for changing your registered agent.
Can I change my registered agent by phone in Virginia?
No, you cannot change your registered agent by phone in Virginia; you must submit the appropriate forms either online or by mail.
When is the best time to change my registered agent in Virginia?
The best time to change your registered agent in Virginia is before your current agent’s annual contract renewal date.
Do I need to submit any additional documents when changing my registered agent in Virginia?
No, you do not need to submit any additional documents when changing your registered agent in Virginia, as long as you complete the appropriate form.
Can I choose a registered agent from another state in Virginia?
No, your registered agent must be authorized to do business in Virginia and have a physical address in the state.
What happens if I forget to update my registered agent in Virginia?
If you forget to update your registered agent in Virginia, you may miss important deadlines and your business may fall out of good standing with the state.
How do I find out whether my current registered agent is no longer authorized to do business in Virginia?
You can check whether your current registered agent is no longer authorized to do business in Virginia by searching them up on the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s website.
How do I file a change of registered agent for my LLC in Virginia?
To file a change of registered agent for your LLC in Virginia, you need to file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Agent with the State Corporation Commission.
Can I change my registered agent by email in Virginia?
No, you cannot change your registered agent by email in Virginia; you must submit the appropriate forms online or by mail.

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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 Virginia 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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