How to Change Registered Agent in Maryland – 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 Maryland

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

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

What is Resident Agent in Maryland

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

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

To change the Resident Agent in Maryland, 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 Maryland Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

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

  • Visit the Maryland 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 Maryland Resolution to Change Resident Agent (PDF) from the official website of the Maryland 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
Maryland Resolution to Change Resident Agent – PDF
Maryland Registered Agent – Requirement
CoState Department of Assessments and Taxation, Charter Division 301 W. Preston Street; 8th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201-2395

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the Maryland registered agent is $25. This fee will be paid to the Maryland 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 –

#1 TOP PICK

 LegalZoom Registered Agent – $299 Per Year

Registered Agent Consent Letter in Maryland

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 Resident 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 Maryland, there is a separate document called the Resolution to Change Principal Office or Resident Agent has to be submitted to the SOS office. You must get the Resolution of Change 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 Resident Agent has given the nod to provide their services to the LLC. An additional filing fee (or expedited fee) might be charged. Check Maryland Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Maryland

There can be several reasons why LLCs want to change their registered agent in Maryland. 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 Maryland 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 Maryland. 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 Maryland Resident Agent only if they are the Maryland resident. So, if you are forming a foreign LLC in Maryland, 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 Maryland?
A registered agent is a designated individual or entity authorized to receive important legal documents for a business in Maryland.
When should a business change their registered agent in Maryland?
A Maryland business should change their registered agent when their current registered agent resigns or goes out of business, or if they want to use a different registered agent service.
What is the process to change registered agents in Maryland?
The process to change registered agents in Maryland involves completing and filing a State Department form with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
What is the cost to change registered agents in Maryland?
The cost to change registered agents in Maryland is $50.
Can a business change their registered agent themselves in Maryland?
Yes, a business can change their registered agent themselves in Maryland by completing and submitting Form 1-Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office.
What information is required on Form 1 to change registered agents in Maryland?
The Maryland business must provide their name, current registered agent information, new registered agent information, and sign the form.
How can a Maryland business find a new registered agent?
A Maryland business can find a new registered agent by conducting a search online or using a registered agent service.
How long does it take to change registered agents in Maryland?
It takes approximately three business days to change registered agents in Maryland.
Will the Maryland business be notified once the change of registered agent is processed?
Yes, the Maryland business will be notified via mail once the Change of Agent/Office form has been filed and successfully processed.
What happens if a Maryland business fails to appoint a registered agent?
If a Maryland business fails to appoint a registered agent, the state may cite them for non-compliance or even dissolve the corporation.
Does a Maryland business need to appoint a registered agent if they have a physical office address in the state?
Yes, a Maryland business must always appoint a registered agent, regardless of whether they have a physical office in the state.
Can an out-of-state registered agent serve as a Maryland registered agent?
Yes, an out-of-state registered agent can serve as a Maryland registered agent if they are properly authorized to do business in Maryland.
What happens if the new registered agent fails to accept registered correspondence in Maryland?
If the new registered agent fails to accept registered correspondence in Maryland, they will be served a notice to produce the necessary documents.
Can a Maryland business change their registered agent multiple times?
Yes, a Maryland business can change their registered agent multiple times.
Can a business owner also serve as the registered agent in Maryland?
Yes, a business owner can also serve as the registered agent in Maryland as long as they have a physical address in the state.
Can a Maryland business use a PO box for their registered agent address?
No, a Maryland business cannot use a PO box as their registered agent address.
What happens to the Maryland business’ existing registered agent when a new registered agent is appointed?
The existing registered agent is released of their obligations and responsibilities to the Maryland business when a new registered agent is appointed.
Can a business use a friend or family member as their registered agent in Maryland?
Yes, a business can use a friend or family member as their registered agent in Maryland, provided they have a physical address within stat jurisdiction.
Can a registered agent resign from their role in Maryland?
Yes, a registered agent can resign from their role in Maryland by providing written notice to the Maryland business.
Can a Maryland business designate more than one registered agent?
No, a Maryland business cannot designate more than one registered agent.
When should registered agent information be updated in Maryland?
Registered agent information should be updated in Maryland whenever there is a change in address, phone number, or name.
What information is provided publicly about the Maryland registered agent?
The registered agent’s name and address are publicly available information in Maryland.
Does a Maryland business need to notify anyone else besides the state about a registered agent change?
A Maryland business does not need to notify anyone else besides the state about a registered agent change.
Can a Maryland business change their registered agent during the incorporation process?
Yes, a Maryland business can change their registered agent during the incorporation process.
Is a Maryland business required to notify their current registered agent when they change registered agents?
A Maryland business is not required to notify their current registered agent when they change registered agents; however, they may choose to do so as a courtesy.
Can a registered agent in Maryland receive legal notices for other businesses besides the business they are representing?
A registered agent in Maryland cannot receive legal notices for other businesses besides the business they are representing.
Can a Maryland business change their registered agent online?
No, a Maryland business cannot change their registered agent online; they must submit Form 1 by mail or in-person.
Is a business required to have a lawyer to change their registered agent in Maryland?
A business is not required to have a lawyer to change their registered agent in Maryland but it is recommended to consult a legal professional agency specializing in business licenses for guidance on the incorporation laws in the state.
Can a Maryland business change their registered agent if they are currently in litigation?
Yes, a Maryland business can change their registered agent if they are currently in litigation, but they may need to inform the court of the change.
Why would a company want to change its registered agent in Maryland?
A company may want to change its registered agent in Maryland if it wishes to switch to a more competent or reliable agent, relocate to a new state, or simply do business with a company located in a different state.
What is the process for changing a registered agent in Maryland?
In order to change your registered agent in Maryland, you will need to file a form with the state and provide evidence that your new registered agent has been appointed and has accepted the appointment.
Can a company change its registered agent on its own in Maryland?
Yes, a company can change its registered agent on its own in Maryland. However, it is advisable that they seek the professional services of a registered agent to ensure that no legal requirements are missed.
How much will it cost to change my registered agent in Maryland?
There is no standard cost to change a registered agent in Maryland, as it will depend on your current agent, the level of services required, and your new agent’s fees.
How long does it take to change a registered agent in Maryland?
The time it takes to change a registered agent in Maryland will depend on varying factors such as processing times at Maryland State but it typically takes a few days to weeks from when the filing fee and forms are sent in if all relevant signatures and details are provided on the documents correctly.
Is there a deadline for changing my registered agent in Maryland?
There is no deadline given to changing a registered agent in Maryland, but it is important to ensure that any legal or official documents are promptly forwarded to the new agent once the change has been made.
Are there any restrictions on who can serve as a registered agent in Maryland?
A person or business entity can serve as a registered agent in Maryland so long as they are authorized to conduct business operations in the State of Maryland.
Do I need to notify anybody else of changing my registered agent in Maryland?
Generally, there is no need to notify clients or customers upon appointment of a new registered agent regardless of the State you are changing to but any government that sends correspondence to your company such as State agencies, the government etc.
How will I know when my registered agent has been officially changed in Maryland?
You’ll be issued a certificate of appointment when the change is completed, which shows your new registered agent’s details.
Will changing my registered agent interrupt my business operations in Maryland?
The short answer is no; a professional registered agent company should be able to provide a seamless transition, so there is minimal disruption to your business operations in Maryland as documents will be promptly forwarded on to the important representative within your business.
How long is a Maryland registered agent’s term of service?
The term of service for a registered agent in Maryland is at least one year, but you have the flexibility to make it ongoing and renew it annually.
Is there anything I need to provide to my new agent before they can begin serving as my registered agent in Maryland?
Your new agent may request that you complete a letter stating your license / tax identification details, and any required engagement agreement forms that jointly delineate what’s expected of both of you going forwards will probably be needed for processing the setup of your account and updates to processes if the agent performs additional registered agent services.
How can I find a registered agent in Maryland?
There are many reliable registered agent companies that operate in Maryland. A lot of research is advised, talking to other business owners on referral to a local Maryland registered agent.
Can a lawyer serve as a registered agent in Maryland?
Yes, lawyers are permitted to serve as registered agents in Maryland so long as they are authorized to transact business dealings in the State of Maryland.
Does a Maryland registered agent need to hold a physical office in the state?
Yes, Maryland law requires that a registered agent must maintain a physical street address located within Maryland. A P.O. box can not be used as a point of contact where organisation records should be delivered or received.
What happens if I don’t appoint a registered agent for my company in Maryland?
If you fail to appoint a registered agent for your company, these important legal and official documents could be lost, refused, or disregarded by the state.
Can a non-resident of Maryland serve as my company’s registered agent in Maryland?
No, a non-resident of Maryland can not serve as a registered agent for your company in Maryland.
Can a company serve as its own registered agent in Maryland?
A company can technically act as its own registered agent in Maryland, however, a thorough review before committing to this is recommended, as outsourcing this critical task to an experienced entity presents better comparative advantage.
Will all legal and official documents come to my registered agent in Maryland?
Yes, by law, your registered agent is the first point of contact after the Secretary of Maryland State level records and so it should receive all legal and official communications sent on behalf of your business.
Do I need to notify the state of Maryland once I’ve appointed a new registered agent?
Not really, if all processes are concluded that way. Once you’ve appointed a new registered agent and provided evidence that they have accepted the appointment, the Governor’s Office of Maryland State will be copied on any further relevant change in your Maryland company documents during filings and will be prompt to update from an expressed request about the change to the jurisdiction.
Can I change my registered agent to a person who is already associated with my company in Maryland?
Yes, you can change your Maryland registered agent to anyone, as long as they are willing to serve and accept the legal obligation entailed and hold authorization to do business dealings in Maryland.
Can I appoint a family member as my registered agent in Maryland?
Yes, if your family member is authorized to conduct business activities in the state of Maryland and can act in compliance with the duties of a Maryland registered agent.’
What information should be provided to the State of Maryland to change a registered agent?
You will need to provide validation of consent via a new Maryland registered agent consent form their written agreement to the serve as the new registered agent, disclose the Maryland registered office street address they will use, and pay the filing fee for the relevant form required to update your entity status.
How often can I change my registered agent in Maryland?
A Maryland-based entity can change its registered agent every season or, at the very least, once a year without paying additional fees. If updating the agent within the said timeframe above, there is a repeating filing fee, and related lack of significant continuity on reviews provided about Maryland business for client retention.
Once I’ve changed my registered agent, do I need to change anything else with the State of Maryland?
No. changing your Maryland registered agent doesn’t require changes for reporting your entity name, address, responsible persons or other official corporate records triggered at initial registration and continuing filings instead.
Can I appoint myself as the registered agent for my own LLC in Maryland?
For some small time and micro-lean businesses having their single-member member as the Maryland registered agent isn’t uncommon but it prohibits some businesses from getting viewed as larger since dealing clients and partners often proofread official operating protocols before major deals, so it prevents creating a truly professional image as recurring official communications indicating deals continue to happen in addition, it ties little value to observance of protocolized everyday practices when it comes to receiving documents and prompt secure message handling as well as the physically established office setting of agent when operating from their domiciliary office does not encourage symbolic confidentiality at important inter-corporate negotiations or meetings not unless those dealings and negotiations happen at a corporate site specific to the said firm and, upon expressing change.
What happens if my old registered agent continues to receive mail or notices after I’ve appointed a new agent?
Should this occur, your old registered agent would likely forward these communication acting dominus litis to your new registered agent or to actions or authorized third-party legal representative of your company typically or jurisconsulting firm to dismiss the assumption that official courier letters were taken as personal mail until further investigation is interpreted.
Does changing my Maryland registered agent trigger franchise tax fees?
No. franchising standards in Maryland directs registered agents to neglect additional fees while sharing registered agent services with franchisees, so under most circumstances where hired registered agent services are provided in Maryland important utility and consolidated franchising schedules in part-triggered hidden fees shouldn’t happen this there isn’t a need for franchise holders to worry about franchising fee consequences.

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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 Maryland 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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