How to Change Registered Agents in Montana (MT) in 2025


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
Business Formation Expert
Steve 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 Montana

Changing an appointed Registered Agent is not a frequent activity in any business. While forming an LLC in Montana, it is mandatory to appoint a Registered Agent as a point of contact between the state and your LLC. However, there might be some times when changing of a registered agent is necessary. It might be the resignation or termination of the individual.

In Montana, also known as The Treasure State, there is a process to change the Registered Agent. In this article, the LLCBuddy editors come up with the methods available to change the registered agent in Montana. The statement of change can be filed online or offline (whichever method is convenient).

What is Registered Agent in Montana

The Montana 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 Montana, one must meet the following requirements,

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

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

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

Online Filing

To file the statement of change of registered agent in Montana 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 Montana Secretary of State’s official website
  • Log in to the portal using your credentials.
  • On your dashboard, you will find the option to update your documents.
  • 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 change of registered agent update 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 immediately.

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 Montana Change of Registered Agent (PDF) from the official website of the Montana 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
Montana Change of Registered Agent – PDF
Montana Registered Agent – Requirement
State Capitol, Room 260 ~ PO Box 202801 Helena, Montana 59620-2801

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

 ZenBusiness Registered Agent – $199 Per Year

Registered Agent Consent Letter in Montana

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 Montana, 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 Montana Secretary of State for fee details.

BOI Reporting

As per the Corporation Transparency Act, from the 1st of January, 2024, every LLC and any other business entity must file the BOI report with FinCEN. In the BOI Report, the owner(s)’ details must be mentioned. It is to maintain the transparency of the organization. It is not required to mention the change of a registered agent while filing the BOI Report in Montana. However, it is recommended to maintain a proper process and document for any changes made inside the LLC to maintain transparency under any act.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Montana

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

Be Your Own Registered Agent

A prevalent 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 Montana 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. 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 Montana. 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 Montana Registered Agent only if they are the Montana resident. So, if you are forming a foreign LLC in Montana, you might need to change your registered agent because not all registered agents are eligible to work in different states. 

FAQs

How do I change my registered agent in Montana?
To change your registered agent in Montana, you need to fill out the appropriate form with the Secretary of State and pay the necessary fee.
What is the process for changing a registered agent in Montana?
The process for changing a registered agent in Montana involves submitting a Statement of Change of Registered Agent form to the Secretary of State.
Can I be my own registered agent in Montana?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent in Montana.
Do I need to notify anyone if I change my registered agent in Montana?
Yes, you need to notify the Secretary of State of the change in registered agent in Montana.
How long do I have to notify the Secretary of State of a change in registered agent in Montana?
You should notify the Secretary of State of a change in registered agent in Montana within 30 days of the change.
What are the requirements for a registered agent in Montana?
A registered agent in Montana must have a physical address in the state where they can receive legal documents on behalf of the business.
How much does it cost to change a registered agent in Montana?
The cost to change a registered agent in Montana is $15 for online filings or $20 for paper filings.
Can I change my registered agent online in Montana?
Yes, you can change your registered agent online in Montana through the Secretary of State’s website.
What information do I need to provide when changing my registered agent in Montana?
When changing your registered agent in Montana, you will need to provide the name and address of the new registered agent.
Can I change my registered agent for multiple businesses at once in Montana?
No, you must file a separate form for each business when changing registered agents in Montana.
How long does it take to process a change of registered agent in Montana?
The processing time for a change of registered agent in Montana can vary, but it typically takes a few business days.
Can I change my registered agent if my business is inactive in Montana?
Yes, you can still change your registered agent in Montana even if your business is inactive.
Is there a specific form I need to use to change my registered agent in Montana?
Yes, you need to use the Statement of Change of Registered Agent form when changing your registered agent in Montana.
What happens if I fail to notify the Secretary of State of a change in registered agent in Montana?
If you fail to notify the Secretary of State of a change in registered agent in Montana, your business may face penalties or ramifications.
Can I hire a professional service to assist with changing my registered agent in Montana?
Yes, you can hire a professional service to help with changing your registered agent in Montana.
Can a registered agent refuse to be changed in Montana?
No, a registered agent cannot refuse to be changed in Montana if proper procedures are followed.
Do I need to notify anyone else besides the Secretary of State when changing my registered agent in Montana?
It is recommended to notify all relevant parties, such as your business partners and legal counsel, when changing your registered agent in Montana.
Can I change my registered agent without informing my current agent in Montana?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Montana without informing your current agent, but it is best practice to do so.
Can a business entity be its own registered agent in Montana?
No, a business entity cannot serve as its own registered agent in Montana.
Do I need to provide a reason for changing my registered agent in Montana?
No, you do not need to provide a reason for changing your registered agent in Montana.
Can I change my registered agent during the renewal process in Montana?
Yes, you can change your registered agent during the renewal process in Montana by submitting the necessary form.
What if my registered agent is no longer available in Montana?
If your registered agent is no longer available in Montana, you must promptly nominate a new agent and update the Secretary of State.
What happens if I do not change my registered agent in Montana after they resign?
If your registered agent resigns and you do not appoint a new agent in Montana, your business may fall out of good standing with the state.
Can I change my registered agent multiple times in a year in Montana?
Yes, you can change your registered agent multiple times in a year in Montana, but be mindful of any associated fees or notifications.
Can I change my registered agent if there is ongoing litigation in Montana?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Montana even if there is ongoing litigation, but it is recommended to consult with legal counsel.
What should I do if I am having trouble changing my registered agent in Montana?
If you encounter any difficulties changing your registered agent in Montana, contact the Secretary of State’s office for assistance.
Can I appoint a registered agent from out of state in Montana?
Yes, you can appoint a registered agent from out of state in Montana, as long as they have a physical address in the state.
Is changing a registered agent in Montana a one-time process?
Changing a registered agent in Montana is not a one-time process and may need to be done as circumstances change for your business.
What is the cost to change a registered agent in Montana?
The cost to change a registered agent in Montana is $10.
Is there a deadline to change a registered agent in Montana?
There is no specific deadline to change a registered agent in Montana, but it is recommended to do so promptly to ensure compliance with state laws.

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In Conclusion

Registered Agents are the most important individuals in an LLC. They must be trustworthy, capable, and efficient to handle all the paperwork and documentation. 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 Montana registered agent can be necessary in various situations.

Changing Registered Agent in Montana is not a complicated process, however, it is better to get a service provider, such as ZenBusiness. It not only offers the registered agent service at a reasonable price but also offers LLC formation at $0. 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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