How to Change Registered Agent in Pennsylvania – 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 Pennsylvania

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

What is Registered Agent in Pennsylvania

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

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

To change the Registered Agent in Pennsylvania, one has to file the statement of change of the registered agent. You must pay the filing fee of $5 to complete your application. To file for the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and Registered Office Address with the Pennsylvania Secretary of State, you can opt for any of the following methods:

Online Filing

To file the statement of change of registered agent in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Statement of Change of Registered Agent (PDF) from the official website of the Pennsylvania 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
Pennsylvania Statement of Change of Registered Agent – PDF
Pennsylvania Registered Agent – Requirement		Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations, P.O. Box 8722, Harrisburg, PA 17105

Fee: The filing fee charged for changing the Pennsylvania registered agent is $5. This fee will be paid to the Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania

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 Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania Secretary of State for fee details.

Why Do You Need to Change a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania

There can be several reasons why LLCs want to change their registered agent in Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania Registered Agent only if they are the Pennsylvania resident. So, if you are forming a foreign LLC in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania?
A registered agent is a person or entity who is designated to receive legal documents and other important communications on behalf of a business entity in Pennsylvania.
Can I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Pennsylvania at any time for any reason.
How do I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
To change your registered agent in Pennsylvania, you need to file a completed Change of Registered Office/Registered Agent form with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
What is the fee to change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
The fee to change your registered agent in Pennsylvania is $70.
Do I need to notify my current registered agent if I want to change them in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you need to notify your current registered agent that you are changing them and provide them with your new registered agent’s information.
How long does it take to change a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
It typically takes about 7-10 business days for the Change of Registered Office/Registered Agent form to be processed by the Pennsylvania Department of State.
Can I change my registered agent myself in Pennsylvania, or do I need an attorney?
You can change your registered agent yourself in Pennsylvania, but you may want to consult with an attorney to ensure the process is done correctly.
Can a business entity be its own registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, a business entity can be its own registered agent in Pennsylvania if it has a physical address in the state.
Can a business entity have more than one registered agent in Pennsylvania?
No, a business entity cannot have more than one registered agent in Pennsylvania.
Can a non-resident be a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, a non-resident can be a registered agent in Pennsylvania as long as they have a physical address in the state.
Can I change both my registered agent and registered office address at the same time in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can change both your registered agent and registered office address at the same time in Pennsylvania by filing a combined Change of Registered Office/Registered Agent form.
Will changing my registered agent in Pennsylvania affect my business’s standing with the state?
No, changing your registered agent in Pennsylvania will not affect your business’s standing with the state.
Is there a deadline to change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
No, there is no deadline to change your registered agent in Pennsylvania.
What if I forgot to update my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
If you forget to update your registered agent in Pennsylvania, your current registered agent will still be authorized to accept legal documents and other important communications on your behalf.
How do I know if my registered agent has been changed in Pennsylvania?
You will receive a copy of the filed Change of Registered Office/Registered Agent form from the Pennsylvania Department of State indicating that your registered agent has been changed.
Can I change my registered agent back to my previous agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can change your registered agent back to your previous agent in Pennsylvania at any time.
What happens to my old registered agent’s information when I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Your old registered agent’s information will be removed from the public record once the Change of Registered Office/Registered Agent form has been processed by the Pennsylvania Department of State.
What are the responsibilities of a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
The responsibilities of a registered agent in Pennsylvania include receiving legal documents and other important communications on behalf of a business entity, forwarding those documents to the appropriate parties, and maintaining accurate records.
Can I act as my own registered agent in Pennsylvania if I work from home?
Yes, you can act as your own registered agent in Pennsylvania if you have a physical address in the state, such as your home address.
How often should I update my registered agent information in Pennsylvania?
You should update your registered agent information in Pennsylvania as soon as any changes occur, such as if your registered agent resigns or moves out of state.
Do I need to provide any additional documentation to change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
No, there is no additional documentation required to change your registered agent in Pennsylvania other than the completed Change of Registered Office/Registered Agent form.
Can I change my registered agent online in Pennsylvania?
No, you cannot change your registered agent online in Pennsylvania.
What is the penalty for failing to maintain a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
The penalty for failing to maintain a registered agent in Pennsylvania includes the risk of having your business entity’s existence terminated by the state.
What is the difference between a registered agent and a commercial registered office provider in Pennsylvania?
A registered agent in Pennsylvania is the person or entity designated to receive legal documents and other important communications on behalf of a business entity, while a commercial registered office provider offers physical office space in addition to registered agent services.
Can I choose a friend or family member to be my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can choose a friend or family member to be your registered agent in Pennsylvania as long as they have a physical address in the state.
Is there a residency requirement for registered agents in Pennsylvania?
No, there is no residency requirement for registered agents in Pennsylvania.
Why would I want to change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
There could be various reasons to change your registered agent in Pennsylvania, such as your current registered agent is resigning or your current agent lacks expertise in dealing with legal and official documents.
When should I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
You should change your registered agent in Pennsylvania if you need to, but not until the need arises.
How can I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
You can change your registered agent in Pennsylvania by filing a Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
Can I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania without their consent?
No, you cannot change your registered agent in Pennsylvania without their consent.
Is there a fee for changing my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, there is a fee for changing your registered agent in Pennsylvania.
How much does it cost to change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
It costs $70 to change your registered agent in Pennsylvania.
How can I pay the fee for changing my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
You can pay the fee for changing your registered agent in Pennsylvania online with a credit card or by check sent by mail.
Do I need to provide a new registered agent for my business when I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you need to provide a new registered agent for your business when you change your registered agent in Pennsylvania.
Can I appoint myself as the registered agent for my Pennsylvania business?
Yes, you can appoint yourself as the registered agent for your Pennsylvania business.
Can I appoint an out-of-state registered agent for my Pennsylvania business?
No, you cannot appoint an out-of-state registered agent for your Pennsylvania business unless they maintain a physical street address in Pennsylvania.
How long does it take to change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
It may take up to 2-3 business days to change your registered agent in Pennsylvania after the Department of State receives your Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form.
Will I get a confirmation after I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you will receive a confirmation letter from the Pennsylvania Department of State after you change your registered agent.
Do I need to notify my previous registered agent after I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
No, you do not need to notify your previous registered agent after you change your registered agent in Pennsylvania as the Department of State will do so.
Can I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania by phone?
No, the registered agent change should be done online or by submitting the Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form by mail.
What happens if I don’t change my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
If you don’t change your registered agent in Pennsylvania, you may face legal consequences or may not receive important documents in a timely manner.
Do I need to update my annual reports with the change of registered agent in Pennsylvania?
No, the Pennsylvania Department of State will automatically update your annual report with your new registered agent information.
Does changing my registered agent affect my Pennsylvania business’s tax ID number?
No, changing your registered agent does not affect your Pennsylvania business’s tax ID number.
Is my new registered agent liable for any past business actions?
No, your new registered agent is not liable for any past business actions of your Pennsylvania business.
Can I file the Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form online?
Yes, you can file the Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form online.
Can I download the Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form online?
Yes, you can download the Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form from the Pennsylvania Department of State website.
Can I get help with changing my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can contact the Pennsylvania Department of State’s Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations for help.
Is there a specific format for the registered agent’s name and address in Pennsylvania?
Yes, there is a specific format for the registered agent’s name and address in Pennsylvania, which you can find in the Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form instructions.
Do I need to provide proof of my new registered agent’s consent in Pennsylvania?
No, you do not need to provide proof of your new registered agent’s consent in Pennsylvania.
Can I change my registered office address and registered agent at the same time in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can change your registered office address and registered agent at the same time in Pennsylvania by submitting a Change of Registered Office or Agent/Office form.
Are there any special requirements for a foreign business entity to change their registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, a foreign business entity must also file a Foreign Registration Statement to appoint a new registered agent in Pennsylvania.
Can I change my registered agent outside the annual report filing period in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can change your registered agent outside the annual report filing period in Pennsylvania.

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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 Pennsylvania 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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