To change your registered agent in the state of Indiana, you’ll need to file a “Statement to Change Indiana Registered Agent“  form with the Indiana Secretary of State. You can submit the form in three ways.
To change your registered agent in Indiana there are three main options to take.
- Hire a professional service (the easiest way)
- Do it online
- Do it by mail or in-person
Tip: We recommend Northwest ($125/year) they can help you change your registered agent, and get the paperwork filed correctly.
1. Hire a Professional Registered Agent Service in Indiana
Using a professional registered agent service in the state of Indiana can provide several benefits for businesses.
Here are some of the advantages for using a registered agent service:
1. Compliance and Legal Requirements: A registered agent service ensures that your business remains compliant with Indiana state regulations. They have a deep understanding of the legal requirements and deadlines associated with maintaining a registered agent, helping you avoid penalties and potential legal issues.
2. Reliable and Consistent Service: Professional registered agent services have dedicated staff who are responsible for receiving and handling legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your business. This ensures that important documents are promptly and securely delivered to you, providing peace of mind and minimizing the risk of missing crucial notifications.
3. Privacy and Confidentiality: When you designate a professional registered agent, their address is used as your business’s registered address. This helps maintain your privacy by keeping your personal or business address off public records. It can also help protect you from unsolicited mail or unwanted visitors at your place of business.
4. Flexibility and Convenience: A registered agent service allows you to focus on running your business instead of constantly monitoring and receiving legal documents. They provide a reliable point of contact for all official correspondence, freeing up your time and resources.
5. Out-of-State Representation: If your business operates in multiple states or is incorporated in Indiana but operates elsewhere, a registered agent service can handle the requirements of being a registered agent in those other states. This ensures compliance with the respective state’s regulations, even if you’re not physically located there.
6. Professional Expertise: Registered agent services specialize in providing registered agent services and have expertise in handling legal documents and compliance matters. They can offer guidance on various business-related matters and may provide additional services like business entity formation, annual report filing, and other administrative tasks.
7. Business Continuity: If you change your business address or move out of state, having a professional registered agent ensures that your business will maintain a consistent point of contact. This helps prevent interruptions in receiving important documents and legal notices, allowing your business to continue operating smoothly.
It’s important to research and choose a reputable registered agent service provider that meets your specific business needs and operates within Indiana state regulations.
2. Change Indiana Registered Agent Online
To change a registered agent in the state of Indiana, you can follow these steps online:
- Access the Indiana Secretary of State’s Business Services Division website. The website link is: https://www.in.gov/sos/business/index.htm.
- On the website, navigate to the “Business Services” section or a similar section that deals with business filings and forms.
- Look for the specific form required to change a registered agent. In Indiana, the form you need to use is called “Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office” (Form 4168).
- Download the Form 4168. It should be available in PDF format. If you cannot find the form on the website, there is typically a search function where you can enter the form number or keywords to locate it.
- Fill out the Form 4168 with the necessary information. You will need to provide details about your business entity, the current registered agent, the new registered agent, and their respective addresses. Make sure to follow the instructions on the form and provide accurate information.
- Once you have completed the form, save a copy for your records.
- Return to the Indiana Secretary of State’s website and navigate to the section for online business filings or a similar section.
- Look for the online filing system or portal where you can submit your form electronically. This may be referred to as the “Indiana Business Entity Report and/or Supplemental Filings” or a similar name.
- Follow the instructions provided on the website to create an account or log in to your existing account.
- Submit the completed Form 4168 through the online filing system, following the prompts and entering the required information accurately.
- Pay any necessary fees associated with the filing. The website should provide information on the fees and accepted payment methods.
- Review your submission and confirm that all the information is correct.
- Submit the filing electronically.
After completing these steps, your change of registered agent filing will be processed by the Indiana Secretary of State’s office. It is advisable to keep copies of all the documents related to the filing for your records.
3. Change Indiana Registered Agent By Mail or In-Person
To change a registered agent in the state of Indiana by mail, you can follow these steps:
1. Obtain the Correct Form: The form you need to use to change your registered agent in Indiana is called the “Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office” (Form 424). This form is available on the website of the Indiana Secretary of State.
2. Access the Indiana Secretary of State’s Website: Go to the website of the Indiana Secretary of State, which is the official entity responsible for business filings in the state. The website can be accessed at: [https://www.in.gov/sos/business/](https://www.in.gov/sos/business/)
3. Locate the Form: On the Indiana Secretary of State’s website, navigate to the section for business services or search for “Form 424.” Look for the form titled “Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office.”
4. Download the Form: Once you locate the correct form, click on it to download it in PDF format. Save the form to your computer or device.
5. Complete the Form: Open the downloaded Form 424 and fill it out accurately and completely. Provide the necessary information, including your business name, entity type, current registered agent information, new registered agent information, and any other required details.
6. Print and Sign the Form: After completing the form, print it out and sign it. Make a copy of the form for your records.
7. Prepare a Cover Letter: Along with the completed Form 424, prepare a cover letter stating your request to change the registered agent. Include your business name, contact information, and any other relevant details.
8. Submit the Form by Mail: Mail the completed Form 424 and the cover letter to the following address:
Secretary of State
Business Services Division
302 W. Washington Street, Room E018
Indianapolis, IN 46204
9. Pay the Required Fee: Include the appropriate filing fee along with the form. The fee amount can be found on the Indiana Secretary of State’s website. You can typically pay the fee by including a check or money order payable to the “Secretary of State.”
10. Confirmation and Updates: After processing your submission, the Indiana Secretary of State will update the registered agent information in their records. You may receive a confirmation of the change by mail or email.
It’s important to check the official website of the Indiana Secretary of State or contact their office directly for the most up-to-date information and to ensure compliance with any current requirements and procedures.
IN Business Entity Tips
When you’re ready to start an LLC in Indiana, there are key steps to follow. Begin by conducting an Indiana entity name search to ensure that your desired business name is available for registration. Once confirmed, it’s important to draft an Indiana LLC operating agreement, outlining the internal workings and guidelines of your LLC.
You have the option to serve as your own registered agent in Indiana, or you can opt for professional registered agent services. The timeframe for obtaining an LLC in Indiana can vary, typically ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months.
To streamline the process, ensure all necessary information is gathered and promptly submit your filings. Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is essential for tax purposes, and you can follow the necessary steps to obtain one from the IRS. Consider utilizing one of the top LLC services in Indiana to receive expert assistance and ensure compliance with all legal requirements throughout the formation process.
Engaging the best registered agent services in Indiana can provide efficient handling of critical documents and legal notifications. Don’t forget to acquire a business license specific to Indiana, adhering to the licensing requirements relevant to your industry and location. As you plan your LLC formation budget, factor in the cost to start an LLC in Indiana, including filing fees and any additional services you choose.
If you ever need to change your registered agent, we have an article on that.
Lastly, if the time comes to close and dissolve an Indiana LLC, understanding the proper steps and regulations is essential. Seek guidance from legal professionals to ensure a smooth dissolution process in compliance with Indiana state laws and requirements.
FAQs
How long does it take to change a registered agent in Indiana?
It typically takes around 5-10 business days for the Indiana Secretary of State’s office to process the change of registered agent. This timeframe can vary depending on the volume of filings and other factors.
Can I be my own registered agent in the state of Indiana?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in the state of Indiana. Indiana allows business entities to designate themselves as their own registered agent, as long as they meet the requirements set by the state.
When acting as your own registered agent, you must fulfill the following criteria:
- Physical Address: You must have a physical street address in Indiana where you can receive service of process and official correspondence. P.O. Box addresses are not acceptable.
- Availability: You must be available during regular business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday) to accept legal documents and other important notifications on behalf of your business.
- Residency: If you are an individual acting as the registered agent for your business, you must be a resident of Indiana.
By serving as your own registered agent, you take on the responsibility of promptly receiving and handling legal documents and official notices on behalf of your business.
Please note that requirements and regulations may change over time, so it’s advisable to verify the most up-to-date information on the Indiana Secretary of State’s website or by contacting their office directly.
