A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Texas LLC’s Registered Agent Without Losing Compliance
Is your current registered agent not cutting it? Are they slow to respond, lacking the services you need, or simply too expensive? Don’t worry, switching to a new registered agent in Texas is easier than you might think!
Many business owners hesitate to change registered agents, fearing a complicated and risky process. But with this step-by-step guide, you’ll see that it’s a straightforward procedure that can be done without losing compliance with state regulations.
Reasons to Change Your Texas Registered Agent or Any State
Before we dive into the process, let’s review some common reasons why you might want to change your LLC’s registered agent:
- Poor service or responsiveness: Your registered agent is your main point of contact for legal and official mail. If they’re slow to respond, unreliable, or provide poor customer service, it can negatively impact your business.
- Need for additional services: Some registered agents offer additional services like mail forwarding, virtual office addresses, or compliance alerts. If your needs have changed, you might want an agent that provides these extras.
- Desire for a more cost-effective option: Registered agent fees can vary. If you’re looking to save money, you might find a more affordable provider.
- Relocation of the business or the registered agent: If your business or your registered agent moves, you’ll need to update your records.
- Wanting a registered agent with more experience in your industry: Some registered agents specialize in working with specific industries, such as real estate.
Before You Begin: Key Preparations
- Choose Your New Registered Agent: Do your research and select a reliable and reputable registered agent service that meets your specific needs and budget. You can find some recommendations in our previous article: “Best Registered Agent in Texas for Real Estate Investors”.
- Gather Your LLC Information: Have your LLC’s name, entity number, and the name and contact information of your current registered agent readily available.
The Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Obtain the Change of Registered Agent Form
Download the official “Statement of Change of Registered Office/Agent” form (Form 401) from the Texas Secretary of State website: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/forms_boc.shtml
Step 2: Complete the Form
Carefully fill out all required sections of the form:
- Entity Information: Enter your LLC’s name exactly as it appears on your formation documents, along with your entity number.
- Current Registered Agent Information: Provide the name and address of your current registered agent.
- New Registered Agent Information: Enter the name and complete address of your new registered agent.
- Signature: An authorized representative of your LLC must sign the form.
Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee
As of March 7, 2025, the filing fee for changing your registered agent in Texas is $15. You can typically pay by check or credit card.
Step 4: Submit the Form
You have two options for submitting the form:
- Online Filing: Create an account on the SOSDirect website (https://sosdirect.sos.state.tx.us/) and follow the instructions for online filing.
- Mail-in Filing: Mail the completed form and payment to the following address: Texas Secretary of State P.O. Box 13697 Austin, TX 78711-3697
Step 5: Verification and Confirmation
- Online Filing: If you filed online, you should receive immediate confirmation. You can also verify the change by searching for your LLC on the SOSDirect website.
- Mail-in Filing: Allow a few business days for processing. You might receive a confirmation email or letter, or you can search for your LLC on the SOSDirect website to confirm the change.
Important Considerations and Tips
- Timing: The processing time for changing your registered agent can vary, but it typically takes a few business days for online filings and up to a couple of weeks for mail-in filings.
- Effective Date: The change of registered agent becomes effective on the date the Secretary of State accepts and files the form.
- Notification: While not legally required, it’s a good courtesy to notify your previous registered agent of the change.
- Potential Delays: Inaccurate information or missing signatures can cause delays in processing. Double-check your form before submitting it.
- Common Errors: Ensure you use the correct form, provide accurate information, and include the correct filing fee to avoid rejection.
3 Texas Registered Agents
| Feature | Northwest Registered Agent | Bizee (formerly Incfile) | ZenBusiness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $125 per year | $119 per year | $199 per year |
| Core Focus | Privacy, customer service, local expertise | Affordable formation services, online platform | Comprehensive business services, ease of use |
| Registered Agent Service | Strong, dedicated service; “Privacy by Default” | Included in formation packages, or as standalone | Part of bundled service packages |
| Document Handling | Same-day scans, mail forwarding | Online access to documents | Online document access |
| Customer Support | “Corporate Guides,” excellent support | Online, phone, and chat support | Online, phone, and chat support |
| Key Advantages | Strong on privacy, reliable local presence, good for high volume businesses. | Cost effective, user friendly online platform. | Simplified compliance, bundled service options, ease of use. |
| Best Suited For | Real estate investors that prioritize Privacy, and companies that may have high volumes of legal mail. | Budget conscious startups. | Businesses seeking all-in-one solutions. |
Conclusion
Changing your Texas LLC’s registered agent is a simple but important process. By following these steps and taking the time to choose a reliable new agent, you can ensure a smooth transition and maintain compliance with state regulations.
Don’t settle for subpar service—take control of your LLC’s compliance and choose a registered agent that truly supports your business needs.