How to Change Your Registered Agent in Delaware: Step-by-Step

There are several reasons you might need to change your registered agent. Perhaps your current agent is no longer available, you’re unhappy with their services, or you’re relocating your business to a new state.

Whatever the reason, it’s vital to follow the correct procedures to ensure a smooth transition and keep your business in good standing with the state of Delaware.

In this article, I will guide you on how to change your registered agent in Delaware so that you can make the transition smoothly and confidently.

Steps on How To Change Your Delaware Registered Agent

If you want to change your registered agent in Delaware, there are four simple steps. In this section, I will go over each step in detail to help you make the process as smooth as possible.

Step 1: Select a new Delaware registered agent

To start changing it, you must select a new Delaware registered agent. Your new agent must be authorized to do business in Delaware and have a physical street address.

If you use a registered agent service, ensure they are authorized to do business in Delaware. If you would hire a registered agent service, I’d highly recommend Northwest Registered Agent or Tailor Brands. Both are among the cheapest and most reliable LLC services I’ve used.

Step 2: Notify your former registered agent that you’re switching

Before you can complete the change of registered agent process, you must notify your former agent that you are switching to a new agent. This is a professional courtesy and will help ensure a smooth transition. You can send a written notice via certified mail or email.

Step 3: Complete and submit your Delaware Certificate of Change of Agent to the Delaware Department of State, Division of Corporations.

To officially change your registered agent in Delaware, you must complete and submit a Certificate of Change of Agent form to the Delaware Department of State, Division of Corporations.

You can access the appropriate form for your entity type on the Division of Corporations website.

You will need to provide the following details on the form:

• Business entity name
• Business entity file number
• Name and address of the new registered agent
• Signature of an authorized person

The Delaware Certificate of Change must be submitted by mail, fax, or in person and costs $50 to file. If your document is more than one page, there is an additional $9 fee for each page.

Here’s what the Delaware Certificate of Change of Registered Agent/Office for Corporation looks like:

Step 4: Confirm the change of registered agent

Once your Certificate of Change of Agent has been processed, you will receive confirmation from the Delaware Department of State, Division of Corporations. Confirming that the change has been made and that your new registered agent is now listed with the state is vital.

Selecting a New Registered Agent

There are a few essential factors to consider when selecting a new registered agent for your business in Delaware.

Professional Registered Agent vs. Self-Representation

One option for selecting a new registered agent is to represent yourself. However, this can be a time-consuming and potentially confusing process.

You will need a physical address in Delaware where legal documents can be delivered, and you will be responsible for ensuring that you receive and respond to all legal notices on time.

Another option is to use a professional registered agent service. These services provide a physical address in Delaware where legal documents can be delivered and a team of trained professionals who will handle all legal notices and ensure you comply with state regulations.

Northwest Registered Agent offers this service, and choosing them as your preferred registered agent can be a convenient and efficient way to ensure your business remains in good standing.

Criteria for Choosing a Registered Agent

When selecting a registered agent, a few essential criteria must be considered.

• State Requirements: You must ensure the registered agent meets all the state requirements.
• Availability and responsiveness: A registered agent who is challenging to reach or slow to respond can cause delays in critical legal matters.
• Physical address: You should ensure the agent has a physical address in Delaware where legal documents can be delivered.
• Reputation and experience: You should also consider the agent’s reputation and experience, as well as their level of customer service and responsiveness.
• Specialization: It may be helpful to choose an agent who specializes in serving businesses in your industry or has experience working with companies of your size and structure. This can help ensure that the agent deeply understands your unique needs and can provide tailored support and guidance.

Why You Should Use Northwest as Your Delaware LLC Registered Agent?

When changing your registered agent in Delaware, choosing the right one is crucial. Northwest Registered Agent is an excellent option for several reasons.

Team of Delaware Experts

They have a team of Delaware experts who know the ins and outs of all business filings and what the Delaware Secretary of State requires. You can trust them to handle your filing correctly and efficiently.

Hassle-Free Filing

Northwest Registered Agent takes care of all the paperwork for you. You don’t have to worry about navigating the complex Delaware filing process.

Real-Time Document Scanning

As your registered agent, Northwest doesn’t wait for any legal correspondence they receive on your behalf. They immediately scan and upload it to your secure online portfolio, which you can access anytime, anywhere. This ensures that you never miss any important documents or deadlines.

Multiple Annual Report Reminders

Northwest Registered Agent sends multiple annual report reminders to ensure you never miss a deadline. You can also track your due dates in your online account.

Fast and Efficient

If you switch to Northwest Registered Agent today, they will file your Certificate of Change of Agent and pay your filing fee in less than a business day. This means you can start using their services immediately and avoid delays in your business operations.

Hassle-free Filings

Northwest Registered Agent provides state resources in your registered agent service account, with self-filing instructions to help you. This can be incredibly helpful if you want to handle some of the filings yourself.

Affordable Annual Price

Northwest Registered Agent offers instant registered agent services for an annual price of $125. This is a competitive price compared to other registered agent services in Delaware.

Mail Forwarding

They provide free Delaware mail forwarding (limited to 5 pieces of regular mail per year) and premium Delaware mail forwarding service for $40 monthly.

What the State of Delaware Says about Changing a Registered Agent

Changing your registered agent in Delaware is a straightforward process. According to the Delaware Division of Corporations’ website, Delaware requires all entities to appoint a registered agent with a physical office address within the state.

You must file a document with the Division of Corporations to change your registered agent. The State of Delaware lists entities and the required filing for each type.

The forms are available in PDF format, and you must complete and submit a filing cover memo with your document.

The form you must file is the “Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office.” You can download this form from the Delaware Division of Corporations website. Once you locate the correct form, click on it to download it in PDF format.

The form requires you to provide the following details:

• Business entity name
• Business entity file number
• New registered agent name
• New registered agent’s address

Ensuring the information you provide on the form is accurate and up-to-date is vital. If there are any errors or omissions, your filing may be rejected, and you will need to resubmit the form with the correct information.

Once the appropriate form has been completed and signed, it should be sent to the Delaware Department of State, Divisions of Corporations office at the following address:

Delaware Division of Corporations
401 Federal Street – Suite 4
Dover, DE 19901

Final Thoughts

Changing your registered agent in Delaware is a simple process that requires you to follow a few steps.

Here are the steps to change your registered agent in Delaware:

• Step 1: Select a new Delaware registered agent.
• Step 2: Notify your former registered agent that you’re switching.
• Step 3: Complete and submit your Delaware Certificate of Change of Agent to the Delaware Department of State, Division of Corporations.
• Step 4: Confirm the change of registered agent

By following these steps and selecting a reliable and trustworthy agent, you can ensure that your business complies with Delaware law and receives essential legal documents promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Change Your Registered Agent in Delaware

What is the process for changing my LLC’s registered agent in Delaware?

You must file a document with the Division of Corporations to change your LLC’s registered agent in Delaware. The process involves completing the Certificate of Change of Registered Agent form and submitting it to the Delaware Division of Corporations. The form is available on the Delaware Division of Corporations website.

How much does it cost to change your registered agent in Delaware?

The fee for changing your registered agent in Delaware is $50, payable to the Delaware Division of Corporations. If your document is more than one page, there is an additional $9 fee per page.

How long does it take the state to process and complete the change of registered agent in Delaware?

Normal processing in Delaware takes two to three weeks. Depending on the service requested, you may request expedited options of one day to one hour.

Expedited service is available for an additional $1,000 for one-hour service, $500 for two-hour service, $200 for same-day service, or within 24 working hours for an extra $100 fee.

Where can I find the Change of Registered Agent form for Delaware entities?

The Delaware entities’ Change of Registered Agent form is available on the Delaware Division of Corporations website. It can be downloaded in PDF format.

Can I change registered agents online in Delaware?

No, you cannot change registered agents online in Delaware. You must file a paper form with the Delaware Division of Corporations to change your registered agent.

What are the requirements for serving as my registered agent for a Delaware LLC?

To serve as your registered agent for a Delaware LLC, you must be a resident of Delaware or have a physical address in Delaware. You must also be available during regular business hours to accept legal documents for your LLC.

How do I contact the Delaware Department of State?

The Delaware Department of State, Division of Corporations, can be reached at (302) 739-3073 or by visiting corp.delaware.gov for more information and resources.