How to Change Your Registered Agent in Georgia: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you own a business in Georgia, you may need to change your registered agent for several reasons.

You might need to change your registered agent if your current agent is no longer available. This could be because they have gone out of business, moved out of state, or no longer want to provide registered agent services.

Another reason could be if you want to switch to a different agent who offers better services or pricing.

Whatever the reason, it’s essential to know how to change your registered agent in Georgia to avoid legal issues.

The rest of this article will guide you on changing your registered agent in Georgia so that you can make the transition smoothly and confidently.

Steps on How To Change Your Georgia Registered Agent

If you want to change your Georgia registered agent, it’s a straightforward process involving three simple steps.

Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Select a new Georgia registered agent

The first step in changing your Georgia registered agent is to select a new one. When choosing a new registered agent, it’s essential to find someone who understands the responsibilities and scope of the position.

They should have a physical address (not just a P.O. Box) where legal documents can be delivered and should be able to be on call during regular business hours.

Many registered agent services are available, so it’s essential to research and find the one that best fits your needs. 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 moving on

Once you’ve selected a new Georgia registered agent, the next step is to notify your former agent that you’re moving on. 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 Georgia Annual Registration or an amended annual registration to the Georgia Secretary of State, Corporations Division.

The final step in changing your Georgia registered agent is to complete and submit your Georgia Annual Registration or an amended annual registration to the Georgia Secretary of State, Corporations Division.

1. Annual Registration

Annual registration is a report that all Georgia businesses are required to file. It includes information about your business, such as your registered agent.

Registered agent information can be changed at the time of annual registration filing. The usual window for filing an Annual Registration in Georgia is January 1 to April 1 each year. The filing costs $50.

You can file your annual registration online or print the form from the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.

When filing online, you can pay with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover credit cards or with an ATM or debit card with a Visa or MasterCard logo.

If you prefer to submit your registration by mail or in person, include a check, certified bank check, or money order made payable to the “Secretary of State.” Note that the Georgia SOS does not accept cash.

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

• LLC name or control number
• Your name
• Your email address
• Your new registered agent’s name and address
• The address of your Georgia office
• Your payment information

Here’s a guide to how you can print an annual registration form on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website:

2. Amended annual registration

If you must change your registered agent outside the January 1–April 1 window. In that case, you can file an amendment to your Annual Registration anytime.

The fee for filing an amended annual registration is $20. The form must be completed and submitted to the Secretary of State, and it may be filed online or on paper. There is a $10 service charge for filing by paper.

Updating your registered agent during your Annual Registration is best for cost efficiency. For emergency changes between April 2 and December 31, you can still update your agent by paying the $30 fee each time.

Here’s what the Georgia Amended Annual Registration Form for LLC looks like:

Once processed, Georgia will officially recognize your new registered agent.

Selecting a New Registered Agent

When selecting a new registered agent for your Georgia business, there are a few things to keep in mind. In this section, I explore the differences between a professional registered agent and self-representation and provide tips on choosing a reliable provider.

Professional Registered Agent vs. Self-Representation

You cannot act as your registered agent in Georgia, so you must use a professional registered agent.

Professional service can promptly ensure you receive essential legal documents, which are crucial for maintaining compliance with Georgia state law.

Also, an experienced registered agent can provide privacy by using their address instead of your personal or business address.

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.

How to Choose a Reliable Provider

Selecting a reliable provider is essential if you choose a professional registered agent service.

Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

• Reputation: Look for a provider with a good reputation in the industry. Check online reviews and ask for references if possible.
• Experience: Find out how long the provider has been in business and how many clients they serve.
• Services offered: Ensure the provider offers all the services you need, such as document scanning and forwarding, compliance monitoring, and annual report filing.
• Price: Compare prices from different providers to ensure a fair deal. The cheapest option may not always be the best.

Remember, selecting a new registered agent is an important decision that can have long-lasting consequences for your Georgia business. Take the time to weigh your options and make an informed choice.

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

Northwest Registered Agent is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient registered agent service for your Georgia LLC.

Here are some reasons why:

1. Georgia Experts

Northwest Registered Agent has a team of experts who know the ins and outs of all business filings and what the Georgia Secretary of State requires. They can help you navigate the process smoothly and avoid any mistakes that could cause delays or additional fees.

2. Instant Service

As your registered agent, Northwest doesn’t wait for any legal correspondence they receive on your behalf. They immediately scan it to your secure online portfolio so you can view it anytime, anywhere. This means you won’t miss any important deadlines or documents.

3. Fast Annual Registration

Switch to Northwest Registered Agent today; they will file your Annual Registration form and pay your filing fee in less than a business day. This saves you time and hassle and ensures that your LLC stays in good standing with the state.

4. Affordable Pricing

Northwest Registered Agent offers instant registered agent services for an annual price of $125. This is competitive with other registered agent services in Georgia and provides excellent value for the level of service you receive.

5. Convenient Online Tools

Northwest Registered Agent provides instant Georgia forms located directly in your online account to make a filing in Georgia. They also offer state resources in your registered agent service account, with self-filing instructions to help you. This means you can easily manage your LLC from anywhere, at any time.

6. Multiple Reminders

Northwest Registered Agent sends multiple annual report reminders, and you can also track your due dates in your online account. This ensures you never miss a deadline and stay in good standing with the state.

7. Real-Time Scanning

Northwest Registered Agent locally scans the ‘service of process’ and all documents for you in real time at no added cost. This means you can stay on top of any legal issues or disputes that may arise and respond quickly to protect your LLC.

What the State of Georgia Says about Changing a Registered Agent

To change your registered agent in Georgia, you must know a few things about what the state requires. Georgia has specific requirements for changing your LLC’s registered agent.

According to the Georgia Secretary of State’s website, the only way to make this change is to file or amend your Annual Registration (the same as an annual report). There is no separate form for a registered agent change.

This means you must complete the entire Annual Registration form, even if you only need to change your registered agent.

According to the Georgia Secretary of State, the registered agent must be an individual or a corporation authorized to do business in Georgia. An entity cannot be its registered agent.

The registered agent may or may not be the entity’s owner, shareholder, or officer. Many entities use their attorney or a professional corporate service company for this service.

It is important to note that the registered agent’s address must be a street address in Georgia, and the agent must be located at that address. A post office box is not acceptable.

Additionally, the registered agent must be available at the address during regular business hours to receive legal documents and other essential communications on behalf of the business.

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

Georgia Secretary of State
Corporations Division
2 MLK Jr. Dr. S.E.
Suite 315, Floyd West Tower
Atlanta, Georgia 30334

Final Thoughts

Changing your registered agent in Georgia is straightforward. Just follow a few simple steps.

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

• Step 1: Select a new Georgia registered agent.
• Step 2: Notify your former registered agent that you’re switching.
• Step 3: Complete and submit your Georgia Annual Registration or an amended annual registration to the Georgia Secretary of State, Corporations Division.

By following the steps outlined in this article and choosing a reputable registered agent, you can ensure that your business complies with state law and receives essential legal documents promptly.

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

What is the process for changing a registered agent in Georgia online?

To change your registered agent in Georgia online, log in to the Georgia Secretary of State’s eCorp website and file an annual registration. You can only change your registered agent online if you have not yet submitted your annual report for the year. If you have already submitted your annual registration, you must file an amended annual registration.

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

There is a filing fee of $50 to change your registered agent in Georgia. This fee must be paid when you file your amended annual registration or annual report.

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

For online updates to a Georgia corporation or LLC registration made before 4 p.m., the information will be updated overnight. The SOS processes paper form submissions in seven to ten business days but can expedite them to 24 hours for an additional fee.

What forms are required to update a registered agent in Georgia?

You must file an amended annual registration or an annual report to update your registered agent in Georgia. The amended annual registration form is available online through the Georgia Secretary of State’s eCorp website.

How can I submit an amended annual registration in Georgia?

You can submit an amended annual registration in Georgia online through the Georgia Secretary of State’s eCorp website. If you prefer to submit your amended annual registration by mail, you can download the form from the Georgia Secretary of State’s website and mail it to the address listed on the form. The fee for filing an amended annual registration online is $20, and there is a $10 service charge for filing by paper.

Can I be my registered agent in Georgia?

No, you cannot be your registered agent in Georgia.

Is it possible to be both the organizer and the registered agent for a company in Georgia?

Yes, it is possible to be both the organizer and the registered agent for a company in Georgia. However, the registered agent must have a physical street address in Georgia and be available during regular business hours to receive legal documents on behalf of the company.

How do I contact the Georgia Secretary of State?

For more information about changing your registered agent in Georgia, contact the Georgia Secretary of State’s office at (404) 656-2817 or visit their website at sos.ga.gov.