How to Change Your Registered Agent in Hawaii (Guide)
Changing your registered agent in Hawaii might sound like a hassle, but it’s pretty simple.
Whether you’re fed up with your current agent or just want to switch things up, the process is straightforward and doesn’t take too long.
This article breaks down how to change your registered agent in Hawaii, making the whole thing a breeze and keeping you in line with state rules.
- To change your registered agent in Hawaii, you’ll have to fill out and submit a form called the “Statement of Change of Registered Agent by Entity” to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Business, Registration Division.
- You can send this form by mail, fax, online, or in person, and it costs $25 to file.
- If you hire Northwest as your new registered agent, they will handle the paperwork for you and pay the $25 filing fee.
Steps on how to change your Registered Agent in Hawaii
Here’s how you can change your Hawaii registered agent.
Step #1: Select a new Hawaii registered agent
The first step in changing your registered agent in Hawaii is to select a qualified and authorized agent. Ensure the agent you choose is fully capable of acting as your registered agent and authorized to conduct business in Hawaii.
You can choose a trusted individual or a professional company to serve in this role.
I highly recommend using Northwest to change your registered agent. Their service is fast and reliable, making the transition smooth and stress-free. If you want a hassle-free experience, Northwest is the way to go.
Step #2: Notify your former registered agent that you’re moving on
Once you have selected a new registered agent, you should notify your former agent that you will be switching to a new agent. This might not be necessary, but it’s important because your former agent may still be listed as your registered agent with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Business Registration Division.
Step #3: Preparing the Statement of Change
The next step is to prepare the Statement of Change.
This document will officially notify the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Business Registration Division, that you are changing your registered agent. The Statement of Change must include the name and address of your new registered agent.
Here’s what the Hawaii Statement of Change of Registered Agent by Entity Form looks like:
Step #4: Obtaining Consent From the New Agent
It’s important to know that before you can submit the Statement of Change, you must obtain the consent of your new registered agent. Your new agent must sign a consent form stating they agree to act as your registered agent.
Hiring/Changing to Northwest as your preferred registered agent eases you the stress of going through all these processes as they’d handle all the paperwork on your behalf.
Step #5: Complete and submit your Form to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Once you have obtained the consent of your new agent, you can complete and submit the Hawaii Statement of Change to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Business Registration Division. This document must be submitted along with the appropriate filing fee.
You cannot change your registered agent in Hawaii by filing an amendment. Instead, you can update your registered agent information in your Annual Report.
Related: How to Change Registered Agent on LLC (by states)
Choosing a New Registered Agent
When changing your registered agent in Hawaii, choosing a new one that fits your business needs and model is important.
Here are some considerations to consider when selecting a new registered agent.
Types of Registered Agents
There are three types of registered agents to choose from when selecting a new registered agent in Hawaii:
- Individual: An individual registered agent is a person who resides in Hawaii and is available during regular business hours to receive service of process and other legal documents on behalf of your business.
- Business Entity: A business entity registered agent is authorized to do business in Hawaii and is available during normal business hours to receive service of process and other legal documents on behalf of your business.
- Professional Service: A professional service registered agent is a company that specializes in providing registered agent services to businesses. They have the expertise and resources to handle your registered agent needs.
Considerations for Selecting a Professional Service
If you decide to select a professional service registered agent, there are several considerations to keep in mind:
•Reputation: Look for a registered agent with a good reputation. Check online reviews and ask for references.
• Experience: Choose a registered agent with experience in your industry.
• Services: Consider the services offered by the registered agent. Do they offer additional services such as mail forwarding or compliance monitoring?
• Cost: Compare the costs of different registered agents. Make sure to choose a registered agent that fits within your budget.
When changing your registered agent, you must notify the Business Registration Division. Failure to do so may result in penalties or fines.
Why You Should Use Northwest as Your Hawaii LLC Registered Agent?
When changing your registered agent in Hawaii, it is essential to choose a reliable and knowledgeable service provider. Northwest Registered Agent is that provider.
Here are some of the reasons why you should consider using them as your Hawaii LLC service:
- Hawaii Experts: Northwest Registered Agent has a team of Hawaii experts who know the ins and outs of all business filings and what the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division requires. You can trust them to handle your paperwork accurately and efficiently.
- Easy Filing: Northwest Registered Agent will file your Hawaii Statement of Change of Registered Agent paperwork for you and pay the state filing fee. They also provide instant Hawaii forms located directly in your online account to make a filing in Hawaii. This makes the process of changing your registered agent quick and hassle-free.
- Affordable Pricing: With an annual price of $125, Northwest Registered Agent offers instant registered agent services at an affordable price. This means that you can get high-quality service without breaking the bank.
- State Resources: Northwest Registered Agent provides state resources in your registered agent service account, with self-filing instructions to help you. This means you can access helpful resources to guide you through changing your registered agent in Hawaii.
- Annual Report Reminders: Northwest Registered Agent sends multiple annual report reminders, and you can also track your due dates in your online account. This ensures you stay compliant with Hawaii state regulations and avoid penalties.
- Real-Time Scanning: Northwest Registered Agent locally scans the ‘service of process’ and all documents for you in real time for no added cost. This means you can receive important documents as soon as they are delivered, ensuring you never miss an important deadline.
What the State of Hawaii Says about Changing a Registered Agent
If you are looking to change your registered agent in Hawaii, it is crucial to understand the state’s rules and regulations. The Hawaii Business Corporation Act (HRS Chapter 414D) governs the requirements for registered agents in Hawaii.
Under Hawaii law, every corporation, limited liability company (LLC), limited partnership, and limited liability partnership (LLP) must have a registered agent in the state. The registered agent is responsible for receiving legal and official documents on behalf of the entity.
To change your registered agent in Hawaii, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA). This form can be filed online or by mail.
Once completed, the form should be mailed to the following address:
Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Business Registration Division
335 Merchant Street, Room 201
Honolulu, HI 96813
It is necessary to note that the new registered agent must meet the qualifications set forth by the state. The registered agent must be a resident of Hawaii or a corporation or LLC authorized to do business in the state.
Additionally, the registered agent must have a physical address in Hawaii where they can be reached during regular business hours.
Final Thoughts
Changing your registered agent in Hawaii might seem challenging initially, but it becomes manageable with the right information and resources.
Here are the steps to change your registered agent in Hawaii:
- Select a New Hawaii Registered Agent: Choose a new registered agent that meets Hawaii’s requirements.
- Notify Your Former Registered Agent: Inform your current agent that you’re switching to a new agent.
- Prepare the Statement of Change: Complete the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office form.
- Obtain Consent from the New Agent: Make sure your new registered agent signs the necessary consent form.
- Submit the Form: File your completed form with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA).
Remember to communicate with your current registered agent and update any relevant parties, such as the Hawaii Department of Taxation and your business partners, about the change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for changing my registered agent in Hawaii?
Select a new agent meeting state requirements to change your registered agent in Hawaii. Notify your current agent of the change and complete the Statement of Change of Registered Agent form. Submit this form to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs along with the required fee, then await confirmation of the change.
What forms are required to update my Registered Agent information in Hawaii?
To change your registered agent in Hawaii, you must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Business Registration Division of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA). You can download this form from the DCCA website or obtain a copy from the DCCA office.
How much does it cost to change your registered agent in Hawaii?
The filing fee for a Change of Registered Agent form in Hawaii is $25. However, if you choose to hire a registered agent service, they may charge additional fees. Hiring Northwest to do it all can save you some paperwork stress.
Can I be my registered agent in Hawaii, and what are the requirements?
Yes, you can be your registered agent in Hawaii if you have a physical address where legal documents can be served during business hours.
Are there any restrictions on who can serve as a registered agent in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, registered agents must have a physical address within the state and be available during normal business hours to receive legal documents. They must also be authorized to do business in Hawaii if they are a business entity. Consent to serve as a registered agent is required to ensure they can fulfill their legal obligations effectively.
How long does it take the state to process and complete the change of registered agent in Hawaii?
The processing time for a Change of Registered Agent form in Hawaii is typically 3-5 business days. However, it may take longer during peak filing periods.
Can I change My registered agent online with the Hawaii Secretary of State?
You cannot change your registered agent online with the Hawaii Secretary of State. You must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Business Registration Division of the ”CCA.
How do I contact the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs?
You can contact the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs at (808) 586-2727 or dca@dcca.hawaii.gov, or you can also visit their website at https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/
Change Registered Agent Services by State
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