How to Change Your Registered Agent in Iowa (Guide)
Changing your registered agent in Iowa is easy and can be done in simple steps.
As a business owner, it’s important to follow state rules, and one of these rules is having a registered agent. To change your registered agent in Iowa, follow the right steps to keep your business following state rules.
And yes, this guide will show you how to change your registered agent in Iowa quickly and hassle-free!
- To change your registered agent in Iowa, you must fill out a Change of Registered Agent form and send it to the Iowa Secretary of State, Business Services Division (SOS).
- You can mail, fax, or drop it off in person, and the best part is there’s no fee.
- If you hire Northwest as your new registered agent, they’ll handle the filing for you.
Steps on How To Change Your Iowa Registered Agent
Here are the steps you need to follow to change your registered agent:
Step #1. Select a new Iowa registered agent
Selecting a new agent is the first step in changing your registered agent. When selecting a new agent, it is essential to ensure that they meet Iowa’s statutory requirements. You can hire a professional service or select an individual that meets the requirements.
Step #2. Notify your former registered agent that you’re switching
After selecting a new registered agent, you must notify your former agent that you are switching. It is essential to do this to avoid any confusion and ensure a smooth transition. You can do this by sending a written notice to your former agent.
If you switch to Northwest Registered Agent, here’s some good news: they’ll handle your Change of Registered Agent form and cover the filing fee, all done in less than a day!
Step #3. Preparing the Iowa Statement of Change Form
The next step is to prepare the Statement of Change Form. This form informs the Iowa Secretary of State that you are changing your registered agent. It must be completed accurately and in full.
Here’s what the Iowa Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent looks like:
Step #4. Obtaining Consent from the New Agent
After completing the Statement of Change Form, you must obtain consent from the new agent. The consent to appointment must be signed and provided before proceeding to the next step.
Step #5. Filing the Change with the Iowa Secretary of State
The final step is to complete and submit your Iowa Statement of Change to the Iowa Secretary of State. The Statement of Change must be filed by mail, fax, or in person and has no filing fee. The Iowa Secretary of State will process your request and update your registered agent information.
When changing your business’s registered office or agent in Iowa, it’s crucial to use the official forms provided by the SOS. To stay compliant, make sure to deliver these forms by mail, fax, or in person.
Choosing a New Registered Agent
Here are some things to consider when choosing a new registered agent:
Types of Registered Agents
There are two types of registered agents in Iowa: individual and professional registered agent services. An individual can serve as a registered agent if they are a resident of Iowa or a corporation authorized to do business in Iowa. A professional registered agent service is a company that provides registered agent services to businesses.
Considerations for Selecting a Professional Service
If you choose to use a professional registered agent service, there are a few things to consider.
First, ensure the service is authorized to do business in Iowa.
Second, consider the service’s flexibility. Some services may charge additional fees for additional services, while others may offer a more comprehensive package.
Finally, consider the registered agent’s address. Legal documents will be served to this address, so it is important to choose a reliable and accessible one.
Why You Should Use Northwest as Your Iowa LLC Registered Agent?
Northwest Registered Agent is a great option if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient registered agent service for your Iowa LLC.
Here are a few reasons why you should use Northwest as your Iowa LLC registered agent:
Iowa Experts
Northwest has a team of experts who are well-versed in all aspects of business filings in Iowa. They know exactly what the Iowa Secretary of State requires and can help ensure your business complies with all state regulations.
Instant Registered Agent Services
Northwest offers instant registered agent services for an annual price of $125. This includes filing your Iowa Statement of Change by Business Entity and Consent to Appointment by Registered Agent paperwork and paying the state filing fee.
Instant Iowa Forms
Northwest provides instant access to Iowa forms directly in your online account, making it easy to file in Iowa.
State Resources
Northwest also offers state resources in your registered agent service account, including self-filing instructions to help you navigate the process.
Annual Report Reminders
Northwest sends multiple annual report reminders, and you can also track your due dates in your online account to ensure you never miss a deadline.
Real-Time Document Scanning
Northwest locally scans the ‘service of process’ and all documents to you in real time for no added cost, ensuring you receive important legal documents on time.
What does the State of Iowa Say about changing a Registered Agent?
When you need to change your registered agent in Iowa, you must follow the guidelines set forth by the Iowa Secretary of State.
The state requires that you file a Statement of Change of Registered Office and/or Registered Agent form with the Business Services Division of the Iowa Secretary of State. This form is available online, by mail, or in person.
To complete the form, you must provide the name of your current registered agent and their street address and email address. You must also give your new registered agent’s name, street address, and email address.
If you are changing both your registered agent and your registered office, you will need to provide the new address of your registered office as well. There is no fee to change your registered agent in Iowa.
Once you have completed the form, you can submit it to the Iowa Secretary of State, Business Services Division by fax, in person, or at the following address:
Business Services Division
Lucas Building, 1st Floor
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
It is important to note that your new registered agent must meet the qualifications set forth by the Iowa Secretary of State.
Final Thoughts
Changing your registered agent in Iowa is a straightforward process requiring some paperwork and steps.
Here’s a recap of the steps you need to take to change your registered agent in Iowa:
- Select a new Iowa registered agent.
- Notify your former registered agent.
- Prepare the statement of change form.
- Obtain consent from the new agent.
- Filing the Change with the Iowa Secretary of State
Changing your registered agent in Iowa is a simple process that can be completed in just a few steps.
By following the instructions in this article, you can ensure that your business is in good standing with the state and that your registered agent is up-to-date and reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for changing my registered agent in Iowa?
You must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Iowa Secretary of State to change your registered agent in Iowa. You must provide the name and address of your new registered agent and pay the required fee.
What forms are required to update my registered agent information in Iowa?
The only form required to update your registered agent information in Iowa is the Change of Registered Agent form, which can be found on the Iowa Secretary of State’s website.
Can I be my registered agent in Iowa, and what are the requirements?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Iowa as long as you meet the following requirements:
- You must be a resident of Iowa
- You must have a physical address in Iowa to receive legal documents during business hours.
- You must be available during business hours to receive legal documents
How much does it cost to change a registered agent in Iowa?
Changing your registered agent in Iowa is free of charge. Hire Northwest to do it for you.
Can I change my registered agent online with the Iowa Secretary of State?
You can change your registered agent online with the Iowa Secretary of State. You must file the Change of Registered Agent form online and pay the required fee by credit card.
Are there any restrictions on who can serve as a registered agent in Iowa?
The only restriction on who can serve as a registered agent in Iowa is that the registered agent must have a physical address in Iowa where they can receive legal documents during business hours.
How long does it take the state to process and complete the change of registered agent in Iowa?
The Iowa Secretary of State’s office typically processes Change of Registered Agent forms within 1-2 business days. However, peak filing periods may take longer.
How do I contact the Iowa Secretary of State?
You can contact the Iowa Secretary of State by phone at (515) 281-5204 or by email at sos@sos.iowa.gov. You can also visit their website at sos.iowa.gov.
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