How to Change Your Registered Agent in Massachusetts (Guide)
Are you considering changing your registered agent in Massachusetts? Whether dissatisfied with your current agent or moving your business to a new location, the process is straightforward.
Maintaining a registered agent is crucial to avoid serious consequences like fines or involuntary business dissolution.
Here, I’ll guide you through the steps needed to change your registered agent and ensure your business complies with Massachusetts state law.
- Changing your registered agent in Massachusetts is simple. Just fill out a Statement of Change of Registered Agent form and send it to the Massachusetts Secretary of Commonwealth (SOC).
- You can mail it, bring it in person, or fax it. It costs $25 to file by mail or in person, but there’s no fee if you file online.
- If you hire Northwest as your new agent, they’ll take care of all the paperwork and pay the state filing fee for you.
Steps on How to Change Your Registered Agent in Massachusetts
Changing your registered agent in Massachusetts is a straightforward process that requires a few steps.
Here’s what you need to do:
Step #1. Select a new Massachusetts registered agent.
The first step in changing your Massachusetts registered agent is to select a new one. Your new registered agent must be a resident of Massachusetts or a business entity authorized to do business in the state.
You can appoint an individual or a company as your new registered agent. Choosing a reliable and responsible registered agent who can receive legal documents and forward them to you promptly is important.
Step #2. Notify your former registered agent that you’re moving on.
Once you have selected your new Massachusetts registered agent, you must notify your former registered agent that you’re moving on. It’s important to do this in writing and provide a change date.
You should also ask your former registered agent to confirm in writing that they have received your notification and will no longer act as your registered agent after the specified date.
I recommend using Northwest Registered Agent—they handle everything smoothly. They’ll file your paperwork when you switch to them and pay the state fees promptly.
Step #3. Log in to the site with your customer ID number and PIN
To change your registered agent in Massachusetts, log in to the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website with your customer ID number and PIN. If you don’t have a customer ID number and PIN, you can create them by following the website’s instructions.
Step #4. Choose the “Change Registered Agent” option from the list of filings
Once logged in to the website, you must choose the “Change Registered Agent” option from the filings list. This will take you to a form you must fill out with your new registered agent’s information, including their name, address, phone number, and email address. You also need to provide your contact information and the name of your business entity.
Change of agent forms submitted by mail or in person must include original signatures. The newly registered agent service does not need to sign the form—only their name and address are required.
Step #5. Complete and submit your Massachusetts Statement of Change of Registered Agent to the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth
Finally, you must complete and submit your Massachusetts Statement of Change of Registered Agent to the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth. You can complete and submit the form online or by mail.
If you submit the form online, you must log in to the website and follow the instructions. If you choose to submit the form by mail, you need to print it, fill it out, and mail it to the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Here’s what the Massachusetts Statement of Change of Resident Agent/Resident Office looks like:
Choosing a New Registered Agent
When changing your registered agent in Massachusetts, the first step is to choose a new registered agent. This can be an individual or a business entity authorized to do business in Massachusetts. The registered agent must have a physical address in Massachusetts to receive legal documents.
Types of Registered Agents
There are two main types of registered agents: individuals and professional services.
An individual can be a resident of Massachusetts who is at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen. Alternatively, a business entity authorized to conduct business in Massachusetts can also act as a registered agent. However, the registered agent cannot be the same entity as your business.
Professional registered agent services are also available. These services typically offer additional benefits such as mail forwarding, compliance monitoring, and document storage. However, they may be more expensive than hiring an individual as your registered agent.
Considerations for Selecting a Professional Service
Several factors must be considered if you hire a professional registered agent.
First, consider the cost of the service. Some services charge a flat fee, while others charge a monthly or annual fee.
Additionally, some services may charge additional fees for additional services such as mail forwarding or document storage.
Another factor to consider is the service’s reputation. Research the service online to see what other customers say about their experience. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients to get an idea of the quality of service provided.
Finally, consider the level of support provided by the service. Will they be available to answer questions and provide assistance if needed? Do they offer additional resources or tools to help you manage your business? These are all important factors when selecting a professional registered agent service.
Why You Should Use Northwest as Your Massachusetts LLC Registered Agent?
Changing your registered agent in Massachusetts can be daunting, but it’s a breeze with Northwest.
Here are a few reasons why Northwest is the best choice for your Massachusetts LLC registered agent:
They Will File Your Massachusetts Statement of Change of Registered Agent Paperwork for You and Pay the State Filing Fee
Northwest takes care of all the paperwork for you, including filing your Massachusetts Statement of Change of Registered Agent and paying the state filing fee. This means you can focus on running your business instead of dealing with paperwork.
Instant Registered Agent Services Annual Price: $125
Northwest offers instant registered agent services for an annual price of $125. This includes everything you need to keep your business compliant with Massachusetts state law.
Instant Massachusetts Forms Located Directly in Your Online Account to Make a Filing in Massachusetts
Northwest makes it easy to comply with Massachusetts state law by providing instant Massachusetts forms directly in your online account. This means you can file a claim in Massachusetts in no time.
State Resources in Your Registered Agent Service Account, with Self-Filing Instructions to Help You
Northwest provides state resources in your registered agent service account, including self-filing instructions, to help you comply with Massachusetts state law.
Northwest Registered Agent Send Multiple Annual Report Reminders, and You Can Also Track Your Due Dates in Your Online Account
Northwest makes it easy to stay on top of your annual report deadlines by sending yearly multiple report reminders. You can also track your due dates in your online account.
They Locally Scan ‘Service of Process’ and All Documents to You in Real-Time for No Added Cost
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. They also locally scan the ‘service of process’ and all documents for you in real time at no added cost.
What does the State of Massachusetts Say about changing a registered agent?
Following the guidelines set forth by the state is essential when changing your registered agent in Massachusetts. According to the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth, any LLC looking to change its registered agent must submit a Statement of Change digitally or on paper. Paper filings incur a $25 fee, but online filings do not.
To submit a Statement of Change, you must include the following information:
- The name and contact information of your new registered agent
- The name of your LLC
- Your LLC’s identification number
- The signature of an authorized person from your LLC
It is important to note that your new registered agent must meet the state’s requirements. Your registered agent must be a resident of Massachusetts or a corporation authorized to do business in the state. Additionally, your registered agent must have a physical street address in Massachusetts, not just a PO box.
Once you have completed your Statement of Change, you can submit it by mail to the following address:
Secretary of the Commonwealth
One Ashburton Place, Room 1717
Boston, MA 02108
Alternatively, you can submit your Statement of Change online through the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website.
Final Thoughts
Changing your registered agent in Massachusetts is straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps. Following these steps ensures that your business remains compliant with state regulations and that your important legal documents are properly handled.
Here is a quick summary of the steps you need to take to change registered agent in Massachusetts :
- Step 1. Select a new Massachusetts registered agent.
- Step 2. Notify your former registered agent that you’re moving on.
- Step 3. Log in to the site with your customer ID number and PIN.
- Step 4. Choose the “Change Registered Agent” option from the list of filings.
- Step 5. Complete and submit your Massachusetts Statement of Change of Registered Agent to the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth.
When selecting a new registered agent, choosing a reliable and trustworthy service that can handle your legal documents carefully is essential. Consider factors such as experience, reputation, and customer service when deciding.
Remember to notify your former registered agent and promptly submit your Statement of Change of Registered Agent to the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth. Following these steps can ensure a smooth transition and avoid potential legal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for changing my registered agent in Massachusetts?
You must file the appropriate form with the Massachusetts Secretary of State to change your registered agent in Massachusetts. You can file the form online, by mail, or in person. Once you have filed the form, you must pay the filing fee and wait for the state to process your request.
What forms are required to update my registered agent information in Massachusetts?
To update your registered agent information in Massachusetts, you must file a Change of Registered Agent form with the Massachusetts Secretary of State. The form can be filed online, by mail, or in person.
Can I be my registered agent in Massachusetts, and what are the requirements?
Yes, you can be your registered agent in Massachusetts if you are a state resident and at least 18 years old. Alternatively, a business entity authorized to conduct business in Massachusetts can also act as a registered agent. However, the registered agent cannot be the same entity as your business.
How much does it cost to change a registered agent in Massachusetts?
The filing fee for changing your registered agent in Massachusetts is $25. Additional fees may apply if you choose to expedite your request. Hire Northwest to do it all for you.
Can I change my registered agent online with the Massachusetts Secretary of State?
You can change your registered agent online with the Massachusetts Secretary of State. You must fill out the appropriate form and pay the filing fee online.
Are there any restrictions on who can serve as a registered agent in Massachusetts?
Yes, there are restrictions on who can serve as a registered agent in Massachusetts. The registered agent must be a state resident at least 18 years old. Alternatively, a business entity authorized to conduct business in Massachusetts can also act as a registered agent. However, the registered agent cannot be the same entity as your business.
How long does it take the state to process and complete the change of registered agent in Massachusetts?
The processing time for changing your registered agent in Massachusetts varies depending on the method of filing and the workload of the Secretary of State’s office. Online filings are typically processed faster than mail or in-person filings. You can check your filing status on the Secretary of State’s website.
How do I contact the Massachusetts Secretary of State?
The Massachusetts Secretary of State can be contacted by phone at (617) 727-9640 or by email at corpinfo@sec.state.ma.us. For more information and resources, visit their website at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/
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