How to Change Your Registered Agent in South Dakota (Guide)
Whether you’re looking for better service, quicker handling of legal documents, or ways to save money, changing to a new registered agent in South Dakota State is one sure way to go.
And it doesn’t have to be complicated.
In this article, I’ll show you exactly how to do it.
Let’s dive in and get started!
- To switch your registered agent in South Dakota, you have to fill out a form called the Statement of Change of Registered Agent and send it to the South Dakota Secretary of State.
- You can mail it or take it there in person. It costs $10 to file this form.
- If you choose Northwest to be your new registered agent, they’ll handle all the paperwork for you and cover the state filing fee.
Steps on How to Change Your Registered Agent in South Dakota
Follow these steps to change your registered agent in South Dakota:
Step#1. Access the South Dakota Department of State website to download the form
The first step in changing your registered agent in South Dakota is to access the South Dakota Department of State website to download the Statement of Change of Registered Agent form.
This form is available in Adobe Acrobat fillable format, and all required fields on the form will have a box. Click on the form fields and type the tab to the next field. Click on the checkboxes to mark or unmark them. Print the form and mail it.
You may print the form and complete it in ink if you do not wish to fill it out online.
Here’s what the South Dakota Statement of Change of Registered Agent form looks like:
Step#2. Select a new South Dakota registered agent
The next step in changing your registered agent in South Dakota is to select a new registered agent. Your new registered agent must be located in South Dakota and willing to accept legal documents on your behalf.
You can choose to hire a commercial registered agent. This third-party company provides registered agent services, or you can select an individual or entity to serve as your registered agent.
Consider switching to Northwest Registered Agent whenever you’re sent to make the switch. They’re the BEST at what they do and will help file your Statement of Change of Registered Agent form and pay your filing fee, usually within one business day!
Step#3. Notify your former registered agent that you’re moving on
Once you have selected your new registered agent, you must notify your former registered agent that you are moving on. This is essential because your former registered agent may still receive legal documents on your behalf.
You can notify your former registered agent by sending them a letter or email informing them that you are changing your registered agent and providing them with the contact information for your new registered agent.
Step#4. Complete and submit your South Dakota Statement of Change of Registered Agent to the South Dakota Secretary of State
The fourth step in changing your registered agent in South Dakota is to complete and submit your South Dakota Statement of Change of Registered Agent form to the South Dakota Secretary of State.
You can submit the form by mail or in person, which costs $10 to file. The form requires you to provide your business ID and name, the name and address of your new registered agent, and other relevant information.
Step#5. Pay the filing fees
The final step in changing your registered agent in South Dakota is to pay the filing fees. The filing fee for the South Dakota Statement of Change of Registered Agent form is $10. Make your check payable to the Secretary of State and include it with your completed form.
All documents submitted to the South Dakota Secretary of State typically take approximately two business days to process. If you need expedited processing on the same day, you must include a $50 fee.
Choosing a New Registered Agent
This section will explore the types of registered agents available and provide considerations to help you select the right professional service.
Types of Registered Agents
There are three types of registered agents you can choose from:
- Individual: You can serve as your registered agent if you have a physical address in South Dakota and are available during normal business hours. However, remember that this option may not be ideal if you plan to move or travel frequently.
- Business Associate: A business associate, such as an attorney or accountant, can be your registered agent. This option may be ideal if you already have a trusted business relationship with someone who meets the requirements.
- Professional Registered Agent Service: A professional registered agent service is a third-party company that specializes in serving as a registered agent. It has the necessary experience and resources to handle the responsibilities of a registered agent, such as receiving legal documents and forwarding them to you.
Considerations for Selecting a Professional Service
If you decide to use a professional registered agent service, here are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Cost: Compare the fees of different registered agent services and ensure that they fit within your budget.
- Availability: Ensure that the registered agent service is available during normal business hours and can receive legal documents on your behalf.
- Experience: Look for a registered agent service with experience serving businesses in South Dakota and a good reputation.
- Additional Services: Some registered agent services may offer additional services, such as mail forwarding or compliance assistance. Consider whether these services would benefit your business.
Why You Should Use Northwest as Your South Dakota LLC Registered Agent?
Several options are available when choosing a registered agent for your South Dakota LLC. However, Northwest Registered Agent is an excellent choice for several reasons.
Firstly, the Northwest Registered Agent will file your South Dakota Statement of Change of Registered Agent paperwork for you and pay the state filing fee.
Secondly, as your registered agent, Northwest Registered Agent doesn’t wait around on any legal correspondence they receive on your behalf. Instead, they immediately scan it to your secure online portfolio so you can view it anytime, anywhere.
Thirdly, Northwest Registered Agent offers instant registered agent services at an annual price of $125. This is a competitive price for the service and support they provide.
Fourthly, with Northwest Registered Agent, you’ll have access to instant South Dakota forms located directly in your online account to make a filing in South Dakota.
Fifthly, Northwest Registered Agent sends multiple annual report reminders, and you can also track your due dates in your online account. This ensures you stay on top of your legal obligations and avoid potential penalties or fines.
Finally, the Northwest Registered Agent locally scans the ‘service of process’ and all documents for you in real-time at no added cost. Thus, you’ll receive important legal documents promptly and not miss critical deadlines.
What does the State of South Dakota Say about changing a Registered Agent?
Changing your LLC’s registered agent in South Dakota is straightforward. The state requires businesses to file the appropriate change form with the South Dakota Secretary of State. You can obtain this form online or on paper.
You will need your Business ID and new registered agent information to file the form online. If you prefer to file on paper, it is available in Adobe Acrobat fillable format.
All required fields on the form will have a box. Click on the form fields and type the tab to the next field. Click on the checkboxes to mark or unmark them. Print the form and mail it.
South Dakota charges a $10 filing fee to change your registered agent.
If you choose to file on paper, you can mail the form, along with a check made payable to the Secretary of State, to the following mailing address:
Secretary of State
500 E. Capitol Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501-5070
Final Thoughts
Changing your registered agent in South Dakota is straightforward. There are only a few simple steps.
Here is a summary of the steps you need to take to change your registered agent in South Dakota:
- Access the South Dakota Department of State website to download the form.
- Select a new South Dakota registered agent.
- Notify your former registered agent that you’re moving on.
- Complete and submit your South Dakota Statement of Change of Registered Agent to the South Dakota Secretary of State.
- Pay the filing fees.
Remember to carefully follow all instructions on the form and provide accurate information. You should also select a registered agent that meets all legal requirements and can provide reliable service to your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for changing my registered agent in South Dakota?
To change your registered agent in South Dakota, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent or Both form with the South Dakota Secretary of State. You can file this form online or by mail. Once the form is filed and the fee is paid, the Secretary of State will update your registered agent information.
What forms are required to update my registered agent information in South Dakota?
To update your registered agent information in South Dakota, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent or Both form. This form is available online or by mail. You can also prepare this form online, print it, and mail it to the Secretary of State.
Can I be my registered agent in South Dakota, and what are the requirements?
Yes, you can be your registered agent in South Dakota. However, you must have a physical address where you can receive legal documents during business hours. A P.O. Box is not acceptable. You can hire a commercial registered agent if you do not have a physical address in South Dakota.
How much does it cost to change a registered agent in South Dakota?
The fee to change your registered agent in South Dakota is $10, and it is non-refundable. Hire Northwest to do it all.
Can I change my registered agent online with the South Dakota Secretary of State?
You can change your registered agent online with the South Dakota Secretary of State. You can also file the necessary form by mail.
Are there any restrictions on who can serve as a registered agent in South Dakota?
To serve as a registered agent in South Dakota, an individual or business entity must have a physical address where they can receive legal documents during business hours. A P.O. Box is not acceptable.
How long does it take the state to process and complete the change of registered agent in South Dakota?
The processing time for changing your registered agent in South Dakota can vary. If you file the necessary form online, the change can be processed within 24 hours. If you file the form by mail, the processing time can take up to two weeks.
How do I contact the South Dakota Secretary of State?
You can contact the South Dakota Secretary of State by phone at (605) 773-4845 or by email at corporations@state.sd.us. You can also visit their website at sdsos.gov.
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