Change Registered Agent in Florida with Secretary of State: A Comprehensive Guide For businesses operating in Florida, it is essential to understand the process of changing a registered agent with the Secretary of State. A registered agent, also known as a statutory agent, is an individual or entity designated by a business to receive important legal and official documents on behalf of the company. This includes tax forms, legal notices, and other important correspondence. The process of changing a registered agent in Florida involves several steps. It is important to follow these steps carefully to ensure that the change is properly implemented and to maintain compliance with state laws. Let's delve into the details of this process. 1. Research and Choose a New Registered Agent: Start by conducting thorough research to find a reliable and trustworthy registered agent in Florida. The chosen agent should have a physical address in the state and should be available during regular business hours to receive documents on behalf of the business. 2. Contact the Current Registered Agent: Inform the current registered agent in writing about the decision to make a change. It is important to update and maintain good communication with the current agent throughout this process to ensure a smooth transition. 3. Obtain Consent from the New Registered Agent: Before the change can be made, the new registered agent must consent to the appointment. This can usually be done through a signed consent form provided by the Secretary of State or through a written agreement prepared by the business. 4. Prepare and Submit the Necessary Forms: The Florida Department of State requires businesses to file specific forms for changing a registered agent. The most commonly used form is the "Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Registered Office" (Form RA-100). This form can be obtained from the Secretary of State's website or by contacting the Division of Corporations. 5. Pay the Required Fee: Along with the completed form, a filing fee must be submitted to the Secretary of State. The current fee for changing a registered agent in Florida is $25, but it is always recommended verifying the current fee on the Secretary of State's website as it may be subject to change. Types of Change Registered Agent in Florida with Secretary of State: 1. Individual Registered Agent: An individual registered agent can be any person who is at least 18 years old and has a physical address in Florida. This individual agent can also be a member or officer of the business. 2. Registered Agent Service: Businesses can opt to use a registered agent service provided by professional companies specializing in this service. These companies have expertise in handling legal and official documents and can ensure timely delivery and compliance. 3. Business Entity as Registered Agent: In some cases, a business entity itself can act as its registered agent if it has a physical address in Florida and is authorized to do business in the state. In summary, changing a registered agent with the Secretary of State in Florida requires careful consideration and adherence to the necessary steps outlined by the Florida Department of State. It is essential to select a reliable registered agent capable of handling important legal documents effectively.