To change your registered agent in California, file an updated Statement of Information through bizfile Online with the new agent’s name and California street address. If you file the update outside your regular filing period, there is no fee. If you file it as part of your regular Statement of Information, the normal $20 (LLC) or $25 (corporation) fee applies.
Who can serve as your agent
- An individual, 18 or older, with a California street address who is available there during business hours. This can be you or another manager or officer.
- A corporation registered with the Secretary of State as a California registered corporate agent. It must have a current agent registration before you can name it.
A P.O. box can’t be used. The agent’s name and address appear on the public record.
Step by step
- Choose the new agent and confirm they agree to serve.
- Log in to bizfile Online and start a Statement of Information for your LLC or corporation.
- Enter the new agent. For an individual, enter the name and California street address. For a registered corporate agent, enter its exact registered name only.
- Review the rest of the statement. It must be accurate as of the filing date.
- Submit and confirm. Once processed, the new agent appears in the business search.
- Tell your old agent so they stop forwarding documents and stop billing you.
Why the change matters
Lawsuits and official notices go to the agent on file. If that agent has moved, closed or stopped forwarding mail, your company can miss a lawsuit deadline. Keep the agent current at all times, not just at your regular filing.
Switching for privacy? If your home address is listed as the agent address, moving to a registered agent service takes it off future filings. Older filings stay in the record. Call 310-980-4455 about our registered agent service.
Source: California Secretary of State, Business Entities.
Questions
Do I need my old agent’s permission to change agents?
No. The company files the change itself. It’s still good practice to tell the old agent.
Is there a separate form just for changing agents?
No. LLCs and corporations change their agent by filing an updated Statement of Information.
Does changing my agent change my Statement of Information due date?
No. Your regular filing schedule stays the same. A free update outside your filing period does not replace your next required statement.
Last reviewed October 18, 2026 against California Secretary of State and Franchise Tax Board sources. This page is general information, not legal or tax advice.