A registered agent is an individual or entity authorized by your business to receive legal documents and tax notices on its behalf. They also handle essential paperwork such as annual reports and other compliance requirements for maintaining good standing with the state.

Since they act as a liaison between your business and the state authorities, they must be present at their physical address during regular business hours. 

In Alabama, all businesses are legally required to have a designated registered agent at all times. However, there may come a time when you need to change your registered agent.

This could be due to various reasons, such as your current agent resigning, relocating, or simply not providing satisfactory services. Whatever the reason, it is crucial to follow the steps required by the state of Alabama to ensure a smooth transition.

If you want to switch your registered agent in Alabama but don’t know where to start, we have you covered! From understanding the requirements to filing the necessary paperwork, we’ll walk you through the process in this step-by-step guide.

So, let’s dive in to know how you can make this transition a breeze.

The Process of Changing a Registered Agent in Alabama

The registered agent is the official point of contact between the state and the company. Therefore, having an active and reliable registered agent is necessary to avoid legal or compliance issues with the state and government entities. 

Changing a registered agent in Alabama may seem like a tedious task, but with the right information and steps, it can be smooth and straightforward. This section will break down each step in changing your Alabama registered agent.

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

According to the Alabama Secretary of State, all business entities must have a registered agent with a physical address within the state and be available during regular business hours.

The registered agent must be an individual Alabama resident or a business entity with an Alabama street address (P.O. boxes are not allowed).

Step 2: Choose Your New Registered Agent

Selecting a new registered agent swiftly is crucial as they will be responsible for handling critical legal documents for your business. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the requirements, you must choose a reliable and trustworthy registered agent.

This can be an individual or a professional service company that specializes in being a registered agent. 

If you choose a registered agent service company, ensure they’re authorized to perform business transactions in Alabama on your behalf. You can also check out the list of active registered agents in Alabama on the Secretary of State’s website.

Step 3: Notify Your Current Registered Agent

According to Alabama state law, you must inform your current registered agent about the change. This notification should include details such as when the change will take effect and who will take over as the new registered agent.

You can use certified mail or hand-deliver this notice to ensure your current registered agent receives it.

Step 4: File Form RA-DEO1

After notifying your current registered agent, you must file a Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office by Entity form, which you can download from the Alabama Secretary of State’s website.

This form is an official update on your business’s information, including changes in ownership or contact information for your new registered agent. 

You must mail two copies of this completed form and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Secretary of State’s office. The envelope must include a check, money order, or credit card information for the $100.00 processing fee. You may also file the form via email or fax; however, you must fill it out by typing, or the request will be rejected without review.

Step 5: Wait for Confirmation

After submitting the form, you must await confirmation from the Alabama Secretary of State’s office. This confirmation will be sent to your new registered agent’s address and will include a stamped copy of the form for your records.

It is essential to keep all paperwork and documentation related to this change for future reference. 

Remember that having an up-to-date registered agent is crucial for ensuring timely delivery of legal documents and maintaining good standing with the state. If you face any challenges during this process, do not hesitate to seek assistance from a professional service company or consult an attorney specializing in business law.

Fees Associated With Changing a Registered Agent in Alabama

First and foremost, there is a fee for filing the necessary paperwork with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office. This fee is currently $100 and must be paid when filing. It can be paid online or by mail using a check or money order made to the “Alabama Secretary of State.”

In addition to the filing fee, other costs may be associated with changing your registered agent. These costs may include any fees your new registered agent charges for their services. It is important to note that these fees can vary depending on the company you choose to act as your new registered agent.

It is also worth noting that additional fees may be involved if you change your business address and registered agent simultaneously. For example, you must also pay to update any licenses or permits with state agencies due to the address change.

How Long Does It Take to Change a Registered Agent in Alabama?

Once the Statement of Change of Registered Agent form has been filed, it typically takes 3-5 business days to be processed by the Secretary of State’s office. However, during busy periods or if there are any issues with the form, this process may take longer.

Submitting the form well before critical deadlines or filing dates is recommended to ensure it is processed on time.

Once the Secretary of State’s office processes and approves your change, they will send confirmation via email or mail (if requested). Your new registered agent will also receive notification from the state regarding their responsibilities and duties as an official representative for your business.

Who Should You Notify About Changing Your Registered Agent in Alabama?

Changing your registered agent in Alabama is an important decision. Therefore, you must notify all relevant parties about this change to avoid potential issues or complications.

This includes informing banks, creditors, vendors, and other organizations or individuals provided with your current registered agent’s information.

1. Your Current Registered Agent

It is crucial to inform your current registered agent about the change so they can update their records accordingly and ensure a smooth transition.

2. Your Business Partners

If you have any partners or members in your business, you must notify them about the change in your registered agent. 

3. Banks and Financial Institutions

Your bank and other financial institutions may need to update the address and contact information to send critical documents or notices related to your accounts.

4. Vendors and Service Providers

Any vendors or service providers that regularly interact with your business should also be informed about the change in your registered agent’s information. 

5. Business Contacts and Customers

You should also inform your business contacts and customers about the change in your registered agent to maintain transparency and ensure everyone has updated information on how to reach you.

What Happens if You Fail to Change Your Registered Agent in Alabama?

In Alabama, all businesses must have a registered agent designated to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the company. However, you could face penalties and fines if you do not have a registered agent.

The state of Alabama takes this requirement seriously if documents cannot be delivered due to an outdated or incorrect registered agent address.

One potential consequence is that your company cannot conduct certain activities, such as filing annual reports or maintaining licenses until the issue is resolved.

Additionally, if you are involved in a lawsuit and do not receive proper notification because of an outdated or incorrect registered agent, it could lead to a default judgment against your company.

Furthermore, failing to change your registered agent can also harm your reputation with clients and partners. If your designated representative does not receive essential documents promptly, it could lead to delayed responses or even missed deadlines – potentially damaging relationships with clients or vendors.

How Often Can You Change Your Registered Agent in Alabama?

Alabama has no restrictions on how often you can change your registered agent. This means that as long as you follow the proper procedures, you can change your designated registered agent anytime. However, it’s important to remember that frequent changes may cause unnecessary disruptions and delays for your business.

While there are no restrictions, we recommend carefully picking your registered agent after thorough research & due process to ensure a smooth transition.

Start by checking online reviews and asking for recommendations to ensure they have experience in your industry and are in good standing legally. 

Additionally, it’s a good idea to check in now and then to see whether your registered agent meets your needs and expectations. This continuous monitoring will help you maintain a stable process and prepare for future disruptions.

How doola Can Help

If you need help setting up and managing your business in the US, doola has you covered. Our comprehensive package is a business-in-a-box solution that handles business formation, annual state filings, federal tax filings, and registered agent services.  

From forming an LLC corporation to filing articles of incorporation and obtaining an EIN, we’ll help you navigate the complexities of running a US business to ensure it remains in good standing with the state.

Book a complimentary consultation with a CPA or dedicated account manager to learn how we can help your business succeed!

FAQs

What are the responsibilities of a registered agent?

The primary responsibility of a registered agent is to receive important legal and tax documents on behalf of your business and forward them to you promptly. They must also maintain accurate records of these documents for future reference.

Can I appoint myself or a family member as my registered agent?

Yes, you can act as your registered agent or appoint someone close to you as your registered agent by meeting all the state requirements, such as having a physical address in Alabama.

How often can I change my registered agent?

You can change your registered agent as often as possible by filing a Statement of Change form with the Secretary of State’s office. 

Can I change my registered agent online?

Yes, the quickest and easiest way to change your registered agent in Alabama is to download the form online through the Secretary of State’s website and file it via email.