- Select a New Registered Agent: Choose a new registered agent for your business. This can be an individual or a business entity that is authorized to conduct business in Texas and has a physical address within the how to change your registered agent in Texas state.
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure that the new registered agent meets the eligibility requirements set by the Texas Secretary of State. The agent must have a physical address in Texas and be available during normal business hours to receive legal documents.
- Notify Your Current Registered Agent: If you have an existing registered agent, you should inform them of your intention to change agents. It’s a professional courtesy and may help facilitate a smooth transition.
- Prepare the Required Form: Obtain the appropriate form from the Texas Secretary of State’s website. The form is typically called the “Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent” (Form 401-A) and can be downloaded from the Secretary of State’s forms page.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the form with accurate and up-to-date information. This includes the name of your business, the new registered agent’s name and address, and the effective date of the change.
- Filing the Form: You have several options for filing the completed form:
- Online: You can file the form online through the Texas Secretary of State’s website.
- Mail: You can mail the completed form to the Texas Secretary of State’s office.
- In Person: You can deliver the form in person to the Secretary of State’s office.
- Pay the Filing Fee: There is usually a filing fee associated with changing your registered agent. The fee can vary, so check the current fee schedule on the Secretary of State’s website. Make sure to include the appropriate payment with your filing.
- Wait for Confirmation: Once the Texas Secretary of State receives and processes your filing, they will send you a confirmation notice or a stamped copy of the filed document. This confirms that your registered agent has been successfully changed.
- Update Internal Records: Update your internal records and any relevant business documents to reflect the change of registered agent. This might include updating your operating agreement, bylaws, and other official documents.
Remember that this information is based on the procedures as of my last update in September 2021. Be sure to visit the official Texas Secretary of State website or consult legal professionals for the most current and accurate information regarding changing your registered agent in Texas.