How Do I Change My Registered Agent in Michigan?
In Michigan, you can change your registered agent, also known as a resident agent, by completing a Certificate of Change of Registered Office and/or Change of Resident Agent with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
We’ve outlined the steps to update your registered agent below.
If you’re using a new registered agent service, most will file this information on your behalf.
Recommended: Northwest ($125/year) will help you file your change of registered agent paperwork and pay the state filing fee.
Changing Michigan Registered Agents
Whether you’re choosing a new Michigan registered agent service, your current agent resigns, or you want to be your own individual agent, you can follow the steps below to make the change.
Changing Your Registered Agent When Using a Professional Service
If you are hiring a new Michigan resident agent, they will often file the necessary paperwork for you. However, not all registered agents offer the same services.
The benefits of using a professional service are:
- Less Risk: A professional service will ensure that you don’t miss important legal documents or notifications (e.g., service of process, etc.).
- More Flexibility: A service will always be present to receive service of process during normal business hours so that you don’t have to be.
- Privacy: If you act as your own agent, your name and address will become public record. Using a service will help keep your information private. You’ll also avoid receiving lawsuit-related documents in front of your clients.
- Peace of mind: Using a service allows you to focus on running and growing your business.
Let’s Find the Right Registered Agent for Your Business
We’ve tested and reviewed the most popular registered agent services.
Changing Your Registered Agent Online
You can complete and submit a Certificate of Change of Registered Office and/or Change of Resident Agent online via the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs’ online filing website. The steps for this process include:
- Log in to the site with your business’s CID and PIN
- Complete the form
- Submit the form along with the $5 payment
Changing Your Registered Agent by Mail or In Person
To submit a Certificate of Change of Registered Office and/or Change of Resident Agent by mail or in person, first download Form 520 from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs website and then fill it out.
Changing Your Agent by Mail
Submit the completed form and payment to the address below:
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Corporations, Securities & Commercial Licensing Bureau
Corporations Division
P.O. Box 30054
Lansing, MI 48909
Changing Your Registered Agent In Person
To change your agent in person, you’ll need to download the form, fill it out, and hand-deliver it in person to the address listed below:
State of Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Corporations Division
2501 Woodlake Cir.
Okemos, MI 48864
Expedited Orders
If you need the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to expedite the processing of your form, you must file a CSCL/CD-272 form. There are several different options for expedited processing that are explained on the form.
FAQs
It’s $5 to change a registered agent in Michigan. The simplest way to file is online, and you can pay the fee via credit card directly through the website. Note that failure to have a registered agent appointed at all times can result in serious consequences for your business.
Providing you are 18 years of age or older, have a physical Michigan address, and are willing to be at that address every day during business hours, you can be your own registered agent in Michigan.
Yes, you can change your Michigan registered agent online. Visit the Michigan Secretary of State's website, fill out the change form, and make your payment. The cost is $5.