How Do I Change My Registered Agent in Virginia?
To begin the process of changing your registered agent in Virginia, you must first file a Statement of Change of Registered Office and/or Registered Agent with the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
To help you through the process, we’ve put together this easy-to-follow guide.
Or, most registered agent services will file this information on your behalf.
Recommended: Northwest Registered Agent ($125/year) offers a reliable registered agent service and excellent customer support.
Changing Virginia Registered Agents
Whether you’re changing agent services, your agent has resigned, or you want to be your own 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 service, they will file the necessary paperwork for you.
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 Statement of Change form online via the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s Clerk’s Information System website. The steps for this process include:
- Log in to the website
- Under “Business Entities,” click “Existing Businesses”
- Choose your business entity type, then choose “Statement of Change of Registered Office and/or Registered Agent” from the filing type dropdown
- Search for and select your business
- Complete the form and submit it
Changing Your Registered Agent by Mail
The Virginia State Corporation Commission recommends changing your Virginia registered agent online, but you may request a paper form and file a hard copy if you prefer. After receiving the form, follow the provided instructions and submit it to the address below. There is no filing fee.
State Corporation Commission
Clerk’s Office
P.O. Box 1197
Richmond, VA 23218-1197
FAQs
There is no fee to change your Virginia registered agent when filing a Statement of Change form with the State Corporation Commission.
Yes. According to state requirements, an individual must have a physical business address within the state. They must be available during standard business hours to receive any necessary paperwork. A VA registered agent service will satisfy these requirements.
Yes, it is possible to change registered agents online in Virginia. Log in to your account on the SCC’s Clerk’s Information System website and input your business’s information to get started.