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California · Change agent · updated

How to change a registered agent in California

California charges $20 to change an LLC's registered agent. File a Statement of Information on bizfile Online; it is how a California LLC changes its agent. As of October 2026.

California state fee$20invoiced at cost after filing
Our filing service$41.25card fee shown at checkout
Our agent, optional$74.25/yrsame price at renewal
Switch my California agent California agent rules

Questions first? Ray or Vinny picks up at (954) 470-8356.

The 5 steps to change agents in California

Step 3 is the state filing; the rest keeps legal papers from slipping through during the switch.

  1. 1

    Choose the new agent

    Before you file

    The new agent needs a California street address and must be there in business hours to accept legal papers. You can serve yourself, but your address then goes on the public record. California registered agent rules.

  2. 2

    Get the new agent's consent

    Where people get stuck

    Most states require the new agent to agree in writing, on the form or in a separate consent. A commercial agent like ours handles this as part of the order.

  3. 3

    File the change with the state

    We file this one

    File a Statement of Information on bizfile Online; it is how a California LLC changes its agent. State fee: $20. Form and current fee: California's official page.

  4. 4

    Cancel the old agent after the state accepts

    Avoid a gap

    Keep the old service until the state's record shows the new agent, so legal papers served in between still reach you.

  5. 5

    Check the next yearly filing

    Keep it consistent

    The California annual LLC tax (Franchise Tax Board) is due April 15 every year, with a state fee of $800. Make sure it lists the new agent. California annual report details.

Changing the agent in California, at a glance

ItemCalifornia
FilingFile a Statement of Information on bizfile Online; it is how a California LLC changes its agent.
State fee$20
Our service$41.25, with California's fee invoiced at cost after we file
Our registered agent (optional)$74.25 a year, the same at renewal
Sourcesos.ca.gov, checked

State fee for the lowest standard filing method; expedited service costs extra where the state offers it.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to change a registered agent in California?

California charges $20 for the filing. If we file it, our fee is $41.25 and California's fee is invoiced at cost after filing.

Does a California LLC need its members' approval to change agents?

Usually not by statute, but check your operating agreement. Whoever is authorized to sign for the LLC signs the filing.

Can I be my own registered agent in California?

Yes, with a California street address where you are available in business hours. That address then sits on the public record.

When does the change take effect?

When the state files it. Until then the old agent is still on record, so keep it until the state's record changes.

Is this page legal advice?

No. It explains the filing in general terms. For your situation, talk to a licensed attorney, or book a free call with us.

More California business guides

Start an LLC LLC cost Registered agent Annual report Good standing Name search Sales tax permit Dissolve an LLC Amend an LLC Change the name Foreign LLC Withdraw a foreign LLC

Nearby states

Arizona Nevada Oregon All states

Switching agents

Have us file the California change

$41.25 for the filing, with California's fee invoiced at cost. Add our agent for $74.25 a year, the same at renewal.

Switch my California agent

Rather talk first? Call Ray or Vinny at (954) 470-8356.