Changing your registered agent in Oklahoma is an important process that ensures your LLC or corporation remains in compliance with state laws. A registered agent is responsible for receiving important legal and tax documents on behalf of your business. Whether you’re changing due to a change in service providers, for privacy reasons, or to better suit your business needs, the process is straightforward. Here’s how to seamlessly change your registered agent in Oklahoma.
Step 1: Choose a New Registered Agent
Before making any changes, you’ll need to select a new registered agent for your business. Ensure your new agent meets Oklahoma’s requirements:
- Must have a physical address in Oklahoma (P.O. boxes are not acceptable).
- Must be available during regular business hours to receive documents.
- Can be an individual or a business entity authorized to do business in Oklahoma.
Step 2: Obtain Consent from the New Registered Agent
Oklahoma law requires that the new registered agent consents to their appointment. This can usually be done through a written or electronic form provided by the agent or service company. Keeping a record of this consent is important for your business’s legal documents.
Step 3: File the Change with the Oklahoma Secretary of State
To officially change your registered agent in Oklahoma, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent form with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. This form can be found on the Secretary of State’s website and can typically be submitted online, by mail, or in person. The form will require:
- Your business name and type.
- The name and address of your current registered agent.
- The name and address of your new registered agent.
- A signature from an authorized person within your company.
Step 4: Pay the Filing Fee
There is a filing fee associated with changing your registered agent in Oklahoma. The fee amount can vary, so it’s important to check the current fee on the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s website. Payment methods and instructions will also be available there.
Step 5: Confirm the Change
After submitting your change of registered agent form and payment, you will receive confirmation from the Oklahoma Secretary of State. This confirmation may come via email or mail, depending on how you submitted your form. Keep this confirmation for your records.
Step 6: Notify Your Old Registered Agent
Once the change is official, it’s a good practice to notify your old registered agent of the change. This ensures they know they are no longer responsible for handling your business’s legal documents.
Conclusion
Changing your registered agent in Oklahoma is a necessary task that can be completed with minimal hassle by following the steps outlined above. Ensuring your new agent meets all legal requirements and filing the necessary paperwork with the Secretary of State keeps your business in good standing. Remember, the registered agent plays a crucial role in your business’s compliance and legal process, so choose wisely and stay informed of any state requirement changes.
