Why businesses switch registered agents
The usual reasons: the current service costs too much ($50 to $300 per year is typical), a person serving as agent moved or is no longer available, the agent resigned, or documents were handled slowly. Whatever the reason, California makes the change itself simple: one filing with the Secretary of State.
The right way to switch, in order
- Sign up with your new agent first. Your new agent must actually be engaged before any state form lists them. With Corpgate, Inc., signup takes a few minutes online and our confirmation email includes exactly what you need for the state filing.
- File an updated Statement of Information. California records agent changes through your entity's Statement of Information, filed online at bizfile Online. It's a single form, and you can file it any time; you don't need to wait for your normal filing window. Since August 1, 2026, your bizfile Online account also needs User Access to your entity before you can file. If no one has access yet, request it early: the state mails a PIN letter to your entity's mailing address on file, or a person who already has access can approve your request.
- You're done. Once the state processes the filing, your new agent is the agent of record. Your old agent's obligations end; check their terms so you can stop any auto-renewal billing.
Changing your agent for service of process: the forms
California corporations and LLCs change their agent for service of process by filing an updated Statement of Information on bizfile Online. Most corporations use Form SI-550, and nonprofit corporations use Form SI-100. LLCs use Form LLC-12. If you file only to change your agent, between your regular filing periods, there is no state fee. If your new agent is a 1505 corporate agent like Corpgate, Inc., you enter only its name, exactly as registered, and leave the agent address blank.
No gap in coverage
Done in the order above, your business is covered continuously: the old agent remains the agent of record until the state processes your filing, and the new agent is engaged from the moment you sign up. The switch itself does not affect your standing with the state.
Switching to Corpgate, Inc.
- $49 a year when you prepay three years ($147), or $79 a year
- Registered 1505 corporate agent serving California businesses since 2008
- Simple emailed instructions for the state filing after checkout (it's a single form)
- Documents scanned and emailed promptly, hard copies forwarded; owner-operated, no call center
We serve California LLCs and California corporations, including out-of-state entities registered in California. More on the role itself: what an agent for service of process does.
Related guide: What does a registered agent cost in California?
Changing your registered agent: FAQ
How much does it cost to change registered agents in California?
Your new agent's fee (with Corpgate, Inc., $49 per year on a 3-year plan or $79 year to year). Filing a Statement of Information only to change your agent has no state fee; the $20 (LLC or nonprofit) or $25 (stock corporation) fee applies only when your regular periodic Statement is due (or overdue) anyway. There is no penalty or special “change fee” for switching agents.
How long does the change take?
Signing up with Corpgate, Inc. takes a few minutes online. The state records the change when it processes your Statement of Information filed at bizfileonline.sos.ca.gov. If no one has User Access to your entity on bizfile Online yet, allow time for the state's PIN letter to arrive by mail.
Will my business be uncovered during the switch?
Not if you do it in the right order. Your old agent remains the agent of record until the state processes your new filing, and Corpgate, Inc. is ready from the moment you sign up, so signing up first means there is never a gap.
Do I need to notify my old registered agent?
The state filing is what legally changes your agent. Whether you owe your old agent notice or money depends on your agreement with them, so check their terms before you cancel any auto-renewal.
Can I change agents at any time, or only at renewal?
Any time. You do not have to wait for your current agent's term to end. File an updated Statement of Information whenever you're ready.
This page is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.
Need a California registered agent?
Corpgate, Inc. has been a California registered agent since 2008. Documents are scanned and emailed promptly, with hard copies forwarded.
3-Year Plan
$49 a year when you prepay three years ($147)
Pay with CardAnnual Plan
$79 a year, renews yearly until you cancel
Pay with CardAfter checkout, you get an email with simple instructions to name Corpgate, Inc. as your agent. Questions first? See how it works on our home page.