Why businesses switch registered agents
The usual reasons: the current service costs too much ($100–$300/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 bizfileonline.sos.ca.gov. It's a single form, and you can file it any time; you don't need to wait for your normal filing window.
- 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.
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. Nothing about the switch interrupts your entity's good standing.
Switching to Corpgate, Inc.
- $49/year with a 3-year plan (one $147 payment) or $79 year-to-year; most clients cut their agent bill by half or more
- 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) plus whatever the Secretary of State charges for the filing, which depends on your entity type and filing situation. 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.
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.
Sign up online in minutes, then one form with the state and you're switched.
Choose Your Plan