How to Change the Registered Agent for Your Montana Business

If you are making a change to your registered agent in Montana, you’ll need to inform the Montana Secretary of state. It costs $20 to do it yourself. Read this guide to learn how.

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Step By Step Guide to Change Your Montana Registered Agent

Making changes to a business or organization registered with the Montana Secretary of State is a straightforward process. Use this step-by-step guide to learn how to change your registered agent in the state of Montana:

Step 1: Gather the necessary documents. Depending on the type of entity, you will need either Form 501 (for most corporations) or Form 161 (for LLCs). You can find these forms at Montana Secretary of State website.

Step 2: Fill out the form(s) accurately and completely, including all requested information about the current and new registered agents. Sign and date all applicable forms.

Step 3: Have an authorized representative file the form(s) in person at one of Montana’s offices or via mail to PO Box 202801, Helena, MT 59620-2801. Alternatively, some entities may be eligible for online filing.

Step 4: Pay the applicable filing fee as prescribed by law (see Montana Secretary of State website for details).

Step 5: Once processed, you will receive a notification confirming your registered agent change has been accepted and approved by the Montana Secretary of State Office; keep this notification for your records to show proof that your request was accepted and approved by this office.

What Do Registered Agents Actually Do?

The minimum requirements of a registered agent are to receive your official state mail and service of process, but a good registered agent can become an essential part of your business’ compliance needs.

An excellent registered agent will:

Help keep your address off public documents.
Send you same day digital scans of all legal documents and state notifications.
Offer services in all 50 states.
Provide compliance management like annual report reminders and filing services.

Businesses Structures That Are Required to Have a Registered Agent in Montana

All businesses, domestic and foreign, that register with the Montana Secretary of State must maintain a registered agent. This includes all:

LLCs
Corporations
Limited partnerships
Limited Liability Partnerships

It does not include:

Sole proprietors
General partnerships

Frequently Asked Questions

What forms do I need to change my registered agent in Montana?

Depending on the type of entity, you will need either Form 501 (for most corporations) or Form 161 (for LLCs). You can find these forms at Montana Secretary of State website.

Do I need to notify the current registered agent that I am making a change?

Yes, it is vital to inform your current registered agent that you are making changes so they can be aware of their responsibility ending and any documents they may still need to submit before the change takes place.

How much does it cost to change my registered agent in Montana?

The fee costs vary depending on the type of business entity and filing method (in person or online). For specific details, see the Montana Secretary of State website for up-to-date information.

How do I know when my registered agent change has gone through?

Once processed, you will receive a notification confirming your registered agent change has been accepted and approved by the Montana Secretary of State Office; keep this notification for your records to show proof that your request was accepted and approved by this office.