If you are a business owner of Hawaii LLCs, it is essential to understand the process for changing your registered agent.
This process includes filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent by Entity with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, a formal notification to the state indicating that your business has selected a new registered agent.
After years of experience in the industry, we have decided to tell you everything you need to know to switch your registered agent in Hawaii efficiently.
Quick Summary
- To change your Hawaii registered agent, you must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent with the Hawaii Business Registration Division online, by mail, or through a Hawaii registered agent service.
- The Business Registration Division is a unit of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs in Hawaii, responsible for overseeing business registration and regulation, including changing a registered agent.
- To be your own registered agent, you need to have a Hawaii residency and give an address within the state.
Who Can Be A Hawaii Registered Agent?
Hawaii registered agents are people or entities designated to receive legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of a Hawaii business entity, such as a corporation, LLC, or partnership [1].
According to Hawaii state law, a registered agent must meet the following requirements:
The registered agent must:
- Have a physical street address in Hawaii.
- Be available to receive legal documents and official correspondence on their behalf during regular business hours.
- The registered agent must consent to serve as the registered agent for the business entity.
A business entity cannot serve as its own registered agent in Hawaii.
Therefore, many businesses hire a professional registered agent service to fulfill this role.
Not all registered agents are allowed to operate in every state. This means a company may choose to have the same registered agent for multiple states instead of having separate agents for each state.
How To Change Your Hawaiian Registered Agent?
To change your registered agent in Hawaii, complete Form X-7: "Statement of Change of Registered Agent by Entity" with the Hawaii Department.
You can submit this registered agent form by mail, fax, online, or by walking in. The filing fee for the Hawaii Statement of Change of Registered Agent by Entity is $25 [2].
There are three ways to update your registered agent in Hawaii:
- Using registered agent services
- Applying online
- Sending the necessary documents through the mail
Let me elaborate on each method for you.
1. Changing Your Registered Agent Using a Professional Service
Changing your registered agent in Hawaii is a straightforward process that can be easily accomplished by hiring a professional registered agent service.
The first step is to select a new registered agent who meets the state's requirements, which include being a resident of Hawaii or a corporation authorized to conduct business in Hawaii, having a physical street address in Hawaii, and being available during regular business hours to receive legal documents and official correspondence.
Once you have selected a new LLC registered agent, you must provide the necessary information and LLC paperwork to the professional service, which will then handle filing the required forms with the Hawaii Business Registration Division.
The new registered agents will then begin receiving legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your business entity. It is important to notify relevant parties of the change in registered agent to ensure that your business complies with state regulations.
2. Changing Your Registered Agent Online
To change the LLC registered agent of your business entity in Hawaii, you can use the Hawaii Business Express website to complete and submit a Statement of Change of Registered Agent online.
Follow the steps provided on the website:
- Access your Hawaii Business Express account by logging in. Choose "Manage" from the top menu, then select "Start a change request."
- Look for and choose your business by name or identification number and select it from the list
- To complete the X-7 Statement of Change of Registered Agent, locate and click "Fill out Form."
- Fill out the form and include a $25 fee when submitting. You have two options for paying the fee: check or credit card.
3. Changing Your Registered Agent by Mail
To submit a Statement of Change of Registered Agent by Entity, download the form to the Hawaii Business Registration Division, Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs website.
The form should be filled out in black ink and submitted with the filing fee. You can either type the form or write it by hand and submit it to the Business Registration Division, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
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FAQs
How Much Does It Cost To Change Your Registered Agent In Hawaii?
The cost to change your registered agent in Hawaii is $25. This fee is payable when you file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office by Entity form.
How Long Does It Take The State To Process And Complete The Change Of Registered Agent In Hawaii?
The time it takes the state to process a complete change of registered agent in Hawaii varies depending on your chosen method. Online filings are usually processed within 5 business days; expedited review takes approximately one to three business days but requires an additional fee.
How Much Does A Hawaii Registered Agent Cost?
A Hawaii registered agent costs between $50-$200/year. The cost depends on which type of registered agent service you choose and the features and services they provide.
Can I Be My Own Registered Agent?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Hawaii if you have a physical address in the state and are available during normal business hours to receive legal and official documents for your business.
Need To Change Your Hawaii Registered Agent?
Changing your Hawaii registered agent can be necessary for many Hawaii LLCs. Whether you are looking for better service, more affordable rates, or need to update your contact information, there are many reasons why you may need to switch to a new registered agent.
It is essential to follow the proper procedures and notify the appropriate parties when making this change.
There are numerous professional registered agent services in Hawaii that will ensure your business remains compliant with state regulations and is well-positioned for success.
References:
- https://cca.hawaii.gov/breg/faqs/general/what-is-a-registered-agent/#:~:text=A%20registered%20agent%20must%20be,physically%20present%20in%20the%20State.
- https://cca.hawaii.gov/breg/files/2013/10/X-7.pdf
