What you need to do to change your LLC's address
Changing your LLC's registered address involves filing a form with your state's Secretary of State office — the same office that originally approved your LLC. The form name and process vary by state, but most states call it an Amendment or Certificate of Amendment. You file this form, pay a fee (usually $25 to $100), and the state updates its records. Your LLC's registered address is the official location where the state sends legal documents and where you must keep certain records; it is separate from where you actually run your business.
The process takes two to four weeks in most states, though some offer expedited filing for an additional fee. You do not need to notify your landlord, customers, or the IRS separately — the state filing is the legal requirement. However, you should update your business records, bank accounts, and insurance policies once the state confirms the change.
Key Takeaways
- You must file an Amendment or Certificate of Amendment with your state's Secretary of State, not with a federal agency or the IRS.
- The filing fee ranges from $25 to $100 depending on your state, and processing takes two to four weeks under standard filing.
- Your registered address is the official location for legal documents; your business location can be different and does not require state approval.
- After the state approves the change, update your business bank account, insurance policy, and any business licenses held under the old address.
Finding the correct form for your state
Each state's Secretary of State office publishes its own amendment form on its website. Search "[Your State] Secretary of State LLC amendment" to find the form and instructions. Some states call it an Amendment, others call it a Certificate of Amendment, and a few use different names — but the Secretary of State website for your state will have the exact form you need.
The form is usually a one-page document asking for your LLC name, your current registered address, your new registered address, and the date of the change. Some states require you to list the name and address of your registered agent (the person or company designated to receive legal papers on behalf of the LLC). If you do not know who your registered agent is, check your original LLC formation documents or call your Secretary of State office.
Steps to file the amendment
First, complete the amendment form with your LLC name, current registered address, and new registered address. Print it and sign it — most states require the signature of a member or manager of the LLC, though a few allow any authorized person to sign. Check your state's instructions to see who can sign.
Second, mail or file the form with your Secretary of State office. Most states now accept online filing through their website; some accept email; some require mailed copies. The state website will show which methods are available and the mailing address if you choose that route. Include the filing fee — typically a check or credit card payment depending on the filing method.
Third, keep a copy of the filed form and the state's receipt or confirmation. Processing time is usually two to four weeks, though some states offer same-day or next-day filing for an extra fee. Once you receive confirmation from the state, your registered address has officially changed.
What happens if you use a registered agent service
If you use a registered agent company (a service that receives legal documents on your behalf), that company's address is your registered address, not your own. To change your registered address when using an agent, you have two options: file an amendment to change to a different registered agent company, or file an amendment to change to your own address and stop using the service.
If you are switching from one registered agent to another, the new agent usually handles the filing for you as part of their service. If you are removing the agent and using your own address instead, you file the amendment yourself using the steps above. Either way, the state needs the amendment form to update its records.
Updating your records after the state approves the change
Once the state confirms the address change, contact your business bank and provide a copy of the filed amendment. Banks require this to update the address on your business account. If you have a business line of credit or business credit card, notify those lenders as well.
Update your business insurance policy with your agent or insurance company. Some policies are tied to a specific address, and the insurer needs to know if it has changed. If you hold any state business licenses (separate from your LLC registration), check whether they list your address and update them if required — this varies by license type and state.
Notify the IRS if your LLC is taxed as a corporation or partnership. You can do this by filing Form 8822-B (Change of Address) with the IRS, though this is only required if your tax mailing address is changing. If your registered address and tax address are the same, file the form. If they are different, you may not need to file it — check the IRS instructions or call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
Fees and processing times by filing method
| Filing Method | Typical Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard mail filing | $25–$100 | 2–4 weeks |
| Online filing (if available) | $25–$100 | 2–4 weeks |
| Expedited filing (if available) | $50–$200 | 1–3 business days |
| Same-day filing (if available) | $100–$300 | Same day |
Fees and timelines vary significantly by state. Some states charge a flat fee regardless of filing method; others charge more for expedited service. Check your Secretary of State website for your state's specific fees and processing times before you file.
Not all states offer expedited or same-day filing options. If your state does not offer these services, standard filing is your only choice. The state website will clearly list which filing methods are available and their costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my registered address if I move my business to a new location?
Only if your registered address is changing. Your registered address is the official location where the state sends legal documents. If you move your business but keep the same registered address (for example, if you use a registered agent service), you do not have to file an amendment. If your registered address is your home or office and you move, you must file an amendment.
Can I use a PO box as my registered address?
Most states do not allow a PO box as a registered address. The state requires a street address where legal documents can be physically delivered. A few states make exceptions for registered agent services that use PO boxes, but you should check your state's rules before filing. Your Secretary of State website will specify what types of addresses are acceptable.
What if I file the amendment but the state rejects it?
The state will return the form with a reason for rejection — usually a missing signature, incorrect LLC name, or missing information. Correct the error, resubmit the form, and pay the filing fee again. Keep the state's rejection notice so you know exactly what to fix.
Do I need to notify my landlord or customers about the address change?
No legal requirement exists to notify them, but it is good practice to update customers, vendors, and your landlord if the address change affects how they reach you or where they send payments. The state filing is the only legal requirement.
How long does the state keep the old address on file?
Once the amendment is approved, the state updates its public records to show only the new address. The old address is no longer listed in the state's current records, though it may appear in historical records if someone searches the state's archives.