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North Carolina . Registered Agent

North Carolina registered agent rules + how to change yours.

Every North Carolina LLC, Corp, and LP must designate a registered agent. This guide explains who can serve, address requirements, and the $5 change process.

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North Carolina registered agent requirements

  • Physical North Carolina address. P.O. Boxes are not accepted.
  • At least 18 years old.
  • North Carolina resident or authorized entity.
  • Acceptance of appointment.
  • Available during business hours.

Can I be my own registered agent in North Carolina?

Yes, if you meet the requirements. But most founders choose a professional service:

Your home address becomes public
Must be present during business hours
Filing required every move ($5)

How to change your North Carolina registered agent

  1. 1Choose your new agent.
  2. 2Prepare a Statement of Change.
  3. 3File with the North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division. Fee: $5.
  4. 4Notify your existing agent.
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a registered agent in North Carolina?
Yes.
Can I be my own registered agent in North Carolina?
Yes, if you meet the requirements.
How do I change my North Carolina registered agent?
File a Statement of Change. Fee: $5.
What does a North Carolina registered agent do?
Receives Service of Process and official correspondence.
What happens if I do not have a registered agent?
North Carolina will administratively dissolve the entity.
Can a North Carolina registered agent be a P.O. Box?
No. Must be physical street address.
How much does a North Carolina registered agent cost?
File.Business: $99 per state per year.

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Five minutes per filing. State fee passed through at cost. Audit trail and deadline tracking included.

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Disclosure. File.Business is a private business filing and compliance service. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with the North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division or any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division. Information on this page is for general guidance only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Fees and deadlines verified against the North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division as of June 2026 and may change. For entity-specific guidance, consult a licensed North Carolina attorney or CPA.

Get North Carolina RA . $99/yr
File.Business is a private business filing and compliance service. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the appropriate state agency. SOC 2 Type II audited. 220,000+ businesses formed since 2017.