Content Overview
The Ohio Secretary of State form is an essential document for businesses operating within the state. This form facilitates the appointment, change, or resignation of a statutory agent, a critical role for any corporation, limited partnership, or limited liability company. By providing necessary details such as the name of the entity, the current agent, and the new agent's information, businesses ensure compliance with state regulations. The form offers various service options, including regular processing and expedited services, allowing businesses to choose the speed at which they wish to have their filings processed. Additionally, it includes features such as email notifications for important updates and a preclearance filing option, which helps businesses confirm the acceptability of their proposed filings. With clear instructions and a straightforward structure, the Ohio Secretary of State form serves as a vital tool for maintaining accurate and up-to-date business records in Ohio.
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Form 521
Page 1 of 6
Last Revised: 01/2022
Toll Free: 877.767.3453 | Central Ohio: 614.466.3910
File online or for more information: OhioBusinessCentral.gov
Filing Form Cover Letter
Please return the approval certificate to:
Address:
City:
ZIP Code:
Phone Number:
E-mail Address:
Check here if you would like to receive important notices via email from the Ohio Secretary of State's office regarding
Business Services.
Check here if you would like to be signed up for our Filing Notification System for the business entity being created or
updated by filing this form. This is a free service provided to notify you via email when any document is filed on your
business record.
Please make checks or money orders payable to: "Ohio Secretary of State"
Type of Service Being Requested: (PLEASE CHECK ONE BOX BELOW)
Regular Service: Only the filing fee listed on page one of the form is required and the filing will be
processed in approximately 3-7 business days. The processing time may vary based on the volume of
filings received by our office.
Expedite Service 1: By including an Expedite fee of $100.00, in addition to the regular filing fee on page
one of the form, the filing will be processed within 2 business days after it is received by our office.
Expedite Service 2: By including an Expedite fee of $200.00, in addition to the regular filing fee on page
one of the form, the filing will be processed within 1 business day after it is received by our office. This
service is only available to walk-in customers who hand deliver the document to the Client Service Center.
Expedite Service 3: By including an Expedite fee of $300.00, in addition to the regular filing fee on page
one of the form, the filing will be processed within 4 hours after it is received by our office, if received by 1:00
p.m. This service is only available to walk-in customers who hand deliver the document to the Client Service Center.
Preclearance Filing: A filing form, to be submitted at a later date for processing, may be submitted to be
examined for the purpose of advising as to the acceptability of the proposed filing for a fee of $50.00. The
Preclearance will be complete within 1-2 business days.
Name (Individual or Business Name):
To the Attention of (if necessary):
State
Form 521
Page 2 of 6
Last Revised: 01/2022
Form 521 Prescribed by:
Statutory Agent Update
Filing Fee: $25
Form Must Be Typed
(CHECK ONLY ONE(1) BOX)
(1) Subsequent Appointment of Agent
Corp (165-AGS)
Real Estate Investment Trust
(171-LSA)
LP (165-AGS)
LLC (171-LSA)
Business Trust(171-LSA)
Corp (145-AGA)
LP (145-AGA)
LLC (144-LAD)
Business Trust(144-LAD)
Real Estate Investment Trust
(144-LAD)
Partnership (153-LAG)
LLC (153-LAG)
LP (155-AGR)
Corp (155-AGR)
Business Trust (153-LAG)
Real Estate Investment Trust
(153-LAG)
(2) Change of Address of an Agent
(3) Resignation of Agent
Name of Entity
Charter, License or Registration No.
Name of Current Agent
Name and Address
of New Agent
Complete the information in this section if box (1) is checked
Name of Agent
Mailing Address
City
State
ZIP Code
Toll Free: 877.767.3453
Central Ohio: 614.466.3910
OhioSoS.gov
File online or for more information:
OhioBusinessCentral.gov
Mail this form to one of the following:
Regular Filing (non expedite)
P.O. Box 788
Columbus, OH 43216
Expedite Filing (Two business day processing time.
Requires an additional $100.00)
P.O. Box 1390
Columbus, OH 43216
For screen readers, follow instructions located at this path.
OH
Form 521
Page 3 of 6
Last Revised: 01/2022
Complete the information in this section if box (1) is checked and business is an Ohio entity or Foreign LLC
Name of Agent
Name of Business Entity
Signature:
New Address of Agent
Complete the information in this section if box (2) is checked
Mailing Address
City
State
ZIP Code
ACCEPTANCE OF APPOINTMENT FOR DOMESTIC ENTITY'S AGENT
Current or last known address of the entity's principal office where a copy of this Resignation of Agent was sent as of the
date of filing or prior to the date filed.
Complete the information in this section if box (3) is checked
Zip Code
State
City
Mailing Address
The Undersigned,
, named herein as the
statutory agent for
, hereby acknowledges
and accepts the appointment of statutory agent for said entity.
Individual Agent's Signature/Signature on behalf of Business Serving as
Agent
The agent of record for the entity identified on page 1 resigns as statutory agent.
OH
Form 521
Page 4 of 6
Last Revised: 01/2022
Print Name
By (if applicable)
Signature
Print Name
By (if applicable)
Signature
By signing and submitting this form to the Ohio Secretary of State, the undersigned hereby certifies that he or she
has the requisite authority to execute this document.
Required
Agent update must
be signed by an authorized
representative (see
instructions for specific
information).
If authorized representative
is an individual, then they
must sign in the "signature"
box and print their name
in the "Print Name" box.
If authorized representative
is a business entity, not an
individual, then please print
the business name in the
"signature" box, an
authorized representative
of the business entity
must sign in the "By" box
and print their name in the
"Print Name" box.
Form 521
Page 5 of 6
Last Revised: 01/2022
Instructions for Statutory Agent Update
This form should be used to update statutory agent information for a corporation, limited partnership,
limited liability company, partnership or business trust. If a corporation, limited partnership or limited
liability company or business trust would like to appoint a new statutory agent, please select box 1.
If a corporation, limited partnership, limited liability company, or business trust would like to change
the address of the current agent, please select box 2. If the agent of a corporation, limited partnership,
limited liability company, partnership, or business trust would like to resign from their position, please
select box 3.
A partnership and limited liability partnership must complete a statement of amendment to appoint a
new agent or change the address of the current agent.
Entity Information
The corporation, limited partnership, limited liability company, partnership, or business trust must provide
its name, charter/license/registration number and the name of the current agent. The current agent's name
must be the same as the agent listed in our office's records.
Appointment of New Agent
Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code sections 1701.07, 1702.06, 1703.041, 1782.04, 1706.09 and 1746.04,
a corporation, limited partnership, limited liability corporation and business trust must appoint and maintain
a statutory agent to accept service of process on behalf of the entity. The statutory agent must be one of
the following: (1) A natural person who is a resident of this state; or (2) A domestic or foreign corporation ,
nonprofit corporation, limited liability company, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability partnership,
limited partnership association, professional association, business trust, or unincorporated nonprofit
association that has a business address in this state. If the agent is a business entity then the agent must
meet the requirements of Title XVII of the Revised Code to transact business or exercise privileges in
Ohio.
If the entity is a domestic or foreign limited liability company, limited liability partnership, limited liability
company or business trust, the statutory agent must sign the Acceptance of Appointment on Page 2.
Change of Address of an Agent
Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code sections 1701.07, 1702.06, 1703.041, 1782.04, 1706.09 and 1746.04, a
corporation, limited partnership, limited liability company and business trust must appoint and maintain a
statutory agent to accept service of process on behalf of the entity. The statutory agent must be one of the
following: (1) A natural person who is a resident of this state; or (2) A domestic or foreign corporation,
nonprofit corporation, limited liability company, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability partnership,
limited partnership association, professional association, business trust, or unincorporated nonprofit
association that has a business address in this state. If the agent is a business entity then the agent must
meet the requirements of Title XVII of the Revised Code to transact business or exercise privileges in
Ohio.
Resignation of Agent
Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code sections 1701.07, 1702.06, 1703.041, 1706.09, 1776.07, 1782.04,
1705.06 and 1746.04, an agent may resign by filing this form, stating their intent to resign and providing
the current or last known address of the entity's principal office. On the date of filing this form with our
office or prior to that date, the agent must send a copy of the resignation form to the current or last known
address of the entity's principal office.
Form 521
Page 6 of 6
Last Revised: 01/2022
For a domestic for-profit corporation, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company and
business trust, thirty days after the filing of this form, the authority of the agent will terminate. For a
domestic nonprofit corporation or a foreign corporation, sixty days after the filing of this form, the authority
of the agent will terminate.
Additional Provisions
If the information you wish to provide for the record does not fit on the form, please attach additional
provisions on a single-sided, 8 1/2 x 11 sheet(s) of paper.
Signature(s)
After completing all information on the filing form, please make sure to sign the form. If the entity is
a domestic corporation, the form must be signed by the incorporators or a corporate officer. If the entity is
a foreign corporation, the form must be signed by an authorized representative. If the entity is a domestic
or foreign limited partnership, the form must be signed by an officer, all of the general partners or a
majority of the general partners. If the entity is a domestic or foreign limited liability company, the form
must be signed by a member, manager or an authorized representative. If the entity is a business trust,
an authorized representative must sign. If the form is used for an agent's resignation, the resigning agent
must sign the form.
**Note: Our office cannot file or record a document that contains a social security number or
tax identifications number. Please do not enter a social security number or tax identification
number, in any format, on this form.
Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Contact Information | The Ohio Secretary of State can be reached at 877.767.3453 (toll-free) or 614.466.3910 (Central Ohio). |
| Filing Fees | The regular filing fee is required for standard processing, which takes about 3-7 business days. |
| Expedited Services | Expedited services are available for an additional fee, with options for processing within 1 to 4 hours, depending on the fee paid. |
| Preclearance Filing | A preclearance filing can be submitted for $50. This allows for examination of a proposed filing's acceptability. |
| Statutory Agent Requirements | According to Ohio Revised Code sections 1701.07, 1702.06, and others, a statutory agent must be appointed to accept service of process. |
| Signature Requirement | The form must be signed by an authorized representative, who certifies the authority to execute the document. |
Ohio Secretary State: Usage Guidelines
Filling out the Ohio Secretary of State form requires careful attention to detail. Completing this form accurately will facilitate the processing of your request. Below are the steps you need to follow to ensure that the form is filled out correctly.
- Begin by entering your name or the business name in the designated field at the top of the form.
- If necessary, provide the name of the person to whom the approval certificate should be sent.
- Fill in your mailing address, including city, state, and ZIP code.
- Include your phone number and email address. If you wish to receive important notices via email, check the appropriate box.
- If you want to sign up for the Filing Notification System, check that box as well.
- Make your payment by check or money order, payable to "Ohio Secretary of State." Ensure you have included the correct filing fee as indicated on the form.
- Indicate the type of service you are requesting by checking one of the boxes provided (Regular, Expedite Service 1, Expedite Service 2, Expedite Service 3, or Preclearance Filing).
- For statutory agent updates, select the appropriate box (1, 2, or 3) based on your needs: appointing a new agent, changing the address of an existing agent, or resigning an agent.
- Provide the name of the entity and its charter, license, or registration number.
- Complete the name and address of the new agent if you are appointing one.
- If applicable, include the acceptance of appointment section, ensuring the new agent's signature is included.
- For address changes or resignations, fill in the required address information as instructed.
- Sign the form in the designated area, ensuring that the signature is from an authorized representative.
- Print the name of the individual or business entity in the appropriate box.
- Review the form for completeness and accuracy before submission.
- Mail the completed form to the appropriate address based on the type of filing selected (Regular or Expedite).
Once the form is completed and submitted, it will be processed according to the service option you selected. Be sure to keep a copy of the form for your records. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can reach out to the Ohio Secretary of State's office via the provided contact information.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the Ohio Secretary of State form used for?
The Ohio Secretary of State form is primarily used to update or appoint a statutory agent for various business entities in Ohio. This includes corporations, limited partnerships, limited liability companies, partnerships, and business trusts. The form helps ensure that the state has accurate records regarding who is responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of these entities.
How do I file the Ohio Secretary of State form?
You can file the Ohio Secretary of State form either online or by mailing a physical copy. For online filing, visit OhioBusinessCentral.gov. If you choose to mail the form, make sure to send it to the appropriate address based on whether you're opting for regular or expedited service. Regular filings should go to P.O. Box 788, Columbus, OH 43216, while expedited filings should be sent to P.O. Box 1390, Columbus, OH 43216.
What are the different types of services available when filing the form?
There are several service options available when filing the form. You can choose regular service, which takes about 3-7 business days, or expedite your filing for faster processing. There are three levels of expedited service: 1. Expedite Service 1 processes within 2 business days for an additional fee of $100. 2. Expedite Service 2 processes within 1 business day for a fee of $200, but is only available for walk-in customers. 3. Expedite Service 3 processes within 4 hours for a fee of $300, also for walk-in customers. Each option allows you to receive your documents more quickly based on your needs.
What is the fee for filing the Ohio Secretary of State form?
The fees vary depending on the type of filing service you choose. Regular service requires only the standard filing fee, while expedited services come with additional fees ranging from $100 to $300. Additionally, if you are submitting a preclearance filing, there is a fee of $50. Always make checks or money orders payable to "Ohio Secretary of State."
What information do I need to provide on the form?
You will need to provide several key pieces of information, including the name of the business entity, its charter or registration number, and details about the current and new statutory agent if applicable. Be sure to include the mailing address and contact information to ensure smooth processing.
Can I receive notifications about my filing status?
Yes! You can opt to receive important notices via email regarding business services from the Ohio Secretary of State's office. Additionally, you can sign up for the Filing Notification System, which will notify you via email whenever any document is filed on your business record. This is a free service and can be very helpful for keeping track of your filings.
What happens if my statutory agent resigns?
If your statutory agent resigns, you must file the appropriate form to notify the Ohio Secretary of State. The form should state the intent to resign and include the current or last known address of the entity's principal office. It's important to send a copy of the resignation to the business's principal office as well.
Is there a specific format for filling out the form?
Yes, the form must be typed. Handwritten submissions may not be accepted. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any delays in processing your filing. Each section of the form should be completed accurately to reflect the necessary changes or appointments.
How can I contact the Ohio Secretary of State for assistance?
If you have questions or need assistance, you can reach out to the Ohio Secretary of State's office by calling their toll-free number at 877.767.3453 or the Central Ohio number at 614.466.3910. You can also visit their website at OhioSoS.gov or email them at [email protected] for more information.
Common mistakes
-
Not Typing the Form: The form must be typed. Handwritten submissions can lead to processing delays or rejections.
-
Incorrectly Selecting Service Type: Ensure you check the appropriate box for the type of service you are requesting. Misunderstanding the options can result in unexpected processing times.
-
Omitting Required Information: Every section of the form must be completed as required. Missing details can cause significant delays in processing your application.
-
Incorrect Payment Method: Make sure to follow the payment instructions carefully. Payments must be made out to "Ohio Secretary of State," and the correct amount should be included.
-
Failing to Sign the Form: The form must be signed by an authorized representative. A missing signature can lead to an automatic rejection of the filing.
-
Not Providing Accurate Agent Information: The name and address of the statutory agent must match the records in the Secretary of State's office. Inaccurate information can lead to complications.
-
Ignoring Notification Options: Consider checking the boxes to receive important notices via email. This can help you stay informed about your filing status and any updates.
-
Not Understanding the Expedite Options: If you require faster processing, be sure to select the correct expedite service and include the additional fee. Misunderstanding these options can lead to delays.
Documents used along the form
When dealing with business filings in Ohio, several forms and documents may be necessary alongside the Ohio Secretary of State form. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in ensuring compliance with state regulations and maintaining accurate business records. Below is a list of commonly used forms that may accompany the Ohio Secretary of State form.
- Articles of Incorporation: This document establishes a corporation's existence in Ohio. It includes key information such as the business name, purpose, and details about the registered agent.
- Operating Agreement: For LLCs, this internal document outlines the management structure and operating procedures. It is not required by the state but is essential for defining member roles and responsibilities.
- Bylaws: This document governs the internal management of a corporation. Bylaws detail the rights and responsibilities of shareholders, directors, and officers.
- Certificate of Good Standing: This certificate confirms that a business is compliant with state regulations and has met all necessary filing requirements. It is often required for business transactions or loans.
- Annual Report: Many businesses must file annual reports to maintain their good standing. This report updates the state on key business information such as address changes and management updates.
- Statutory Agent Appointment Form: This form designates a statutory agent for a business entity. It is crucial for ensuring that legal documents can be served to the business.
- Change of Registered Agent Form: If a business needs to change its statutory agent, this form must be filed. It updates the state on the new agent's information.
- Resignation of Agent Form: This document is filed by a statutory agent wishing to resign from their position. It must include the agent's intent and the last known address of the business.
- Business License Application: Depending on the type of business, specific licenses may be required to operate legally in Ohio. This application initiates the process of obtaining the necessary permits.
Understanding these forms and their purposes can help streamline the process of establishing and maintaining a business in Ohio. Proper documentation ensures compliance with state laws and can prevent potential legal issues in the future.
Similar forms
The Ohio Secretary of State form, often used for business entity filings, shares similarities with several other important documents used in business administration and legal compliance. Below is a list detailing these documents and their corresponding similarities.
- Articles of Incorporation: Like the Ohio Secretary of State form, Articles of Incorporation are filed with the state to officially create a corporation. Both documents require specific information about the business, such as its name, purpose, and registered agent.
- Operating Agreement: This document outlines the management structure and operating procedures of an LLC. Similar to the Ohio form, it must be submitted to the state and often requires details about the members and their roles.
- Bylaws: Bylaws govern the internal management of a corporation. They share a commonality with the Ohio Secretary of State form in that both establish foundational rules and responsibilities for business operations.
- Partnership Agreement: This document details the terms of a partnership. Like the Ohio Secretary of State form, it is crucial for defining roles and responsibilities among partners, ensuring clarity in business operations.
- Certificate of Good Standing: This certificate verifies that a business entity is legally registered and compliant with state regulations. It is similar to the Ohio Secretary of State form in that both documents affirm the legal status of a business entity.
- Business License Application: This application is required to operate legally in certain jurisdictions. It parallels the Ohio Secretary of State form as both require detailed information about the business and its owners for regulatory purposes.
- Annual Report: Many states require businesses to file an annual report to maintain good standing. This report is similar to the Ohio Secretary of State form, as both involve updating the state on key business information and compliance status.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Ohio Secretary of State form, it's essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure your submission is correct and accepted. Here’s a list of things to do and avoid:
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting. Familiarize yourself with the requirements for the specific service you are requesting.
- Do ensure that all information is accurate and complete. Double-check names, addresses, and any identification numbers.
- Do use a typed format for the form. Handwritten submissions may lead to errors or delays.
- Do sign the form in the appropriate section. An unsigned form will be returned, causing delays in processing.
- Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This can be useful for future reference or follow-up.
- Don't leave any required fields blank. Omitting information can result in your form being rejected.
- Don't forget to include the correct payment. Ensure that checks or money orders are made out to "Ohio Secretary of State."
- Don't use outdated forms. Always use the latest version of the form to avoid issues.
- Don't submit your form without verifying the mailing address. Sending it to the wrong location can delay processing.
- Don't ignore the processing times. If you need expedited service, make sure to select the appropriate option and include the additional fee.
Misconceptions
Understanding the Ohio Secretary of State form can be challenging due to common misconceptions. Here are five prevalent misunderstandings and clarifications to help you navigate the process more effectively.
- Misconception 1: Only businesses need to file this form.
- Misconception 2: All filings are processed at the same speed.
- Misconception 3: The form can be submitted without payment.
- Misconception 4: Only one type of expedite service is available.
- Misconception 5: The form must be submitted in person.
Many people believe that this form is exclusively for businesses. In reality, individuals acting as statutory agents or those making changes to their personal information related to a business entity also need to use this form.
Some assume that every filing will be handled in a uniform timeframe. However, the processing time can vary significantly depending on the type of service selected—regular, expedited, or preclearance. Regular filings take about 3-7 business days, while expedited options can be processed in as little as 4 hours.
It is a common belief that the form can be filed without any fees. In fact, all filings require a fee, which varies based on the service selected. Payments must be made via check or money order payable to the "Ohio Secretary of State."
Many individuals think there is just one option for expedited processing. In truth, there are multiple expedite services, each with different fees and processing times, allowing filers to choose based on their urgency.
Some believe that in-person submission is mandatory for all filings. While certain expedited services require hand delivery, many filings can be completed online or sent by mail, making it more convenient for users.
Key takeaways
When filling out the Ohio Secretary of State form, it is essential to keep several key points in mind to ensure a smooth process.
- Complete Information: Fill out all required fields accurately, including the name of the individual or business, address, and contact information.
- Service Type Selection: Choose the appropriate service type (Regular or Expedite) based on how quickly you need your filing processed. Regular service takes approximately 3-7 business days, while expedite options can process filings in as little as 4 hours.
- Payment Method: Make checks or money orders payable to "Ohio Secretary of State" and ensure that the correct filing fee is included based on the selected service type.
- Email Notifications: Opt-in for email notifications to receive updates regarding your business filings and important notices from the Ohio Secretary of State's office.
- Signature Requirement: Ensure that the form is signed by an authorized representative. This is crucial for the acceptance of the appointment of a statutory agent.
- Submission Method: Mail the completed form to the appropriate address based on the service type selected. Regular filings go to P.O. Box 788, while expedite filings should be sent to P.O. Box 1390.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can facilitate a more efficient filing process with the Ohio Secretary of State.