Blank California Re 204 Form

1. What is the purpose of the California RE 204 form?

   The California RE 204 form is specifically designed for brokers, including those who work as broker-salespersons, to apply for various changes related to their broker license. This includes updating mailing addresses, main office addresses, personal names, and fictitious business names. It is essential for ensuring that the Bureau of Real Estate has accurate and current information on file.

2. Who should use the RE 204 form?

   This form should only be used by licensed brokers and broker-salespersons. If you are a licensed salesperson, you will need to use the RE 214 form. Corporations and corporate officers must complete the RE 204A form instead. It is important to choose the correct form to avoid processing delays.

3. What types of changes can be made using the RE 204 form?

   The RE 204 form allows brokers to request several changes, including:

   • Mailing address
   • Main office address
   • Personal name changes
   • Additions or cancellations of fictitious business names

   Each change must be clearly marked on the form to ensure proper processing.

4. What if I am not a resident of California?

   If you reside outside of California, you may be required to submit a notarized Consent To Service Of Process (RE 234) along with your RE 204 form. This requirement ensures that there is a valid method for serving legal documents, even if you are not physically present in the state.

5. How do I change my personal name on the RE 204 form?

   To change your personal name, you must enter your full new name on the form. It is crucial to provide verification of the name change, such as a legible copy of a driver's license, marriage certificate, or court order. Additionally, you should sign the form with your new legal name to confirm the change.

6. What is the process for adding or canceling a fictitious business name?

   To add a fictitious business name, you must print the name exactly as it appears on the Fictitious Business Name Statement (FBNS) filed with the County Clerk. You should check the appropriate box to indicate whether you are adding or canceling the name. If you are canceling a name, ensure that you complete the entire application and check the cancel box.

7. Where should I submit the completed RE 204 form?

   You can submit the completed RE 204 form in person at any Bureau of Real Estate district office or mail it to the Sacramento office. The mailing address is:

   Bureau of Real Estate
   P.O. Box 137004
   Sacramento, CA 95813-7004

   Ensure that you have included all necessary information to avoid any delays in processing.

Filling out the California RE 204 form can be straightforward, but many people make common mistakes that can delay processing. One frequent error is neglecting to read the instructions on the back of the form. This can lead to missing important information that is crucial for completing the application correctly.

Another mistake is failing to check the appropriate boxes for the type of change being made. It’s essential to mark all relevant boxes to ensure that the application is processed accurately. Additionally, some individuals forget to provide their full new name when changing their personal name, which can create confusion and lead to further delays.

Many applicants also overlook the requirement to attach verification of a name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Without this documentation, the application may be rejected. Another common issue is leaving fields blank. For example, the main office address must not be left empty; applicants should enter "no business address" if applicable.

Providing incorrect contact information is another mistake that can hinder communication. It’s important to double-check phone numbers and email addresses to ensure they are accurate. Some people also mistakenly include their employer’s fictitious business name when they are working as broker-salespersons. This can lead to complications, as only the broker's name should be listed.

Another common error is not submitting the required Fictitious Business Name Statement (FBNS) when adding a DBA. Applicants must ensure that the DBA matches exactly with what is filed with the County Clerk. Additionally, failing to sign the form with the new name after a name change can result in processing delays.

Lastly, applicants sometimes submit the form without considering the implications of their mailing address being public information. It’s crucial to choose an address that won’t compromise personal privacy. By avoiding these common mistakes, applicants can streamline the process and reduce the likelihood of delays in their application.

When submitting the California RE 204 form, there are several other important documents that may be required or helpful in processing your application. Understanding these forms can streamline your experience and ensure compliance with the Bureau of Real Estate's requirements.

• RE 214 - Salesperson Change Application: This form is specifically for licensed salespersons who need to make changes to their licensing information. It is essential for those who are not brokers and ensures that any updates are accurately recorded.
• RE 204A - Corporation Application: Corporations and their officers use this form to apply for broker licenses or make changes to existing ones. It is crucial for entities operating as real estate brokers to maintain accurate records with the Bureau.
• RE 234 - Consent to Service of Process: This document is required for non-resident brokers who do not maintain a business office in California. It provides a means for the Bureau to serve legal documents if necessary, ensuring that out-of-state brokers are compliant with California regulations.
• Fictitious Business Name Statement (FBNS): If a broker wishes to operate under a name different from their legal name, they must file an FBNS with the county clerk. This statement is necessary for adding or canceling a fictitious business name associated with the broker's license.

Being aware of these forms and their purposes can significantly enhance the efficiency of your application process. Ensure that you have the necessary documentation ready to avoid delays and to maintain compliance with California's real estate regulations.

• RE 214 - Salesperson Change Application: This form is used by licensed salespersons to update their personal or business information. Like the RE 204, it facilitates changes in contact details, but is specifically tailored for salespersons rather than brokers.
• RE 204A - Corporation Change Application: Designed for corporations and their officers, this document allows for changes in corporate broker information. Similar to the RE 204, it requires details about the broker's identity and business address, but focuses on corporate structures.
• RE 234 - Consent to Service of Process: This form is necessary for non-California residents who need to establish a legal presence in the state. It complements the RE 204 by ensuring that out-of-state brokers can still receive legal documents.
• RE 235 - Out-of-State Broker Acknowledgment: This form is specifically for brokers who do not maintain a physical office in California. It serves a similar purpose as the RE 204 by documenting the broker's acknowledgment of California regulations.
• FBNS - Fictitious Business Name Statement: This document is required when a broker wants to operate under a fictitious name. It is similar to the RE 204 in that it involves the registration of business identities, ensuring compliance with state laws.
• RE 400 - Broker License Renewal Application: While primarily focused on renewing a broker's license, this form shares similarities with the RE 204 in that it requires updated personal and business information to maintain accurate records.
• RE 241 - Change of Address for Licensees: This form allows licensees to update their mailing address. It is akin to the RE 204 as it serves the purpose of keeping the Bureau of Real Estate informed about where to send important correspondence.

When filling out the California RE 204 form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth application process. Below are six important do's and don'ts to consider:

• Do read the instructions on the reverse side before starting the form.
• Do type or print clearly in black or blue ink. Avoid using red ink.
• Do check the appropriate “change” box(es) and complete all required information.
• Do include verification of any name changes, such as a copy of your driver’s license or marriage certificate.
• Don't leave any fields blank; ensure all required information is filled in completely.
• Don't use salesperson forms or applications when making changes to your broker record.

Understanding the California RE 204 form is crucial for real estate brokers in California. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion and potential issues. Below are ten common misconceptions regarding this form, along with clarifications.

1. Only brokers can use the RE 204 form. While this form is designed for brokers, broker-salespersons must also use it for changes related to their broker license.
2. Salespersons can use the RE 204 form. Licensed salespersons must use the RE 214 form for any changes, not the RE 204.
3. Changes can be made without any documentation. Any name change requires supporting documents, such as a marriage certificate or court order, to verify the change.
4. All changes can be processed online. Not all changes can be completed through eLicensing; some may still require submission of the physical form.
5. Mailing addresses are private information. Mailing addresses provided on the RE 204 form are public information and can be accessed by anyone.
6. A DBA can be added without filing a statement. To add a fictitious business name (DBA), a Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed with the County Clerk.
7. California residency is not required for brokers. If a broker resides outside California, additional documentation, such as the RE 234 form, is necessary.
8. The main office address can be a P.O. Box. The main office address must be a physical location in California; a P.O. Box is not acceptable.
9. Submitting the form late has no consequences. Delays in submitting the RE 204 form can lead to processing issues and may affect the broker's license status.
10. Any representative can submit the form on behalf of a broker. Only the broker or broker-salesperson can submit the form; others cannot act on their behalf.

Being aware of these misconceptions can help ensure compliance and a smoother process when making changes to a broker's license in California.

When filling out the California RE 204 form, keep these key points in mind:

• This form is exclusively for brokers, including broker-salespersons. Salespersons should use the RE 214 form.
• Make sure to read the instructions on the reverse side before completing the form.
• Online submission via eLicensing is available for certain license changes marked with an asterisk.
• Clearly indicate the type of change you are making by checking the appropriate box(es).
• Provide your full new name if you are changing your personal name, and attach verification of the name change.
• Include your new mailing address, as this is where all correspondence will be sent.
• If you reside outside California, a notarized Consent To Service Of Process (RE 234) may be required.
• For fictitious business names, enter the name exactly as it appears on the Fictitious Business Name Statement filed with the County Clerk.
• Submit the completed form either in person at a district office or by mailing it to the Bureau of Real Estate in Sacramento.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother process when updating your broker information with the Bureau of Real Estate.