We may earn commissions if you use the recommended services on this site.  

Registered Agent Services

A Guide for New & Serial Entreprenuers

Common Reasons to Use a Registered Agent Service

  • Business has locations in multiple states
    A business that operates in more than one state can present administrative challenges. A professional registered agent service is a cost effective way to stay compliant and mitigate legal risk.

  • You expect to move the business as you grow
    It is common for small, growing businesses to change and relocate as new customers and employees join the team. If you expect to change your office address over the next few years, a registered agent service offers stability for little cost.

  • Your office has irregular office hours
    Since the pandemic, office culture has not been the same. With hybrid work models existing alongside work-from-home and return-to-office teams, the front doors of your office may not always be open, making it difficult to obtain necessary legal and financial documents.

  • Business has no physical address
    If your business exists solely on the web or in the form of you visiting clients to sell them products or services, you may not have a physical business address. Hiring a registered agent solves that for you.

  • You work from home and want privacy
    Just because you work from home, it doesn't mean that you want your customers, partners, and vendors to know where you sleep. A registered agent service offers privacy and enables owners to keep their home address publicly private.

  • Stay on top of compliance laws
    Some states have more strict, cumbersome registration requirements that others. Noting that the law changes periodically, a registered agent service alleviates your need to be mindful of every single update.

Registering Your Business

A Complete Guide To Registered Agent Services

The obligation to have a registered agent in place is a crucial aspect of due process. Prior to proceeding with a lawsuit against a business, the business must be formally notified. In order to meet this requirement, the registered agent must have a physical address situated within the state and be available during normal business hours for easy accessibility by anyone initiating legal proceedings. This obligation grants the court a clear means of formally notifying the business. In addition, this requirement helps prevent the scenario in which large corporations can hide behind a multitude of employees. The registered agent serves as the primary point of contact for the state and for service of process on behalf of the business. Essentially, the fundamental principle behind the registered agent requirements is to ensure that your business always maintains a reliable way to be contacted.

Whether you need a registered agent or not depends on several factors, such as the type of business you are running and the state in which it is based. In general, a registered agent is an individual or a company that is designated to receive official legal and tax documents on behalf of your business. This can include service of process papers in the event of a lawsuit, as well as annual report reminders and other official correspondence from the state government.

In many states, businesses are required to have a registered agent if they are incorporated or organized in that state. Some states also require that a registered agent have a physical address within the state, and be available during normal business hours to accept service of process and other official documents.

In summary, if you are operating a business that is required to have a registered agent, it is important to choose an individual or company that is reliable and able to meet the state's requirements. BusinessFormation.io can point you in the right direction, and if you're unsure if your business needs a registered agent, you may want to consult with an attorney or check your state's specific requirements.

Top 3 Registered Agent Services Providers

Choosing the best registered agent service involves a cost/benefit analysis of pricing relative to quality of service and services offered. We looked at the options and identified the Top 3.

View Top 3

Frequently Asked Questions

As the saying goes, "you're not born knowing." Check out some of the more commonly asked questions about registered agent services.

View FAQs

Why You Should Hire a Registered Agent

From compliance, privacy, and reliability, there are many reasons to hire a professional registered agency service company. Click below to see the most common reasons.

Reasons To Hire

Tactical Steps to Form a Limited Liability Co

Choose a name, file articles of organization, obtain EIN, create operating agreement, register with tax agency, comply with annual reporting. We'll show you the way.

Learn More

What Is a Registered Agent Service?

A registered agent service is a third-party organization that acts as the designated representative for a business to receive legal and tax documents on its behalf.

The registered agent service is responsible for receiving and forwarding important documents, such as service of process papers in the event of a lawsuit, annual report reminders, and other official correspondence from the state government.

Generally speaking, Registered Agent Services offer several advantages to business owners:

  • Compliance
    A registered agent service can help ensure that your business stays in compliance with state laws by receiving and forwarding important legal and tax documents to you in a timely manner.

  • Professionalism
    A registered agent service can provide a professional image for your business, as well as handle sensitive legal and tax documents with the appropriate level of confidentiality and professionalism.

  • Reliability
    A registered agent service is usually staffed by professionals who are trained to handle legal and tax documents, and who can provide reliable and consistent support for your business.

  • Privacy
    By using a registered agent service, you can keep your personal contact information private and avoid having it publicly listed on state business registration documents.

  • Accessibility
    A registered agent service can have a physical office location in the state where your business is incorporated, which can be beneficial if you are located out of state or if you travel frequently.

  • Availability
    This is great for sole practitioners and people with home businesses. A registered agent service is typically available during normal business hours, which can be important if you need to respond to legal or tax documents during those times.

CHOOSING A Registered Agent SERVICE

Top 3 Registered Agent Services

View The Highest-rated, Greatest-value Registered Agent Services Today

AS LOW AS $0 FOR THE FIRST YEAR
cheap llc services from Harbor Compliance

Harbor Compliance

Starting at
$99/year
Budget Choice
Get Started
  • Full service registered agent
  • Business Address
  • Online Document Access
  • Ad Hoc Compliance Alerts
  • Inbound Mail Reception
  • Limited Customer Support
zen business LLC services online

ZenBusiness

Starting at
$99/year
Endorsed by Mark Cuban
Get Started
  • Full service registered agent
  • Business Address
  • Online Document Access
  • Worry-Free Compliance
  • Access to other services
  • Limited Customer Support

Registered Agent FAQs

What is a registered agent?
A registered agent plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth functioning of a business. It can be an individual or a company that serves as the LLC's or corporation's designated representative in the state. Their primary responsibility is to receive legal documents, official communication, and service of process on behalf of the LLC or corporation and promptly forward them to the relevant party.

As an official point of contact, a registered agent can help businesses maintain compliance with state laws and regulations. They act as a buffer between the LLC or corporation and the state, providing a layer of protection for the business owners' privacy and personal information. In addition, registered agents can also provide valuable advice and support, helping businesses navigate legal and administrative complexities.

Selecting the right registered agent is crucial for businesses of all sizes. It is essential to choose a reputable and reliable agent who can provide prompt and accurate handling of legal documents and communication. Failure to appoint a registered agent or to have one that is responsive and responsible can result in costly consequences, including legal penalties, loss of reputation, and even the dissolution of the business.
Who can be a registered agent?
While the registered agent requirements vary from one state to the next, generally a resident individual or a registered business can serve as a designated registered agent. The registered agent's business office must be located at the same address as the entity's registered office.

It is possible for an officer, owner, or employee of the entity to serve as the registered agent, but the entity itself cannot serve in this capacity. In other words, if John Doe owns Acme, LLC, John Doe can be the registered agent, but Acme, LLC cannot be the registered agent for Acme, LLC.

An alternative option is to contract a registered agent service from another business entity, such as a service company. This is one of the most popular, fail-safe ways to stay in compliance with local laws.
I'm from out of state. How do I find a person who can serve as my registered agent?
If you are an out-of-state individual or business looking for a registered agent in a specific state, check out our 50 State Guide to Registered Agent Services. For your needs, there are several options available to you:

Hire a registered agent service:
Many companies offer registered agent services for a fee. These companies will receive and forward legal and tax documents on your behalf, ensuring that you remain in compliance with state laws.

Use a friend or family member: You can ask a trusted friend or family member who is a Texas resident to serve as your registered agent. Keep in mind that the registered agent will need to have a physical address in Texas and be available during normal business hours to receive important legal and tax documents.

Appoint a location-based employee: If you have an employee who is based in your desired state, they can serve as your registered agent. This option can be convenient, as your employee is already familiar with your business and may be able to handle the receipt and forwarding of legal and tax documents with minimal disruption to their work.

My registered agent resigned or moved. Do I need to file anything with the secretary of state?
Absolutely. Maintaining a registered agent and registered office is mandatory for both domestic and foreign filing entities.

Not doing so could result in the cancellation of the entity's status, whether it be a domestic entity or a foreign entity's registration. It is imperative that entities file a statement of change with the Secretary of State to keep the registered agent's name and registered office address up to date.

Want to know more?
Here is more on what to do if your registered agent moves or resigns.
What are the duties of a registered agent or as an appointed agent?
The responsibilities of a registered or appointed agent include:

Receiving, accepting, and forwarding to the entity any legal notices, demands, or processes that are served on or received by the registered agent. The address for forwarding the documents should be the most recent one provided to the registered agent by the entity. In case of inability to forward, the registered agent should notify the entity at the same address.

Providing the entity with the notices required by law or allowed by law to be given to the entity. The address for these notices should be the most recent one provided to the registered agent by the entity.

Want to know more?
Here is more on hiring a professional registered agent versus doing it yourself.
What happens if I designate a person who has not consented to act as registered agent?
Designating a person who has not consented to act as a registered agent is a violation of the laws governing registered agents. In most states, the registered agent must be an individual resident of the state or a business authorized to conduct business in the state and must have consented to serve in that capacity. If a non-consenting person is designated as a registered agent, they can file a complaint with the state and the company may be subject to fines or penalties. In some cases, the state may even revoke the company's right to do business in the state. Additionally, if the registered agent is unable to be located at the registered address during normal business hours, it can lead to legal or administrative issues for the company, such as the inability to receive important legal documents or notifications.

Therefore, it's important to ensure that the person you are designating as a registered agent has consented to serve in that capacity and is qualified to do so under state law.

Want to know more?
 Here is more on the risk of designating the wrong person as registered agent.
What is service of process?
Service of process is the delivery of legal documents, such as a summons, complaint, subpoena, or other court papers, to a defendant or party in a lawsuit. The purpose of service of process is to provide official notice to the recipient that they are a party to a legal action and are required to respond. Service of process is an essential component of due process in the legal system and is a way for the court to exercise jurisdiction over a party.

In some cases, a registered agent may be authorized to receive service of process on behalf of a company. This is because a registered agent is a designated representative of the company who is available during normal business hours to receive important legal documents and notifications on behalf of the company.

Want to know more? Here is what happens if you hire a bad registered agent that cannot be served.
What is a statutory agent?
A statutory agent is just another name for "registered agent," particularly in Arizona and Ohio.

While a majority of US states and Washington D.C. use "registered agent," some states use different terms.

For example, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Rhode Island call it a "resident agent," whereas California, Louisiana, New York, and West Virginia refer to it as an "agent for service of process." Maine calls it a "commercial clerk" and Pennsylvania calls it a "registered office provider."

All of these terms refer to the same exact thing: a registered agent.
What is a national registered agent?
A national registered agent, also known as a resident agent or statutory agent, is a person or a business that is appointed to receive legal and official documents on behalf of a company. The role of a national registered agent is to receive service of process (i.e., legal documents such as a summons, complaint, subpoena, or other court papers) and other important legal notifications on behalf of the company.

A national registered agent is required in many states as part of the process of forming a corporation or limited liability company (LLC). The registered agent must have a physical address in the state where the company is formed and must be available during normal business hours to receive important legal documents and notifications. In some states, the registered agent must be a resident of the state or a business authorized to conduct business in the state.

A national registered agent can be an individual or a business that specializes in providing registered agent services to companies. The advantage of using a national registered agent is that the company can have a single point of contact for service of process and legal notifications, regardless of where it does business or has operations. This can be particularly useful for companies that do business in multiple states or have a changing business presence.

Want to know more?
 Here is additional info on multi-state registered agents.
UNDERSTAND THE VALUE OF Registered AgentS

Choosing a Registered Agent

There are many companies that offer registered agent services, including both standalone registered agent companies and larger business service providers.

Some of the well-known companies that offer registered agent services include:

  • LegalZoom
  • IncFile
  • CT Corporation
  • Registered Agents Inc.
  • Northwest Registered Agent
  • ZenBusiness
  • Corporation Service Company (CSC)
  • BizFilings
  • Harvard Business Services, Inc.
  • The Company Corporation

It is often a better strategy to choose a professional registered agent because it is essential that the registered agent always be ready, willing, and able to perform two critical functions:

  • receive important state and legal documents
  • relay these documents to the appropriate party quickly and effectively

As the name implies, a professional registered agent is a firm that specializes in providing registered agent services. With a professional registered agent, you can rest assured that there will always be someone present at the registered address during standard business hours to receive legal notices. This eliminates the risk of the registered agent being on vacation or absent from the office when service of process is attempted. Furthermore, obtaining legal notices in front of customers or, if you operate a home-based business, in front of family, friends, and neighbors, can be an uncomfortable experience, to say the least. This is more likely to occur if you utilize your business or home address as the registered office address, rather than utilizing a professional registered agent's address.

Another critical consideration is the prompt dissemination of information, especially in the case of a lawsuit, which generally necessitates a response within days to avoid a default judgment. Receiving and forwarding legal documents is the exclusive responsibility of a professional registered agent, not just a disruption in an otherwise hectic agenda.

Lastly, handling paperwork and staying current with industry requirements and regulations is a time-consuming undertaking. A professional registered agent specializes in this area of the law and typically maintains a team of attorneys and contacts with state legislatures who keep track of and respond to modifications in the law.

50 State Registered Agent Guide

The laws for forming a business often vary from one state to the next.

  1. Name Requirements: Different states have different requirements for the name of an LLC, including restrictions on using certain words and a requirement for certain terms, such as "LLC."
  2. Registered Agent: In some states, an LLC must appoint a registered agent to receive legal documents on behalf of the company.
  3. Filing Fees: The fees for filing articles of organization and other paperwork to form an LLC vary by state.
  4. Operating Agreements: While not required in all states, an operating agreement outlines the ownership and management structure of an LLC and is highly recommended.
Click Below To View The Summarized
Registered Agent Requirements IN Each State

To comply with Alabama's Registered Agent requirements:

  • Registered agents in Alabama need to maintain a physical address and operate during business hours.
  • Any Alabama-based business owner can act as their own registered agent.
  • Individuals appointed as registered agents should be state residents.
  • Businesses in Alabama are permitted to use registered agent companies, but only if these companies maintain a registered office with a physical address within the state.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

In accordance with Alaska state law, all registered businesses must designate a registered agent. The Alaska Secretary of State will not approve state filings unless a registered agent has been appointed.

  • Alaska-based business owners are eligible to act as their own registered agents.
  • PO boxes are not acceptable as a physical address for registered agents.
  • Registered agents to be state residents or a company offering registered agent services with an office registered in the state.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

The state of Arizona mandates that businesses must choose a registered agent prior to commencing operations. For businesses registered in Arizona, in order to comply with Arizona laws, the Secretary of State has the following mandates.

  • Statutory agents (commonly referred to as registered agents) are required to maintain a physical office that is officially registered within the state of Arizona.
  • It is prohibited to use PO boxes for this purpose.
  • Individuals serving as registered agents must be residents of the state.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

To serve as a registered agent in the state of Arkansas, individuals or entities must have a physical address within the state's boundaries. Other requirements include the following:

  • Business owners, lawyers, family members, and friends can all fulfill the role of a registered agent.
  • According to state regulations, all business entities are mandated to designate a registered agent in Arkansas.
  • Failure to appoint a registered agent will result in the rejection of business filing paperwork by the secretary of state.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

According to the California Secretary of State, an agent of process may take the form of a registered agent service or an adult individual who is a resident of the state.

  • It is prohibited for corporations to serve as their own registered agents, and limited liability companies (LLCs) are also barred from serving as registered agents within the state.
  • If a corporation serves as a registered agent for another business, it must file a Section 1505 Certificate with the secretary of state in accordance with state regulations.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements

If you are interested in forming a business in Colorado, the Secretary of State has laid out the following guidelines:

  • Individuals who are designated as registered agents must be at least 18 years old.
  • It is permissible for companies to offer registered agent services within the state.
  • Registered agents are required to maintain a physical address within Colorado and be available during standard business hours in accordance with state regulations.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

As with every other state in the United States, the Connecticut Secretary of State maintains some rather basic requirements for registered agents. The most basic, summarized version of these is set below:

  • Registered agents are required to maintain a physical address within the state and are prohibited from utilizing PO boxes for this purpose.
  • Registered agents can either be individuals who are at least 18 years old or companies that offer registered agent services.
  • All registered businesses within the state of Connecticut are obligated to maintain a registered agent in accordance with state regulations.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

The Delaware Division of Corporations governs all new business formations that occur within the state. The most basic guidelines are indicated as follows:

  • All business entities that are formed through the Delaware Division of Corporations are required to maintain a registered agent in accordance with state regulations. This obligation extends to all corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs) operating within Delaware.
  • Registered agents in Delaware must maintain a physical address within the state, and the use of PO boxes is prohibited for this purpose.
  • Business owners in Delaware may serve as their own registered agents if they are residents of the state.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

To fulfill the rold of being a registered agent in the state of Florida, the Florida Secretary of State has issued the following guidelines. Please note, these are abbreviated.

  • To fulfill the role of a registered agent in Florida, individuals must maintain a physical address within the state and be available to accept documents during standard business hours.
  • Business owners who are forming limited liability companies (LLCs) or corporations in Florida are permitted to serve as their own registered agents in accordance with state regulations.
  • Failure to appoint a registered agent will result in the rejection of business filings by the Florida secretary of state.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

Are you interested in forming a business in Georgia? If so, make sure that you know what to expect. Here are the high level basics of what the Georgia Secretary of State requires of you.

  • Limited liability companies (LLCs) in Georgia are permitted to appoint an individual who is a resident of the state or utilize a domestic or foreign corporation that is registered in Georgia to serve as their registered agent.
  • Corporations and nonprofits in Georgia can choose from a variety of options, including an individual person, a domestic corporation, a foreign corporation, a nonprofit organization, or any other business entity within the state to serve as their registered agent.
  • All registered agents in Georgia are required to maintain a physical office address within the state, as mandated by state regulations.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

The State of Hawaii is a special place for many reasons. If you're looking to form a business here, you should be aware of the Hawaii Secretary of State's basic requirements to do so. We have listed them below as follows.

  • Registered agents must be either residents of the state or domestic or foreign business entities that are registered in Hawaii.
  • To fulfill the role of a registered agent in Hawaii, individuals and entities are required to maintain a physical street address, as mandated by state regulations.
  • Business owners in Hawaii may serve as their own registered agents provided that they are residents of the state, in accordance with state laws.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

The Idaho Secretary of State mandates the following when registering a business in their state.

  • All business entities in the state of Idaho are required by law to appoint a registered agent.
  • Information regarding registered agents is considered public information in Idaho.
  • Failure to appoint a registered agent will result in the rejection of business filings in accordance with state regulations.
  • Business owners in Idaho may serve as their own registered agents, as permitted by state laws.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

Forming a business in Illinois? That's cool. All limited liability companies (LLCs) and corporations in Illinois are legally required to have a registered agent, as mandated by state regulations. Here is what the Illinois Secretary of State requires (at a bare minimum).

  • To serve as a registered agent in Illinois, individuals or entities must be available at a physical address during regular business hours to receive official mail and tax notices.
  • PO boxes are not permitted to serve as a registered agent address as mandated by state laws.
  • In the event that a registered agent cannot be contacted, the Illinois Secretary of State office will automatically be served on behalf of the business.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

As with most states in the United States, for a person or entity to serve as a registered agent for an Indiana business, they must have a physical address within the state and be available during business hours. Here is a quick summary of what the Indiana Secretary of State mandates.

  • Individuals who are residents of Indiana are permitted to serve as registered agents for businesses in the state.
  • Companies that provide registered agent services are also allowed to serve as registered agents for Indiana businesses, as mandated by state regulations.

Click Here to learn more about registered agent requirements in this state.

The Iowa Secretary of State offers businesses an array of resources. First thing is first, however. Here are the basic guidelines that are required of all business entities.

  • Individuals who are residents of the state are permitted to serve as registered agents for a business.
  • In the event that a company's registered agent cannot be reached after a reasonable attempt to deliver important documents, the company's secretary will be served at the principal address of the business.
  • If the secretary is also unreachable, then the business may not be aware that it has been served.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

The Business Services division of the Kansas Secretary of State is responsible for managing all new business formations.

  • In Kansas, corporations and LLCs are required to appoint a registered agent.
  • The agent must have a physical address within the state of Kansas, and the use of PO boxes is not permitted.
  • Registered agents in Kansas can either be a company that provides registered agent services or an individual who is a state resident, also known as a resident agent.

Click Here to learn more about this state's registered agent requirements.

Interested in forming a business in Kentucky? Here are the most basic things that the Kentucky Secretary of State require of business owners.

  • Kentucky law mandates that registered agents must either be state residents or be a company that offers registered agent services.
  • To become a registered agent in Kentucky, the agent must either sign the appointing document during the formation process or send a written statement to the secretary of state acknowledging the duties.
  • All businesses registered in Kentucky must have a registered agent.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

Forming a business in Louisiana? Great! Here is what the Louisiana Secretary of State Business Services division requires at a bare minimum.

  • Louisiana requires all businesses to appoint a registered agent, and business filings will not be accepted unless an agent has been appointed.
  • Business owners can act as their own registered agent in Louisiana.
  • Business filings that are rejected out of the Louisiana jurisdiction will be immediately rejected.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

Maine has a Business Services division within the Secretary of State that is responsible for governing all new business filings. While there are some small details to be aware of, here are the high level things to keep in mind.

  • In Maine, the person or entity responsible for accepting service of process on behalf of a business is called a commercial clerk, rather than a registered agent.
  • Commercial clerks perform the same functions as registered agents. Business owners in Maine are allowed to designate themselves as their own commercial clerks.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

The state of Maryland offers business resources for new and existing business formations and registered agent services, among other information on their state government website. If you have any specific questions that are not answered on this website, the Business Express section from the Maryland Department of Assessment and Taxation may offer additional insight. Here is an overview of Maryland's requirements.

  • All enterprises are required to retain a registered agent who serves as the primary liaison between the organization and the government.
  • The registered agent assumes the responsibility of receiving and acknowledging any physical legal documents, such as subpoenas or lawsuits, on behalf of the business.
  • Maryland registered agents are accountable for handling all official correspondence sent by the Maryland State Department of Assessment and Taxation via mail.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

Registering a business in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts? The Corporations Division of the Secretary of State is responsible for governing how businesses are formed. This state offers steady access to a healthy hiring/talent pool as well as banking and capital resources. But first thing is first! Here are the basics for utilizing registered agents in Massachusetts.

  • All limited liability companies (LLCs) and corporations are mandated to have a registered agent, also known as a "resident agent" in certain legal codes and documents.
  • Additionally, it is permissible for a business owner to serve as their own registered agent in the state.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

In Michigan, the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs oversees all matters related to corporations and business filings, including registered agents. Here is a glance at the bare minimum requirements for registered agents in Michigan.

  • Michigan state law requires registered agents to maintain a physical address situated within the state's borders.
  • Certain legal codes and documents in Michigan refer to registered agents as "resident agents," and both terms are interchangeable within the state's legal system.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

The Minnesota Secretary of State oversees all business matters. Their website offers a simple entity search tool and also provides additional context that may be helpful as you decide on your registered agent. The following is brief overview of the most basic requirements for utilizing a registered agent for Minnesota businesses.

  • Minnesota state law mandates that companies maintain a registered agent in every state where the business is active.
  • Registered agents must possess a physical address as PO boxes are not accepted as a valid location for a registered office.
  • The secretary of state website maintains the updated names and addresses of allregistered agents.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

As with most states, the Mississippi Secretary of State has a division that handles all business matters. The requirements for registered agent services are not unlike most states. The bare minimum is listed below.

  • Mississippi state law necessitates that all business entities retain a registered agent, and failure to appoint an agent will result in the rejection of business filings.
  • In Mississippi, it is permissible for business owners to serve as their own registered agents or employ the services of a registered agent provider.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

The Missouri Secretary of State website offers convenient online business services. Much like other states, this department is responsible for dictating how businesses and registered agents must perform in order to remain in good standing. The following are the most basic points to be aware of.

  • Missouri's state regulations dictate that registered agents must either be state residents or an organization that offers registered agent services.
  • Individuals seeking to become registered agents in Missouri must either sign the relevant appointment document or submit a written statement acknowledging their responsibilities to the secretary of state.
  • It is mandatory for all businesses registered in Missouri to appoint a registered agent.

Click Here to learn more about the registered agent requirements in this state.

Montana is a beautiful state that is known for many things. While it may not have the largest population in the United States, it doesn't mean that it is incapable of housing some truly exceptional businesses. The Montana Secretary of State has specific requirements for registered agent services. The most basic of those requirements are noted below.

  • To comply with Montana state law, all registered business entities must retain a registered agent.
  • In cases where the registered agent cannot be reached after a reasonable attempt to serve them, the company's secretary will be served at the principal address of the business. If the secretary is also unreachable, the business will be unaware that it has been served.
  • In Montana, individuals are allowed to serve as their own registered agents.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.

The Corporate and Business Division of the Nebraska Secretary of State oversees all business matters. As things pertain to registered agent services, the following are the most basic requirements that business entities must adhere to.

  • To qualify as a registered agent in Nebraska, the agent must either sign the appointment document or send a written statement acknowledging their duties to the secretary of state.
  • Registered agents must possess a physical address located within the state of Nebraska, as PO boxes are not permitted.
  • If an individual is serving as the registered agent, they must either be a resident of Nebraska or authorized to conduct business in the state.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

While Nevada does not offer the most diverse economy, it is typically regarded as a fairly business friendly state. To maintain good standing, businesses must conform to specific requirements set by the Nevada Secretary of State. The following is a very basic overview of the most important registered agent requirements to be mindful of.

  • All business entities registered with the Nevada Secretary of State are obligated to designate a registered agent.
  • It is possible for business owners to serve as their own registered agent by selecting the "noncommercial registered agent" choice on the business formation documents.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

Registered Agent requirements in New Hampshire are not atypical of most states in the US. Like others, the New Hampshire Secretary of State oversees all business formations. Here is a glance at the most basic New Hampshire registered agent requirements.

  • To comply with New Hampshire state law, all LLCs and corporations are required to select a registered agent.
  • The registered agent must maintain a physical location within the state referred to as a "registered office."
  • To qualify as a registered agent in New Hampshire, the agent must either be a state resident or an organization that provides registered agent services within the state.

Click Here to learn more about registered agent requirements in this state.

Registered Agent Services in New Jersey are governed by Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services within the New Jersey Department of the Treasury. As most states look to their secretary of state to handle business affairs, New Jersey is a bit different from most states, but in function, the role of the Dept of the Treasury is not unique. Here are the basics when it comes to registered agents in New Jersey.

  • To serve as a registered agent in New Jersey, individuals must be at least 18 years old.
  • Registered agents must either be state residents or an organization that offers registered agent services
  • Business owners have the option to serve as their own registered agent within the state of New Jersey.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

The New Mexico Secretary of State oversees all new business formations, and it enforces guidelines for registered agent services for businesses operating within the state. As with most states, the registered agent requirements are fairly basic. The following is a glance at what those registered agent requirements are.

  • According to state law in New Mexico, all registered business entities are obligated to select a registered agent.
  • Failure to appoint an agent will result in rejection of business filings.
  • Business owners in New Mexico have the option to act as their own registered agent.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

New York has specific registered agent requirements for businesses. The Division of Corporations within the New York Department of State is responsible for maintaining a database of all active business filings, and they provide specific registered agent requirements as noted below:

  • To qualify as a registered agent in New York, the agent must either be a state resident, LLC, or corporation with a physical address located within the state.
  • New York state law requires LLCs to publish a summary of their articles of incorporation in two county newspapers where the principal office address is located.
  • Business owners in New York also have the option to act as their own registered agents.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

North Carolina registered agent requirements are fairly straightforward. The Secretary of State of North Carolina governs all business formations and has established the following basic guidelines for registered agents.

  • Companies registering in North Carolina are required to designate a registered agent who is either a resident of the state or a business providing registered agent services.
  • Failure to appoint a registered agent is not permitted.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

The Business Services division of the North Dakota Secretary of State oversees all business matters, including new business formations and maintaining a database of every business entity's registered agent.

  • A registered agent who is either a resident of the state or a company providing registered agent services must be appointed.
  • Failure to designate a registered agent will result in rejection of business filings by the Secretary of State.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

The Ohio Secretary of State offers the public access to a Business Services division. In Ohio, "registered agents" are the same thing as "statutory agents." The most basic requirements that businesses must maintain in Ohio are listed below:

  • Statutory agents are required to maintain a physical address within the state of Ohio.
  • Business owners are permitted to act as their own registered agents in Ohio, provided that they are residents of the state.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

In 2020, 4.4 out of every 1000 adults in Oklahoma became entrepreneurs. This is a state where the metric that measures "business survival" is above the national average. If you're looking to join the success of other business owners in Oklahoma, here is what the Oklahoma Secretary of State requires of you.

  • Registered agents in Oklahoma must have a physical office located within the state and can be either an individual who is a resident of Oklahoma or a company offering registered agent services.
  • Availability during normal business hours is mandatory for Oklahoma registered agents to receive service of process and other legal documents.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

Many people state that Oregon is known for a generally pro-business climate. Oregon is home to enterprises like Nike and Intel, though 99% of its companies are designated by its Secretary of State as small businesses. When it comes to starting your business in Oregon, here is a basic overview of the Oregon registered agent requirements.

  • To register a business in Oregon, it is mandatory to designate a registered agent, and failure to do so will result in the rejection of business filings.
  • Business owners can serve as their own registered agents in Oregon.
  • Registered agents in Oregon are required to maintain a physical registered office within the state and must be available during regular business hours.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

In Pennsylvania, 1.1 million small businesses support the jobs of about 2.5 million people. The Small Business Administration indicates that small businesses accounted for 99.6% of all private sector business operations, employing a little more than 46% of all workers in the state. If you're looking to start your own business, here are the basics to keep in mind about Pennsylvania's registered agent requirements.

  • If a registered agent in Pennsylvania can’t be served after a reasonable attempt, the company’s secretary will be served at the principal address of the business. If this person is unreachable, the business may never know that it has been served.
  • All businesses in Pennsylvania must appoint a registered agent during the business formation process.
  • Owners can act as the registered agent for their business in PA.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

In Rhode Island, 108,360 small businesses account for 98.9% of all businesses operating within the state. The Rhode Island Department of State Business Services Division offers online resources to entrepreneurs and offers the following as the most basic requirements for using a registered agent.

  • Registered agents are mandatory and failure to do so will result in the rejection of business filings.
  • Business owners in Rhode Island are permitted to act as their own registered agents.
  • Rhode Island registered agents must maintain a physical registered office within the state and be available during normal business hours to receive legal documents and other important notifications.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

South Carolina is often considered a favorable place to start a business due to low costs and business-friendly laws and regulations. The state has no inventory tax, and it also does not impose property taxes among other economic incentives. At a high level, the South Carolina Secretary of State has these registered agent requirements.

  • Limited liability companies (LLCs) and corporations are obligated by law to maintain a registered agent.
  • It is permissible for business owners in South Carolina to serve as their own registered agents.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

In South Dakota, every business entity is required to have a registered agent, who must be a resident of the state or a corporation authorized to conduct business in the state. The registered agent is responsible for receiving legal and official documents on behalf of the business. The South Dakota Secretary of State oversees the registered agent requirements.

  • Registered agents in South Dakota must have a physical address within the state and must be available during normal business hours.
  • Individuals designated as registered agents must be residents of South Dakota.
  • Business formations without registered agents will be rejected.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

Tennessee offers a low cost of living and has a robust business environment. Just over 42% of workers in the state work for small businesses. If you're looking to form an LLC or start a business in Tennessee, here are the basic registered agents requirements as determined by the Department of Economic and Community Development.

  • All legal business entities are required to designate a registered agent.
  • Business owners are permitted to act as their own registered agents in Tennessee.
  • The name of the registered agent and their address becomes part of the public record in Tennessee.
  • Registered agents in Tennessee must maintain a physical address within the state and be available during normal business hours.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

Texas is easily one of the best states to form a business. Texas offers entrepreneurs the freedom and resources necessary to build a company. There are no personal or corporate state income taxes to worry about, and the regulatory climate is relatively more reasonable than other parts of the United States. When starting your business with the Texas Secretary of State, here is what you should keep in mind when working with a registered agent service.

  • Registered agents are required to maintain a physical address, and the use of P.O. boxes is not permitted.
  • It is mandatory for all businesses operating within the state to appoint a registered agent, and failure to do so will result in the rejection of business filings by the Texas Secretary of State office.
  • Business owners in Texas are permitted to act as their own registered agents.

Click Here to learn more about registered agent services in this state.

Utah offers a favorable, educated labor supply, a positively limited amount of red tape and regulatory requirements, and plenty of opportunities for economic growth. The Division of Corporations and Commercial Code oversees Utah's business filings and sets forth the following, super basic guidelines for registered agent services.

  • For legal purposes, corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs) in Utah are required to appoint a registered agent.
  • In Utah, registered agents must have a physical address in the state, also referred to as a "registered office."
  • Business owners in Utah are permitted to serve as their own registered agents.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

Registered agent services are a requirement for businesses operating in Vermont. They act as a point of contact between the state and the business, receiving important legal and tax documents. Key considerations when choosing a registered agent include their reliability, availability, and experience in handling legal matters.

  • In Vermont, registered agents are commonly referred to as "process agents," especially when referring to limited liability companies (LLCs). However, the term is interchangeable with "registered agents" in Vermont
  • All businesses that are registered in Vermont are required to appoint a registered agent.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

In Virginia, all corporations and LLCs are required to have a registered agent. This person or entity is responsible for receiving important legal and tax documents on behalf of the business. When choosing a registered agent, factors to consider include their availability, reliability, and experience in dealing with legal matters.

  • In Virginia, it is not permitted for business entities to serve as registered agents for their own business.
  • Individuals who are state residents are eligible to serve as registered agents in Virginia.
  • Domestic companies can also serve as registered agents, provided that they maintain a physical address in the state (PO boxes are not allowed).

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in Virginia.

Washington state law requires all LLCs and corporations to have a registered agent to receive legal and tax documents. When selecting a registered agent, consider their reliability, availability, and experience in dealing with legal matters. Some agents also offer additional services such as mail forwarding and compliance management.

  • In Washington, all businesses are required to appoint a registered agent. Failure to do so will result in rejection of business filings.
  • Business owners are allowed to act as their own registered agents in Washington
  • Registered agents in Washington must maintain a physical registered office and be available during normal business hours.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in this state.

In West Virginia, all LLCs and corporations are required to have a registered agent. This individual or entity is responsible for receiving legal and tax documents on behalf of the business. Factors to consider when selecting a registered agent include their reliability, availability, and experience in handling legal matters.

  • All legal entities in West Virginia are required to have a registered agent.
  • In West Virginia, business owners have the option to act as their own registered agent.
  • The name and address of registered agents in West Virginia are public records that can be accessed by the public.

Click Here to learn more about registered agents in West Virginia.

Wisconsin law requires all LLCs and corporations to appoint a registered agent to receive legal and tax documents on their behalf. When choosing a registered agent, consider factors such as their reliability, availability, and experience in handling legal matters. Some agents may also offer additional services such as compliance management.

  • All enterprises that are registered in Wisconsin are required to designate a registered agent.
  • The submission of business filings will not be approved if there is no appointed agent.
  • In Wisconsin, entrepreneurs are allowed to act as their own registered agents. Registered agents in Wisconsin should maintain a physical registered office and must be available during regular business hours.

Click Here to learn more about registered agent services in Wisconsin.

In Wyoming, all LLCs and corporations must have a registered agent to receive legal and tax documents. When selecting a registered agent, consider their reliability, availability, and experience in handling legal matters. Some agents may offer additional services such as mail forwarding and compliance management.

  • Business owners in Wyoming can act as their own registered agent.
  • The appointed agent must be available during business hours and have a physical address in the state.
  • Wyoming registered agents must sign a Consent to Appointment by Registered Agent form.

Click Here to learn more about registered agent services in Wyoming.

Here's What Business Owners Are Saying

Business owners often express favorable views on forming a business.

LLCs offer liability protection, meaning that the owners' personal assets are shielded from business debts or lawsuits. This provides peace of mind and reduces the risk of personal financial loss. LLCs are also flexible in terms of management structure and have the option to be taxed as a partnership or corporation, offering potential tax benefits.

Additionally, LLCs are relatively easy to set up and maintain compared to other business structures. Overall, forming an LLC is seen as a smart choice for many small business owners looking to protect their personal assets and have a flexible and tax-advantaged structure for their business. It's a solid choice for most businesses.

Lisa N.
Salon Owner

"BusinessFormation.io pointed me in the right direction! I am so glad they referred us to the perfect LLC formation company."

Eliza H
Financial Services Owner

"This site was recommended to us by a mentor. We decided to take a chance as a new startup. No regrets. Time and money saved. Thanks!"

Get Started Today

Click Below and Pick 1 of the Top 3 Best-rated Business Formation & Registered Agent Services