What is a Registered Agent?
A registered agent is a person or business entity designated to receive legal documents, tax notices, and official government correspondence on behalf of your business.
Quick Answer
Every LLC and corporation in the United States must have a registered agent - a designated representative who receives legal and tax documents during business hours. This person or company must have a physical address in your state of incorporation.
Legal Requirements
Must Have
- • Physical address in state of incorporation
- • Available during business hours (9-5 weekdays)
- • Adults over 18 years old
- • Reliable and trustworthy
- • Not a P.O. Box address
Cannot Be
- • Your home address (not recommended)
- • Virtual office without physical presence
- • Anyone under 18 years old
- • Unreliable or frequently traveling
- • P.O. Box or mailbox service
Key Responsibilities
Documents They Receive
- • Lawsuit summons and subpoenas
- • Tax notices and correspondence
- • Annual report reminders
- • Compliance notifications
- • Official state correspondence
Their Duties
- • Forward documents immediately
- • Maintain confidentiality
- • Be available during business hours
- • Notify you of important deadlines
- • Keep accurate records
Your Options
Be Your Own Agent
• Must be available 9-5 weekdays
• Your address becomes public
• Risk missing important documents
• No privacy protection
Friend or Family
• Must trust them completely
• Their address becomes public
• May strain relationships
• Risk of reliability issues
Professional Service
• Privacy protection
• Professional reliability
• Compliance monitoring
• Document scanning/forwarding
Why Every Business Needs One
🏛️ Legal Compliance
Required by law in all 50 states for LLCs and corporations. Failure to maintain a registered agent can result in administrative dissolution of your business.
🔒 Privacy Protection
Professional services keep your home address private, preventing unwanted visitors and protecting your personal information.
⚖️ Legal Protection
Ensures you receive critical legal documents promptly, helping you respond to lawsuits and legal matters within required timeframes.
📋 Compliance Monitoring
Professional agents often include compliance reminders for annual reports, tax deadlines, and other state requirements.
Choosing the Right Agent
Key Factors to Consider
✅ Reliability & Experience
Look for established companies with proven track records and positive reviews.
📱 Technology & Communication
Modern services offer document scanning, online portals, and instant notifications.
🌍 Multi-State Coverage
Important if you plan to expand to multiple states or relocate your business.
💰 Transparent Pricing
Avoid hidden fees and understand what's included in the annual service fee.
🏆 Additional Services
Some offer compliance monitoring, mail forwarding, and business formation services.
📞 Customer Support
Responsive support when you need to make changes or have questions.
Ready to Choose a Registered Agent?
Compare top registered agent services and find the best option for your business needs and budget.