Serving business owners since 2007A registered agent is a person registered with the state and normally listed with the Secretary of State who is authorized to receive legal papers such as Service of Process (subpoenas, liens, lawsuits, etc.), tax documents, annual reports, and official correspondence from the state and regulatory agencies on behalf of a business.
What does a registered agent do?
A registered agent is an essential position in companies. They receive important business documents in the mail and ensure the business is notified and receives this mail quickly, which helps keep the company out of trouble.
With the help of a registered agent, a business can follow legal rules and avoid fines.
Do I need a registered agent for my LLC?
Operating an LLC or a corporation requires a registered agent. Because registered agents manage legal documents received in the mail, a business could get into legal trouble if it does not have one. A reliable registered agent ensures company owners get all essential papers, such as court documents.
A business owner must include their registered agent’s legal name and address when preparing for incorporation and filing the incorporation articles. They can not incorporate without this information.
Can I use myself as my registered agent?
Yes. While you can list yourself as your registered agent, you may not like some requirements.
You must be available during the United States standard business hours of 9 AM to 5 PM and have a physical address in the state where you want to register.
If your small business operates solely online, you must list your home address as your business address. This address will be available to the public, meaning anyone can find it.
Choosing to hire a professional registered agent can help protect your privacy.
What are the requirements to be a registered agent?
The basic requirements to be a registered agent are to be 18 years old or older, live in the state where the business is registered, and be available during standard business hours.
If you are a company, you must be allowed to do business in that state and need a physical address. Simply having a P.O. box is not enough.
The requirement that a registered agent reside in that state and be available during regular business hours enables others to serve any claim upon the business readily.
Anyone can serve as a registered agent. An employee or officer of a company that maintains an office in the state often serves as the registered agent, but most companies choose to have a professional registered agent.
Ensure your selected individual is responsible and trustworthy with your company’s important legal documents.
How much does a registered agent cost?
The price of a registered agent varies based on a few factors, including the amount of work and the agent’s location.
For example, some registered agents in North Carolina charge $50 per year (plus any additional state fees), while others may charge up to $200 per year.
Cheaper agents will perform simple mail management services, while more expensive ones may provide extra help with mail or documents. It is ideal to compare prices and services before you decide what type of registered agent is best for you.
How can I change my current registered agent?
There are many reasons business owners might want to change their registered agent. Some people registered themselves, a coworker, or a friend as their agent during the initial creation of their business. Others find they can’t work with their current agent much longer due to conflicts or the agent changing locations.
Some business owners cannot continue working with their current agent because their business is moving to another state.
No matter your reasoning, rest assured that you can change agents. Business owners can complete this change regardless of what business structure they have.
The steps to changing your registered agent may vary between states. You should contact your state’s business office, commonly known as the Secretary of State. They can provide you with more information on any fees or forms you must fill out and answer any questions about the process.
When changing your registered agent, you first need to find a new qualified registered agent. Hiring a professional agent is most beneficial if you want the most privacy and security. You could also ask your business accountant or attorney to be your registered agent since they are already familiar with the business.
Next, you must fill out a Change of Registered Agent form. Depending on the state, you may need to pay a small fee for changing your agent. Send the form to the state for approval, and they will update your records.
Make sure to communicate the change to your old agent. Your new agent will begin receiving the mail instead.
MaxFilings’ professional incorporation services provide a detailed guide to incorporating your business and the requirements for new business owners. If you are prepared to incorporate your business, Maxfilings professionals can assist you.
