Serve as your own registered agent
Hire a registered agent company
A registered agent (also called a statutory agent in some states) is a person or company designated to receive legal documents, government correspondence, and official notices on behalf of your LLC or corporation. Every business entity must have a registered agent with a physical address in the state where the business is formed.
Legal documents like lawsuits, subpoenas, and court notices
Annual report reminders, fee notices, and regulatory updates
State tax notices and franchise tax correspondence
Secretary of State communications and regulatory notices
PO Boxes are not acceptable in any state
Monday-Friday, typically 9 AM to 5 PM
Must be at least 18 years old (individual) or authorized to do business (company)
Must agree to accept legal documents on behalf of the business
State | Term Used | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Most States | Registered Agent | Standard requirements |
| Ohio | Statutory Agent | Same as registered agent |
| Nevada | Resident Agent | Must be Nevada resident or authorized company |
| New York | Registered Agent | Must file consent form with state |
| California | Agent for Service of Process | Can use commercial services |
Keeps your home address private and prevents unexpected legal service
Ensures someone is always available to receive important documents
Required if you don't have a physical address in the formation state
Professional services often provide deadline reminders and guidance
Protects your personal information from becoming public
Must have a real office, not just a virtual address
Prompt scanning/forwarding of documents via email and mail
Established company with good reviews and track record
Accessible support team for questions and issues
Notifications about annual reports, tax deadlines, and renewals
Online access to received documents and correspondence
Ability to serve as registered agent in multiple states
EIN filing, operating agreements, and other formation services
Service Level | Annual Cost | Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Appointed | $0 | Basic legal compliance only |
| Basic Service | $99-129 | Mail forwarding, basic support |
| Premium Service | $150-199 | Mail forwarding, compliance reminders, online portal |
| Full-Service | $200-299 | All features plus additional business services |
You can change your registered agent at any time by filing the appropriate form with your state. This is common when:
You'll need a new registered agent in your formation state
Many business owners make this change for privacy and convenience
Poor service or reliability issues warrant a change
May require different level of service or multi-state coverage
Failing to maintain a registered agent can have serious consequences:
State may dissolve your LLC for not having a registered agent
Your business may be marked as non-compliant with the state
Important lawsuits or legal notices may not reach you
States may impose fines for non-compliance
Getting back in good standing often requires additional fees
• You have a business address in your formation state
• Privacy isn't a major concern
• You're always available during business hours
• You want to minimize ongoing costs
• You work from home or value privacy
• You live outside your formation state
• You travel frequently or have irregular hours
• You want compliance support and reminders
• The $99-199/year cost is acceptable for peace of mind
Get professional registered agent service for just $99/year with your LLC formation. Includes mail forwarding, compliance reminders, and privacy protection.
Your registered agent will receive annual report reminders - stay compliant with our calendar.
Learn about registered agent requirements specific to California LLC formation.