Why Do I Need a Registered Agent?

Registered agent FAQs

What is a registered agent, and why do I need one?

A registered agent is a person or company that receives important legal documents for your business and makes sure you get them quickly. Every LLC, corporation, and partnership must have one by law in all 50 states. Think of a registered agent like a mail carrier for your business's most important mail. They accept lawsuits, tax notices, and other official papers from the government or courts. Without one, your business could get shut down by the state or miss important legal deadlines that could cost you thousands of dollars. The registered agent must have a real street address (not a P.O. box) in your state and be available during normal business hours Monday through Friday. This ensures someone is always there to sign for urgent documents when they arrive.

Can I be my own registered agent instead of hiring a service?

In most states, you can be your own registered agent if you meet the requirements. Generally, you must be at least 18 years old, live in the state where your business is registered, and be available at your business address during all regular business hours. The biggest problems with being your own agent include missing important documents when you're sick, on vacation, or out of the office. 

What happens if I don't have a registered agent or mine stops working?

You can face different penalties for not having a registered agent. Most states charge fines and put your business in "bad standing," which can make it harder to secure loans or renew permits. If you ignore the problem for too long, the state will dissolve your business completely. This means your business legally stops existing, and you lose all the legal protections that come with being an LLC or corporation. 

How much does a registered agent service cost, and what do I get?

Professional registered agent services typically cost between $100–$300 per year, depending on what features you want. Basic services just receive and forward your documents, while premium services include extras like compliance reminders and document storage. LegalZoom’s Registered Agent service costs $249 per year and sends you alerts for important mail received, scans and uploads mail for digital access, keeps you updated through a Compliance Calendar, and gives you unlimited cloud storage for all business documents. 

Do I need a separate registered agent in each state where I do business?

Yes, you need a registered agent in every state where your business is officially registered to operate. This is called foreign registration when you register your business in states other than where you first formed it. For example, if you started your LLC in Delaware but want to do business in California and Texas, you need registered agents in all three states. Each state has its own laws and needs a way to deliver legal documents to you within their borders. Many registered agent companies operate in all 50 states, so it’s possible to use the same service everywhere. This makes it easier to manage and often costs less than finding separate agents in each state.

How do I choose the best registered agent service for my business?

Choosing a registered agent service for your business is largely a matter of personal preference. Look for a service that has been in business for several years and offers the features you need at a price you can afford. The most important things are reliability (i.e., they never miss documents), good customer service, and secure document handling. Check if they provide online access to your documents, email notifications when mail arrives, and help with compliance deadlines. If you plan to expand to other states, make sure they operate nationwide. Read reviews from other customers to see if they're satisfied with the service. Compare prices, but remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best. A few extra dollars per month is worth it for better customer service and more reliable document handling. Look for companies that offer guarantees or trial periods so you can test their service risk-free.

What types of documents will my registered agent receive?

Your registered agent will receive all official legal and government documents sent to your business. The most common ones are lawsuit papers, tax notices from the IRS and state agencies, and annual report reminders from your state. Other documents include subpoenas (orders to appear in court or provide information), wage garnishment notices if you owe money, and compliance notices about business licenses or permits. Government agencies also send important updates about law changes that affect your business. Your registered agent must forward these documents to you immediately, usually within 24 hours.