OG Article: Choosing your LLC’s Registered Agent
All About Registered Agents & Registered Offices
Your LLC is required to have a reliable point of contact and address for legal documents to be delivered in the unfortunate circumstance that your LLC is sued. The Registered Office must be a street address within the state where your LLC is formed and cannot be P.O. Box. The Registered Agent should be available during normal business hours to receive documents on your LLC’s behalf.
Quick Tip: Your Registered Office can be an actual office address or you, your friend’s or family member’s address.
Services of Process
Your Registered Agent has to agree to accept the potential delivery of legal documents related to legal action against your LLC. The delivery of such documents is known as Service of Process and it includes items such as complaints, summons and/or subpoenas.
Most states will also use the Registered Agent as a point of contact for mailing business and state tax notices, payment reminders and other documents.
Choosing your Registered Agent
There are 3 main options:
- Be your own LLC’s Registered Agent*
- A friend or family member can be your LLC’s Registered Agent.
- Hire us to be your Commercial Registered Agent (for a fee).
If you have a street address in the state in which your LLC is formed, Option 1 is most convenient and free. Most people choose this option.
If you don’t have a street address in the state, Option 2 and 3 are most ideal.
If you have a trusted family member or friend with an address in the state in which your LLC is formed, Option 2 is another free option.
If you, family members or friends don’t have an address in the state in which your LLC is formed, you can hire us to be your Commercial Registered Agent for just $125 a year.
Debunking Common Misconceptions about Registered Agents
- Some LLC formation companies will deceive you into automatically hiring them as your Registered Agent. Be sure to ask questions about this upfront and read the fine print!
- Pay special attention to hidden fees that involve automatic monthly/annual payments.
- Beware of language that doesn’t inform you about your options regarding selecting a Registered Agent.