A registered agent is an individual or business that your company designates to receive legal papers (what lawyers call service of process) and other important government correspondence. It’s a requirement for most active business entities like LLCs and corporations.
Using a professional registered agent service like CT Corporation can make sure your legal documents get to you and your customers in a timely manner.
What is a registered agent?
When you form a business entity like an LLC or corporation, the state will require you to designate a registered agent. This person or company must have a physical address in the state of registration (this is called the registered office), and be available during normal business hours to receive mail and sign legal documents, like lawsuits.
If you don’t appoint a registered agent, the state may suspend or dissolve your business. Choosing a professional registered agent company that offers nationwide service can help you avoid these issues.
Northwest Registered Agent is one such company that offers registered agent services in all 50 states. Their customer support, which they call Corporate Guides, is a mix of former accountants, lawyers, and entrepreneurs who have been in your shoes and can help you solve any problem that arises. Their prices are competitive, and their service is top-notch. For more information, visit their website.
Service of process
A registered agent must be able to receive service of process and other legal documents on behalf of a business. Typically, the agent must be an individual 18 years or older or a company that meets the state’s requirements to do business in the jurisdiction. Some businesses choose to use a professional service that can accept service of process for them in all states where they do business. This provides consistency and simplifies renewal payments.
When you register an active business entity with the state, you must appoint a registered agent (also known as a resident agent in some states). The agent must have a physical address in the state of registration and be available to receive service of process and official mail during normal business hours. Some registered agents are private companies that charge an annual fee to serve as the agent for LLCs, C corporations, and other active entities. They also offer additional services such as document scanning and storage.
Notices to the registered agent
When you form a new business, you need to list a registered agent. This is a person or entity that receives legal, tax and compliance documents about your business. These documents can include lawsuits, subpoenas and other government correspondence. The registered agent must have a physical address and be open during standard business hours. If you use a professional registered agent service, you won’t have to worry about getting served with legal documents in front of customers or your family (if your business is home-based).
While you can name yourself or someone else within your company as the registered agent, it may be easier and more convenient to work with a professional registered agent service. These companies are familiar with each state’s requirements and filing deadlines, so they can make sure you get all the documents you need. This can save you money in the long run, as missing time-sensitive paperwork could result in fines.
Notices to the company
Many businesses find that their busy schedules don’t always allow them to reliably receive or check the mail. This is especially true for those who work nonstandard hours, travel frequently, or work from home. Using a commercial registered agent service allows you to keep your business operations running as normal while you can rest assured that important paperwork related to your company will be handled and relayed in a timely manner.
Choosing the right registered agent is an essential decision for a business. You should only use a registered agent that offers national coverage and has the ability to meet your needs as you grow and expand into new states. Also, choose a registered agent that will promptly scan in all documents and provide digital access to them. This will help reduce paperwork and save you time. Your business will also benefit from having just one company to submit registration renewal payments to. That will simplify your administrative workflow and ensure that your company’s registration information is always up to date.
