Registered Agent | Chamber of Commerce

What is a registered agent?

Chamber of Commerce Team — Sat, 04 Jun 2022 03:01:53 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

If you’re starting a business, you’ve probably stumbled on the term “registered agent.” Most businesses need to elect a registered agent before they open their doors. You can serve as your own registered agent, but it may save you a few headaches to delegate the responsibility.

What exactly is a registered agent and what does this person do? To help, we’ll explore what this role is and how to effectively select a registered agent for your business.

What is a registered agent?

A registered agent is the point of contact for your business. It’s the person people contact when there is a legal problem or when service of process documents are served. It is also the person contacted by the state, government agencies, bill collectors, or others trying to contact the business. A registered agent receives all important documents and must ensure the information is passed on to the right person in a timely manner. A registered agent is sometimes called a resident agent or a statutory agent.

What does a registered agent do?

A registered agent is the designated person within your business entity that receives all official mail and other documents on behalf of your business.
A registered agent can also keep you up to date on routine filings like yearly or regular registration of your business with the state, your quarterly filings with the labor department, and paying things like property taxes.
They can also be helpful in organizing your legal paperwork for your accountant to file your yearly taxes.

Which business type needs a registered agent?

Some businesses aren’t required to have a registered agent because they are unregulated by the state. Sole proprietorships, for example, typically don’t have to register with the state so they aren’t required to have a registered agent. The owner is synonymous with the business so they are automatically responsible for all legal notices.

However, those incorporated as a limited liability company (LLC) or a C-Corp are required to list someone as a registered agent when they register the business with the state.

More specifically, the registered agent’s name is listed on the formation documents, better known as Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation, which are usually filed with the secretary of state. You can also expect to list the registered agent’s address and additional registered agent information on the documents.

Who can be a registered agent?

Any adult over 18 who lives in the same state as your business can be your registered agent. It can be yourself, your spouse, another family member, or a friend. It could be your company’s bookkeeper or another executive in the organization.

Some businesses select their attorney for the role. Many business attorneys will sign on for the duty for a retainer or a yearly fee.

There are many commercial registered agents too. Entities like Northwest Registered Agent, ZenBusiness, IncFile, and LegalZoom are all good options. With these companies, you pay for the yearly service. Plans and costs can vary.

Many commercial agents offer incorporation packages. The company will register your business with the state, provide a registered agent, and keep your business in good standing with the state by filing annual reports and paying state fees.

Some business starter packages include unique naming tools or some basic legal services too. Services vary, but you can find a commercial registered agent in every state.

Find the best registered agent in your state

How do you find a registered agent?

You can pick any number of people to be a registered agent but the real question is can they do the job? A family member may do it for free but that won’t serve you well if they forget to tell you about a letter or subpoena they got.

The first thing to do is list the qualities you need in a registered agent. Then, you will need to decide if someone you know is qualified and trustworthy to do the job or whether you should use a professional like an attorney or paid service.

A registered agent should be conscientious, organized, and willing to communicate with you regularly. The main quality to look for in a registered agent is having the time and ability to take care of your business the way you need them to do it.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

Get an agent or do it yourself?

You can be your own registered agent and list yourself on your paperwork with the state. However, there are pros and cons to that.

Most businesses with less than 10 employees don’t hire registered agents. They feel there isn’t much legal risk, and that they can handle things like annual registration payments, tax payments, and labor department paperwork themselves.

The primary reason they don’t hire a registered agent is they feel they can’t afford to do it. Those business owners feel they can save money and handle it themselves.

However, there are valid reasons why you should hire a registered agent.

Advantages of selecting a commercial agent

Hiring a registered agent is the right choice for many businesses, especially for a busy shop owner who would rather not deal with legal documents. There are several advantages to consider.

Saves hassle

A professional registered agent keeps you from having to deal with legal paperwork, deadlines, tracking official notifications, or worrying about fulfilling state requirements.

Your registered agent will keep you informed and also keep you in compliance with state and federal guidelines. That means you don’t have to worry about it.

Promotes privacy

A registered agent must also list their home address (not a P.O. box) on the state forms. That means you will need to list your street address if you choose to act as your own agent. This will put your privacy at risk when you have business dealings.

Having a registered agent protects your privacy so legal notices and other things won’t come to your home and worry your family.

Resolves physical address problem

Many businesses today are online businesses done out of people’s homes. The company doesn’t have a physical address where paperwork can be served. Enlisting a commercial registered agent resolves the problem of a physical business address.

The same problem exists with postal delivery. Businesses that have post office boxes or virtual mailboxes will have trouble getting things like guaranteed-signature deliveries or certified letters. A registered agent resolves that problem as he or she can accept things on your business’ behalf.

Business hour service

Some businesses operate whenever the business owner has an opening and that doesn’t allow for proper delivery of notices. Hiring a registered agent allows them to accept letters and notices as they come in and that means you remain in control of information well in advance of a problem.

A business operating in several states becomes more complicated. Having a registered agent that can handle all of the legal notices for multiple locations simplifies things.

Paperwork is in one place

Business owners are famous for messy desks, a shoebox of receipts, and other important things they don’t have time to manage. A commercial registered agent keeps all your legal paperwork in one place, organized, where you can easily get to it.

Disadvantages of selecting a commercial agent

Hiring a commercial agent has some disadvantages too. It pays to look over this list to see if they are things you can live with if you decide to go that route.

Cost

It does cost to hire a commercial registered agent. The average price of this service is between $100 and $300 a year, but it can cost more if you hire an attorney to be your registered agent. Usually, attorneys offer this service as part of the overall fee of handling all your business’ legal needs and that requires a retainer. Others may do it as a fee-based service.

Entities offering this service as part of an incorporation package want you to buy the whole package which can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000, depending on the package you buy. That can be incredibly helpful to you because you know everything is done properly to start your business correctly but many business owners just don’t want to pay that much starting out.

Loss of Control

There is a loss of control every time you hire someone to handle part of your business. Some business owners want, or need, total control even though it reduces their privacy. Hiring a commercial registered agent removes a level of control.

How can you change a registered agent?

You can change your registered agent at any time on your registration paperwork in most states. All you need to do is file a change form. However, many states charge a filing fee for changing your registered agents outside of normal refiling times. You will need to check with your state’s Secretary of State office to see the fee schedule.

The best time to change your registered agent is when you are refiling your annual registration with the state. On this business filing, you can make any changes you want for free.

FAQs

What are some things to consider when deciding to hire a registered agent service?

The most important thing to consider is whether your need for one is great enough to hire one. Businesses that have multiple locations, work in different states, or don’t operate during normal business hours would benefit from a commercial registered agent.

How do I know if a commercial registered agent is good?

There are many sites that rank the best registered agents, so do your research. You can also save some risk by going with a one-stop-shop company that helps you with incorporation, filing the paperwork, and even printing legal documents for employees.

Where do I find out about registered agent requirements?

Each state has its own requirements, although the general requirements are to be at least 18 years old and live within the state where the business is registered. Small business owners can look on the secretary of state’s website in their home state and find information about corporations to learn more.

What are some factors I should consider when hiring a commercial registered agent?

Those who are going to hire a registered agent should choose one that does it professionally and has done it for others for a few years. Don’t go with the cheapest but look at the value of the service. It’s best to choose a commercial provider that’s nationwide in case you grow to other states and one that has different levels of service. That way you can start with an entry-level plan and get a premium plan as you need it.

What’s the difference between a registered agent and a business owner?

A business owner can be a registered agent but a registered agent may not be a business owner. A registered agent is someone that is designated to collect and receive legal documents on behalf of the company. It can be the owner, someone the owner designates, or a paid commercial registered agent.

What else does a registered agent do?

Depending on your agreement for services with a registered agent, this is a person who can update your entity paperwork with the state, find a business name, logo, and slogan for you, copyright your logo and trademark, and serve legal notices to others as well as receive them.

The post What is a registered agent? first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Washington

Chamber of Commerce Team — Fri, 09 Oct 2020 20:46:59 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

Launching a business in Washington is a fairly simple process, but certain things must be done to get up and running. Entrepreneurs must pick a company name, select a registered agent, file LLC formation documents, file for an identification number, and learn about the state’s requirement to file an annual report.

While that might seem like a lengthy list, it’s fairly simple to work through. To help, we’ll explore how to start an LLC and explain terms like a registered agent. A registered agent is a person or company that accepts official documents on behalf of your company. Usually, these documents are confidential and are delivered by registered mail or in person.

Let’s discuss how a registered agent fits into setting up a Washington LLC and what steps to take to become a business owner in the state.

What is a Washington registered agent?

A Washington registered agent is a person or company that is responsible for accepting official documents for your company. Whether it’s a person, like an owner or the company accountant, or a registered agent service that’s paid to fill the role, it’s an important choice that only an owner can make.

How does an owner select a registered agent in Washington?

A registered agent is listed on the official LLC formation documents, or the Certificate of Formation. This document requires the name and address of the registered agent selected to serve your company.

Who can be a registered agent in Washington?

A registered agent can be the owner, a trusted friend, an employee, or another company – that includes a registered agent service. A registered agent service is a company that receives documentation on your behalf, for a fee.

In Washington, the person or company must have a physical street address and be available during normal business hours. Additionally, any individual serving as a registered agent must be at least 18 years old.

Can I be my own registered agent in Washington?

The owner can be the company’s registered agent. Many owners do so, especially those that are just starting out and work from home or from an office. However, there are other choices.

Why would a company choose to work with a registered agent service?

There are advantages of working with a registered agent service, which includes:

Convenience. In some cases, owners find registered agent services more convenient than filling the role themselves. The registered agent service is open during regular business hours and always has someone on staff to accept documents, which, for some owners, is worth paying for.
Time savings. A registered agent service often offers additional services that can save owners time. For example, a registered agent service can file the annual report and other compliance records, which is less an owner has to do.
Privacy. Some of the paperwork that registered agents receive isn’t something you’d want your employees or customers to know about. If your company is sued, for example, it’s best that the paperwork is served at an off-sight location.

How much does a registered agent service cost in Washington?

The cost of a registered agent depends on what kind of services a business owner wants. A registered agent service that offers basic features, like mail forwarding, can cost about $50 a year.

For more features, like same-day document scans, enhanced notifications, or assistance filing annual reports, the fees increase. A registered agent service that offers all the bells and whistles costs upwards of $150-250 a year.

List of Washington registered agent services

You should have no problem finding a registered agent for your Washington LLC, but here are a few choices to get you started:

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

Washington registered agent FAQs

Do I really need a registered agent in Washington?

Yes. A business owner can not file the Certificate of Formation without adding a registered agent. Every state requires LLCs to have a person’s name and address on file with the state. Think of this person as the company’s official point of contact.

Can a company change its registered agent?

The registered agent can be changed at any time. The state has a change form that can be filled out and submitted. The agent of record can also be changed when the annual report is filed. There is no filing fee associated with this document.

What’s a statutory agent?

Some states use the term “statutory agent” interchangeably with registered agent.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

A commercial agent or a commercial registered agent refers to a registered agent service or a professional company that a business owner pays to serve as its registered agent. A non-commercial agent is a person, like an owner or an employee, who serves as the registered agent.

The post How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Washington first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Virginia

Chamber of Commerce Team — Fri, 09 Oct 2020 20:46:59 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

Launching a business is a big deal. For entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Virginia, kudos. The journey ahead will be both exciting and challenging. Out of the gate, owners need to learn how to set up an LLC in the State of Virginia.

The process is fairly easy, but there are several steps, one of which includes selecting a registered agent. A registered agent is a person or company that will accept official documents on behalf of your company. These documents are usually confidential notices that are delivered in person or via registered mail. The agent must be listed on the company’s LLC formation paperwork. If the registered agent changes, an updated form must be filed with the state.

Read more: What is a registered agent? »

Who can be a registered agent in Virginia?

A Virginia registered agent can be the owner, but it can also be a friend, coworker, or neighbor. A registered agent can also be a registered agent service. A registered agent service is a professional company that serves as your company’s registered agent for an annual fee.

The State of Virginia has a few other rules about naming a registered agent, which include:

The person must have a physical street address, not a P.O. box
The company must be in good standing with the state and have a physical street address, not a P.O. box
The person or company must be available during regular business hours

Can I be my own registered agent in Virginia?

Yes. A company owner can serve as his or her company’s registered agent, and many do. The job is fairly simple. You have to be at a certain address regularly, that’s about it. For an owner who works in the office, it’s a fairly simple gig. However, there are certain instances where an owner prefers to appoint another person or hire a registered agent service.

Why would a company choose to work with a registered agent service?

There are many reasons that people decide to hire a registered agent service. Here are a few reasons why:

Convenience. For some business owners, it’s just easier to hire a registered agent. Some entrepreneurs simply can’t work out of one location and be “on-call” to accept documents. For that reason, business owners put a registered agent service in charge.
Peace of mind. A registered agent service gives many owners peace of mind. The owner can work outside the office, travel, and take care of day-to-day tasks all while knowing that a registered agent service is ready and willing to accept documents.
Privacy. As mentioned, many of the documents received by a registered agent are confidential. Due to the nature of these documents, some owners prefer to have them sent offsite to preserve privacy.

Read more: Best Registered Agent Services »

How does an owner select a registered agent in Virginia?

A registered agent is selected by listing the person’s name or the company’s name on the Articles of Organization. If the registered agent changes, there’s a special form to fill out to update the agent on file.

How much does a registered agent service cost in Virginia?

Like many business owners, you might be concerned about costs. Fortunately, the cost of a registered agent is fairly affordable. The cost can be as low as $50 a year. For that amount, you’ll likely find a company that accepts documents on the company’s behalf, notifies you of delivery, and forwards the original documents in the mail.

There are registered agent services that are more expensive and hover around $200 a year. These companies offer more features though. They’ll help you file reports with the state government, for example.

List of Virginia registered agent services

There are a number of registered agent services in the state to choose from. While a quick Google search can provide a great list of possible options, here are a few to browse through to see what’s out there:

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

FAQs

Do I really need a registered agent in Virginia?

Yes. The State of Virginia requires every LLC to continually maintain a registered agent on file.

Can a company change its registered agent?

Yes. To make a change, the business owner must submit a change form to the Virginia State Corporate Commission. Unlike other states, Virginia does not charge a fee to file this document.

What’s a statutory agent?

Statutory agent is another term for a registered agent. The name varies by state. Some states also use resident agent or service of process agent, since the agent is responsible for accepting documents served during a lawsuit.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

If you hire a registered agent service, the company has a commercial registered agent. If the owner or another person holds the position, the company has a non-commercial registered agent. Some states ask an owner which kind of registered agent they’ve elected.

The post How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Virginia first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Vermont

Chamber of Commerce Team — Fri, 09 Oct 2020 20:46:58 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

Starting a business is exciting, but there are certain hoops you have to jump through to get everything set up legally in Vermont. For starters, you need to pick a registered agent. A registered agent is a person or company that accepts documents on behalf of your company.

A registered agent must be listed on your Articles of Organization, which are the official documents filed with the state to start your company. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, don’t worry. This guide is meant to help.

We’ll explain how a Vermont LLC is formed, how a registered agent fits in the process, and what other steps the state requires to set up a business.

What is a Vermont registered agent?

A Vermont registered agent is a person or company that agrees to accept official documents for your company. These documents may be tax notices, court documents, or service of process papers that are served during a lawsuit.

Given the importance of this job, the person or company selected should be trustworthy and reliable. The company owner decides who will fill this role.

How does an owner select a registered agent in Vermont?

Selecting a registered agent is as simple as listing a person or company on LLC formation documents.

Who can be a registered agent in Vermont?

A Vermont registered agent could be the owner, but it can also be a friend, coworker, or neighbor. A registered agent can be another Vermont company too, which includes a registered agent service. A registered agent service is a professional company that serves as your company’s registered agent for a fee.

To be a registered agent in the State of Vermont, the person or company must:

Have a physical street address, not a P.O. box
Be in good standing with the state, if a business is selected
Be available during regular business hours to receive correspondence
Must be an adult over 18 years old

Can I be my own registered agent in Vermont?

Yes. The company owner can be the company’s registered agent. In many cases, owners do list themselves as their businesses agent, especially if they work from the company office. However, some owners select an employee or even pay for a registered agent service to handle the tasks associated with this title.

Why would a company choose to work with a registered agent service?

For those weighing the decision to hire a registered agent service, it’s good to explore some of the benefits of such a service. Many business owners decide to put a registered agent service in charge of its delivered documents. Here are some of the reasons owners opt for a service as opposed to selecting another person:

Availability. A registered agent should be at a specific address during regular business hours, and for some owners, that’s a challenge. Between meetings, travel, or juggling other responsibilities, some owners aren’t available during the day to receive documents as needed. For that reason, a service is used.
Peace of mind. Owners often say that appointing a registered agent gives them peace of mind. Knowing the service will contact the owner if documents are received provides simple comfort.
Privacy. Some documents received by a registered agent are confidential. For example, if your company is sued, a registered agent is publicly “served,” which can be embarrassing. To ensure the highest level of privacy, some owners prefer these documents to be handled offsite.

How much does a registered agent service cost in Vermont?

A registered agent service is an additional expense for a newly-formed business, but many owners say the small fee is worth it. Fees will vary, depending on what kind of services an owner wants to take advantage of.

Basic services that include mail forwarding and notifications run about $50 a year. For services beyond that, expect to pay upwards of $100-200 annually.

List of Vermont registered agent services

Wondering which Vermont registered agent service to go with? There are plenty to choose from. To help narrow the search, here’s a look at three options, all of which offer multiple services including registered agent services.

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

Vermont registered agent FAQs

Do I really need a registered agent in Vermont?

Yes. The State of Vermont requires every LLC to keep a registered agent on file. Vermont is not alone with this stipulation; every state requires LLCs to select a registered agent.

Can a company change its registered agent?

Yes. A company owner can update its registered agent with the secretary of state by filing a change form and paying a $25 filing fee. The change will be made within several days.

What’s a statutory agent?

Statutory agent means the same thing as registered agent. The name varies by state. In Vermont, the title registered agent is used.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

A commercial agent usually refers to a registered agent service. If you’re asked whether or not you have a commercial or non-commercial agent, the answer is commercial if you have a service and non-commercial if you or an employee fill the role.

The post How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Vermont first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in South Dakota

Chamber of Commerce Team — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 01:57:17 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

South Dakota entrepreneurs need to pick a registered agent when they set up a business in the state. All states require a registered agent to be on file with the state.

What’s a registered agent? A registered agent is a person or company that accepts official documents on behalf of your company. These documents are often sensitive in nature and could include things like tax notices or papers served during a lawsuit.

Selecting a registered agent is part of setting up a South Dakota LLC. Part of the LLC formation paperwork requires the company owner to list the name and address of the registered agent.

To help understand who can serve as a registered agent and how to select the best agent for your company, this guide will provide useful information. Since selecting a registered agent is closely tied to setting up an LLC in South Dakota, we’ll walk entrepreneurs through the whole process of establishing a company in the state.

What is a South Dakota registered agent?

A South Dakota registered agent is a person or company that receives official business documents for a company. Usually, a registered agent is the company owner or another employee, but a professional registered agent company can also be hired to fill the role.

How does an owner select a registered agent in South Dakota?

A registered agent is selected by registering the person’s name and address with the South Dakota Secretary of State.

Who can be a registered agent in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, a registered agent can be any adult or company in the state with a physical street address. The person or people at the company must be available during regular business hours to accept documents.

Can I be my own registered agent in South Dakota?

Yes. The owner of a company can serve as a registered agent. However, the owner may select a different person, like another employee, to serve as the company’s registered agent too. In some cases, the owner hires a registered agent service as opposed to selecting a company employee.

Why would a company choose to work with a registered agent service?

An owner may decide to pay for a registered agent service. A service will accept documents for the company and notify the owner when they arrive. Many of the services have same-day document scans, mail forwarding, and online portals that notify the owner when something has arrived. To understand the benefits of using a registered agent service, here’s a look at some of the perks:

Convenience. A registered agent service is easy to find and easy to set up. Once in place, an owner doesn’t have to worry about being “on call” to accept documents.
Peace of mind. Even if an owner selects a trusted employee to serve as the company’s registered agent, something can go wrong. An employee could be absent or misplace documents, for example. For peace of mind, some owners opt for a registered agent service.
Privacy. Some owners prefer that sensitive papers be delivered offsite. Having important tax notices or lawsuit documents being served at the office isn’t ideal. For privacy’s sake, a registered agent service is ideal.

How much does a registered agent service cost in South Dakota?

The cost of a registered agent service can vary. For basic services, where a company receives documents, notifies the owner, and forwards the mail, expect to pay about $50 a year. For more advanced features, like assistance filing additional reports with the state, for example, the cost can go up to $200+ a year.

List of South Dakota registered agent services

There are many qualified registered agent services in the state of South Dakota. To give entrepreneurs an idea of what’s available, here are three options:

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

South Dakota registered agent FAQs

Do I really need a registered agent in South Dakota?

Yes. The State of South Dakota requires all LLCs to list a registered agent on its LLC formation paperwork and keep the contact updated through the secretary of state’s office.

Can a company change its registered agent?

Yes. Any company can change its registered agent by filing a change form with the state. A change form may be needed if the employee holding the role of registered agent leaves the company, for example, or if the owner wants to hire a registered agent service instead of serving as the company’s registered agent.

No matter what the reason, the form can be found and filed on the secretary of state’s website. Expect to pay $25 to file the change form.

What’s a statutory agent?

A statutory agent is the same as a registered agent. Different states use different titles. Resident agent or service of process agents are also titles used.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

At some point, an owner may be asked if the company has a commercial registered agent or a non-commercial registered agent. If the company has hired a registered agent service, the company has a commercial agent. If a person, like the owner, is the company’s registered agent, the company has a non-commercial registered agent.

The post How to Find the Best Registered Agent in South Dakota first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Tennessee

Chamber of Commerce Team — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 01:57:17 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

Starting a business entity can sometimes mean learning an entirely new language. In the business world, there are many terms that aren’t used in everyday conversation. Terms like LLC formation, service of process, Articles of Organization, to name a few.

Whether a business owner is forming a corporation, nonprofit, or limited liability company (LLC) in Tennessee, one of the first steps in the process will be choosing a registered agent (sometimes referred to as a statutory agent or resident agent) to have on public record with the Tennessee Secretary of State, Division of Business Services.

This guide will assist entrepreneurs with selecting a registered agent and provide useful answers to frequently asked questions. To better understand how a registered agent fits in the process of starting a Tennessee business, here’s a look at how an LLC is formed in Tennessee.

What is a Tennessee registered agent?

A registered agent a point of contact selected by the business owner who is responsible for receiving and handling any important documents on your company’s behalf. This person or company will receive all important documents, which could include tax notifications, legal documents, and legal notices. Should your company be sued, service of process papers, for example, is delivered to a company’s registered agent’s address.

How does an owner select a registered agent in Tennessee?

A registered agent is selected by listing the person or company chosen on a company’s formation documents, called Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation. You will need to fill out information including the registered agent’s name and agent’s address on this document to begin doing business in the state. There is a state fee of $50 per member, with a minimum of $300 and a maximum of $3,000.

Some states require signed authorization from a registered agent to show a person’s willingness and awareness of the role. Tennessee doesn’t require such a document, but the person or company selected to serve in this role should give consent.

Do I really need a registered agent in Tennessee?

Yes. It is required by state law that all businesses in Tennessee must list a registered agent. The state needs to know that there’s a person on file ready and willing to accept documents if necessary.

Who can be a registered agent in Tennessee?

Many different people can fill this role, including the business owner, family member, or another company employee. A professional registered agent service can also fill this role. There are a couple of requirements that need to be met no matter what route you choose for your LLC:

The agent must be an adult 18 years or older
If the agent is an individual, they must be a resident of the state who has a physical street address (cannot be a P.O. box)
If the agent is a company, they must be in good standing with the state and also have an office address in the state of Tennessee
The person or the company must be available to accept documents during normal business hours

Can I be my own registered agent in Tennessee?

Yes. The owner of a company can also be its registered agent. It’s common for an owner to fill this role, especially if he or she works out of the registered office consistently. However, the owner can elect another person or company if they wish.

Why would a company choose to work with a registered agent service?

The company owner can select a registered agent service to accept documents for the company. If a company is selected, documents are directed to the service and the owner is notified if something is received. There are benefits to working with registered agent service. The benefits include:

Convenience. Paying a company a yearly fee to be on call for document delivery is ideal for some business owners. It’s easy to set up and provides a level of convenience that owners like. Many also offer an online account where you can easily and securely access any documents.
Peace of mind. A registered agent service provides reassurance to most owners. They know that documents won’t be missed or mishandled with an experienced company in place. They’ll also be responsible for staying aware of any upcoming due dates and keeping you informed or annual report reminders, etc.
Privacy. One of the documents that a registered agent could receive is the service of process papers, which are served during a lawsuit. To avoid “being served” at the company office, some owners opt for a registered agent service to ensure a level of privacy should something like that happen.

How much does a registered agent service cost in Tennessee?

Costs are a concern for every business owner, but a registered agent service is fairly affordable. For a company to accept documents and notify the owner, expect to pay $50 a year. For more advanced features like same-day document scans to an online account, assistance with compliance, or annual reports, expect costs to hover around $100-200 a year. There may also be additional state fees charged with certain services.

List of Tennessee registered agent services

There are many registered agent services to choose from in the state. The secretary of state’s office can provide a list of options, but for those wondering about choices, here’s a list of a few companies and their features:

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

Tennessee registered agent FAQs

Can a company change its registered agent?

Yes. There is a change form on the Tennessee Secretary of State website that will allow you to switch a company’s registered agent or change any of the registered agent’s information. There is a $20 filing fee. The form can be submitted online or it can be downloaded and mailed to the state.

What's a registered office?

A registered office is an official address listed on your LLC’s formation documents. This address will either be the address of the registered agent if you’ve chosen an individual, or the business address of the registered agent if you’ve chosen a company.

What’s a statutory agent?

A statutory agent, resident agent, and service of process agent are all the same as a registered agent. Different states use different titles. Most, however, use the title registered agent.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

A company has a commercial registered agent if a registered agent service is hired. If the owner or another employee serves as the company’s registered agent, the company has a non-commercial registered agent.

The post How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Tennessee first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Utah

Chamber of Commerce Team — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 01:57:16 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

If you’re ready to set up a business in the state of Utah, you’re in the right place. There are a series of steps that must be taken to get a company off the ground. From choosing a business name to filing your LLC formation documents, the Utah Secretary of State has a laundry list of things every business owner must complete before doing business within the state of Utah. One of the first decisions you’ll make as an owner is who will be your registered agent listed on the public record for your Utah business. We’ll explore who can and can’t be a registered agent in the State of Utah later in this guide.

What is a Utah registered agent?

A registered agent is a point of contact selected by a business owner who agrees to receive service of process or other legal documents on behalf of your company. Think of this person or company as the connection between your business and the Utah Division of Corporations. The types of documents a registered agent will receive might include reminders of due dates, tax forms, or any other legal notices that might be crucial for your business entity.

How does an owner select a registered agent in Utah?

A business owner selects a registered agent by filing the person or company with the Utah Secretary of State. This will happen when completing the formation documents for your new business, sometimes called Articles of Incorporation or Certificate of Organization, depending on the structure of your business entity. These documents will ask for some agent information including the registered agent’s name and agent’s address. There is a filing fee that can range from $30 – $70, depending on your business type.

Who can be a registered agent in Utah?

In Utah, there are a few requirements that every chosen registered agent must meet.

A registered agent must be an adult 18 years or older.
A registered agent must have a physical address in the state of Utah, which will be referred to as your company’s registered office. Whether it’s a person or a company, the choice is up to the owner, but the state must have a street address on file to send correspondence to, a P.O. box will not suffice.
Since documents are delivered during normal business hours, the registered agent must be available during that time on all standard business days.

Can I be my own registered agent in Utah?

Yes. As the owner, you can elect yourself. It’s common for an owner to serve as a company’s registered agent. However, the owner can select another trusted person like an employee or a friend. Another company, like a registered agent service, can also be appointed to the position.

Why would a company choose to work with a professional registered agent service?

The role of a registered agent isn’t difficult, so you might be wondering why hiring a registered agent service is necessary. There are some perks of using a registered agent service and many business owners swear by these services. Here are a few reasons why they choose to work with one:

Convenience. As previously mentioned, registered agents are required to be available during regular business hours to receive documents as needed. For owners who travel for work or aren’t in the office much, daytime availability can be a challenge. As a result, paying a registered service agent is easier and more convenient. Most services also offer an online account where they will upload all of your documents for easy access.
Peace of mind. Employees can make mistakes and misplace confidential documents, but a registered agent service is in business specifically to handle this kind of thing. It gives owners peace of mind knowing that a company with experience in managing this aspect of the company that they will always remain in good standing with the state.
Privacy. Registered agents will receive court documents in the event your company is sued. To avoid you or another employee “being served” in front of customers, having documents delivered to the service’s office address instead of your business address provides an additional layer of privacy.
Additional services. Aside from being available to accept documents on your behalf, these companies will also offer a wide range of other services you might find helpful to take advantage of when starting a business. These services can range from general business formation help to maintaining your certificate of good standing or filing the Utah annual report.

How much does a registered agent service cost in Utah?

For basic services, a registered agent service will cost about $50 a year. For more advanced features, the price will climb upwards of $100-200 annually. The price depends on the features you want and any state fees that might need to be paid.

If you’re just looking for a company to accept documents and notify you when something comes in, the cost is fairly minimal at about $50 a year. If you’re looking for a company that can help you file annual reports with the state, for example, that’s when the price goes up.

Many companies will offer a discount if you agree to a multi-year contract. For example, if you sign up for two or three years of service, you can likely save 20% of the annual cost.

List of Utah registered agent services

For those looking for a registered agent service, a quick Google search will provide a list of choices. In addition, business owners can reach out to the Utah Secretary of State’s office, which usually has a list of options on file. To get you started, here are several registered agent services in Utah that you can explore:

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

Utah registered agent FAQs

Do I really need a registered agent in Utah?

Yes. The state requires every Utah LLC or other business entity type to list a registered agent on its LLC formation documents and continually maintain that contact as long as the company is in business.

Can a company change its registered agent?

Yes. Updates can be made to your LLC’s registered agent at any time. In Utah, a Limited Liability Company Registration Information change form must be filed with the Utah Department of Commerce. A $13 filing fee is charged to file this document with the state.

What is Service of Process?

This is the term for the legal process of informing a business entity that legal action is being taken against them, usually involving the business owner being sent legal documents.

What’s a statutory agent?

A registered agent has several different names, depending on the state. Utah uses the term registered agent, but other states like Arizona, for example, use the term statutory agent. The name ‘service of process agent’ and ‘resident agent’ is also used, though registered agent is most commonly used.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

A commercial agent is a registered agent service. If your company hires out this service, you have a commercial registered agent. If it’s not outsourced, it’s considered a non-commercial agent.

The post How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Utah first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Wisconsin

Chamber of Commerce Team — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 01:57:16 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

Most adults dream about starting their own business at some point in their lives. If you feel like you’re finally ready to put an idea into action in Wisconsin, it may be intimidating to start the paperwork. Do you need to incorporate? Are you required to get a tax number? Where do you even find the necessary documents to register your name in Wisconsin? What the heck is “Articles of Organization”?

Whether you’re opening an internet café, a women’s clothing boutique, or a watch repair shop, there are steps you’ll need to follow to make everything official in the Badger State. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know enough about registered agents, Taxpayer Identification Numbers, annual reports, and operating agreements to form a limited liability company (LLC) in Wisconsin.

What is a Wisconsin registered agent?

Several of the required forms you’ll be filling out for the State of Wisconsin will ask you to provide basic information about the registered agent you’ve chosen. The job of the registered agent—which you may also see referred to as an “agent for service of process”—will be twofold: to commit to being available during business hours to accept important paperwork on behalf of your LLC and, in some cases, to process that paperwork and notify you.

How does an owner select a registered agent in Wisconsin?

Choose a few registered agents and then research their rates and services. Once you settle on one and sign up for their service, provide the information on forms where indicated.

Who can be a registered agent in Wisconsin?

There is a standard set of rules across the United States defining who can be a registered agent. These same criteria apply in Wisconsin:

If the person is an individual, they must be 18 years old or older.
Whether a person or business entity, the registered agent must have a street address (home, business or office) in Wisconsin in order to accept document deliveries in person. Post office boxes cannot be used in place of a street address.
Availability to accept paperwork during regular business hours is required.

Can I be my own registered agent in Wisconsin?

Although you can serve as your own registered agent in Wisconsin, it’s important you understand the pros and cons before committing to doing it yourself.

Why would a company choose to work with a registered agent service?

When start-up funds are tight, it’s hard to justify spending money on a service you can do yourself. But before you commit to serving as your own registered agent, take a moment to read through the benefits of outsourcing the job:

Local options. Since Wisconsin registered agents need to have a street address in the state, you won’t be able to fulfill your requirements if you don’t yet have a residence, business, or office space. On the other hand, commercial registered agents can provide you with a street address to which you can have documents delivered.
Availability. You’re not promised a 15-minute window for every delivery of paperwork. Knowing this, will you have the availability to stay in one place to await the knock on the door during regular work hours, five days a week? Not likely. New ventures typically require entrepreneurs to interview and train employees, attend meetings with investors or prospective vendors, or oversee the work of contractors. Using a commercial agent will free up time for you to handle other essential tasks.
Privacy. Are you aware that it’s often uniformed law enforcement who is tasked with delivering legal paperwork? It’s worth noting that when law enforcement shows up at your house, office, or business, there’s a chance that someone will witness their arrival. This could translate to customers, employees, or neighbors getting the wrong idea. Using a commercial registered agent can help ensure privacy.
Experience. You might consider yourself to be business-savvy, but are you up to speed on Wisconsin’s state and federal guidelines and compliance regulations? Commercial registered agents specialize in such matters and can fill out paperwork on your behalf.
Time savings. Let’s say you DO have the experience to handle all your own filings. Do you have the time? Registered agents won’t require a big financial investment and letting them handle some of your paperwork will clear some time from your schedule.

How much does a registered agent service cost in Wisconsin?

Most registered agents in Wisconsin charge $49 to $125 for one year of services.

List of Wisconsin registered agent services

Now that you’ve reviewed the benefits of using a commercial agent, are you ready to outsource the work? Here are some options in Wisconsin:

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

Wisconsin registered agent FAQs

Do I really need a registered agent in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin, just like other states you might do business, requires LLCs to list a registered agent on some paperwork.

Can a company change its registered agent?

To change your registered agent, file a change form on the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institution’s website and pay the $10 filing fee.

What’s a statutory agent?

A statutory agent or an agent for service of process is the same as a registered agent. The name can vary by state.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

A commercial registered agent is someone you’re paying for their service. If you act as your own registered agent, choose “non-commercial.”

The post How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Wisconsin first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Oklahoma

Chamber of Commerce Team — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 17:30:34 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

Whether a new business owner is forming a corporation, non-profit, or limited liability company (LLC), one of the first steps in the process after choosing a business name will be selecting a registered agent to have on public record with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.

To better understand how a registered agent fits in the process of starting an Oklahoma business, here’s more information about starting an LLC in Oklahoma.

What is an Oklahoma registered agent?

An Oklahoma registered agent is a person or company selected by the business owner to accept important documents for a business. These documents could include tax notices, legal documents, government correspondence, or service of process (documents served during a lawsuit). The Oklahoma Secretary of State does have some rules regarding who can and can’t serve in this role, which we’ll explain later on in this guide.

How does an owner select a registered agent in Oklahoma?

After you’ve chosen your Oklahoma registered agent you will need to officially list them on your formation documents called Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation (depending on the business entity type). This document will require the agent’s name and the agent’s address.

Who can be a registered agent in Oklahoma?

Curious what the state requirements are for serving as a registered agent in Oklahoma? They’re essentially the same thing in every state:

If the agent is an individual, the person has to be at least 18 years old
Whether a business entity or individual, a street address in Oklahoma is required. This can be a home or business, as long as it’s a physical address, P.O. boxes are not accepted
The person or business serving as the registered agent must be able to accept document deliveries Monday through Friday during regular business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
If the agent is a business it must be in good standing with the state of Oklahoma

Can I be my own registered agent in Oklahoma?

Yes. Many entrepreneurs or business owners serve as their own registered agent, especially in the interest of saving money. This means they’ll use their actual business address as their registered office and commit to being available to receive documents as needed at that location.

Why would a company choose to work with a registered agent service?

Are you contemplating the idea of serving as your own registered agent to save a few bucks? It’s understandable, but before you commit to a DIY role, consider the following advantages to paying a professional registered agent:

Local options. Have you set up a business address or residence in Oklahoma yet? If not, you can’t fulfill the requirements to be your own registered agent. Luckily, there are plenty of commercial registered agents in the state with an Oklahoma street address to help you fulfill the requirement.
Availability. Can you commit to staying in one building on business days during normal business hours? Chances are, as a new business owner, you’ll be very busy at off-site meetings. You may need to train employees, choose vendors, and oversee the work of contractors. Paying a commercial registered agent will free up your schedule so you can take care of business.
Privacy. It’s common practice for uniformed law enforcement to deliver confidential paperwork, especially when legal documents are involved. Granted, not every delivery will include lawsuit filings, but how will witnesses know the difference? You must consider the consequences of your neighbors, employees, and/or customers seeing law enforcement show up at your office, business, or home. Opting for a commercial registered agent will help ensure privacy as all legal notices will be sent to the agent’s address instead of your business.
Experience. Still on the fence about whether to be your own registered agent or not? How about weighing in on your familiarity with state and federal deadlines and compliance regulations? Most commercial registered agents will likely have more experience than you do on these matters.
Time savings. Even if you’re experienced with the necessary paperwork that’s required for your Oklahoma LLC, do you have the time to take care of it? Many services also offer an online account where you can quickly and easily access any documents you need. For less than $100, it’s probably worth hiring a registered agent to take the responsibility off your plate.

How much does a registered agent service cost in Oklahoma?

The cost of one of the best registered agent services in the state could range anywhere between $49-125 per year. Many of these services offer add-ons as well.

For example, entrepreneurs can take advantage of LLC formation or incorporation service, which provides assistance filing any paperwork needed to create form your LLC, corporation, or non-profit.

They can also assist with:

Filing annual reports and annual certificates
Providing legal services
Monitoring due dates and renewals so your business entity doesn’t acquire any unnecessary state fees or risk losing its business license or certificate of good standing

List of Oklahoma registered agent services

If you’re convinced a commercial registered agent is a way to go, here are a few of the best Oklahoma registered agent services to consider:

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

Oklahoma registered agent FAQs

Do I really need a registered agent in Oklahoma?

Yes, the state of Oklahoma requires all businesses to have a registered agent on public record with the Secretary of State to remain in good standing and continue doing business in the state.

Can a company change its registered agent?

Yes. Selecting a new registered agent in Oklahoma is a simple process. Just fill out the Change or Designation of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office form on the Oklahoma Secretary of State website (or you can do it in person at the Secretary of State’s office in Oklahoma City or by mail) and pay the $25 filing fee.

What’s a resident agent?

In different states, a registered agent is referred to as a resident agent. While the title differs from state to state, the meaning remains the same. Another name for a registered agent is a statutory agent, or a service of a process agent, which refers to the paperwork filed during a lawsuit.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

When filling out the formation paperwork for your Oklahoma business, you may be asked if your registered agent is commercial or non-commercial. If you’re paying someone to be your registered agent, choose commercial. If you’re doing it yourself, choose noncommercial.

The post How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Oklahoma first appeared on Chamber of Commerce.

How to Find the Best Registered Agent in Oregon

Chamber of Commerce Team — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 17:30:33 +0000

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

Entrepreneurship is an exciting—but often intimidating—path to working for yourself. If you’ve been thinking about launching a business in Oregon, you may be worried that the steps to make everything legal will be too overwhelming and confusing. But transitioning from concept to reality isn’t as complicated as you might think.

No matter whether you’re thinking about offering a service or storefront, you can simply follow these steps to get your business off the ground in the Beaver State. From filing a name and Articles of Organization to getting a Federal Tax ID and designating a registered agent, you’ll be able to work your way through these tasks to form a limited liability company (LLC) in no time.

What is an Oregon registered agent?

Working your way through these forms, you’ll find that several provide a space for you to fill in your chosen registered agent. This business entity or individual must have agreed that they’ll be tasked with receiving important paperwork for your LLC during regular business hours.

How does an owner select a registered agent in Oregon?

Take some time to look at the rates, services, and reviews from two or three commercial registered agents in Oregon. Then choose one, sign up as a client, and provide that agent’s information where required on forms for the Secretary of State.

Who can be a registered agent in Oregon?

Most of the rules regarding registered agents are the same throughout the United States. They include:

Any person serving as a registered agent must be at least 18 years of age.
Regardless of whether the registered agent is an individual or a business entity, they must have a street address in Oregon. Although no post office boxes are allowed, the street address can be a business, office, or home.
The registered agent must be available to receive important paperwork Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Can I be my own registered agent in Oregon?

Yes, you have the option to serve as your own registered agent in Oregon.

Why would a company choose to work with a registered agent service?

Serving as your own registered agent must seem like a good way to save money, but before you jump on the DIY bandwagon, first consider some of the benefits to paying a commercial registered agent:

Local options. If you don’t live in Oregon and/or haven’t set up an office or other business yet, you can’t fulfill the requirements to serve as your limited liability company’s registered agent. Thankfully, there are countless commercial registered agents throughout the state that can provide you with a street address to have paperwork delivered.
Availability. Are you available to sit around and wait for important documents to be delivered at any moment during regular business hours? Probably not. Start-ups usually require a major time commitment from the business owner. You may need to train new employees, select vendors, and/or meet with contractors or investors. By choosing a commercial registered agent, you’ll free up your weekdays to handle your other important business.
Privacy. Not everyone is aware that sometimes important paperwork is hand-delivered by uniformed law enforcement. And while not every document will be a lawsuit, it can still be embarrassing to have your neighbors, customers or employees witness police coming to your door. If you choose a commercial registered agent, the paperwork will be delivered to a more private location—away from curious witnesses.
Experience. Most of the paperwork you’re filing is pretty simple but are you familiar with Oregon’s compliance regulations? What about the state and federal deadlines you’ll need to meet to keep your LLC up to date? Unless this is your specialty, you’re probably not going to know as much about these important matters as a commercial registered agent.
Time savings. So, you’ve got the experience and/or knowledge to handle your own paperwork. Do you really want that commitment on your plate? Most commercial registered agents charge an annual fee that’s less than the cost of taking your family out to dinner at a restaurant. It might just be worth outsourcing the task. Consider it an investment to free up your valuable time.

How much does a registered agent service cost in Oregon?

Oregon’s commercial registered agents tend to charge under $100 for one year of services. You’ll find most fees range from $35 to $99.

List of Oregon registered agent services

Were you persuaded to use a commercial registered agent instead of serving as your own? Here are a few in Oregon worth considering:

Starting a business? Our number one pick for registered agent services is ZenBusiness.

ZenBusiness	Start for $0 plus state fees Fast & simple services 100% accuracy guarantee	Visit ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent	Same day filing service Affordable pricing Strict ethical code	Visit Northwest
Incfile.com	Your first year is free Wide range of services Technical support	Visit Incfile

ZenBusiness: ZenBusiness is fairly new to the market, but they’ve grown a strong following. Business owners love the affordable rates for a registered agent service, which are as low as $99 per year. The company offers worry-free compliance too, to help business owners file the necessary reports on time.
Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest is one of the most recognized names in the registered agent business. The company has decades of experience and local offices scattered across the U.S. to serve small businesses like yours. The cost for a registered agent service is comparable to others. Business owners can also take advantage of additional services like report filing.
Incfile: Incfile is another trusted name for business services, including its registered agent services. Business owners can get a registered agent free for a year. That’s right, free. After the first year, the price kicks in at $119. An online dashboard, automatic mail forwarding, and tailored notifications also come with the service.

Oregon registered agent FAQs

Do I really need a registered agent in Oregon?

Yes. Oregon, like other states, requires you to list a registered agent on some of the documents you’ll be filing to launch your limited liability company.

Can a company change its registered agent?

If you need to change your registered agent at any time, just file an Information Change Form with the Oregon Secretary of State. There’s no fee, whether you submit the form by fax, mail, or online.

What’s a registered agent?

The term registered agent is sometimes called an agent for service of process.

What’s a commercial registered agent?

As you work your way through forms, you’ll see a few places you’ll need to indicate if your registered agent is commercial or noncommercial. If you’re representing yourself, choose noncommercial. If you’re paying a professional (an individual or business entity), choose commercial.

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