Do I Need a Registered Agent for My LLC? Find Help and Affordable Solutions
So you’re starting your own business. Welcome to one of the most exciting adventures of a lifetime! Launching a startup has its ups and downs, but entrepreneurs around the world wouldn’t have things any other way. If you’re registering your business on your own, we offer expert guides and resources to help you build a successful startup.
Follow our latest guide to see the latest Registered Agent comparison results and check out thousands of positive reviews to see why so many companies start with MyCompanyWorks. Take advantage of fast and affordable startup solutions, a free dashboard, and loads of forms and resources to get your company rolling quickly.
What is a Registered Agent?
In the United States, a Registered Agent (also known as a statutory agent, resident agent, or agent for service of process) is a designated person or business who receives legal documents and official government notices for your company. The registered agent must have a physical address (no PO boxes) in the state where your business is formed. The agent must also be available during normal business hours and forward documents to you in a timely manner. All Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), Corporations, and Sole proprietors must appoint a registered agent to receive and forward legal and government notices.
Some businesses choose to be their own registered agent, which is acceptable but can also be risky. Missing important legal summons or state documents can cause a business to go bankrupt, or even close permanently. Many companies appoint a professional Registered Agent to maintain business compliance and stay on top of tax and legal matters.
“Free” Registered Agent Services
It’s easy to find a free registered agent for your first year of business, but most of those “free” services turn into costly annual services that most startups would rather avoid. We have found that while free registered agent services can be appealing, the ongoing costs far outweigh the first year of free service. We include registered agent services with upgraded startup orders to save you time and money. In the end, the only truly free registered agent is you.
Why do I need a Registered Agent for my LLC?
If you’re available during regular business hours, you can accept the legal summons and government notices for your business. It doesn’t cost money to be your own statutory agent, but you may have to give up time to be available when important notices arrive. Since many entrepreneurs are busy building their companies, being available to the public can be inconvenient and time-consuming. A professional registered agent can receive and forward official mail without disrupting your workflow. You can also deduct registered agent services as a business expense on your tax returns, so many startups find it easier and more affordable to appoint a professional.
MyCompanyWorks Registered Agent Benefits
- We receive and forward notices fast to maintain statutory compliance.
- Using an address that isn’t associated with your business prevents being served where you work.
- With MyCompanyWorks, there are no forms or fees if your business moves. Simply update the forwarding address in your free account dashboard to receive notices at the new location.
- Receive notifications immediately when documents are received.
- Online filing makes registered agent appointments and changes fast and easy.
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Hire a Registered Agent for Your LLC (or Corporation)
Need help? We’ve got you covered. Starting a business can be a rewarding, but also very stressful experience. If you’d rather work on your business than spend time accepting notices, we offer affordable registered agent solutions anywhere in the US. In our research, we have found that agencies that offer “free” registered agent services aren’t really saving their customers money. Our latest comparison shows a complete list of services and fees to help you make an informed decision.
You can be your own statutory agent, but you must have a physical address and be available during regular business hours. Most entrepreneurs spend their time growing their businesses, so it makes sense to hire a professional registered agent to manage official notices. Our goal is to help every entrepreneur start and manage their dream business without having to worry about business compliance. You can add Registered Agent services to any Basic formation package for a low annual fee, or order an Entrepreneur or Complete package to include registered agent service free with your order.
If you have already registered your business, you can still appoint a professional registered agent to manage government and legal documents. We can process a change of registered agent online to save you time and money. For more information and help to start your business fast, check out our Help section or contact our support experts to form your company and build for success.
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