What is a Registered Agent / Resident Agent?

A registered agent (called a resident agent in some states) is a person or corporation that maintains a continuous corporate presence in the state of incorporation. Specifically, it provides for a physical address for any legal papers to be delivered in the event the corporation is involved in any litigation or needs to receive a verifiable notice of any kind. In some states you can be your own resident agent, if you live in the state and can be available from 9am-5pm on weekdays. If you live out of the state, you will always need a registered agent. In most states, the registered agent must keep a copy of the Articles of Incorporation, a copy of the corporate bylaws, and the stock ledger of the company.

How much do Registered Agents cost?

Registered agents are normally about $100-$135 per year. This usually does not include any mail forwarding. You can always have your mail forwarded through a different address than your resident agent.

How do I find a cheap Registered Agent?

If you are planning on using a incorporation service to help you incorporate, they will usually provide registered agent services. Many will offer the registered agent service for free the first year and then charge the normal rates. If you are using a mail forwarding service, they also at times offer registered agent services for free or for a much smaller fee.

There are companies that specialize in registered agents and offer registered agents in every state. They are usually called national registered agents. If you are looking to establish your business in multiple states, it can be a easier to work with one company to manage all your registered agent needs.