1. What is a Registered Agent?
Corporations and LLCs must designate someone to receive state correspondence and legal notices, called service of process. Most states refer to this delegate as a "Registered Agent." Some states also use the terms "statutory agent" or "resident agent." Learn more about Registered Agent service.
2. What is service of process?
"Process" refers to legal paperwork, like court documents, garnishments, or subpoenas. "Service" refers to the delivery of documents by mail, fax, e-mail, or some other method. Together, the words "service of process" simply mean the delivery of legal documents. Learn more about service of process.
3. Can I be my own Registered Agent?
Most states will not allow a business to serve as its own Registered Agent. Some states do allow a company to designate an owner or director as a Registered Agent. However, that agent must:
- Remain available during all normal business hours
- Maintain a physical address located in the state where the business registered
- List their name and address in public records
Because of these requirements, most businesses name a third-party Registered Agent like the Registered Agent Authority. Learn more about Registered Agent service.
4. What will the Registered Agent Authority do as my Registered Agent?
As your Registered Agent, the Registered Agent Authority will receive and forward legal and state notices. We maintain a nationwide network of offices to receive legal paperwork during all normal business hours. When we receive legal documents on behalf of your business, we will summarize the vital information on a cover sheet and forward the paperwork to you promptly. Learn more about Registered Agent service.
5. How much does this service cost?
If you need our help filing a notice with the Secretary of State to change the Registered Agent for your existing business, you will need to pay the state fees for the change. We do not charge a service fee to help you with this filing. You will only need to pay these state fees once. Fees vary by state, but you can get a quote online.
On an ongoing basis, you will pay an annual fee for our Registered Agent service. We will take your payment for the first year of service when you apply. Annual fees depend upon the package you select. Learn more about our package options.
6. How do I obtain a new Registered Agent?
We make the process of obtaining Registered Agent service fast and simple. Just complete our online enrollment form, or call an agent at 877-261-9610 (toll-free) or 302-636-5446. You'll need to let us know:
- Whether you would like our Basic ($79) or Premium ($129) Service
- Whether you plan to form a new corporation or LLC or register your existing business in a new state
- Whether you need our help filing paperwork with the Secretary of State or want to handle this step on your own
- Basic information about your company, like its name and where you plan to register it
7. How do I change my existing Registered Agent?
Rely on the Registered Agent Authority for assistance with changing your company's Registered Agent. Just complete our online enrollment form, or call an agent at 877-261-9610 (toll-free) or 302-636-5446. You'll need to let us know:
- Whether you would like our Basic ($79) or Premium ($129) Service
- Whether you plan to change your company's Registered Agent in its home state (the state where you originally formed it) or another state where it does business (a "foreign" state)
- Whether you need our help filing paperwork with the Secretary of State or want to handle this step on your own
- Basic information about your company, like its name, formation date, other states where it conducts business, and its current Registered Agent
8. How do I add more states to my Registered Agent service?
Existing customers like you benefit from an easy process to add Registered Agent service in additional states. Just complete our online enrollment form, or call an agent at 877-261-9610 (toll-free) or 302-636-5446. You'll need to let us know:
- Whether you would like our Basic ($79) or Premium ($129) Service
- Whether you plan to register your company in another state or simply change its Registered Agent
- Whether you need our help filing paperwork with the Secretary of State or want to handle this step on your own
- Basic information about your company, like its name, formation date, other states where it conducts business, and its current Registered Agent
9. Can you serve as my Registered Agent with a state agency other than the Secretary of State?
The Registered Agent Authority can serve as a Registered Agent with state agencies in many states. We call this service "special agency representation." If your business requires a Registered Agent for a filing with the Department of Banking, Department of Insurance, or other agency, please contact an agent at 877-261-9610 (toll-free) or 302-636-5446. We will request more information from you to help us determine whether we can provide this service.
10. Can you serve as my Registered Agent for a private agreement or contract (not filed with the state)?
The Registered Agent Authority sometimes serves as a Registered Agent on private agreements like loans or leases. We determine these scenarios on a case-by-case basis. We refer to this service as "contract agent services." To determine whether your private agreement qualifies, please contact an agent at 877-261-9610 (toll-free) or 302-636-5440. We will request additional information from you, including a copy of the contract.