A registered agent is the person or company designated to receive legal documents and official state mail on behalf of your LLC. Every U.S. LLC must have one in the state where it is formed. The agent needs a physical street address in that state and must be available during business hours. Non-U.S. owners usually hire a registered agent service because they do not have a U.S. address.
What a registered agent does
- Receives service of process, which is legal notice that the company is being sued.
- Receives official mail from the state, such as annual report reminders.
- Forwards these documents to you promptly so you can respond on time.
Requirements for a registered agent
- A physical street address in the state of formation. A P.O. box is not accepted.
- An individual who lives in the state, or a business entity authorized to act as an agent there.
- Availability during normal business hours to receive documents.
Can you be your own registered agent?
If you live in the state of formation, you can. The downside is that your name and address become part of the public record, and you must be available at that address during business hours. If you live abroad, you generally cannot, so you need a service. Many owners also prefer a service for privacy.
How to choose a registered agent service
- Coverage: the agent must be authorized in the state where you form your LLC.
- Document handling: check how quickly documents are scanned and forwarded.
- Price and renewal: compare the first-year price with the renewal price.
- Extras: reminders for annual reports and compliance, and support for non-U.S. owners.
See our registered agent service for what is included.
How to change your registered agent
- Choose the new agent and get their written consent.
- File a change of registered agent form with the state, and pay the fee if one applies.
- Update your IRS mailing address if it used the old agent's address, using Form 8822-B.
- Update your bank, licenses and website.
Our registered agent change service handles the filing.
What happens if you have no agent
If the LLC has no valid agent, the state can put it in bad standing and, eventually, administratively dissolve it. You may also miss a lawsuit notice and lose by default judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a registered agent in every state I do business in?
You need one in your state of formation and in each other state where you register the LLC as a foreign entity.
Can I use a P.O. box as a registered agent address?
No. A physical street address is required.
Is a registered agent the same as a mailing address?
No. The agent receives legal and state documents. A mailing address or virtual office is for general mail.
How much does a registered agent cost?
Prices vary by provider and state. Compare the renewal price, not only the first-year price.
Can I change my registered agent later?
Yes. File a change with the state. You can switch at any time.
Need an agent? See our registered agent service.
