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Hiring a Registered Agent protects your business from legal and compliance issues. The last thing you need is an official notice getting “lost in the mail.” Missing a lawsuit notice or compliance deadline can result in penalties and even administrative dissolution. For home-based businesses, a Registered Agent also protects your privacy by keeping your personal address off the public record.
Some Registered Agent services limit support or hide key features behind paywalls. Others lack the expertise needed for businesses operating across multiple states.
We evaluated the top Registered Agent services in terms of security, compliance, support, and overall value. We also considered companies that offer a Registered Agent service separate from LLC formation packages, ideal for LLC owners switching providers.
After thorough testing, we narrowed it down to the 10 best services. My top pick is BusinessAnywhere for its privacy, low cost, and ease of use. It offers a free year of Registered Agent service, nationwide coverage, and many helpful additional services. Keep reading to discover which service is best suited to your specific needs.
What We Look For in the Best Registered Agent Services
We focused on the following elements when evaluating the Registered Agent services:
Free Registered Agent service. Some companies include free Registered Agent services for a year with LLC formation – a great way to cut costs when you’re starting. I prioritized providers that won’t hit you with high renewal fees when the first free year ends.
Affordable standalone Registered Agent service. I looked for companies that offer Registered Agent services as a standalone service at a reasonable price. This is useful if you’ve already formed your LLC and just need to switch providers.
Ongoing compliance support. Most of my top recommendations provide lifetime compliance alerts with business formation. Some even offer dedicated compliance programs for peace of mind.
Privacy protection. A quality Registered Agent shields your personal information by using their address on public records instead of yours, which is especially important for home-based business owners. I gave preference to services that don’t outsource this function or sell your data.
Additional features and services. I evaluated each provider’s ease of use, support, and ability to serve businesses across all states. I also looked for extras like help with filings, legal or tax guidance, and other business tools.
If you haven’t yet registered your business, refer to our rundown of the best LLC formation services to see how good these services are for getting your LLC off the ground.
BusinessAnywhere makes it fast and easy to appoint it as your Registered AgentBusinessAnywhere offers the best combination of privacy protection, multi-state support, and affordable pricing, making it stand out in our evaluation. Whether you’re forming a new business or looking to switch from a current provider, BusinessAnywhere offers a secure, straightforward solution, including non-US citizens establishing a US business presence.
Existing LLCs can opt for the standalone, affordably priced Registered Agent plan. New business owners can benefit from BusinessAnywhere’s free Registered Agent offer (for a year) as part of its LLC formation package.
While its client dashboard might look a bit old-fashioned, it’s very intuitive and easy to navigate. BusinessAnywhere provides fast, responsive email support, ensuring you always have expert help when you need it.
Features
Virtual office. If you have an online business, BusinessAnywhere can provide you with a physical US street address to register a bank account, receive mail and packages, and even get them forwarded to a desired address.
Privacy and security. BusinessAnywhere provides an in-house Registered Agent service and operates with a “Privacy by Default” policy, meaning your data is never sold, rented, or shared with third parties.
Business alerts. You’ll receive alerts for compliance due dates and other time-sensitive matters via your client dashboard. And unlike some other services, you’ll receive them in plenty of time to attend to them without a rush.
Online notary. You can get documents notarized remotely, from anywhere in the world, with BusinessAnywhere’s fully digital, legally recognized notary service.
Northwest offers leading privacy protection and local expertise
While many competitors offer Registered Agent as a side service to formation packages, Northwest Registered Agent was built around this service, offering enhanced privacy protection and state-specific expertise. Although the Registered Agent service isn’t free with LLC formation, it’s built into a very low-priced plan.
Northwest Registered Agent offers enhanced privacy through its “Privacy by Default” policy, which guarantees to never sell your data to third parties. Additionally, wherever possible, it will use its address instead of yours on public documents. On top of that, it keeps all operations – from IT to customer service – in-house, avoiding unnecessary exposure of your information.
The company is backed by 900+ local experts, called “Corporate Guides.” You’ll get assigned a dedicated guide who actually lives in the state where your business is registered, providing a deeper compliance insight than services that simply forward mail. Thanks to its vast network of local experts, Northwest makes the ideal Registered Agent for multi-state businesses.
Features
Predictable pricing. Thanks to Northwest’s fair renewal fee policies, which are somewhat unique in the industry, the Registered Agent service renews for the same cost every year.
Virtual office and mail forwarding. You can get a physical office presence in a real US commercial building without high rent and overhead costs. It includes phone service, same-day digital mail scanning, physical mail forwarding, and a unique suite number.
Free compliance alerts. You’ll get timely reminders for filing deadlines and ongoing state requirements.
Business identity services. Some helpful add-ons include a website with a custom domain, a business phone, and an email with your domain for a professional business presence.
Bizee offers a 1 year free for new & existing business owners
If you’re switching from another provider, Bizee is one of the few providers that will help you file your change of Registered Agent forms. The setup process is fast and beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for busy business owners.
Its standalone Registered Agent service comes with one of the lowest annual fees in the industry. For new business owners, Bizee includes a free Registered Agent service for the first year as part of its free LLC plan. This plan also includes next-day filing of your Articles of Organization and unlimited customer support. Its customer support can sometimes be hit or miss, though many users still find it helpful for basic questions.
Whether you need to start your LLC on a shoestring or are an established small business looking to switch to a reliable Registered Agent, Bizee has a lot of value to offer at very reasonable prices.
Features
Business virtual address. Bizee offers a fixed street address along with advanced mail scanning capabilities, helping you stay connected even if you run your business from another part of the world.
Business management services. Bizee provides a range of services to help you run your business. These include tax filing, compliance alerts, submission of annual reports, free tax consultations, and even assistance with the dissolution of your company when you decide to retire.
Other extras. Higher-tier plans include extras like an Operating Agreement, Banking Resolution, and business contract templates.
Extensive free resources. There’s a library of downloads with guides, checklists, and infographics. There’s even an email course for startups. You can also find a name generator, a name search tool, and more.
BetterLegal includes a Registered Agent, but not as part of its LLC plansBetterLegal offers one of the most affordable standalone Registered Agent services in the industry, making it a great choice both if you need to form your LLC or are simply looking to appoint a new agent. Its Registered Agent service stands out with same-day document delivery and live chat support.
That said, BetterLegal really shines in helping first-time entrepreneurs get everything in one place. Its LLC formation package includes all the essentials, like an EIN, Operating Agreement, and Banking Resolution. The only caveat is that the Registered Agent service isn’t bundled into this package, so you’ll need to add it on.
Still, BetterLegal delivers excellent one-stop value for beginners. Its formation plan comes with perks you would otherwise have to track down separately, like a free website, business checking account, tax consultation, and even an insurance evaluation.
Features
Legal AI. This tool helps with contract analysis, including identifying key clauses, terms, and conditions, and translating legal jargon into everyday language. It makes business decisions less overwhelming for newbies, especially if you can’t afford attorney fees.
Business management add-ons. BetterLegal is truly a one-stop shop destination for new business owners, offering accounting, bookkeeping, tax filing, payroll setup, and HR support in one place.
Monthly subscriptions. Unlike most, BetterLegal offers you the opportunity to pay for its Registered Agent service monthly instead of yearly. The monthly option adds a few dollars to your yearly expenses, but it’s a good option for cash-strapped entrepreneurs.
Free business documents and templates. You’ll receive a host of free business documents and templates to create your own. These include meeting minutes, an Operating Agreement, banking resolution forms, ownership amendments, and more.
ZenBusiness’s Registered Agent service comes with extrasZenBusiness is one of the few that offers state-specific Registered Agent resources, helping you gain a deeper understanding before committing to its service. Its Registered Agent service includes mail forwarding, same-day document scanning, and annual compliance reminders.
The Registered Agent service is not included in its free LLC formation package. It costs more than some competitors, but it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a well-rounded provider with extensive support features.
One of ZenBusiness’s key advantages is its Worry-Free Compliance program, which includes an annual report, two amendment filings, and automated compliance reminders. This program is included for a year with all plans.
Features
Extremely user-friendly. The website, signup, and ordering process are designed for beginners and those with limited tech experience. It doesn’t get much easier to get a Registered Agent than it does with ZenBusiness.
ZenBusiness Money. ZenBusiness Money supports invoicing, expense tracking, payments, and tax management, enabling you to manage your business finances in one place.
Get your business online. There’s a dedicated package to get your business online, including a website, domain name, and email.
Free tax consultation. You get a free 30-minute tax consultation with an experienced accountant to help you with tax planning, requirements, and deadlines.
Inc Authority offers a great starting prices, but could be more transparentInc Authority offers one of the most generous free LLC formation packages among competitors. Unlike other “free” plans that only file your Articles of Organization, Inc Authority includes a year of Registered Agent service, an EIN (Tax ID number), 24-hour processing, and even a custom-built website with a domain and business email. This offer makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious entrepreneurs looking to start strong without upfront service fees.
That said, Inc Authority’s pricing lacks transparency. For example, despite advertising “free” EIN and 24-hour processing as part of its free plan – you can only get one of these two services for free. There are quite a few upsells, and those add-ons aren’t priced upfront – you have to initiate the ordering process or call its customer service to find out.
It’s important to note that Inc Authority’s Registered Agent service is only available as part of its formation packages. Once the first free year is up, renewal fees are a bit higher compared to some competitors. Still, if you’re just starting out and want to maximize early value, Inc Authority delivers an excellent launchpad.
Features
Free tax planning consultation. As part of your LLC formation package, Inc Authority will evaluate your tax situation and identify ways to save during tax season.
Business funding analysis. Get help assessing your business credit and financing opportunities to support your company’s growth.
Compliance360. Similar to ZenBusiness’s Worry-Free Compliance program, Inc Authority’s Compliance 360 helps you keep your business in good standing by notifying you of ongoing state requirements.
Legal documents package. For a fee, Inc Authority will keep your legal documents organized and ship them to you whenever you need them. This package ensures fast and easy access to your business records if you get audited, sued, or inspected.
Tailor Brands offers business functions and creative services
The real appeal of this company lies in the all-in-one platform experience. Tailor Brands is ideal if you want to launch a business and build a brand in one place. In addition to LLC formation, it offers a wide range of creative and marketing tools, including logo design, branding, social media marketing, and even merchandise creation.
That said, Tailor Brands doesn’t offer Registered Agent service on its own. You can only add it during your initial LLC formation order – you can’t purchase it later. While there are cheaper Registered Agent options on this list, the bundled value makes sense for creators or small businesses who want branding and compliance handled together.
You’ll have access to creative services, business planning, compliance tools, and even business coaching without needing to juggle multiple platforms. If you’re a visual business or want a polished brand identity from day one, Tailor Brands offers unmatched convenience.
Features
Free LLC formation plan. Tailor Brands offers free LLC formation service (excl. state filing fees) with access to its business coaching resources.
Custom business plan. The sign-up process collects information about your business to build a plan that supports your business goals and needs.
Creative business tools. If you sign up for one of its premium plans, you’ll get access to tools for designing digital business cards and social media posts that will help you maintain a sharp branding image online and offline.
Annual compliance. Its premium plans also include an annual report filing and compliance updates to help you maintain good standing with your state.
LegalZoom offers affordable attorney accessLegalZoom is one of the few providers that offers legal support and Registered Agent coverage under one roof. Its attorney subscription services give small business owners ongoing access to licensed attorneys for a fraction of the usual cost.
It doesn’t include Registered Agent service in its LLC formation packages, and its standalone service is one of the more expensive options on this list. But you’ll receive two other valuable features. The first is the Compliance Calendar (usually a separate add-on), which keeps you up to date with alerts for state and federal paperwork due dates. The other is unlimited cloud storage for all your business documentation.
If you’re switching from another provider, LegalZoom makes the transition smooth. It handles all paperwork and even pays your state’s Registered Agent change fee – a major convenience that many providers don’t offer.
Features
Digital welcome pack. For new business owners, LegalZoom supplies a step-by-step guide to walk you through the LLC formation process.
Doc Assist. This tool uses AI and LegalZoom’s expertise in legal tech to simplify the document review process for you. Upload documents such as contracts and agreements to get summaries in easy-to-understand language, with critical details highlighted.
Highly customizable service packages. LegalZoom lets you build a tailored bundle if you need more than just Registered Agent or LLC formation services
Pay in installments. You can split the cost of larger service bundles into manageable payments.
Swyft Filings’ Registered Agent is available on a quarterly subscriptionSwyft Filings is one of the rare providers that lets you use its Registered Agent service quarterly. Almost every provider out there will make you commit to a yearly service. This makes it a great option if you value flexibility. If you’re switching from elsewhere, Swyft Filings will handle the necessary state paperwork on your behalf.
While Swyft Filings offers a free LLC formation package, none of its bundles include a Registered Agent service. It’s available only as a standalone subscription at a fee higher than most competitors. However, it made its way to this list thanks to the flexibility it offers.
Features
ComplianceGuard™. This all-in-one compliance tool helps you stay ahead of annual reports, deadlines, and state-specific requirements. It includes the annual report filing, one amendment, and access to its Minutes Manager to document your meetings.
Free LLC formation plan. The free plan includes the preparation and filing of your Articles of Organization, name availability check, and lifetime customer support.
Personalized customer support. Whether you want to reach Swyft Filings by phone, email, or chat, you’ll always get connected to an agent who is familiar with your account.
Swyft Legal Suite. If you subscribe to the highest-tier plan, you can benefit from the Swyft Legal suite, which gives you access to 250+ legal contract templates and attorney assistance in eligible states.
MyCompanyWorks has free RA for a year on higher plans
MyCompanyWorks offers valuable services for new business owners, though its prices may be a stretch for those on a tight budget. Its higher-priced plans include a Registered Agent service, but you can also buy it separately for a low fee.
The company’s value lies in its higher-tier plans. In addition to a free year of Registered Agent service, you’ll receive services that typically cost extra elsewhere, such as EIN registration, Operational Agreement, Organizational Minutes, and Banking Resolution.
Features
Startup Wizard. An interactive, customized checklist of all the tasks, paperwork, and other stuff you need to complete to launch your business.
Accuracy auditing. MyCompanyWorks guarantees that someone on their team will audit your paperwork for accuracy and compliance.
Top-notch support. I found the support team to be knowledgeable, professional, and readily available.
Business License package. MyCompanyWorks offers extensive licensing support. As part of this package, you’ll receive an interactive business license report with links to the filing authorities, all the requirements you need to meet, and filing assistance.
Your choice of Registered Agent will greatly depend on your specific business needs and budget.
I found BusinessAnywhere to be the best all-around Registered Agent service. It’s backed by strong privacy protections, multi-state expertise, and support for non-citizens – all at a very low price. What’s more, BusinessAnywhere’s Registered Agent is free for a year for new business owners. You also get access to quality additional features, such as a virtual office and online notary, enabling you to run your business – as the name suggests – from anywhere.
Consider Northwest if privacy and multi-state management are your top priorities. Northwest Registered Agent offers top-tier privacy thanks to its Privacy by Default policy, and will never sell your data. Plus, you’ll get access to a local expert (Corporate Guide) who’ll help you navigate state-specific regulations with ease.
If you need to change your Registered Agent, consider Bizee. It’s one of the few providers that will handle the paperwork with the state for you at no additional cost. For new business owners, Bizee includes a year of free Registered Agent service in its feature-packed free plan.
If you still can’t decide, the comparison table below will help you make up your mind.
Standard Registered Agent Requirements (Apply in All 50 States)
Regardless of your state or the states you intend to do business in, these are the Registered Agent requirements you or your designated agent needs to meet:
Have a physical street address in the state where the business is registered (P.O. Boxes or virtual offices are not allowed)
Be available during standard business hours (typically Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM)
Receive official correspondence and provide notification of receipt
Be at least 18 years old
State-Specific Registered Agent Requirements and Differences
While “Registered Agent” is the most commonly used term, different states may use alternative names like “Resident Agent,” “Statutory Agent,” “Agent for Service of Process,” or “Service of Process Agent.” All these variations refer to the same role. Always check your state’s terminology when filing or searching for information.
On top of the standard Registered Agent requirements, some states may impose additional/unique requirements.
For example, in Delaware, Registered Agents must obtain and maintain a Delaware business license. Furthermore, in California, corporations and LLCs can’t act as their own Registered Agent. Instead, they must appoint an individual who meets the requirements. Additionally, corporations must obtain a Section 1505 certificate and advanced approval to serve as Registered Agents for other companies in this state.
Similarly, in Alaska, corporations can be Registered Agents, but not their own, while non-corporate entities (including LLCs) can’t be Registered Agents.
These differences show that while the role of a Registered Agent is consistent across states, each state may have its own rules, documentation requirements, or enforcement practices that set it apart.
Why Being Your Own Registered Agent May Be a Bad Idea
To be a Registered Agent, you must have a physical address in the state where your business is registered. Being your own Registered Agent puts your personal address on public record, which exposes you to unwanted mail, solicitors, and spam.
As a Registered Agent, you’re also required to be physically present at that address during standard business hours. If no one is at your registered address during business hours, you risk missing critical documents, leading to penalties or administrative dissolution.
The easiest and most affordable way to handle this responsibility is to hire a trusted Registered Agent service, like BusinessAnywhere. A professional service will protect your privacy, help you stay compliant, and free up your time to focus on running your business.
How to Change Your Registered Agent
Here are all the steps you need to take to switch to a new Registered Agent:
Choose a new Registered Agent. Select an individual or service that meets your state’s requirements. If you’re dissatisfied with your current provider, check out our list of the top 10 Registered Agent services.
Notify your new Registered Agent. Confirm they accept the appointment and understand their responsibilities. In most states, the new agent must sign the change of Registered Agent form. The best Registered Agent services have user-friendly websites, making it easy to complete these steps online.
File the paperwork with the state. Submit a Change of Registered Agent form through your Secretary of State’s office. In some instances, the change can be recorded on your annual report. A filing fee may apply. Providers like Bizee will handle the Registered Agent change for you.
Wait for confirmation. The state will process your filing and officially update the records.
Update your internal records. Your bylaws, operating agreement, and other internal records need to reflect the change of Registered Agent.
Notify parties (optional). It’s recommended to notify relevant parties like your accountant, attorney, and your previous Registered Agent of the change.
FAQ
Should I hire a Registered Agent service?
Yes, especially if your LLC operates in multiple/foreign states, you run a home-based business, and/or want to protect your privacy. A Registered Agent service like BusinessAnywhere fits these qualifications and will save you from the workload and legal repercussions of being your own Registered Agent.
Do I need a Registered Agent?
Yes – every US state requires businesses to designate a Registered Agent to receive legal and government documents on their behalf. Hiring a professional service ensures you never miss important legal or government notices, helps you stay compliant, and protects your privacy. Some companies go a step further, like Northwest Registered Agent’s strict privacy protection programs.
What is the best Registered Agent service?
My personal pick is BusinessAnywhere for its free first-year offer, affordable renewal price, and arsenal of other high-quality services. Any of the Registered Agent services on this list are excellent candidates, but the exact service that’s best for you depends on your personal needs.
How much does a Registered Agent service cost?
It depends. You should expect to pay between $120 and $600/annually for a reliable service. The total cost will depend on how many states your business is registered in, as well as how many LLCs you own.
Being your own Registered Agent is free (not permitted in all states), but it comes with risks and limited flexibility. Thankfully, some of the best formation services, like Bizee, include a free Registered Agent service for the first year.
Ivana is a full-time content writer and expert reviewer passionate about tech, finance, business, and too many other things to name. After getting her bachelor’s degree in Economics, she decided to ditch a career in accounting and turn her passion into a full-time writing affair. You can find her listening to finance podcasts, reading self-help books, glamming up, and rocking bold outfits. She’s also advocating for animal welfare and women’s rights.
After earning her degree in architecture, Ashleigh swapped blueprints for bylines, writing for industry magazines before diving into digital content. Since joining Website Planet, she’s reviewed everything from website builders to LLC formation services, helping small business owners cut through the clutter. When she’s not testing new platforms, she’s traveling to small towns or overplaying the same album for the hundredth time.
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