Registered Agent Requirements by State

Every state requires a registered agent for LLCs and corporations, but the specifics vary. Here's a general overview.

What a registered agent actually does

A registered agent is the designated person or company that receives legal notices, service of process, and official state correspondence on behalf of your business. Every state requires LLCs and corporations to name one.

The general requirements across states

Most states require a registered agent to have a physical street address (not a P.O. box) within the state of formation and be available during normal business hours to accept documents. Specific rules and forms vary by state.

Can you be your own registered agent?

In most states, yes — if you have a physical address in the state and are reliably available during business hours. Many owners choose this to save money, though it means your address may appear on public record.

When a commercial registered agent service makes sense

If you're forming in a state where you don't live, want privacy for your home address, travel frequently, or simply don't want to worry about missing an important notice, a commercial registered agent service is often worth the modest annual fee.

What happens if you don't maintain one

Failing to maintain a valid registered agent can result in your business falling out of good standing with the state, and in some cases losing important legal notices without your knowledge, including lawsuit paperwork.

Frequently asked

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