When starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or corporation, you must provide details of a registered agent. This person is essential if you want to start an enterprise on the right foot. In fact, they’re a requirement in all states.
Fortunately, it’s not as difficult as it sounds. Read on to learn why a registered agent is vital in an LLC and how to find the right one for you.
What Is A Registered Agent?
A registered agent is a person or entity who handles legal, government, and tax documents on behalf of your LLC. They ensure you receive documents and notices on time so you don’t miss or lose important paperwork.
Most registered agents come together as single businesses, with Northwest Registered Agent being a popular example. It’s the second-largest registered agent business that offers registered services in every state. Is Northwest Registered Agent legit? Their 20 years of operation, reasonable prices, and satisfied clientele say so. These are things you should look for in your chosen registered agent.
Why Should You Have A Registered Agent For Your LLC?
As mentioned, they handle all legal, tax, or government correspondence on your behalf.
Suppose your business gets sued or subpoenaed. In that case, the suing party notifies the registered agent per the public records at the Secretary of State’s office. Then, the registered agent will deliver the documents to you, allowing you to respond as soon as possible.
What Are The Requirements Of A Registered Agent?
To be considered a valid registered agent, a person or entity must meet the following criteria:
- Physical street address: The agent must have a physical address within the same state as your LLC.
- Physically available at their business address: The agent must be at the physical location during regular business hours.
- Abides by state laws: Each state has specific laws concerning registered agents. You can check them to confirm if your prospective agent complies with them. Otherwise, all your transactions with them are null and void.
Note that you can make anyone over 18 your LLC’s registered agent. Examples of people you can pick include your lawyer, a team member, a trusted friend, a relative, or even yourself. You can also register your company as its own agent. Still, most people get smoother, easier exchanges when they work with someone else.
How To Find A Good One
A quick internet search can get you many registered agents in your community. But how do you know which one can meet your needs? Here are a few notes on what to look for.
Check How Reliable They Are
The first thing to consider when looking for a registered agent is to find one that can easily help you whenever you need them.
While getting someone you know as a registered agent is cheaper, you can’t always count on them to cancel vacation plans or skip bed rest whenever a notice comes your way. Knowing this, it’s best to pick someone who can deliver paperwork to you as soon as possible.
They Should Protect Your Privacy
When you register your LLC as a registered agent, you list your company details on the public records of the Secretary of State. Unfortunately, it can open you to junk emails and spam activity on the web. Privacy equals protection. Therefore, working with a third-party registered agent is best to provide distance between the public and your LLC’s essential details.
Consider The Registered Agent’s Value
Besides choosing an affordable registered agent, you should also consider their value. A great one should offer quick, foolproof document delivery. They must also be reliable, consistent, and accurate in their delivery services. Familiarity with compliance rules and state-of-the-art software tools is a must. Basically, they should back up their rates with a dedication to reliability and client protection. Otherwise, you shouldn’t bother with them.
They Should Operate During Normal Business Hours
Per industry standards, the registered agent should operate during regular business hours, regardless of whether your LLC does the same. Furthermore, they should be physically present at their address during said hours. It guarantees that you receive important documents for your business on time.
Availability Across States Is A Plus
After a while, you may consider relocating or expanding your LLC to another state. In that case, choosing a registered agent with different branches across states keeps everything convenient. The more, the better. That way, you never lose track of any correspondence wherever you may go. Ultimately, the ideal registered agent offers a level of service that complements yours. Take the time to compare your choices before settling.
Know What To Look For
A registered agent is critical for your LLC’s compliance and protection. With these tips, finding the right one should be much easier. Remember to choose one who can keep you on track with your goals.
