Do I Need a Registered Agent?

You’re not alone if you are wondering what a “registered agent” is, what they do, when is one necessary, etc. Our research team is asked almost every day so here is some helpful information on the topic.

Registered agents are either companies or individuals designated by a business to accept official documents on behalf of the business. They act as the business’s piont of contact with a state and provide some additional privacy while ensuring that important documents from the states do not get missed. Examples of official documents are legal notices, court summons, etc.

If your business is an LLC or a corporation, your business is required by the state to have a designated registered agent to be in compliance. There are several options as to who can act as a Registered Agent:

• Third Party – you can designate a 3rd party individual or organization who has a physical address within the state you do business in and available to contact during business hours.
• Act as your own Registered Agent – if you act as your own, you will need a physical address in the state and be available during business hours.

If you need help finding a registered agent for your business, check your state’s Secretary of State website for a list of active registered agents.

As always, sales tax varies by state and if you have questions about your sales tax obligations or would like to outsource the burden, please reach out to our team.