Registered agents serve as a guaranteed contact between a company and the secretary of state. Registered agents also maintain a physical, staffed address from which the receive service of process for companies.
But all states have their own rules governing exactly who must maintain a registered agent and what the responsibilities of a registered agent are. Click on your state below to see what’s required in your state.
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An Alabama registered agent can be:
• An Alabama resident.
• A domestic Alabama business entity.
• An out-of-state (foreign) business entity that’s authorized to do business in Alabama.
Every Alabama registered agent must maintain a “business office” at a street address in the state. This address cannot be a P.O. box. During normal business hours, the registered agent needs to be present at their listed address to accept service of process and other official mail.
You’ll appoint your Alabama registered agent by listing the name of the individual (or entity) that’s filling this role on your formation documents. You’ll also need to provide their street address in Alabama.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Alabama registered agents you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Alabama registered agent statutes.
• Contact the Alabama Secretary of State Business Entities Division at (334) 242-5324.
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An Alaska registered agent can be:
• An individual Alaska resident.
• A corporation authorized to do business in Alaska.
Non-corporate business entities (LLCs, LLPs, and LPs) cannot serve as registered agents in Alaska.
Alaska registered agents are required to maintain a full-time, physical address in the state. They’re responsible for receiving service of process, state notices and other official mail, and forwarding these documents to the business entity.
Once you’ve hired your Alaska registered agent, you’ll appoint them by including their name, Alaska street address, and Alaska mailing address on your business formation document.
As you decide who will serve as your registered agent, keep these additional rules in mind:
• If your registered agent will be an individual, that person must be a resident of the state of Alaska only. In other words, they can’t be claiming residency or receiving benefits in another state.
• Electric/telephone cooperatives & religious corporations must appoint an individual resident and not a corporation as their RA.
• An alcohol license will not be issued to an LLC or corporation unless the registered agent for that entity is an individual Alaska resident.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Alaska registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Alaska registered agent statutes.
• Check out the Registered Agents FAQ on the Alaska state website.
• Or contact the Alaska Corporations Division at (907) 465-2550.
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An Arizona registered agent (aka statutory agent) can be:
• An individual Arizona resident age 18 or older.
• An Arizona LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation authorized to do business in Arizona.
Partnerships cannot serve as registered agents in Arizona.
Arizona registered agents are required to maintain a physical, full-time address in the state. They must accept the position in writing. Their primary responsibility is to deliver any service of process, notices, or requests to the business entity.
Your Articles should state your registered agent’s name, Arizona street address and Arizona mailing address. Arizona agents must accept the appointment in writing, so if you submit paper documents, they’ll need to sign a Statutory Agent Acceptance Form. If you file online, they’ll receive an email from Arizona Corporations Commission, and will accept the position by responding.
Tip: Make sure to choose expedited processing if you file online so your registered agent can accept the position by email.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Arizona registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Arizona registered agent statutes.
• Check out the Arizona Corporations Commission’s Statutory Agents FAQ.
• Or contact the Arizona Corporations Comission at (602) 542-3026.
An Arkansas registered agent can be:
• An individual Arkansas resident.
• A domestic Arkansas business entity.
• An out-of-state (foreign) business entity that’s authorized to conduct business in Arkansas.
Arkansas is one of the 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both commercial and non-commercial RAs must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent—a company in the business of providing registered agent service—individuals and entities must file a Commercial Registered Agent Registration with the State of Arkansas.
Whether your registered agent is commercial or non-commerical, you’ll appoint them by listing their name (or company name) and Arkansas street address on your business formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Arkansas registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the Arkansas Model Registered Agents Act.
• Contact the Arkansas Secretary of State Business and Commercial Services Division at (501) 682-3409.
A California registered agent (aka agent for service of process) can be:
• An individual California resident age 18 or older.
• A corporation authorized to do business in California.
Non-corporate business entities (LLCs, LLPs, and LPs) cannot serve as registered agents in California.
California is one of seven states that have adopted specific aspects of the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA)—the law that divides registered agents into non-commercial and commercial categories.
As such, the Secretary of State makes a distinction between individuals and “corporate registered agents.” Individual registered agents are single people operating as registered agents. Corporate registered agents provide registered agent services, and must register with the S.O.S. by filing a Section 1505 Certificate.
Otherwise, the duties of individual and corporate registered agents are identical. Both must be present at a California street address to receive legal documents and forward them to the represented entity.
Your Articles should state your registered agent’s name and street address—if the registered agent is an individual. For corporate registered agents, no address is required.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for California registered agents, you can:
• Get acquainted with the California registered agent statutes.
• Check out the California Secretary of State’s Agent for Service of Process FAQs.
• Contact the California Secretary of State Business Entities Division at (916) 657–5448.
A Colorado registered agent (aka agent for service of process) can be:
• An individual Colorado resident age 18 or older.
• An entity with a “usual place of business” in Colorado.
• The entity itself (if it has a “usual place of business” in the state).
Every Colorado registered agent must consent to the role, maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the entity in a timely manner.
You’ll appoint your Colorado registered agent by listing the name of the individual or entity on your formation documents. A Colorado street address and mailing address are required. You must also check a box on your formation paperwork indicating registered agent consent.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Colorado registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Colorado registered agent statutes;
• Check out the Colorado Secretary of State’s Registered Agent FAQ page, or;
• Contact the Colorado Secretary of State’s Business Organizations Division at (303) 894-2200.
A Connecticut registered agent can be:
• A Connecticut resident age 18 or older.
• A domestic Connecticut business entity.
• A foreign entity authorized to do business in the state.
Foreign entities also have the option of appointing the Secretary of State as their registered agent.
The primary duty of a Connecticut registered agent is to forward any official notices or demands (such as service of process) to the business entity. If the registered agent resigns or changes their address, they must provide notice.
You’ll designate your Connecticut registered agent on your formation documents. If appointing an individual, you’ll need to list a business and a home address. A business and mailing address are required for entities. Each address must be in-state.
Your Connecticut registered agent must also indicate their consent by signing your Articles. If you file online, they can accept the position via email.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Connecticut registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Connecticut registered agent statutes
• Check out the Connecticut Secretary of State’s Business Entities FAQ page, or;
• Contact the Connecticut Secretary of State’s Business Services Division at (860) 509-6002.
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A Delaware registered agent can be:
• An individual Delaware resident age 18 or older.
• A domestic or foreign Delaware business entity.
• A domestic or foreign statutory trust.
• The entity itself (provided it has an address in the state).
Delaware is one of 7 states that have adopted specific aspects of the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA)—the law that divides registered agents into non-commercial and commercial categories.
Commercial registered agents in Delaware—those that serve more than 50 entities—have special obligations. In addition to the usual statutory duties of being present at a designated address and accepting service of process, commercial agents in Delaware must:
• Maintain a Delaware business license.
• Have an officer, director or managing agent available at the listed address.
• Vet the identity of any clients who wish to form a DE business, per 22 DE Reg. 519.
You’ll designate your Delaware registered agent by listing the name of the individual or entity on your formation documents. A Delaware street address is required.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Delaware registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Delaware registered agent statutes.
• Read up on the Delaware Registered Agent Listing Standards.
• Contact the Delaware Secretary of State’s Business Services Division at (302) 739-3073.
A Florida registered agent can be:
• An individual Florida resident.
• A business entity with an active Florida registration.
Although a Florida entity cannot act as its own registered agent, an individual (such as a director or member) associated with the business may fill the role.
Every Florida registered agent must consent to the appointment in writing.
And here’s an interesting one: corporations serving as registered agents must keep their registered offices open from 10 a.m. to 12 noon every weekday, in accordance with 2021 Florida statutes 48.091(2). They must also post a sign displaying the name of the corporation and the registered agent.
The ordinary requirements also apply: they’ll need to be present at the designated address, receive process and other official mail, and forward it to the business entity.
Your Florida registered agent is required to confirm the appointment in writing, by signing your formation document. If you appoint an entity as your agent, an individual must sign on behalf of the entity. If you file online, your RA can type their name in the signature block.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Florida registered agents, you can:
• Get acquainted with the Florida registered agent statutes.
• Check out the Florida Secretary of State’s Registered Agent FAQs.
• Contact the Florida Division of Corporations at (850) 245-6052.
Broadly speaking, a Georgia registered agent can be:
• An individual Georgia resident.
• A domestic Georgia business entity.
• A foreign business entity that’s registered in Georgia.
That said, Georgia has specific rules regarding who can serve as the agent for specific entity types, such as corporations. For further guidance, please see the Secretary of State’s General, Registered Office and Registered Agent FAQ (Scroll down to “Who can be a registered agent?”).
Every Georgia registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your Georgia registered agent by simply listing their name and registered office on your formation document. The registered office must be a Georgia street address where the agent can be located during business hours.
To learn more about the rules and regulations for Georgia registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the Georgia registered agent statutes.
• Check out the Georgia SOS General, Registered Office and Registered Agent FAQ.
• Contact the Georgia Corporations Division at (404) 656-2817.
A Hawaii registered agent can be:
• An individual who is physically present in the state.
• An entity that’s authorized to transact business in the state.
Hawaii is one of seven states that have adopted specific aspects of the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA)—the law that divides registered agents into non-commercial and commercial categories.
Commercial agents—companies or individuals in the business of providing registered agent service—are required to to file a Commercial Registered Agent Listing Statement with the Secretary of State.
Additionally, commercial and non-commercial registered agents must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the represented entity, notify the entity, and keep their office information current with the Secretary of State.
As no registered agent signature is required, you can appoint your Hawaii registered agent by simply listing their name and Hawaii street address on your formation document. If the agent is an entity, you’ll also need to list the state and county of formation.
To learn more about Hawaii registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Hawaii Registered Agents Act.
• Contact the Hawaii Business Registration Division at (808) 586-2727.
An Idaho registered agent can be:
• An individual Idaho resident with a physical address.
• A legal Idaho business entity with a physical address.
Idaho is one of the 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both commercial and non-commercial RAs must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent—a company in the business of providing registered agent service—individuals and entities must file a Commercial Registered Agent Listing Statement with the State of Idaho.
As no registered agent signature is required, you can designate your Idaho registered agent by simply listing their name and Idaho street address on your formation document.
To learn more about Idaho registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with Idaho’s registered agent statutes.
• Contact the Idaho Secretary of State’s Business Services Division at (208) 334-2301.
An Illinois registered agent can be:
• An Illinois resident with a physical address in the state.
• A domestic Illinois business entity.
• A foreign entity that’s authorized to do business in Illinois.
Illinois corporations are required to appoint either a) an individual resident of Illinois or b) a corporation authorized in its Articles to act as a registered agent in Illinois.
Every Illinois registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
As no registered agent signature is required, you can appoint your Illinois registered agent by simply listing their name and address (including county) on your formation document.
To learn more about Illinois registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Illinois registered agent statutes.
• Contact the Illinois Business Services Division.
An Indiana registered agent can be:
• An Indiana resident.
• A domestic or foreign Indiana business with a valid registered agent in Indiana.
Indiana is one of the 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both commercial and non-commercial RAs must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent—a company in the business of providing registered agent service—individuals and entities must file a Commercial Registered Agent Listing Statement with the State of Indiana.
If your registered agent is an individual, list their name and Indiana street address on your formation document. (A P.O. box is not acceptable unless you include a Rural Route number.) For commercial registered agents, no address is required.
You’ll also check a box on your formation paperwork indicating that your registered agent has accepted the appointment.
To learn more about Illinois registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the statutes governing registered agents in Indiana.
• Contact the Indiana Business Services Division at (317) 232-6576.
An Iowa registered agent can be:
• An individual Iowa resident.
• A domestic or foreign Iowa corporation.
• A domestic or foreign Iowa LLC.
There are a few specialized professions, such as athlete agents or mobile home park owners, in which the Iowa Secretary of State acts as registered agent.
Every Iowa registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the address on file for the entity.
As no registered agent signature is required, you can appoint your Iowa registered agent by simply including their information in your formation documents. You must provide both a street and mailing address when registering a corporation. For LLCs, only a street address is required.
To learn more about Iowa registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Iowa.
• Contact the Iowa Business Services Division at (515) 281-5204.
A Kansas registered agent (aka resident agent) can be:
• An individual Kansas resident.
• A domestic or foreign corporation, LLC or LP.
• A domestic or foreign business trust.
• The entity itself (domestic entities only).
Under Kansas law, Kansas registered agents must keep normal business hours at a “business office” (Kansas street address), accept service of process, and otherwise perform the duties of a registered agent.
As no registered agent signature is required, you can designate your Kansas registered agent by simply listing their name and Kansas street address on your formation document.
To learn more about Kansas registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Kansas.
• Check out the Resident Agent FAQs on Kansas.gov.
• Contact the Kansas Secretary of State Help Center at (785) 296-5059.
A Kentucky registered agent can be:
• An individual Kentucky resident.
• A domestic Kentucky business entity.
• A foreign entity authorized to do business in Kentucky.
Every Kentucky registered agent must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
Your Kentucky registered agent is required to sign your company’s formation document, as proof of consent to serve. If your agent is another entity, the individual signing on behalf of the entity must also include their name and title. If you file online, your agent can sign electronically.
To learn more about Kentucky registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Kentucky.
• Contact the Kentucky S.O.S. Business Filings Division at (502) 564-3490.
A Louisiana registered agent can be:
• A Louisiana resident.
• A domestic business entity, such as an LLC.
• A foreign entity that’s authorized to do business in Louisiana.
Note: In order for a business entity to serve as a registered agent, it must first file a statement with the Secretary of State that lists two individuals who are authorized to accept service of process.
Every Louisiana registered agent must maintain business hours at a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail, and forward these documents to the entity.
Louisiana registered agents are required to accept their appointments in writing. If you file a paper application, your registered agent must sign your Initial Report. (We don’t recommend this route, as paper filings also require a notary’s signature). If you file online, your agent can accept the appointment via email.
To learn more about Louisiana registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Louisiana.
• Contact the Louisiana S.O.S. Corporations Division at (225) 925-4704.
A Maine registered agent can be:
• An individual Maine resident.
• A domestic Maine business entity.
• A foreign entity authorized to do business in Maine.
Maine is one of 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both types of agents must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent—a company in the business of providing registered agent service—individuals and entities must register as a Commercial Registered Agent (CRA) with the Secretary of State.
Note: In Maine, commercial registered agents are referred to as “commercial clerks.”
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your Maine registered agent by simply listing their name, along with a Maine street address (and mailing address) on your company’s formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Maine registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Maine Model Registered Agents Act.
• Contact the Maine Bureau of Corporations at (207) 624-7736.
A Maryland registered agent (aka resident agent) can be:
• An adult resident of Maryland.
• A domestic Maryland corporation or LLC.
For Maryland corporations, the registered agent must be an individual resident or another corporation.
Every Maryland registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity at their last known address.
Maryland registered agents are required to to accept the appointment in writing. Paper formation documents require a wet signature; online applications can be signed electronically.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Maryland registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Maryland.
• Contact the Maryland Secretary of State at (410) 974-5521.
A Massachusetts registered agent (aka resident agent) can be:
• A resident of Massachusetts.
• A domestic Massachusetts corporation.
• A foreign Massachusetts corporation authorized to transact business in the state.
Every Massachusetts registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity at their last known address.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your Massachusetts registered agent by simply listing their name and street address on your formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Massachusetts registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Massachusetts.
• Contact the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Corporations Division at (617) 727-9640.
A Michigan registered agent (aka resident agent) can be:
• An individual Michigan resident.
• A domestic or foreign Michigan corporation.
• A domestic or foreign Michigan LLC.
Every Michigan registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity at their last known address.
As no registered agent signature is required, you’ll designate your Michigan registered agent by simply listing their name, street address and mailing address on your company’s formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Michigan registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Michigan.
• Contact the Michigan S.O.S Corporations Division at (517) 241-9223.
A Minnesota registered agent can be:
• An individual Minnesota resident.
• A domestic Minnesota corporation or LLC.
• A foreign corporation or LLC authorized to transact business in the state.
Every Minnesota registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity at their last known address.
As no registered agent signature is required, you can appoint your Minnesota registered agent by simply listing their name, street address, or rural route and box number on your company’s formation document.
Note that domestic Minnesota LLCs and corporations are not legally required to name a registered agent on their Articles. However, these entities must have a registered office address where service of process can be delivered.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Minnesota registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Minnesota.
• Contact the Minnesota S.O.S. Business Services Division at (651) 296-2803.
A Mississippi registered agent can be:
• An individual Mississippi resident.
• A domestic or foreign Mississippi corporation.
• A domestic or foreign Mississippi LLC.
Mississippi is one of the 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both commercial and non-commercial RAs must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent—a company in the business of providing registered agent service—individuals and entities must file a Commercial Registered Agent Listing Statement with the Secretary of State.
As no registered agent signature is required, you can appoint your Mississippi registered agent by simply listing their name, street address and mailing address on your company’s formation documents.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Mississippi registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Mississippi Registered Agents Act.
• Contact the Mississippi Business Services Division at (601) 359-1633.
A Missouri registered agent can be:
• An individual Missouri resident.
• A domestic or foreign Missouri corporation.
Every Missouri registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
You’ll designate your Missouri registered agent by listing their name and street address on your company’s formation documents.
Cigarette and tobacco manufacturers are required to submit a Registered Agent Statement (Form 5299) along with their formation documents. Otherwise, no formal registered agent acceptance is required.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Missouri registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Missouri.
• Contact the Missouri Corporations Unit at (573) 751-4153.
A Montana registered agent can be:
• An individual Montana resident.
• A domestic Montana corporation, LLC or LP.
• A foreign corporation, LLC or LP authorized to conduct business in Montana.
Montana is one of the 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both commercial and non-commercial RAs must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent—a company in the business of providing registered agent service—individuals and entities must file a Registration of a Commercial Registered Agent form with the Secretary of State.
You can designate a Montana registered agent by listing their name and street address on your company’s formation documents. If listing a commercial registered agent, no address is required.
You’ll also need to check a box on your formation paperwork indicating that your RA accepts the appointment.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Montana registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Montana Registered Agents Act.
• Contact the Montana Business Services Division at (406) 444-3665 .
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A Nebraska registered agent can be:
• An individual Nebraska resident.
• A domestic or foreign Nebraska business entity.
Every Nebraska registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your Nebraska registered agent by simply listing their name and address on your formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Nebraska registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Nebraska.
• Contact the Nebraska Business Services Division at (402) 471-4079.
A Nevada registered agent can be:
• An individual Nevada resident.
• A domestic or foreign Nevada business entity.
Nevada business entities with a physical address in the state also have the option of designating a position or office within the entity itself (such President or Office Manager) to serve as the registered agent.
Nevada is one of the 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both commercial and non-commercial RAs must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent—a company in the business of providing registered agent service—individuals and entities must file a Registration of a Commercial Registered Agent Registration Statement with the Secretary of State.
Nevada registered agents are required to to accept the appointment in writing. Paper formation documents must be accompanied by a Registered Agent Acceptance or Statement of Change. Online applications can be signed electronically.
If your company will be its own registered agent, you’ll need to state the position or office within the entity that will fill the role.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Nevada registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Nevada Model Registered Agents Act.
• Visit the Registered Agents page on the Nevada Secretary of State website.
• Contact the Nevada Commercial Recordings Division at (775) 684-5708.
A New Hampshire registered agent can be:
• An individual New Hampshire resident.
• A domestic New Hampshire LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation authorized to conduct business in New Hampshire.
• A domestic or foreign Limited Liability Partnership.
Every New Hampshire registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
As no registered agent signature is required, you can appoint your New Hampshire registered agent by simply listing their name and street address on your formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to New Hampshire registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in New Hampshire.
• Contact the New Hampshire Corporation Division at (603) 271-3246.
A New Jersey registered agent can be:
• An individual New Jersey resident age 18 or older.
• Any business in good standing with the state.
Every New Jersey registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your New Jersey registered agent by simply listing their name and New Jersey street address on your formation document. (If filing online, you’ll also need to include your registered agent’s email address.)
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to New Jersey registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in New Jersey.
• Reach out to the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
A New Mexico registered agent can be:
• An individual New Mexico resident.
• A domestic or foreign New Mexico corporation.
Every New Mexico registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
You can appoint a New Mexico registered agent by listing their name, street address and mailing address on your business formation document. The agent must also complete and sign a Statement of Acceptance of Appointment by Designated Initial Registered Agent. If you file online, an electronic signature is required.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to New Mexico registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in New Mexico.
• Contact the New Mexico Secretary of State Business Services Division at (505) 827-3600 (Option 1).
A New York registered agent can be:
• An individual New York resident.
• A domestic New York LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation authorized to do business in New York.
• The New York Secretary of State.
The New York S.O.S. is, by default, the registered agent for all New York companies. However, you can designate a different registered agent by including their office address in your Articles.
Every New York registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
The Secretary of State will be automatically designated as your NY registered agent, in accordance with New York law. But in “Paragraph Fifth” of your Articles, you can specify the address of a different registered agent if you so choose.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to New York registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in New York.
• Contact the New York S.O.S. Division of Corporations at (518) 473-2492.
A North Carolina registered agent can be:
• An individual North Carolina resident.
• A domestic North Carolina LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation registered to do business in North Carolina.
Every North Carolina registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your North Carolina registered agent by simply listing their name and North Carolina street address (and mailing address) on your formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to North Carolina registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in North Carolina.
• Reach out to the North Carolina Business Registration Department at (919) 814-5400.
Go in Depth:
A North Dakota registered agent can be:
• An individual North Dakota resident.
• A domestic North Dakota LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation registered to do business in North Dakota.
North Dakota was the first state to fully adopt the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Commercial and non-commercial North Dakota agents share the following obligations:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
Individuals and entities that wish to be listed as a commercial registered agent (a business that provides registered agent services) can submit a Commercial Registered Agent Listing Statement to the Secretary of State.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint a North Dakota registered agent by simply listing their name and North Dakota street address on your formation document. If your agent would prefer to receive mail at a P.O. Box or drawer, you can provide an alternate mailing address.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to North Dakota registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the North Dakota Model Registered Agents Act.
• Visit the Registered Agents FAQ page on the North Dakota Secretary of State website.
• Reach out to the North Dakota Secretary of State at (701) 328-2900.
An Ohio registered agent (aka statutory agent) can be:
• An individual Ohio resident.
• A domestic Ohio business entity.
• A foreign business entity authorized to conduct business in Ohio.
Every Ohio registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
You’ll appoint your Ohio registered agent by listing their name and Ohio mailing address on your formation document. Ohio registered agents are also required to to accept the appointment in writing. Paper formation documents require a wet signature; online applications can be signed electronically.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Ohio registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Ohio.
• Visit the Statutory Agents FAQ page on the Ohio Secretary of State website.
• Reach out to the Ohio Business Services Division at (877) 767-3453.
An Oklahoma registered agent can be:
• An individual Oklahoma resident.
• A domestic Oklahoma corporation, LLC or LP.
• A foreign corporation, LLC or LP authorized to transact business in Oklahoma.
2. What are the duties of an Oklahoma registered agent?
Every Oklahoma registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
3. How do I appoint a registered agent in Oklahoma?
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your Oklahoma registered agent by simply listing their name and Oklahoma street address on your formation document.
4. Where can I learn more?
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Oklahoma registered agents, you can:
• Reach out to the Oklahoma Secretary of State Business Filing Department at (405) 522-2520.
An Oregon registered agent can be:
• An individual Oregon resident.
• A domestic Oregon corporation or LLC.
• A foreign corporation or LLC authorized to do business in Oregon.
2. What are the duties of an Oregon registered agent?
Every Oregon registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
3. How do I appoint a registered agent in Oregon?
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your Oregon registered agent by simply listing their name and Oregon street address on your formation document.
4. Where can I learn more?
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Oregon registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Oregon.
• Check out the Resident Agent and Service of Process page on the Oregon S.O.S. website.
• Reach out to the Oregon S.O.S. Corporation Division at (503) 986-2200.
Pennsylvania business entities are not required to appoint a registered agent. However, they must list a registered office—and the registered office provider performs the same duties as a registered agent.
Many Pennsylvania businesses enlist a Commercial Registered Office Provider (CROP), but you can also list any Pennsylvania address where you can receive official mail.
Service of process and state notices will be sent to the registered address on file for the entity, rather than an individual agent. As such, there are no registered agent obligations for individuals in the state.
Entities or individuals that provide registered agent services can file a Statement of Address of Commercial Registered Office with the state, and have their contact details added to the S.O.S. CROP directory.
If you decide to hire a Commercial Registered Office Provider, you can appoint them by listing their address as your entity’s registered office on your formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Pennsylvania registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Pennsylvania.
• Contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations at (717) 787-1057.
A Rhode Island registered agent can be:
• An individual Rhode Island resident.
• A domestic Rhode Island business entity.
• A foreign business entity authorized to conduct business in Rhode Island.
Every Rhode Island registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your Rhode Island registered agent by simply listing their name and Rhode Island street address on your formation document.
Tip: Make sure your registered agent is aware of the appointment. Failing to obtain the authorization of a Rhode Island registered agent can result in serious penalties, including a $1,000 fine or up to a year in jail.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Rhode Island registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in Rhode Island.
• Reach out to the Rhode Island Business Services Division at (401) 222-3040.
A South Carolina registered agent can be:
• An individual South Carolina resident.
• A domestic South Carolina business entity.
• A foreign business entity authorized to conduct business in South Carolina.
Every South Carolina registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
Your entity’s formation documents may include a registered agent signature section. However, (according to the Secretary of State’s office) the registered agent signature is optional, for both paper and online applications.
To appoint a registered agent in South Carolina, all you’ll need to do is include their name and street address on your Articles.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to South Carolina registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing resident agents in South Carolina.
• Reach out to the South Carolina Business Filings Department.
A South Dakota registered agent can be:
• An individual South Dakota resident.
• A domestic South Dakota business entity.
• A foreign business entity authorized to conduct business in South Dakota.
• A title or position within the entity.
South Dakota is one of the 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both commercial and non-commercial RAs must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent (a company in the business of providing registered agent service) individuals and entities must file a Commercial Registered Agent Registration with the Secretary of State.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can appoint your South Dakota registered agent by simply listing their name, street address and mailing address (if different from street address) on your company’s formation document. You also have the option of providing your agent’s email address for electronic correspondence.
If you’re appointing a commercial registered agent, you’ll need to provide their name and Commercial Registered Agent (CRA) number. No address is required.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to South Dakota registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the South Dakota Model Registered Agents Act.
• Reach out to the South Dakota Business Filings Department at (605) 773-4845.
A Tennessee registered agent can be:
• An individual Tennessee resident.
• A domestic Tennessee LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation authorized to transact business in Tennessee.
Note that Tennessee general partnerships are not required to appoint a registered agent.
Every Tennessee registered agent must maintain a registered physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the listed entity address.
As no written consent or signature is required, you can designate a Tennessee registered agent by simply listing their name and physical street address on your formation document. Just make sure they’re aware you’re doing so.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Tennessee registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Tennessee.
• Reach out to the Tennessee Business Services Division at (615) 741-2286.
Go in Depth
• Texas Registered Agents: Things You Need to Know
A Texas registered agent can be:
• An individual Texas resident.
• A domestic Texas entity.
• A foreign entity authorized to transact business in Texas.
Every Texas registered agent must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents or otherwise notify the entity at its most recent address.
You may choose to have your registered agent sign an Acceptance of Appointment and Consent to Serve as Registered Agent, and keep the signed form in your business records. You are not, however, legally required to submit this form to the state. If you’d like the Acceptance of Appointment to be added to your S.O.S. company records, you can pay a fee of $15 to have it filed.
Otherwise, as no registered agent signature is required, you can designate a Texas registered agent by simply listing their name and physical street address on your formation document. (Just make sure your agent is aware you’re doing so.)
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Texas registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Texas.
• Check out the Registered Agents FAQ on the Texas Secretary of State website.
• Reach out to the Texas S.O.S. Corporations Section at (512) 463-5555.
A Utah registered agent can be:
• An individual Utah resident.
• A domestic Utah entity.
• A foreign entity authorized to transact business in Utah.
Utah is one of the 12 states that have fully adopted the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA). This act divides registered agents into commercial and non-commercial categories. Both commercial and non-commercial RAs must:
• Maintain a physical street address in the state.
• Be present at their listed address to accept service of process in person.
• Forward legal documents to the business entity.
• Keep their address current with the state.
To be classified as a commercial registered agent, you must be currently providing registered agent service for several entities. If this is the case, you can file a Commercial Registered Agent Application with the State of Utah.
You may choose to have your registered agent sign an Acceptance of Appointment and Consent to Serve as Registered Agent, and keep the signed form in your business records. You are not, however, legally required to submit this form to the state. If you’d like the Acceptance of Appointment to be added to your S.O.S. company records, you can pay a fee of $15 to have it filed.
Written registered agent consent is not required in the State of Utah, which means you can designate a registered agent by simply listing their name and street address on your formation document. If you’re appointing a commercial registered agent, no address is required.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Utah registered agents, you can:
• Familiarize yourself with the Utah Model Registered Agents Act.
• Visit the Commercial Registered Agent page on Utah.gov.
• Contact the Utah Division of Corporations at (801) 530-4849.
A Vermont registered agent can be:
• A Vermont resident age 18 or older.
• A domestic Vermont corporation or LLC.
• A foreign corporation or LLC authorized to transact business in the state.
Every Vermont registered agent must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents or otherwise notify the entity at its most recent address.
Written registered agent consent is not required in Vermont, which means you can designate a registered agent by simply listing their name,along with a Vermont street address and mailing address, on your formation document.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Vermont registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Vermont.
• Reach out to Vermont Corporations and Business Services at (802) 828-2386.
A Virginia registered agent can be:
• A Virginia resident who is either a) a member of the Virginia state bar or b) part of the management of the business entity.
• A Virginia domestic business entity.
• A foreign business entity authorized to transact business in the state.
Every Virginia registered agent must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents or otherwise notify the entity at its last known address.
Written registered agent consent is not required in Virginia, which means you can designate a registered agent by simply listing their name, Virginia street address and locality on your Articles.
Virginia is one of the few states that allow a P.O. Box to be used as a registered agent address—but this is only acceptable when the agent’s town or city has a population of fewer than 2,000 people.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Virginia registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Virginia.
• Reach out to Virginia State Corporation Commission at (804) 371-9733.
A Washington registered agent can be:
• An individual Washington resident.
• A Washington domestic business entity.
• A foreign business entity authorized to transact business in the state.
• An office or position within the entity itself.
2. What are the duties of a Washington registered agent?
Washington is one of 7 states that have adopted specific aspects of the Model Registered Agents Act (MoRAA)—the law that divides registered agents into non-commercial and commercial categories.
Commercial registered agents in Washington are individuals or entities that provide registered agent service, and have filed a Commercial Registered Agent Listing Statement with the Secretary of State.
Other than that, there is little distinction between commercial and non-commercial agents. Both are obligated to maintain business hours, accept legal documents and deliver them to the represented business at its most recent address.
Washington registered agents are required to accept the appointment in writing. Paper formation documents require a wet signature; online applications can be signed electronically.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Washington registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Washington.
• Reach out to Washington S.O.S. Corporations Division at (360) 725-0377.
A Washington D.C. registered agent can be:
• An individual Washington D.C. resident.
• A Washington D.C. domestic business entity.
• A foreign business entity authorized to transact business in the state.
• An individual who holds an office or position within the entity itself.
Every registered agent in the District of Columbia must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents or otherwise notify the entity at its last known address.
Written registered agent consent is not required in Washington D.C., which means you can designate a registered agent by simply listing their name and District of Columbia street address on your Articles.
Telecom providers, non-resident taxicab and limousine drivers, and out-of-state landlords may also be required to appoint a Washington D.C. registered agent.
To learn more about the rulehttps://business.dc.gov/faq_details/9742s and regulations that apply to Washington D.C. registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Washington D.C.
• Reach out to Washington D.C. Corporations Division at (202) 442-4400.
A West Virginia registered agent can be:
• An individual West Virginia resident.
• A domestic West Virginia LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation authorized to transact business in the state.
Every West Virginia registered agent must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents or otherwise notify the entity at its last known address.
The West Virginia Code states that businesses “may” maintain a registered agent in the state—which means you’re not legally obligated to appoint one. That said, if you decide to designate a West Virginia registered agent, you can do so by providing their name and street address in the company’s Articles.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to West Virginia registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in West Virginia.
• Reach out to West Virginia’s One Stop Business Center at (304) 558-8000.
A Wisconsin registered agent can be:
• An individual Wisconsin resident.
• A domestic Wisconsin LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation authorized to transact business in the state.
Every Wisconsin registered agent must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the entity at its last known address.
Written registered agent consent is not required in Wisconsin, which means you can designate a registered agent by simply listing their name and office address (a Wisconsin street address) on your Articles.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Wisconsin registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Wisconsin.
• Reach out to Wisconsin’s One Stop Business Center at (304) 558-8000.
How to get a Wisconsin Certificate of Good Standing
Go in Depth:
A Wyoming registered agent can be:
• An individual Wyoming resident age 18 or older.
• A domestic Wyoming LLC or corporation.
• A foreign LLC or corporation authorized to transact business in the state.
Every Wyoming registered agent must maintain a physical address in the state, receive service of process and other official mail for the business entity, and forward these documents to the entity at its last known address.
In addition, Wyoming registered agents must keep certain company information on file at their listed address. This information includes the “Key Individuals” involved in a business (such as directors, officers, managers and members). They’ll also need to store a “Communications Contact” (the name, address, and phone number of a person within the company). This information may be requested the S.O.S. or a law enforcement agency.
Wyoming registered agents are required to accept their appointments in writing. Paper formation documents must be accompanied by a form called Consent to Appointment by Registered Agent. If filing online, you’ll be asked to attest that you’ve obtained a comparable written consent, and that you’ll retain it in your files.
To learn more about the rules and regulations that apply to Wyoming registered agents, you can:
• Read up on the statutes governing registered agents in Wyoming.
• Reach out to Wyoming S.O.S. Business Division at (307) 777-7311.