In this guide
A registered agent is a person or company with a physical address in the state where your company is formed. Its job is to receive official mail on the company's behalf: legal notices, tax notices and state correspondence.
Why it is required
Every state requires a company to keep a registered agent so that the state and anyone suing the company can reach it. If the agent cannot be found or the service lapses, the company can fall out of good standing.
What an agent does
- Receives legal documents and official notices at a street address.
- Forwards them to you, usually by email.
- Is available during business hours, so mail is not missed.
An agent does not give legal advice and does not run your company.
Why not use your own address
You can act as your own agent if you live in the state and are present at the address during business hours. Many founders prefer not to, for two reasons. Their address becomes part of a public record, and they would need to be available whenever a notice arrives. People who live abroad generally cannot do it at all.
What FairEntity provides
We arrange a registered agent through a filing partner as part of the formation. You can see the agent's name and address in your dashboard once the company is formed.
Changing an agent
You can change your registered agent later by filing a change with the state. If you move the company or stop using a service, make sure a new agent is in place before the old one ends.
Requirements differ by state, so check the details for the state where you form.
This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
General information, not legal or tax advice. If your case needs it, a licensed attorney or accountant can advise you. Read the disclaimer