What is a Registered Agent for an LLC or Corporation?

A Registered Agent in the United States is an individual or business entity designated to receive legal documents, government correspondence, and other official notifications on behalf of a company. This role ensures that important communications, such as service of process (lawsuits), tax notices, and compliance-related documents, are promptly and reliably forwarded to the appropriate company representative.

Registered Agent

Registered Agent requirements

• The “REGISTERED AGENT” is a legal figure required by law in all states, and is new to most foreigners.
• It is required of corporations and LLCs by state statutes. It is a legal requirement. It is not optional. Failure to comply with the requirement of not having a proper Registered Agent may result in legal sanctions.
• It is required to define a professional service – a Registered Agent – that will provide the company with services to comply with government requirements.
• A “Registered Agent” is a person or firm that will be the official point of contact for the LLC or corporation in the state to receive service of process, legal documents, official state or federal communications.
• He will act as the company’s representative for these official communications and will be responsible for informing the employer of these notifications, so that he can fulfill his obligations.
• The Registered Agent must have a physical address in the state, and must be available during business hours to respond to requests. P.O. boxes cannot be used.
• The primary function of a registered agent is to be available for service of process. Legal delivery may be delivered in person by a legal delivery professional or bailiff or, in some states, by certified mail, return receipt requested.
• The Due Process Clause of the U.S. Constitution requires valid service of process for the court to have personal jurisdiction.
• Another function of the registered agent is to be the point of contact for the Secretary of State with the company. The state and its agencies may send notices, reports, delinquency notices and other important communications to the registered agent’s address.
• Because companies are required by law to keep the name and address of the registered agent up to date, these important documents must go to the right person in the right place.

NOTE; the official address of the company is not necessarily the address of the registered agent, they are two different things although in some cases they may be the same.

INTERNATIONAL TRADING CENTER – ITC – It provides the Registered Agent service to its clients and during the first year the cost of opening the company is included.

Key responsibilities of a Registered Agent include:

1. Receiving Legal Documents: Accepting service of process, subpoenas, and other legal documents.
2. Compliance Notifications: Receiving correspondence from state agencies, including annual report notices and tax forms.
3. Mail Forwarding: Forwarding received documents to the company’s specified contact.

To serve as a Registered Agent, the individual or entity must:

• Have a physical address (not a P.O. Box) in the state where the company is registered.
• Be available during standard business hours to accept documents in person.

Selecting a reliable Registered Agent is crucial for maintaining good standing with state requirements and ensuring that the company promptly addresses any legal and compliance matters.

Contact ITC as your Registered Agent

For personalized assistance and professional Registered Agent services, contact International Trading Center (ITC) today. Let us help you ensure your business stays compliant and receives all critical communications efficiently.