The California Corporation Code Section § 1700-1702 requires that all corporations, LLCs and other business entities appoint and maintain a registered agent. A registered agent is someone designated to accept legal mail on behalf of a business. Registered agents must have a physical California address open during regular business hours to ensure certified mail delivery.
Qualifications for Registered Agents
To be a registered agent in California, one must:
- be over 18,
- have a physical California street address,
- be present at that address during normal business hours to accept legal documents.
A registered agent’s address is public record.
Service of Process and Compliance
Service of process is the official notification of a filed lawsuit. Registered agents are responsible for accepting this on a company’s behalf. Business owners must appoint registered agents when forming an LLC or corporation to remain compliant.
Professional registered agent services ensure proper compliance. With upcoming 2023 California regulations changes, it is crucial for business owners to understand registered agents’ roles and comply with new requirements.
You can be your own Registered Agent in California as long as you meet the state requirements. To be your own LLC Registered Agent, you need a physical address in California. PO Boxes are not allowed.
The registered agent is responsible for receiving all important legal notices for the LLC. This may include lawsuits filed against your organization. To elect yourself, list your name and address on your LLC’s formation documents when you file them.
In order to fulfill the requirements of a registered agent, an individual must be aware of and meet all state filing requirements. Additionally, the agent is responsible for receiving documentation from courts and state offices.