Purpose and Requirements
The state of Pennsylvania requires all corporate entities to have a registered agent, which is a requirement in all 50 U.S. states. The purpose of a registered agent is to provide a reliable point of contact for important business documents. In Pennsylvania, the role is sometimes referred to as a statutory agent, resident agent, or commercial registered office provider (CROP). These agents must have a physical street address in the state and be present at that address during normal business hours.
Eligibility and Selection
Who Can Be a Registered Agent?
- Any resident of Pennsylvania, 18 years or older.
- Must have a physical street address in Pennsylvania; P.O. boxes are not accepted.
How to Choose a Registered Agent Service
When choosing a service, consider the focus on the registered agent’s physical address as the Registered Office, which is unique to Pennsylvania. Services vary in quality, so use these factors to decide:
- Privacy concerns, as the registered agent’s address becomes public record.
- Convenience offered by registered agent services, such as electronic document handling.
- Cost differences between being your own agent or hiring a service.
Becoming a Registered Agent
Self-Service vs. Hiring a Commercial Registered Agent
- You can choose to be your own registered agent if you’re over 18 and have a Pennsylvania address.
- Hiring a CROP keeps your personal address private and they accept communication on behalf of your business.
Steps to Form a Corporation in Pennsylvania
- Appoint a registered agent.
- Choose a unique business name.
- File Articles of Incorporation with the state bureau and pay the $125 fee.
Changing Registered Agent Status
- To update your registered agent, mail the appropriate form with a $5 fee to the Bureau of Corporations.