A non-commercial registered agent is an individual chosen by the company to receive legal documents. Any Nevada resident who is at least 18 years old and qualifies can be this person. However, the company itself cannot serve as the registered agent. In the world of business, it’s vital to have a registered agent. A represented entity specializes in registered agent services and provides them for thousands of clients. Their responsibilities are similar to a non-commercial agent.
These include:
- Maintaining a valid physical address for serving legal documents
- Receiving legal documents on behalf of your company
It is possible for a friend, family member, or even an employee to serve as a non-commercial registered agent.
In a few states, agents must file commercial registered agent listings if appointed for a certain number of entities. Non-commercial agents have not filed these listings. Most states don’t require agents to file commercial registered agent listings. The responsibilities of a registered or appointed agent include receiving, accepting, and forwarding any legal notices, demands, or processes served on or received by the registered agent.
Maintaining a registered agent and registered office is mandatory. Not doing so could result in the cancellation of the entity’s status. It is important that entities file a statement of change with the Secretary of State to update the registered agent’s name and address.
Defining a Noncommercial Registered Agent
A non-commercial registered agent is an individual chosen by the company to receive legal documents. Most individuals and single-state registered agent companies fall under this category. They have not filed a listing statement with the secretary of state.
There are several key distinctions between non-commercial and commercial agents. Non-commercial registered agents are not required to file certain financial reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and typically engage in fewer transactions.
The MoRAA (Model Registered Agents Act) in 2006 created the two classes of registered agents. Some states have adopted the distinctions fully, while other states do not differentiate. The MoRAA promotes uniformity for filings and provides one database.
Commercial registered agents are listed with the State. The listing allows streamlined reporting, providing the company name, address, and type. Non-Commercial Registered agents are registered only in one State.
Any individual or LLC with a Mississippi address may act as a noncommercial agent and will not be listed on the website. Corporations allow you to raise money and list on a Stock Exchange, and you can create one in two ways. If you’ve appointed a family member or friend as your agent, they’re considered noncommercial.
Appointing and Maintaining Agents
The owner can be its own agent, especially when newly registered. As the business grows, it might be wise to hire someone who can carry out responsibilities successfully.
The agent’s name and address are indicated in various official documents, such as reports, articles, and certificates. Sometimes permission for appointment is required, and when a change happens, the state must be informed.
A Maine registered agent receives service of process and correspondence for a business. State law requires the registered office be located in the registration state at a physical address. An agent provides an address and receives government notices.
Differences Between Commercial and Noncommercial Agents
The difference between commercial registered agents and noncommercial registered agents is that noncommercial agents have not filed a commercial registered agent listing statement with the Secretary of State. Commercial agents file this special listing statement and pay a fee, allowing them to streamline communication with the state. Noncommercial agents do not file this listing or pay a fee, often because they represent a smaller number of companies.
The duties and responsibilities of both types of registered agents are the same. A noncommercial registered agent is typically an individual or small company providing services within just one or a few states. These entities have not filed a listing with the states where they serve clients.