The Importance of Having a Registered Agent
Having a registered agent is a legal requirement in most jurisdictions. A registered agent ensures important documents like legal notices, tax forms, and service of process are properly delivered to the business. This helps maintain compliance and ensures the business stays informed about legal matters.
States require registered agents so there is a reliable way for the public, courts and government to contact companies. Once the state has your agent’s information, it becomes public record. Anyone can then find out who serves this role. More reasons registered agents are important:
- Receive legal documents: People with complaints against a business have an address to send service of process.
- Government contacts: The government knows how to contact delinquent businesses.
- Staying compliant: Running a business involves complying with regulations, which is complex. By using an agent service, you can focus on your business.
The Role and Benefits of a Registered Agent
A registered agent has the responsibility to accept service of process for your company. This is when official documents are delivered to the party being sued. The papers must be delivered to a real person during business hours. This is why commercial registered agents are useful – they have someone available to accept deliveries.
You should choose an agent that’s reliable, experienced and offers good customer service. Consider:
- Expertise: Professional agents must know state requirements.
- Address: Agents can’t use P.O. boxes.
Using an agent service has benefits:
- Get served documents quickly. Time-sensitive legal documents need immediate attention. Agents can receive them in real-time.
- Stability if you move. Growing businesses often relocate. An agent offers an unchanged address for deliveries.
- Coverage during odd hours. Many offices have irregular hours now. Agents operate during regular business hours.
Every state requires businesses like LLCs, corporations and partnerships to appoint registered agents to accept legal documents. While you can serve as your own agent, specialized services often handle this better.
Can You Be Your Own Registered Agent?
To become a registered agent in New Hampshire you must: Be over 18, have a New Hampshire street address. To change your registered agent, file a form and pay $15 fee. If you need an agent, consider using our partner. To become a notary, meet eligibility, submit forms and fee, take oath, buy seal and journal.
A registered agent ensures you get legal notices, helps avoid penalties and is available during business hours so you don’t have to be. Look for an established company with positive reviews and experience with LLC services when finding an agent.
LLCs, corporations and partnerships must appoint registered agents to accept legal documents. While you can serve as your own agent, utilizing the services of a specialized agent service is often more advantageous.