What Is a Registered Agent for an LLC?
A registered agent is the official point of contact between your LLC and the state government. Every LLC must designate one. The registered agent receives lawsuits, tax notices, annual report reminders, and other official documents on behalf of your LLC at a physical in-state address during business hours.
A registered agent (also called a statutory agent, resident agent, or agent for service of process) is an individual or company designated to receive official government and legal documents on behalf of your LLC. Every U.S. state requires LLCs to have one. The agent must have a physical street address in the state of formation and be available during business hours to receive documents. You can serve as your own registered agent or use a commercial service.
Definition: What Is a Registered Agent?
A registered agent is the entity designated in your LLC's formation documents as the official recipient of:
- Service of process: Lawsuit notices and legal court filings
- State government correspondence: Tax notices, compliance requests, renewal reminders
- Annual report notices: Reminders from the Secretary of State about required annual filings
- Other official documents: BOI compliance notices, regulatory correspondence
The registered agent acts as the LLC's reliable physical presence in the state — a known location where the government and courts can reach the LLC at any time during business hours.
Other Names for Registered Agent
Different states use different terminology for the same role:
| State | Official Term Used |
|---|---|
| Most states | Registered Agent |
| Arizona | Statutory Agent |
| Ohio | Statutory Agent |
| Maryland, Nevada | Resident Agent |
| California (some contexts) | Agent for Service of Process |
| New York | Registered Agent (Secretary of State serves as agent) |
Basic Requirements
Regardless of state, a registered agent must typically:
- Have a physical street address (no P.O. boxes) in the state of LLC formation
- Be a resident of that state (for individuals) or an authorized business entity
- Be available at that address during regular business hours (Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM in their time zone)
- Consent to the role
Who Can Serve as a Registered Agent?
- The LLC owner themselves (if they meet state requirements)
- An LLC member, manager, or employee
- A family member, friend, or colleague with an in-state address
- An attorney or CPA with an in-state office
- A commercial registered agent company authorized in the state
→ See: Can I Be My Own Registered Agent?
→ Full guide: Registered Agent for LLC: What It Is and How to Choose