What is a Registered Agent?
First, let us say what a Registered Agent (also referred to as a Resident Agent, Statutory Agent or Statutory Representation) is. As stated before, anyone intending to register a business with a Secretary of State, may be required to appoint a Registered Agent.
A Registered Agent receives Service of Process on behalf of a company in any state where the company conducts business.
What is service of process? Service of process documents include legal proceedings, litigation, legal notices, or official government correspondence delivered to the company.
The Registered Agent's main role to receive these documents from the Secretary of State and forward them to the business owner.
In most, if not all, jurisdictions,
any company failing to appoint and maintain a Registered Agent may
lose its authority to do business in that particular state.
Additionally, the state may impose fines and
penalties.
The failure to maintain a
registered agent may also limit a company's ability to legally
enter into contracts and utilize the protection of state
courts.
Why
Do I need a Registered Agent?
When forming a business, state statutes require you to designate a registered agent and, sometimes, a registered office. The need for a registered agent and/or office is to provide the state office with an official contact within that State. Especially in the case of foreign businesses, it must easier to have registered agent (contact for lawsuits and other legal documents) within the state, than outside.
The registered agent also provides the essential responsibility of receiving service of process on behalf of the company. Establishing a registered agent is a critical step to ensure that the company is legitimate and qualified to do business within the state.
Established Registered Agents
C T Corporation System: CT Corp is by far the leader in registered agent representation, controlling the biggest market share. CT is known for its superb service and innovative ideas.
National Registered Agent, Inc: NRAI is much younger than CT Corp in terms of how long they have been offering registered agent service, but they have come a long way and is highly recognized for service and price.
Corporation Service Company: CSC is also a big player in the registered agent business and has been CT Corp's main competition for many years.
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