IMPORTANCE OF THE REGISTERED AGENT

If you have already created your business, then there’s no doubt you have a Registered Agent already. You must always have a Registered Agent for your company. Whether it’s yourself, a big fancy company, your aunt, or your neighbor's cousin, you need to have one. Let’s dive into the registered agent world.

A Registered Agent is the person or company that will receive state correspondence for your company. That’s it—plain and simple—the Registered Agent just receives mail from the state. No, they do not file your taxes; no, they do not file your annual reports; and no, they don’t walk your dog. It is simply a person or company appointed with the Secretary of State to receive state correspondence on behalf of your company.

Yes, you definitely need a Registered Agent. In fact, you will not be able to register your company without appointing one. The Registered Agent is who the state reaches out to if needed. For example, if the state is warning you about a missing filing required to remain in compliance or if you get sued, they will notify you via the registered agent. But don’t worry—you won’t get sued, I think. (:

Yes, you can be your own Registered Agent, as long as you have a physical address in the state where your company is registered and are able to receive mail during regular business hours. You will need to sign for the mail you receive.

It can be anyone, as long as they have a physical address in the state where your company is registered and can sign for state correspondence. The Registered Agent doesn’t even have to be involved in the business, so this means it can be your sister, your brother, your lover, your neighbor—even your dog (just kidding, (; not your dog, pay attention). So you get it—anyone, and anyone’s momma, as long as they are of age.

It can also be a company, but if it is, the company must be registered to provide Registered Agent services. There are a bunch out there. Keep in mind that your company cannot act as its own Registered Agent.

Failing to maintain a Registered Agent could result in the involuntary dissolution of your company by the state. Essentially, the state would cancel your business because they have no way to contact you.

Yes, keep your Registered Agent updated. This can be done through your annual report. Remember, if you don’t have one, the state will temporarily dissolve your company, and you’ll have to spend precious money to get it back into good standing.

There you go! You get it—you’re a Registered Agent graduate now. Go get 'em, and best of luck!

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