What a registered agent does
The agent is the LLC's official contact in the state. It receives service of process (lawsuits and subpoenas) and official notices from the state, and it must be reachable at its office during normal business hours. Delaware states the agent must maintain a street address and office in Delaware, and Wyoming says every business must continuously maintain a registered agent.
Who can serve
Rules differ by state. Examples from official pages:
- Wyoming: an individual at least 18 who lives in Wyoming and has a physical Wyoming address, or a business entity registered with the Secretary of State. Post office boxes, virtual addresses, mail-forwarding locations and UPS or FedEx stores do not qualify. Agents serving more than 10 businesses must register as commercial registered agents.
- Texas: an individual resident of Texas, or an organization registered or authorized to do business in Texas, other than the LLC itself. The registered office must be a street address, and it may not be only a mailbox service or a telephone answering service.
- Florida: an agent with a physical Florida street address; do not list a PO box. A business entity cannot be its own agent.
- Delaware: the state does not regulate registered agents and tells consumers to exercise due diligence when choosing one.
Can I be my own registered agent?
Often yes, if you meet the state's conditions: you live in the state, have a physical address there and are available during business hours. The trade-offs are privacy, because the agent's address is public in the state records, and availability, because someone must be present to accept papers. If you do not live in the state where you form the LLC, you cannot meet the in-state requirement yourself and need an agent there.
What to look for in a commercial agent
- A physical street address in the state, staffed in business hours
- Fast scanning and forwarding of documents, in a language you read
- Clear renewal pricing
- Registration with the state where it is required, such as Wyoming's commercial agent roster
Our service
Registered agent service is part of what we sell, and you are free to choose another agent or name your own. We provide your registered agent in every state we sell, through our registered-agent network, with your legal mail forwarded and scanned to you. The first year is included with the Complete and Launch plans. On the Essential plan you can add it for $49, and the renewal after the included year is $129 a year. You can also name your own agent with their name and street address when you order. See Florida registered agent details for how our service works.
Changing your agent
Changing agents is a state filing, and the form and fee depend on the state. Texas, for example, has a dedicated form for a change of registered agent or office, and Florida lists a $25 fee for the change. The new agent must agree to serve. Ask your state office for the current form.
Why it matters
If papers reach no one, a lawsuit can move forward without you knowing, and a state that cannot reach your LLC may take action against it. Keep your agent's details current so notices reach you.
Next step
Ready to form yours? Start your LLC with Coral Filings and we handle the state filing, the registered agent and the EIN request. Want to compare filing fees first? Open the state fees hub for all 50 states and D.C.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a registered agent in every state?
You need one in the state where the LLC is formed, and in each other state where you register it to do business.
Can I use my home address?
Only if you meet the state's conditions, and it becomes public record. It must be a physical street address in the state, not a PO box.
How much does Coral Filings charge?
The first year is included with Complete and Launch. On Essential it is a $49 add-on. Renewal is $129 a year.
Can a registered agent see my private information?
The agent receives legal and state papers addressed to the LLC. Ask any provider what it does with the documents and who can access them.
What happens if I change my mind about my agent?
You file a change with the state. The new agent must accept. Fees and forms depend on the state.
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. For your specific situation, talk to a licensed attorney or CPA.