Businesses in Delaware are required to select a registered agent to receive official correspondence and any important legal documents. This essential role helps maintain your business’s good standing with the state and keeps you informed of any legal matters that may arise. At The Law Dictionary, we excel at translating complex legal requirements into clear, actionable insights for business owners. We’ve done the research to help you explore the best registered agent options in Delaware and make an informed decision for your company.
Best Registered Agent Services
Here are our top registered agent service picks in 2024:
- Most Comprehensive: ZenBusiness
- Best Customer Support: Northwest Registered Agent
- Best Legal Support: LegalZoom
- Most Cost Effective: Bizee (Powered by Incfile)
- Fast Turnaround: Swyft Filings
What Is a Registered Agent in Delaware?
In Delaware, a registered agent is a person or entity designated to receive important legal and official documents for your business. This includes things like service of process (legal papers relating to a lawsuit), tax notices, and other official correspondence from the state.
A registered agent is crucial for maintaining your business’s good standing with the state of Delaware. They act as a liaison between your company and the state government, ensuring that you receive important notices and can respond to legal matters in a timely manner. This is particularly important in Delaware, known for its business-friendly laws and large number of incorporated companies.
How Much Does a Registered Agent Cost in Delaware?
The price of a Delaware registered agent can vary widely depending on the service provider and the level of service you choose. You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $300 per year for basic registered agent services.
Some providers, like Bizee, offer a free year of registered agent service when you form your LLC through them. Others, like ZenBusiness, provide competitive pricing around $99 per year. More comprehensive services like LegalZoom may charge higher fees, but they often include additional features like compliance calendars and access to legal resources.
It’s important to consider the value you’re getting for the price. While it might be tempting to go with the cheapest option, remember that your registered agent is critical to keep your business compliant and informed. Investing in a reliable service can prevent potential legal issues down the road.
Who Can Be a Registered Agent in Delaware?
In Delaware, the requirements for who can serve as a registered agent are relatively straightforward. The registered agent must be:
- An individual resident of Delaware
- A Delaware corporation, LLC, or other business entity
- A foreign corporation authorized to do business in Delaware
Additionally, the registered agent must have a physical street address in Delaware (not a P.O. box) and be available during average business hours to receive documents.
While you can be your own registered agent if you meet these criteria, many business owners choose to use a professional service for convenience and privacy reasons.
What Does a Registered Agent Do in Delaware?
A registered agent in Delaware serves as the official point of contact between your business and the state government. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Receiving service of process and other legal documents on behalf of your business
- Forwarding important notices and documents to you in a timely manner
- Maintaining a physical address in Delaware where they can be reached during business hours
- Helping to keep your business in good standing by reminding you of important filing deadlines
By fulfilling these duties, your registered agent helps you stay compliant with state laws and aware of any legal actions or official communications that require your attention.
How Do You Designate a Registered Agent in Delaware?
Designating a registered agent in Delaware is a straightforward process that’s typically done when you form your business entity. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose your registered agent: This can be yourself, another individual, or a professional service.
- Obtain consent: Your chosen registered agent must agree to serve in this capacity.
- Include the information in your formation documents: When you file your Certificate of Formation (for LLCs) or Certificate of Incorporation (for corporations), you’ll need to provide the name and address of your registered agent.
- File the documents: Submit your formation documents to the Delaware Division of Corporations, either online or by mail, along with the required filing fee.
If you need to change your registered agent later, you can do so by filing a Certificate of Change of Registered Agent with the state and paying the associated fee.
How Do I Choose a Registered Agent in Delaware?
Choosing the right registered agent for your Delaware business is an important decision that can impact your company’s compliance and peace of mind. Here are some factors to consider:
- Reliability: A registered agent should be reliable and prompt in forwarding important documents to you. Look for services with a good business history and positive customer reviews.
- Privacy: If you’re concerned about privacy, a professional service can keep your personal address off public records.
- Additional services: Some registered agent services offer extras like compliance calendars, document storage, or access to legal resources. Consider whether these would be valuable for your business.
- Cost: While price shouldn’t be the only consideration, it’s important to find a service that works with your budget. Remember to look at the overall value, not just the lowest price.
We recommend comparing several options and reading reviews before making your decision. Consider your business’s specific needs and choose a registered agent that can best meet them.
The Bottom Line
Selecting the best registered agent in Delaware is a critical step in setting up and maintaining your business. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, comprehensive services, or top-notch privacy protection, there’s a registered agent service that can meet your needs.
Remember, your registered agent plays a vital role in keeping your business compliant and informed of important legal matters. Take the time to evaluate your needs and choose a registered agent that will be a reliable partner for your Delaware business.
