Top Alabama Registered Agents of 2024 – Reviewed (original) (raw)

Appointing a Registered Agent in Alabama is an important step while forming an LLC in Alabama. In Alabama, the registered agents are commonly known as Resident Agent (while in other states the term varies). The individual, holding the position of a Registered Agent, becomes the point of contact between your LLC and the government. Hence, it is absolutely necessary to appoint an efficient and professional registered agent for your LLC.

In this article, LLCBuddy editors bring up a list of top registered agents in Alabama you can hire while forming your Limited Liability Company. Explore the price, features, and other points before you buy the services.

Our Top Picks

LLC Service Our Rating & Pricing Top Features Learn More
#1 TOP PICK 5/5 $99 Per Year LLC formation package available 100% accuracy Fast customer service Learn More
4.5/5 $125 Per Year Free registered agent service for 1 year with LLC formation package Flat Rate Fast service Learn More

Best Registered Agent Services in Alabama

As mentioned, a Resident Agent is the main point of contact for your LLC with the state. The individual is pretty much the main character in your LLC story. Later on, if and when you dissolve your business, the Resident Agent plays a pivotal role in processing things legally. Hence, having a professional and experienced registered agent for your LLC is a mandatory task.

Almost all the top best LLC services in Alabama provide registered agent service as well. There are professional services that offer registered agents in multiple states to operate your business without hassle. You can explore the best LLC services that operate in all the states in the US.

Below, we have listed the top registered agent services available in Alabama. We have shared their price, features, and details about their services. Compare before you jump and buy their services for your organization.

1. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness has been designed to meet all the demands of modern businesses in terms of providing remarkable and comprehensive registered agent services. They have several features that make it easier for you to operate your business and remain compliant:

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Price

ZenBusiness offers two types of Resident Agent services in Alabama. If you already formed your LLC, you can still get their Registered Agent Service by paying 99forthefirstyearandthena99 for the first year and then a 99forthefirstyearandthena199 renewal amount per year from the 2nd year. They have another option for Registered Agent Service, that is ‘Registered Agent Service with Annual Worry-free Compliance’ – this package costs 199/yearfor1styearand199/year for 1st year and 199/yearfor1styearand398/year renewal from 2nd year onwards.

If you want to form your LLC with ZenBusiness, the starting pack starts from $0 (Basic). You can still buy the Resident Agent service for your LLC in Alabama at the cost mentioned above.

ZenBusiness LLC formation Packages:

At times, ZenBusiness provides offers or discounts, particularly for new customers or people who add registered agent services to other business establishment packages. You may want to check their website for updated deals.

How to Get a Registered Agent in Alabama

It is straightforward to start with ZenBusiness as your registered agent in Alabama. Visit ZenBusiness following the link, click on the ‘Start Now’ button, choose your state, submit the details of your LLC, and proceed to pay for the service. Once you make the payment, you will receive a confirmation email/message. It will be done within a few minutes.

Getting a licensed service provider like ZenBusiness allows LLCs to manage business more easily and remain legal about it which would then involve various features they provide, competitive prices on offer plus how simple it is for any sized enterprise to get started here.

2. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent (NWRA) is an established company that specializes in comprehensive registered agent services for businesses throughout the United States. The firm’s attention to detail and excellent customer service have endeared it to entrepreneurs as well as existing companies. Here are several features, pricing, and how to get their registered agent services.

Price

Northwest Registered Agent offers transparent pricing for its services. The standard fee for registered agent service amounts to $125 per year per state. This flat-rate fee includes all the core features mentioned above, with no hidden costs or upsells attached thereto herewith,

Northwest Registered Agent gives discounts in case you need its services in multiple states. Thus, the more states you require service in, the less you will pay per state. Moreover, there are often some promotions for new clients and it may be worth checking out their website to see if any are going on at the moment,

While Northwest’s prices may be slightly higher than those of other providers, many customers feel that they are justified by the quality of service and comprehensive features included in their base package.

How to Get a Registered Agent

Getting registered agent services from Northwest Registered Agent is simple:

Once approved, Northwest will start acting as a registered agent for your Limited Liability Company under its Articles of Organization or Incorporation.

Northwest Registered Agent Services offers a reliable solution for businesses seeking professional registered agent services. They have positioned themselves as trusted partners with their comprehensive features, transparent pricing, and easy registration process for businesses of all sizes across the United States.

3. LegalZoom

LegalZoom offers a Registered Agent service aimed at simplifying business operations and maintaining adherence. The company is the oldest one among the close competitors that provide LLC formation services. LegalZoom, like many other top-rated companies offers LLC formation at $0. Here are some important factors in choosing LegalZoom for your registered agent,

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You’ll receive a calendar with all the dates specific to your business needs. Feel free to reach out to LegalZooms customer care team if you have any questions or concerns, about your registered agent service.

Price:

LegalZoom offers moderate rates for their Registered Agent services. Currently, the standard price is $249 per year covering services for one year in one state. For businesses operating in states, LegalZoom provides discounted rates when registering in states. To check prices or inquire about volume discounts visit their website. Contact their sales team.

While not the inexpensive option there many businesses appreciate LegalZoom’s service for its extensive features and reliability. The peace of mind that comes from having a reputable firm manage your compliance needs is invaluable.

How to get LegalZoom Registered Agent service:

Legal Zoom will prepare the documents for filing in your state to officially designate them as your registered agent once your order is processed. If you need to change your registered agent submit the required forms to the Secretary of State Office or relevant authority in your state. Upon approval by the state authorities, LegalZoom can act as a representative on your behalf.

LegalZoom typically expedites order processing. It may take a day for orders to be processed depending on how quickly individual state authorities respond.

By choosing LegalZoom as your registered agent you are establishing a partnership with a company that has built a reputation over time. Their comprehensive services can help ensure that your business remains legally compliant allowing you to focus on tasks, like growing your enterprise.

4. TailorBrands

TailorBrands, known for its branding and logo design services, also offers registered agent services to help businesses maintain compliance. Let’s explore the features, pricing, and how to get started with TailorBrands’ Registered Agent Service.

tailore-brands-logo

TailorBrands’ registered agent services go beyond just fulfilling a legal requirement. They offer a streamlined solution to help you manage your business’s legal obligations efficiently and professionally.

Price

TailorBrands offers competitive pricing for its registered agent services. While exact prices may vary depending on your specific needs and location, they generally fall within the industry average range of $100 to $300 per year.

The company often provides discounts for multi-year commitments or when bundling the service with other TailorBrands offerings. It’s best to check their website or contact their sales team for the most up-to-date pricing information and any current promotions.

Remember that while cost is an important factor, the reliability and quality of the service should be your primary consideration when choosing a registered agent.

How to Get a Registered Agent

Getting started with TailorBrands Registered Agent Services is a simple process:

  1. Visit the TailorBrands website and navigate to their registered agent services page.
  2. Select your state of incorporation or where you need the registered agent service.
  3. Choose between a new registered agent service or transferring from your current provider.
  4. Provide necessary information about your business, including your company name, address, and contact details.
  5. Review the service agreement and pricing details.
  6. Complete the payment process to finalize your registration.
  7. Once confirmed, TailorBrands will provide you with the necessary documentation to file with your state, officially designating them as your registered agent.
  8. Set up your online account to access your dashboard and manage your documents.

After completing these steps, TailorBrands will begin serving as your registered agent, handling your important legal and tax documents and helping you maintain compliance with state regulations.

With competitive pricing, comprehensive features, and an easy setup process, it’s worth considering for both new and established businesses. Remember to evaluate your specific needs and compare options before deciding to ensure you choose the best registered agent service for your company.

5. BetterLegal

BetterLegal will help you satisfy your legal obligations and systemize your business processes by providing you with a dependable registered agent service. Let’s look at the characteristics, pricing, and how to begin working with BetterLegal as your registered agent.

Price

The standard charge per year per state for availing BetterLegal’s registered agent service equals $90. This type of pricing model helps clients understand what amounts businesses should set aside annually toward fulfilling their compliance needs. No hidden fees are found here thus; such type of business support may be suitable for all small-scale companies or big ones as well.

BetterLegal may give volume discounts to companies operating in more than one state. If you need registered agent services in several states, then feel free to contact their sales team directly for particular prices.

How to Get BetterLegal Registered Agent Service

The process of obtaining BetterLegal’s registered agent service is simple:

You are deciding to hire BetterLegal as your registered agent, and that will help your business stay within the law while also benefiting from its efficiency and simplicity. They are perfect for businesses that need reliable registered agents because they have affordable prices and all-encompassing features.

Hiring a Registered Agent in Alabama

You may have several options for hiring a registered agent in Alabama. To become a registered agent, one has to meet the basic eligibility criteria. If the minimum requirements are fulfilled, anyone residing in Alabama can represent your LLC as your registered agent.

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Who Can Be a Registered Agent

Can I Be My Own Registered Agent

Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Alabama. In fact, any member of the LLC, managers, and the owner can be a registered agent. Besides, someone from the owners’ family, such as a spouse, relatives, or other family members, can also act as a registered agent. As mentioned above, anyone who is representing the business as an agent should fulfill the basic criteria.

Why You Shouldn’t Be Your Own Registered Agent

Many small businesses do not hire a registered agent to save a chunk of money. However, it is not recommended to be your own registered agent. There are a bunch of problems one has to face while being a registered agent of his own LLC. Following are some of the issues you face,

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It is recommended to outsource the registered agent service to ease your work. As it protects your privacy, especially if you conduct your business from home. It is always wise to outsource the RA service rather than be your own registered agent.

How to Appoint Resident Agent in Alabama

At the time of submitting the Alabama Certificate of Formation, the Resident Agent can be appointed by the LLC. It can be done online or by mail. No additional fee is charged for appointing a Registered Agent. Only the state filing fee should be paid.

registered agent

Appoint Resident Agent Online

To appoint a registered agent online, you have to go to the Alabama Secretary of State business filing page and provide the information of your Resident Agent accordingly.

Appoint Resident Agent By Mail

To appoint a registered agent in Alabama by mail, you need to download the Alabama LLC filing form. Fill up the “Registered Agent” section with the appropriate details of the agent and submit it to the SOS office. For more information, read on Alabama Certificate of Formation.

Cost of Alabama Resident Agent

The cost of having a registered agent can be variable. It depends on whether you are employing an in-house registered agent, being your own agent, or outsourcing the service. The cost of having a registered agent can start from 90andgoupto90 and go up to 90andgoupto300 per year. It will be cost-effective if you outsource the registered agent service in Alabama.

Registered Agent services that also provide LLC formation packages can provide the same service at a lower price. For example, ZenBusiness Registered Agent offers standalone registered agent service at 199peryear,butifyoubuytheirLLCformationpackageat199 per year, but if you buy their LLC formation package at 199peryear,butifyoubuytheirLLCformationpackageat0 + state fees, you might get a low cost for registered agent service.

Things to Know About Alabama Before Starting an LLC

FAQs

What is a registered agent in Alabama?

A registered agent in Alabama is a person or company authorized to accept legal documents on behalf of a business entity.

Why do I need a registered agent in Alabama?

Alabama law requires all business entities, including LLCs and corporations, to have a registered agent to accept service of process and other legal documents.

Can I be my own registered agent in Alabama?

Yes, as long as you have an address in Alabama where you can be contacted during business hours.

What are the requirements for a registered agent in Alabama?

A registered agent in Alabama must have a physical address in the state where legal documents can be served during regular business hours.

How do I change my registered agent in Alabama?

You can change your registered agent in Alabama by filing the appropriate paperwork with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office.

Can a corporation serve as its own registered agent in Alabama?

No, a corporation cannot serve as its own registered agent in Alabama. It must appoint an individual or another business entity to act as its registered agent.

Can a PO Box be used as a registered agent address in Alabama?

No, a PO Box cannot be used as a registered agent address in Alabama. It must be a physical street address.

What happens if my registered agent resigns in Alabama?

If your registered agent resigns in Alabama, you must appoint a new registered agent and file the appropriate paperwork with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office.

Can I change my registered agent’s address in Alabama?

Yes, you can change your registered agent’s address in Alabama by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office.

Can a registered agent refuse to accept service of process in Alabama?

A registered agent cannot refuse to accept service of process in Alabama. It is their legal duty to accept such documents on behalf of the business entity.

Can I act as the registered agent for multiple businesses in Alabama?

Yes, you can act as the registered agent for multiple businesses in Alabama as long as you meet the requirements for a registered agent in the state.

What is the cost of hiring a registered agent in Alabama?

The cost of hiring a registered agent in Alabama varies depending on the service provider. It could range from 50to50 to 50to300 per year.

Are there any risks associated with not having a registered agent in Alabama?

Yes, not having a registered agent in Alabama can result in missed legal deadlines, default judgments, and potential fines for non-compliance with state laws.

Can a registered agent be held personally liable for the actions of a business entity in Alabama?

Typically, a registered agent cannot be held personally liable for the actions of a business entity in Alabama. Their role is limited to accepting legal documents on behalf of the entity.

What happens if a business entity fails to maintain a registered agent in Alabama?

If a business entity fails to maintain a registered agent in Alabama, it may face penalties such as administrative dissolution or forfeiture of its right to do business in the state.

Can I appoint a professional registered agent service in Alabama?

Yes, you can appoint a professional registered agent service in Alabama to ensure compliance with state laws and have peace of mind knowing that legal documents will be handled promptly.

How can I find a reputable registered agent service in Alabama?

You can find a reputable registered agent service in Alabama by conducting research online, reading reviews, and checking with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office for a list of approved providers.

Are there any additional services that a registered agent in Alabama can provide?

Some registered agent services in Alabama may offer additional services such as mail forwarding, document scanning, and compliance monitoring for an extra fee.

Can I switch registered agent services in Alabama midway through my business entity’s existence?

Yes, you can switch registered agent services in Alabama at any time by filing the appropriate paperwork with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office and notifying your current agent of the change.

How soon will a registered agent in Alabama notify me of any legal documents received on my behalf?

A registered agent in Alabama is required to notify you promptly upon receiving any legal documents on your behalf, usually within 24 hours of receipt.

Can a registered agent in Alabama help me with business entity formation and compliance requirements?

Some registered agent services in Alabama may offer assistance with business entity formation, annual report filing, and other compliance requirements to help you stay in good standing with the state.

What happens if I cannot reach my registered agent in Alabama during an emergency situation?

If you cannot reach your registered agent in Alabama during an emergency situation, you may need to contact the Alabama Secretary of State’s office for guidance on how to proceed.

Can a registered agent in Alabama provide a physical address for my business entity if I don’t have one?

Yes, some registered agent services in Alabama may offer a physical address for your business entity if you don’t have one or prefer to keep your address private.

Will my registered agent in Alabama keep my information confidential?

Yes, your registered agent in Alabama is required to keep your information confidential and will not disclose it without your consent, except as required by law.

Is it possible to change the registered agent for my business entity in Alabama without disrupting its operations?

Yes, you can change the registered agent for your business entity in Alabama without disrupting its operations by following the proper procedures and ensuring a seamless transition of responsibilities.

Can I appoint a family member or friend as my registered agent in Alabama?

Yes, you can appoint a family member or friend as your registered agent in Alabama as long as they meet the requirements and are willing to accept the responsibility.

Do I need to provide any documentation to appoint a registered agent in Alabama?

Yes, you will need to provide the necessary documentation, such as a Consent to Serve as Registered Agent form, when appointing a registered agent in Alabama to ensure compliance with state laws.

Can a business entity serve as its own registered agent in Alabama?

No, a business entity cannot act as its own registered agent in Alabama. It must appoint an individual or entity to serve as its registered agent.

Can I change my registered agent in Alabama?

Yes, you can change your registered agent in Alabama by filing the appropriate form with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office and paying the necessary fee.

What happens if I don’t have a registered agent in Alabama?

Failure to maintain a registered agent in Alabama can result in your business entity being in default or losing its good standing with the state. This can have serious consequences for your business.

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In Conclusion

The Resident Agent is the most important person in an LLC. It can be anyone who fulfills the criteria, however, it is always wise to hire a professional. The biggest advantage of having a professional agent or outsourcing the service is, that you can give your 100% focus on your business.

Choosing a perfect registered agent service is not difficult. You can explore their plans and prices. Also, check their brand name, reputation, and all other features that can be helpful for your business. We strongly recommend ZenBusiness services as they not only offer registered agent services at a reasonable price but also, offer LLC formation at $0. One thing to note while choosing the top registered agent service in Alabama is even if you get a lower price or the most affordable service, make sure to check if that fits your requirements.