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

Appointing a Registered Agent in California is an important step while forming an LLC in California. In California, the registered agents are commonly known as Agent for Service of Process (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 California 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 California

As mentioned, an Agent for Service of Process 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 Agent for Service of Process 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 California 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 California. 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:

• Legal document receipt and forwarding – important legal documents from state authorities are forwarded to the client
• Online document access – these received documents are scanned and uploaded into safe depositories where customers can easily access them whenever they want on their secure online dashboard.
• Compliance alerts – don’t worry about filing deadlines as ZenBusiness will help you to be on time,
• Privacy protection– therefore you can use Zenbusiness’s address as your official business address which ensures that your personal information is not exposed in public records.
• Service in all 50 states
• Efficient: Expert support like those who know what they are doing and how to do it best.

Price

ZenBusiness offers two types of Agent for Service of Process services in California. 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 Agent for Service of Process service for your LLC in California at the cost mentioned above.

ZenBusiness LLC formation Packages:

• Standard: $0 starting from the basic package with such typical functions as LLC formation, document filing with California Secretary of State, and Agent for Service of Process at an additional cost.
• Pro: At $199, this mid-tier option also includes an annual report filing feature together with compliance alerts.
• Premium: Priced at $349 per year which adds up the whole complete service for instance a business address and mail forwarding.

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 California

It is straightforward to start with ZenBusiness as your registered agent in California. 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.

• Nationwide coverage: Every state and Washington D.C. provides registered agent services via Northwest.
• Same-day document scanning: All documents received are scanned, and then uploaded to your online account the same day.
• Compliance calendar: A personalized calendar for keeping track of crucial filing deadlines and requirements.
• Annual report reminders: Informative alerts about upcoming due dates for annual reports.
• Online document access: A user-friendly web portal providing secure 24/7 access to all your vital business documents.
• Corporate guides: Expert business consultants available for advice on various business issues.
• Privacy protection: To maintain personal privacy, public documents use Northwest’s address.
• Mail forwarding: Choose this option if you want your business mail sent elsewhere.
• Pre-filled state forms: State-specific forms with your company information already filled in for easy filing purposes.
• Free phone service: This is a dedicated local number forwarded when necessary, which may be obtained without charge by any new client who wishes so through the NWRA website or by calling direct telephone numbers provided on their website at any time during the working hours stated therein.

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:

• Go to the Northwest Registered Agent website.
• On their main page click “Sign Up” or “Get Started”.
• Choose your state(s) where you need registered agent service.
• Decide if you are creating a new business or want to change your existing registered agent.
• If you are starting a new company, select your entity type (LLC, Corporation, etc.) then follow through with ordering.
• For existing business switching agents fill out your business information as directed and complete the switch.
• Confirm your order details then proceed to checkout.
• After paying for this service NWRA will provide required documents that should be filed with the state where you want them to act as your registered agent.
• Submit these forms to the Secretary of State office or its equivalent agency in your respective state.

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,

• Correspondence Management: Your registered agent handles all correspondence, legal documents, and state notifications on behalf of your company.
• Document Scanning and Upload: Incoming documents are promptly scanned within 24 hours. Made accessible through an online platform.
• Compliance Alerts: Stay informed about filing deadlines and report due dates.
• Online Document Retrieval: Access your documents conveniently through a user portal anytime you need them.
• Privacy Assurance: Utilize LegalZoom’s address as your business address to maintain confidentiality in records.
• Nationwide Reach: Ideal, for businesses operating across locations as LegalZoom offers registered agent services nationwide.

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:

• Visit the Registered Agent service page, on LegalZoom’s website.
• Choose the state where you want to incorporate your business or appoint an agent.
• Specify if you are starting a business or switching, from another registered agent service provider.
• Provide details such as your business name, entity type, and contact information.
• Review the order details carefully before proceeding to make the payment.
• Once done move on to select your payment method(s).

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.

• Legal Document Handling: Get and keep important legal documents such as service of process, government notices, and compliance-related correspondence.
• Compliance Management: Help to ensure that your business complies with state requirements by tracking and notifying you of important filing deadlines.
• Privacy Protection: Use the address of the registered agent in place of your address so that there is privacy as well as prevent unwanted mails or visits.
• Nationwide Service: This can be accessed in all 50 states which implies you can do business registrations and maintenance in more than one state if the need arises.
• Business Address: Offer a physical location within the state of incorporation, which is often mandatory for starting a business entity.
• Mail Forwarding: Transfer crucial mailings plus essential legal notices to an address designated by you only.
• Customer Support: Get help from well-informed customer service representatives regarding issues or questions related to registered agent services.

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.

• Legal Mail Receipt and Forwarding: All official mail for example tax forms, legal notices, and other important papers are received by BetterLegal on behalf of your company.
• Same-day Document Scanning: Scanned documents are made available on the day they arrive in your secure online account hence making it easy for you to search relevant information quickly.
• Compliance Reminders: Automated reminders about filing deadlines for annual reports and other necessary compliance matters let you be aware anytime it is needed.
• Online Access to Documents: Use an online portal with a simple user interface to access any legal document from any place at any time.
• Security of Information: While using BetterLegal one can have personal addresses removed from public records since this will enhance privacy while lowering unwanted emails or calls.
• Nationwide Coverage: Choose BetterLegal irrespective of whether you operate within a single state or across all states in America for this service in every state.
• Expert Help: For clarifications etc. just make contact with their customer care executives who know much about registered agent service details.

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:

• Go to the BetterLegal website: Find the section on registered agent on their official site.
• Choose your state: Select the state(s) where you need registered agent service.
• Provide required details: Fill in necessary forms including company name, address, and contacts.
• Review and confirm: Go through each detail provided for accuracy purposes before confirming them.
• Make payment: To finalize a deal with them, pay the annual fee securely via their secured transaction system.
• Confirm receipt of payment: Once your payment has gone through, you will receive an email confirmation along with further instructions on how to access your account online.
• Update your record-keeping system: Afterward, file appropriate forms with the government office to officially change your business’ registered agent to BetterLegal.
• Start using the service: Benefit from document management and compliance assistance offered by BetterLegal as its registered agent.

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 California

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

Who Can Be a Registered Agent

• The person must be above 18 years old.
• The person must have a legal and physical address in the state where the LLC will operate.
• The person must be physically present during normal working hours.
• Anyone who fulfills the above requirements can act as a registered agent.
• Recommended – You should use a professional registered agent in California always.

Can I Be My Own Registered Agent

Yes, you can be your own registered agent in California. 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,

• If you are operating your business from home or you are into web business, then your home address will be shared on the public portal. This address will be used for mailing and other official purposes. This will hamper your privacy.
• A registered agent has to be physically available at the official address during working hours on working days for 52 weeks. Being your own registered agent might restrict your other work due to this.
• The registered agent’s address must be up to date in the Secretary of State portal.

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 Agent for Service of Process in California

At the time of submitting the California Articles of Organization, the Agent for Service of Process 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.

Appoint Agent for Service of Process Online

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

Appoint Agent for Service of Process By Mail

To appoint a registered agent in California by mail, you need to download the California 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 California Articles of Organization.

Cost of California Agent for Service of Process

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 California.

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 California Before Starting an LLC

• State Name: California
• State ID: CA
• Alternative Name: The Golden State
• State Moto: I have found it (Eureka)
• State Capital: Sacramento
• Population: 40,223,504
• State GDP: 3,634,821
• State Secretary of State: California Secretary of State
• State Registered Agent Change fee: $20
• SOS Address for mail and physical visit: Secretary of State, Business Entities Filings, P.O. Box 944228, Sacramento, CA 94244
• State LLC filing fee: $70
• State Corporation filing fee: 100forfilingonlineandbymail.100 for filing online and by mail. 100forfilingonlineandbymail.115 for in person filing
• State LLC Amendment fee: $30.00
• State LLC Annual Report filing fee: 10,10, 10,20 every 2 years
• Top Businesses in State: Gasoline Stations, E-commerce, Cosmetics and Beauty Services, Health and Fitness Center, and Car Wash Business

FAQs

What is a registered agent in California?

A registered agent in California is a person or company designated to receive important legal documents on behalf of a business entity.

Do I need a registered agent in California?

Yes, all businesses formed in California are required to have a registered agent to receive legal notices, government correspondence, and other important documents.

Can I be my own registered agent in California?

Yes, you can serve as your company’s registered agent in California as long as you have a physical address in the state where legal documents can be served during normal business hours.

What are the responsibilities of a registered agent in California?

The registered agent in California is responsible for receiving and forwarding legal documents, such as lawsuit papers, tax notices, and government correspondence, to the business entity.

How do I change my registered agent in California?

To change your registered agent in California, you must file a Statement of Information form with the California Secretary of State and pay the associated fee.

Can a California corporation be its own registered agent?

A California corporation cannot serve as its own registered agent. It must appoint an individual resident of California, a domestic stock corporation, or a foreign corporation authorized to transact business in California as its registered agent.

How much does a registered agent service cost in California?

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

What are the consequences of not having a registered agent in California?

Not having a registered agent in California can result in missing important legal and government notifications, which can have serious consequences for your business, including lawsuits, fines, or administrative dissolution.

Can a PO box be used as a registered agent address in California?

No, a PO box cannot be used as a registered agent address in California. The registered agent must have a physical street address in the state where legal documents can be served.

Can I serve as a registered agent for multiple companies in California?

Yes, you can serve as the registered agent for multiple companies in California as long as you meet the residency and availability requirements for each entity.

How do I find a registered agent in California?

You can find a registered agent in California by searching online for registered agent services that offer their services in the state.

Are there any specific requirements for a registered agent in California?

Yes, a registered agent in California must have a physical street address (not a PO box) in the state where legal documents can be served during normal business hours.

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

No, a registered agent cannot refuse to accept service of process in California. It is their legal obligation to accept and forward legal documents on behalf of the business entity.

How long does a registered agent appointment last in California?

A registered agent appointment in California typically lasts for one year and must be renewed annually.

Can I change my registered agent address to a new location in California?

Yes, you can change your registered agent address to a new location in California by filing a Statement of Information form with the Secretary of State and paying the associated fee.

Are there any residency requirements for a registered agent in California?

Yes, a registered agent in California must be an individual resident of the state or a business entity authorized to transact business in California.

Do I need to have a physical office in California to be a registered agent?

No, you do not need to have a physical office in California to be a registered agent. You can use the address of a commercial registered agent service or a friend’s address in the state.

Can a registered agent in California receive mail on behalf of the business entity?

Yes, a registered agent in California can receive mail on behalf of the business entity, including legal documents, government correspondence, and other important notifications.

Can I act as my own registered agent if I have a virtual office in California?

Yes, if you have a virtual office with a physical street address in California where legal documents can be served during normal business hours, you can serve as your own registered agent.

What information about the registered agent is listed in public records in California?

The name and address of the registered agent are listed in public records in California for the business entity they represent.

Can I change my business address without changing my registered agent in California?

Yes, you can change your business address without changing your registered agent in California. The registered agent’s address is separate from the business address.

Do I need to notify the Secretary of State if I change my registered agent address in California?

Yes, you must notify the California Secretary of State if you change your registered agent address by filing a Statement of Information form and paying the associated fee.

Is a registered agent required for all types of business entities in California?

Yes, all types of business entities formed in California, including corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and nonprofits, are required to have a registered agent.

Can a business entity act as its own registered agent in California?

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

When would I need to update my registered agent in California?

You would need to update your registered agent in California if the current agent is no longer available, if the agent’s address changes, or if you want to change to a new registered agent service provider.

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

No, a registered agent in California cannot be held liable for the actions of the business entity they represent. They are simply responsible for accepting and forwarding legal documents on behalf of the entity.

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

Yes, you can appoint a family member or friend as your registered agent in California as long as they meet the residency and availability requirements for the position.

What happens if my registered agent in California resigns or becomes unavailable?

If your registered agent in California resigns or becomes unavailable, you must appoint a new registered agent within a reasonable timeframe to ensure that your business remains in compliance with state laws.

Can I appoint a professional registered agent service to represent my business in California?

Yes, you can appoint a professional registered agent service to represent your business in California. These services specialize in serving as registered agents for businesses and can help ensure compliance with state regulations.

Do I need a registered agent to operate my California business?

Yes, all California businesses, including corporations, LLCs, and other entities, are required to have a registered agent in the state to receive important legal and official documents.

Also Read

• Alabama Registered Agent Services
• Alaska Registered Agent Services
• Arizona Registered Agent Services
• Arkansas Registered Agent Services
• California Registered Agent Services
• Colorado Registered Agent Services
• Connecticut Registered Agent Services
• Delaware Registered Agent Services
• DC Registered Agent Services
• Florida Registered Agent Services
• Georgia Registered Agent Services
• Hawaii Registered Agent Services
• Idaho Registered Agent Services
• Illinois Registered Agent Services
• Indiana Registered Agent Services
• Iowa Registered Agent Services
• Kansas Registered Agent Services
• Kentucky Registered Agent Services
• Louisiana Registered Agent Services
• Maine Registered Agent Services
• Maryland Registered Agent Services
• Massachusetts Registered Agent Services
• Michigan Registered Agent Services
• Minnesota Registered Agent Services
• Mississippi Registered Agent Services
• Missouri Registered Agent Services
• Montana Registered Agent Services
• Nebraska Registered Agent Services
• Nevada Registered Agent Services
• New Hampshire Registered Agent Services
• New Jersey Registered Agent Services
• New Mexico Registered Agent Services
• New York Registered Agent Services
• North Carolina Registered Agent Services
• North Dakota Registered Agent Services
• Ohio Registered Agent Services
• Oklahoma Registered Agent Services
• Oregon Registered Agent Services
• Pennsylvania Registered Agent Services
• Rhode Island Registered Agent Services
• South Carolina Registered Agent Services
• South Dakota Registered Agent Services
• Tennessee Registered Agent Services
• Texas Registered Agent Services
• Utah Registered Agent Services
• Vermont Registered Agent Services
• Virginia Registered Agent Services
• Washington Registered Agent Services
• West Virginia Registered Agent Services
• Wisconsin Registered Agent Services
• Wyoming Registered Agent Services

In Conclusion

The Agent for Service of Process 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 California is even if you get a lower price or the most affordable service, make sure to check if that fits your requirements.