Top South Carolina Registered Agents of 2024 – Reviewed (original) (raw)

Appointing a Registered Agent in South Carolina is an important step while forming an LLC in South Carolina. In South Carolina, the registered agents are commonly known as Registered 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina

As mentioned, a Registered 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 Registered 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 best LLC services in South Carolina 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 South Carolina. 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 Registered Agent services in South Carolina. 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 Registered Agent service for your LLC in South Carolina 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 South Carolina

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

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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 South Carolina

You may have several options for hiring a registered agent in South Carolina. To become a registered agent, one has to meet the basic eligibility criteria. If the minimum requirements are fulfilled, anyone residing in South Carolina 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 South Carolina. 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 Registered Agent in South Carolina

At the time of submitting the South Carolina Articles of Organization, the Registered 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.

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Appoint Registered Agent Online

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

Appoint Registered Agent By Mail

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

Cost of South Carolina Registered 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 South Carolina.

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 South Carolina Before Starting an LLC

FAQs

What is a registered agent in South Carolina?

A registered agent in South Carolina is a designated person or entity responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of a business.

Why do I need a registered agent in South Carolina?

A registered agent is required by law in South Carolina to ensure that there is a reliable way to receive important legal documents like lawsuits or government notices.

Can I be my own registered agent in South Carolina?

Yes, you can be your own registered agent in South Carolina as long as you have a physical street address in the state where legal documents can be served during business hours.

What are the advantages of hiring a professional registered agent in South Carolina?

Hiring a professional registered agent in South Carolina can provide privacy, convenience, and reliability, as they will ensure that you never miss important legal documents.

How much does it cost to hire a registered agent in South Carolina?

The cost of hiring a registered agent in South Carolina can vary depending on the provider, but it typically ranges from 50to50 to 50to300 per year.

Can a registered agent help me form a business in South Carolina?

Yes, many registered agent services in South Carolina also offer business formation services to help you start your business and ensure compliance with state regulations.

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

If you do not have a registered agent in South Carolina, your business may face serious consequences such as fines, penalties, or even administrative dissolution.

Can I change my registered agent in South Carolina?

Yes, you can change your registered agent in South Carolina by filing the appropriate paperwork with the state and notifying your current agent of the change.

Do I need a physical address in South Carolina for my registered agent?

Yes, your registered agent in South Carolina must have a physical street address where legal documents can be served during normal business hours.

Are there any restrictions on who can serve as a registered agent in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the registered agent must be an individual resident of the state, a business entity authorized to do business in the state, or a commercial registered agent.

How do I designate a registered agent for my business in South Carolina?

To designate a registered agent for your business in South Carolina, you will need to include their information on your formation documents filed with the state.

Can a registered agent be held liable for my business’s actions in South Carolina?

No, a registered agent in South Carolina is simply a legal representative for receiving documents and is not liable for the actions or debts of your business.

Can I change my registered agent address in South Carolina after filing?

Yes, you can change your registered agent address in South Carolina by filing an amendment to your business formation documents with the state.

Do I need a registered agent if I operate my business from home in South Carolina?

Yes, you still need a registered agent in South Carolina even if you operate your business from home, as it provides a reliable way for legal documents to be served.

Can a registered agent help me with compliance requirements in South Carolina?

Yes, a registered agent in South Carolina can help remind you of important deadlines, such as annual report filings, to ensure that your business remains in good standing.

Can my attorney serve as my registered agent in South Carolina?

Yes, your attorney can serve as your registered agent in South Carolina as long as they have a physical street address where legal documents can be served.

Can a registered agent help me with filings for foreign qualification in South Carolina?

Yes, many registered agent services in South Carolina can assist with filings for foreign qualification if your business is already registered in another state.

Can I serve as the registered agent for multiple businesses in South Carolina?

Yes, you can serve as the registered agent for multiple businesses in South Carolina as long as you are able to fulfill the duties for each one effectively.

How quickly does a registered agent in South Carolina notify me of any legal documents received?

A registered agent in South Carolina will typically notify you of any legal documents received on the same day they are delivered, ensuring that you have timely information.

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

Yes, you can act as your own registered agent in South Carolina if you have a virtual office as long as it has a physical street address where legal documents can be served.

Can I change my registered agent to another state other than South Carolina?

If you are registered to do business in South Carolina, your registered agent must have a physical street address within the state to receive legal documents.

Can I have a family member or friend act as my registered agent in South Carolina?

Yes, a family member or friend can act as your registered agent in South Carolina as long as they meet the residency requirements and are willing to accept legal documents on your behalf.

Are there any requirements for communication between me and my registered agent in South Carolina?

It is important to maintain open communication with your registered agent in South Carolina to ensure that you receive timely notifications of any legal documents received.

Can a registered agent help me with business mail forwarding in South Carolina?

Some registered agent services in South Carolina may also offer business mail forwarding as an additional service to help with managing your business communications.

Do I need a registered agent if I operate an online business in South Carolina?

Yes, even if you operate an online business in South Carolina, you still need a registered agent to receive legal documents on behalf of your business.

Can I designate a business partner as the registered agent for our company in South Carolina?

Yes, you can designate a business partner as the registered agent for your company in South Carolina as long as they are willing and able to fulfill the duties required.

Can I hire a registered agent service located out-of-state to represent my business in South Carolina?

No, your registered agent in South Carolina must have a physical street address within the state to receive legal documents as required by law.

Can I change my registered agent service to a different provider in South Carolina?

Yes, you can change your registered agent service provider in South Carolina by following the required procedures to update your registered agent information with the state.

What are the requirements for a registered agent in South Carolina?

The registered agent must have a physical address in South Carolina where legal documents can be delivered during regular business hours.

Can a business entity be its own registered agent in South Carolina?

No, a business entity cannot be its own registered agent in South Carolina. It must appoint an individual or company to act as its registered agent.

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In Conclusion

The Registered 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 South Carolina is even if you get a lower price or the most affordable service, make sure to check if that fits your requirements.