Who this is for
New founders forming an LLC or corporation, businesses expanding into new states, or companies needing a reliable registered agent to stay compliant.
What to look for in a provider
- Formation scope. Filing the entity, EIN, operating agreement, and compliance calendar.
- Registered agent quality. Reliable handling and prompt forwarding of legal documents.
- State coverage. Support wherever you operate or register.
- Transparent pricing. Watch for low headline fees plus expensive required add-ons.
- Ongoing compliance. Annual report reminders and filing support.
- Privacy. Using the agent's address rather than publishing your own where allowed.
Frequently asked questions
What does a registered agent do?
A registered agent is the official recipient of legal and government documents (lawsuits, state notices, tax mail) for your business. Most states require one with a physical in-state address available during business hours. A commercial registered agent reliably receives and forwards these documents and helps keep your entity in good standing, and lets you avoid publishing your own address.
How much does it cost to form an LLC?
Costs are the state filing fee (ranging roughly $50–$500 depending on the state) plus any formation-service fee. Many services offer low or "free plus state fee" formation, then charge for add-ons like registered agent, EIN, and operating agreements. Comparing the all-in cost: not the headline, matters.
Do I need a registered agent in every state I operate in?
You need a registered agent in each state where your business is formed or registered to do business (foreign qualification). Companies operating across multiple states often use a single commercial provider that covers all of them, simplifying compliance and document handling.
What's the difference between an LLC and a corporation?
An LLC offers liability protection with flexible, pass-through taxation and lighter formalities: popular with small businesses. A corporation (C or S) has a more rigid structure with shareholders and a board, and is often preferred when raising outside investment. The right choice depends on ownership, tax, and fundraising plans; many small businesses start as an LLC.
Can I be my own registered agent?
In most states, yes. If you have a physical address in the state and are available during business hours. But many businesses use a commercial agent to keep their home address private, avoid missing critical legal mail, and maintain coverage across states or when traveling. Missing a served document can have serious legal consequences.
What ongoing compliance does a business entity require?
Most states require periodic filings (annual or biennial reports) and fees to keep an entity in good standing, plus maintaining a registered agent. Missing these can lead to penalties or administrative dissolution. Many services include compliance reminders and filing support to prevent lapses.
How we help
Tell us where you're forming or operating and what you need. We shortlist formation and registered-agent providers that fit and introduce you directly, free to your business.
The providers pay us if you sign up, which is why you pay nothing and why we only point you toward things that actually fit.