A registered agent can help you successfully start your business by giving you the most relevant information for handling government requirements.
Establishing a business can indeed be very challenging especially if you have to do everything on your own. You may need to handle many tasks in a short period of time, which can be time-consuming and stressful. To focus on things that are important for your business development, you should think of hiring a professional service to handle administrative and state paperwork on your behalf.
If you want to set up an LLC in California you can read the TRUiC step-by-step guide with all of the necessary details on how to handle the whole process. It might be a good idea to have some help when forming your LLC so someone can help you out along the way, read more about the roles and how to select a registered agent below.
What is a Registered Agent?
A California agent for service of process commonly known as a registered agent can be an individual or a professional service entity in California, appointed by your company to handle the administrative tasks needed for state purposes. This professional is actually acting as the main point of contact between your company and the state. The tasks this service can cover include overall government correspondence, receiving federal and state tax forms, compliance and legal documents and service of process notices. They take on tasks you cannot do on your own and ensure you meet all compliance criteria and document deadlines
When you form a company in California it is obligatory to select a registered agent that is also located in the same state.
Can I act as a Registered Agent For my LLC?
Since your company will be formed in California, this state does give you the option to act as your own registered agent. To do that, there are several things you should know beforehand:
- you need to maintain 9 am – 5 pm business hours at the address you will be providing
- you will be required to provide your personal address if you are working from home and make it public
- you must list your own name and address on the Articles of Organization document
- you need to follow up on important notices and respect deadlines.
What is the Main Role of a Registered Agent?
A registered agent acts as the gatekeeper of your business. Many business owners in California choose to appoint a professional to help them meet important deadlines. A registered agent will inform you about the official state requirements or if any changes or new procedures have been imposed or help you file important documents like annual reports. Also, a registered agent will help you maintain compliance by notifying you of legal notices.
A registered agent will receive on your company’s behalf:
- Government correspondence
- Tax and legal documents
- Service of Process
A registered agent also acts as an adviser, helping you, for example with the actions required to resolve any potential problem according to California Law and in the expected timeframe.
How to Select a Registered Agent?
The answer to this question depends on your business needs and the expectations that you have from the professional who will be selected for this job. Here are some tips that can help you make the right decision.
Officially Registered in California
Check if a registered agent that you have selected is officially registered in California.
Good reviews
Read the reviews and comments for the registered agent’s services which are available in the state.
Excellent Customer Service
Shortlist only those that can provide good customer service and are available to answer all of your questions in a timely manner.
Value for money
For your LLC you can also use a California LLC formation service as your registered agent. Many of these services offer good prices and up to one year of free registered agent services for those who form an LLC with them.
