Best North Dakota Registered Agent Services For Your Business

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The Best North Dakota Registered Agent Services

Best Registered Agent Services in North Dakota: When starting an LLC in North Dakota, one of the essential requirements is designating Registered Agent. Registered Agent is a person or entity responsible for receiving important legal and government notices for your business. This includes tax notifications, lawsuit filings, and compliance-related correspondence. 

In this comprehensive guide, Webinarcare Editorial Team will explore the importance of North Dakota Registered Agent Services, how to choose the best service for your business, and the top registered agent services to consider. Please read all the points carefully before starting your business in North Dakota.

Best Registered Agent Services

What are Registered Agent Services?

Registered Agent Service is a professional third-party service that acts as a business or corporation’s official point of contact. It is responsible for receiving and forwarding important legal and government documents, such as service of process, tax notices, and compliance reminders, on behalf of the business. In many jurisdictions, this service is required by law to ensure businesses have a designated representative available during regular business hours to receive crucial communications.

In North Dakota, Registered Agent Services are often used by businesses that do not have a physical presence in a particular state or country or prefer to maintain privacy in their official records. If you have already started or are planning to form your North Dakota LLC, you must appoint Registered Agent. We reviewed some of the Best Registered Agent Services and provided features as an add-on with their packages.

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The main responsibilities of a Registered Agent include:

  • Receiving legal documents, such as subpoenas, summons, and other official correspondence from the state or federal government. Filing for North Dakota Articles of Organization and Articles of Incorporation in the North Dakota Secretary of State is one of their main responsibilities.
  • Ensuring these documents are promptly delivered to the appropriate individuals within the company.
  • Maintaining a physical address within the registered business’s state, the registered office.
  • They were available during regular business hours to accept service of process and other official communications.

Top 5 Registered Agent Services in North Dakota

The top 5 best Registered Agent Service list is mentioned below. Now, you will read everything about these companies, their pros & cons, pricing, and whether you should use them. Here is the breakdown of the best North Dakota Service companies. 

1. LegalZoom

new legalzoom logo

LegalZoom is a well-known legal services provider that also offers registered agent services. Their registered agent service costs $299 annually, with discounts available for multi-year plans.

legalzoom registered agent
Start With LegalZoom

Pros 👍

  • A reputable and well-established company
  • Comprehensive legal services beyond registered agent services
  • Discounts for multiple years of service

Cons 👎

  • Higher pricing compared to some competitors

To understand why LegalZoom is our top 1, check out Webinarcare Editorial Team’s LegalZoom Review.

2. Northwest Registered Agent

northwest registered agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a reputable registered agent service known for its commitment to privacy and personalized customer support. They offer registered agent services in all 50 states, with a flat annual fee of $125 per state.

nwra
Start With Northwest Registered Agent

Pros 👍

  • Personalized customer service
  • Focus on privacy and security
  • Straightforward pricing

Cons 👎

  • No bundled discounts for multiple states

Northwest Registered Agent is a top choice for those seeking reliable and professional registered agent services. Read more about the company here in Northwest Registered Agent Review. 

3. ZenBusiness

zenbusiness

ZenBusiness is a popular business formation service that also offers registered agent services. Their registered agent service is included in their LLC formation packages, which start at $0 plus state fees. The standalone registered agent service costs $99 per year.

zenbusiness registered agent
Start With ZenBusiness

Pros 👍

  • Affordable pricing
  • Comprehensive business formation services
  • Positive customer reviews

Cons 👎

  • Less competitive for standalone registered agent service

Webinarcare Editorial Team selects ZenBusiness service through thorough research and market study. You must cross-check all the factors or read ZenBusiness Review before choosing the right one for your North Dakota business.

4. BetterLegal

better legal

BetterLegal‘s registered agent service costs $10 per month, billed annually for $90 per year. Additionally, BetterLegal offers a 14-day free trial for their registered agent service.

better legal registered agent
Start With BetterLegal

Pros 👍

  • Affordable cost
  • Secure online document management system
  • Compliance reminders to prevent missed deadlines
  • Convenient change of address service

Cons 👎

  • No physical mail

BetterLegal is a solid choice if you’re looking for an efficient, user-friendly registered agent service tailored for small businesses. However, you can check out other Best Registered Agent Services.

5. Inc Authority

inc authority

IncAuthority is an online incorporation services provider that offers registered agent services as part of their LLC formation packages. As a registered agent, IncAuthority acts as a point of contact between the business and the state, receiving important legal and tax documents on behalf of the business. Inc Authority offers a free business formation service, with customers only paying state fees. However, their registered agent services come at an additional $99 per year, separate from the formation package.

IncAuthority’s registered agent service includes:

  • Receipt and forwarding of official documents and legal correspondence from the state
  • Compliance reminders to make sure you don’t miss important filings
  • Dedicated support and assistance for your business
inc authority registered agent
Start With Inc Authority

Pros 👍

  • Compliance with state filing regulations
  • Enhanced privacy
  • Convenience
  • Business continuity

Cons 👎

  • Costly
  • Limited control and availability
  • Risk of lost or delayed communication

How to Choose the Best Registered Agent Service

When selecting a Registered Agent service for your business, consider the following factors:

  • Experience and Reputation: Look for a Registered Agent service with a proven track record and positive customer reviews. Experience and reputation are crucial indicators of the quality of service you can expect.
  • State Coverage: Ensure that your chosen Registered Agent service can provide coverage in the state where your business is registered and any additional states where you may plan to expand.
  • Pricing and Features: Compare the pricing and features of various Registered Agent services to determine the best value for your needs. Be cautious of services with hidden fees or overly complicated pricing structures.
  • Customer Support: Choose a Registered Agent service that offers responsive and knowledgeable customer support. The ability to easily contact your registered agent and receive prompt assistance is essential during time-sensitive legal matters.

Why You Need a Professional Registered Agent Service

Although a business owner or a company employee can act as a Registered Agent, there are numerous benefits to hiring a professional Registered Agent service.

Privacy: Registered Agent’s address is a matter of public record. By hiring a professional Registered Agent service, you can maintain privacy and protect your personal or business address from being listed publicly.

Compliance: A professional Registered Agent service is well-versed in state requirements and can help ensure your business complies with its registered agent obligations.

In North Dakota, before filing North Dakota Corporation or an LLC, you are required to hire a Registered Agent. Registered Agent will ensure to file the necessary paperwork and file the taxes for your North Dakota LLC.

Also, in North Dakota, the Registered Agent should file for an LLC which costs around $135 and is payable to OH Secretary of State. The Registered Agent should also be aware that the reporting fee should be paid every 1 year (15th November every year).

Availability: Professional Registered Agent services guarantee availability during regular business hours, ensuring that your business never misses important legal or governmental notices.

Peace of mind: By outsourcing the Registered Agent role to a professional service, you can focus on managing and growing your business, knowing that experts handle this critical aspect of compliance.

Requirements in Becoming a Registered Agent

The requirements to become a Registered Agent may vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction, but generally, the following criteria must be met:

  • Physical Address: Registered Agent must have a physical street address (not a P.O. Box or virtual address) in North Dakota  where the business is registered. 
  • Availability: The Registered Agent must be available at the registered office during regular business hours (typically 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday) to receive and sign for important documents, such as service of process, tax notices, and compliance reminders.
  • Age and Legal Status: In North Dakota, a Registered Agent must be at least 18 years old and a legal resident of the state where the business is registered.
  • Good Standing: Registered Agent should be in good standing in North Dakota and not have any outstanding legal or regulatory issues that could prevent them from effectively serving as aRegistered Agent.
  • Consent: The Registered Agent must consent to act in this capacity for the business. This is typically done by signing a consent form or including their signature on the business entity’s formation documents.

When is hiring a Registered Agent service a good idea?

You might want to think about using a Registered Agent service if you regularly travel, operate your business remotely, don’t work from a single place during business hours, or don’t want to have your home address appear on public records. Registered Agent service is a fantastic choice if you want the assurance that your government, tax, and legal mail will be received by a third party and forwarded to you promptly.

Do I need a Registered Agent?

Yes, you typically need a Registered Agent if you are forming North Dakota S-corporation, limited liability company (LLC), or other types of business entities in North Dakota. Registered Agent is required by law to receive important legal and government documents, such as service of process, tax notices, and compliance reminders on behalf of your business.

The Registered Agent must have a physical address in North Dakota where your business is registered and be available during regular business hours to receive these documents. This ensures that the government and other parties have a reliable way to contact your business for legal matters.

You generally do not need a Registered Agent if you are a sole proprietor or operating under North Dakota DBA without forming a separate legal entity. However, checking North Dakota’s specific requirements and regulations is important to ensure compliance.

Can Registered Agent have a virtual address?

Registered Agent generally cannot have a virtual address because they are required to have a physical address in North Dakota, also known as the registered office. It must be a street address, not a P.O. Box or mail-forwarding service.

This requirement is to ensure a reliable and accessible location where the Registered Agent can receive crucial legal and government documents, such as service of process, tax notices, and compliance reminders, on behalf of your business during regular business hours.

Consider using a virtual address for your North Dakota business operations. You may still need to hire Registered Agent service with a physical address in the registration state to fulfill the legal requirements. This service will act as your official point of contact for legal and governmental correspondence and forward any relevant documents to your virtual address or preferred contact method.

FAQs

What is a registered agent in North Dakota?
A registered agent is an individual or business designated to receive legal documents and other important notices on behalf of a company in North Dakota.
How do I choose the best registered agent service in North Dakota?
When choosing a registered agent service in North Dakota, consider factors such as the company’s reputation, cost, availability, and level of customer service.
Do I need a registered agent in North Dakota if I have a physical presence in the state?
Yes, North Dakota law requires all businesses operating in the state to have a registered agent.
Can I act as my own registered agent in North Dakota?
Yes, but it is generally recommended that businesses use a professional registered agent service for reliable and consistent handling of legal notices.
How much does it cost to use a registered agent service in North Dakota?
The cost of using a registered agent service in North Dakota can vary. Shop around for the best price and quality of service.
Do registered agent services in North Dakota offer any additional services?
Some registered agent services in North Dakota offer additional services such as document filing, compliance information tracking, and other business services.
Can I change my registered agent in North Dakota?
Yes, a business in North Dakota can change its registered agent at any time by filing the appropriate paperwork with the state.
How quickly will I receive my legal documents from my registered agent in North Dakota?
The speed at which you receive legal documents and notices from a registered agent in North Dakota can vary based on the service level you choose and the individual company’s policies.
What happens if I miss a legal notice sent to my registered agent in North Dakota?
Missing a legal notice sent to your registered agent in North Dakota can result in serious legal consequences, including legal penalties and default judgments.
What types of companies can benefit from using a registered agent service in North Dakota?
Any company that conducts business in North Dakota can benefit from using a registered agent service in the state.
Can I use a friend as my registered agent in North Dakota?
Yes, you can use a friend as your registered agent in North Dakota, but be aware that this can create potential conflicts of interest and may not be the most reliable method of receiving legal notices.
Is it mandatory for me to use a registered agent service in North Dakota regardless of the size and nature of my business?
Yes, all businesses in North Dakota are required to have a registered agent, regardless of their size and nature.
Can I use a PO Box as my registered agent’s address in North Dakota?
No, a PO Box cannot be used as a registered agent’s address in North Dakota.
Can a registered agent in North Dakota also act as my business’s attorney?
No, a registered agent in North Dakota cannot act as your business’s attorney.
What happens if I fail to designate a registered agent for my business in North Dakota?
Failing to designate a registered agent for your business in North Dakota can result in your business losing its good standing with the state and facing legal penalties.
Are there any disadvantages in using a registered agent service in North Dakota?
The only real disadvantage of using a registered agent service in North Dakota may be the cost, but this can be worth the investment for the reliable handling of legal notices.
Can I act as my own registered agent in North Dakota if I live in another state?
Yes, you can act as your own registered agent in North Dakota if you live in another state, as long as you have a physical address in North Dakota where legal notices can be sent.
Can I hire a registered agent service that is not physically located in North Dakota?
Yes, you can hire a registered agent service that is not physically located in North Dakota, but make sure the service is authorized to do business in the state.
How often will my registered agent in North Dakota receive legal documents on my behalf?
The frequency at which your registered agent in North Dakota receives legal notices on your behalf can vary based on factors such as the nature of your business and the types of legal notices involved.
Can I change the registered agent for my North Dakota business at any time?
Yes, you can change the registered agent for your North Dakota business at any time by submitting the required paperwork to the state authorities.
What information should I provide when designating a registered agent for my business in North Dakota?
You will need to provide the registered agent’s name, address, and contact information, as well as information about your business.
Can anyone be a registered agent in North Dakota?
Anyone over the age of 18 with a physical address in North Dakota can be designated as a registered agent.
Can a registered agent service in North Dakota help with business compliance issues?
Many registered agent services in North Dakota offer business compliance services, such as tracking filing deadlines and providing advice on state-specific regulations.
Can I use a registered agent for a non-profit organization in North Dakota?
Yes, non-profit organizations are also required to have a registered agent in North Dakota.
Do I have to be a lawyer to be a registered agent in North Dakota?
No, you do not have to be a lawyer to be a registered agent in North Dakota.
Do I need a separate registered agent for each state in which I do business?
Yes, you will need a registered agent in each state where your business conducts business.
Can my North Dakota registered agent be held liable for my business’s legal issues?
No, a properly designated registered agent in North Dakota cannot be held personally liable for your business’s legal issues.
Does my North Dakota business need a registered agent?
Yes, North Dakota law requires that all business entities registered with the Secretary of State have a registered agent with a North Dakota street address.
Can I be my own registered agent for my North Dakota business?
Yes, but the registered agent must have a physical address in North Dakota and be available during regular business hours to receive legal documents and other official notices.
Do North Dakota registered agents provide any other services than just receiving legal documents?
Some registered agent services in North Dakota provide additional services, such as mail forwarding, compliance monitoring, and assistance with business filings.
How much does a North Dakota registered agent service cost?
Prices for registered agent services in North Dakota vary depending on the provider and the level of service. Some services may cost as little as $50 per year, while others may charge several hundred dollars annually.
What should I consider when choosing a registered agent service in North Dakota?
Some factors to consider when choosing a registered agent service in North Dakota include reputation, customer service, price, and additional services offered.
Can I change my North Dakota registered agent in the future?
Yes, you can change your registered agent at any time by filing a statement of change with the North Dakota Secretary of State.
What happens if my North Dakota registered agent goes out of business?
If your registered agent goes out of business, you must appoint a new agent and file a statement of change with the North Dakota Secretary of State.
Are North Dakota registered agents regulated by the state?
North Dakota registered agents are not specifically regulated by the state, but they must comply with the state’s laws and regulations regarding registered agents.
Do North Dakota registered agents have any legal liability for their clients?
North Dakota registered agents have no legal liability for their clients’ actions or mistakes, but they can be held liable if they fail to fulfill their duties as a registered agent.
Can I hire an out-of-state registered agent for my North Dakota business?
No, North Dakota law requires that registered agents have a physical address in the state.
How long does it take to change my North Dakota registered agent?
It typically takes a few days to change your registered agent in North Dakota, after filing the necessary paperwork and paying the associated fee.
Are North Dakota registered agents required to notify their clients when they receive legal documents or other official notices?
Yes, most North Dakota registered agent services will notify clients by phone, email, or mail when they receive legal documents or other important communications.
Can an individual serve as the registered agent for multiple North Dakota businesses?
Yes, an individual can serve as the registered agent for multiple businesses in North Dakota, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and are available during regular business hours.
Do North Dakota registered agent services provide registered office addresses?
Yes, most North Dakota registered agent services provide registered office addresses that can be used on business filings and other legal documents.
What should I do if I am no longer affiliated with the North Dakota business I served as a registered agent for?
If you are no longer affiliated with a North Dakota business that you served as a registered agent, you should notify the company and file a statement of resignation with the North Dakota Secretary of State.
Can a North Dakota business designate more than one registered agent?
No, North Dakota law requires that each business entity have only one registered agent.
Are there any special requirements for North Dakota registered agents serving foreign corporations?
No, the requirements for North Dakota registered agents are generally the same for both domestic and foreign corporations.
Can I appoint a North Dakota resident as my registered agent if I am located outside of North Dakota?
Yes, as long as the registered agent has a physical address in North Dakota and is available to receive legal documents and other official notices.
What types of legal documents might a North Dakota registered agent receive on behalf of their clients?
Some types of legal documents that North Dakota registered agents might receive include subpoenas, court notices, and summonses.
Do North Dakota registered agents have to be attorneys?
No, North Dakota registered agents do not have to be attorneys, but they should be familiar with the legal requirements and procedures related to serving as a registered agent.
Is it possible to serve as the registered agent for a North Dakota business from out of state?
No, North Dakota law requires that registered agents have a physical address within the state.
What happens if a North Dakota business fails to maintain a registered agent?
If a North Dakota business fails to maintain a registered agent, it may be subject to a fine and other legal consequences.
Can a North Dakota registered agent terminate their appointment with a business entity?
Yes, a North Dakota registered agent can terminate their appointment by filing a statement of resignation with the North Dakota Secretary of State.
Are North Dakota registered agent services required to have a physical office location in the state?
No, North Dakota registered agent services are not required to have a physical office, but they must have a physical street address for service of process purposes.
Do North Dakota registered agents provide any confidentiality protections for their clients?
Yes, North Dakota registered agents are obligated to maintain their clients’ confidentiality and not disclose client information except as required by law.
Can a North Dakota registered agent refuse service of process on behalf of their client?
No, North Dakota registered agents must accept legal documents on behalf of their clients, even if they believe the documents have not been served correctly.
Can a North Dakota business entity serve as its own registered agent?
Yes, a North Dakota business entity can serve as its own registered agent if it designates a specific individual within the company as the responsible agent.

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Conclusion

Selecting the right Registered Agent service is crucial for ensuring your North Dakota business remains compliant with North Dakota requirements and promptly receives important legal and government notices. By carefully considering your needs, comparing options, and evaluating customer support and additional services, you can choose the best Registered Agent service for your North Dakota business.

By entrusting this critical aspect of compliance to a professional Registered Agent service, you can focus on growing your business with the confidence that your legal and regulatory requirements are in good hands.

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