Best Pennsylvania Registered Agent Services For Your Business

by
The Best Pennsylvania Registered Agent Services

Best Registered Agent Services in Pennsylvania: When starting an LLC in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.

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 Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania 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.

LLC Service

Rating & Pricing

Top Features

Learn More

#1 Recommendation

$299 Per Year

  • Free LLC Formation

  • RA service in all states

  • Legal consultation

Learn More

$125 Per Year

  • Flat price for RA service

  • LLC formation package

  • Fast service

Learn More

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 Pennsylvania Certificate of Organization and Articles of Incorporation in the Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania

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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, before filing Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania LLC.

Also, in Pennsylvania, the Registered Agent should file for an LLC which costs around $125 (by mail and online) and is payable to RI Secretary of State. The Registered Agent should also be aware that the reporting fee should be paid every 10 years.

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 Pennsylvania  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 Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania S-corporation, limited liability company (LLC), or other types of business entities in Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania DBA without forming a separate legal entity. However, checking Pennsylvania’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 Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania 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?
A Registered Agent is a business or individual designated to receive legal and official notifications on behalf of a company in Pennsylvania.
Why do I need a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
All LLCs and corporations operating in Pennsylvania must have a registered agent to receive legal and official notifications from the state.
Can I be my own Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, if you have a physical address in Pennsylvania and are always available during business hours to receive legal and official notifications.
Who can be a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
Any individual or business with a valid physical address in Pennsylvania can be a Registered Agent.
What are the requirements to become a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
There are no specific requirements to become a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania, but you must have a valid physical address in the state.
How much does it cost to hire a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
Prices vary by provider but generally range from $50 to $300 a year in Pennsylvania.
How long does it take to hire a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
It typically takes 24-48 hours to hire a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania, depending on the provider.
What is the Registered Agent’s role in Pennsylvania?
A Registered Agent in Pennsylvania receives legal and official notifications on behalf of a company and forwards them to the business owner.
Where should I go to find a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
Online providers like Incfile and ZenBusiness offer Registered Agent services in Pennsylvania, or you can find individual providers in local directories.
Can I change my Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can change your Registered Agent in Pennsylvania by filing a statement of change of registered office or agent with the state.
How often do I need to renew my Registered Agent service in Pennsylvania?
You’ll need to renew your Registered Agent service annually in Pennsylvania to stay compliant.
What happens if I don’t have a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
If you don’t have a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania or fail to keep up with the necessary fees and filings, your company could lose its good standing, incur fines, and even be dissolved.
Can a Registered Agent refuse to be my agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, a Registered Agent can refuse to represent your company in Pennsylvania if they have a conflict of interest or believe your business will fail.
Can I sign up for online Registered Agent services in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can sign up for Registered Agent services online in Pennsylvania using secure and reliable providers.
Does my Registered Agent’s address appear publicly in Pennsylvania?
Yes, your Registered Agent’s name and address are publicly available in the Pennsylvania State Corporation Bureau database.
Can a Registered Agent also be a member of my LLC in Pennsylvania?
Yes, a Registered Agent can also be a member or employee of your LLC in Pennsylvania.
What happens if I move to a new state but keep my Pennsylvania company?
You’ll need to designate a new in-state Registered Agent who can receive legal and official notifications on behalf of your business.
Can a Registered Agent accept legal documents forwarded by email in Pennsylvania?
Some providers may offer electronic delivery of legal documents in Pennsylvania, but they must still send hard copies by mail in most cases.
Do I need a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania if I have a physical presence in the state already?
Yes, Pennsylvania requires all LLCs and corporations to have a Registered Agent regardless of their physical presence in the state.
Can I be the Registered Agent for more than one business in Pennsylvania?
Yes, a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania can represent multiple companies as long as they have the time and capacity to do so.
Can my attorney be my Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, as long as your attorney has a valid physical address in Pennsylvania, they can represent your company as its Registered Agent.
How do I choose the best Registered Agent in Pennsylvania for my business?
Look for a reliable, affordable service provider with a good reputation and high customer ratings in Pennsylvania.
Can I change my Registered Agent on my own in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can change your Registered Agent by submitting a statement of change of registered office or agent to the Pennsylvania Department of State.
What types of notifications will my Registered Agent receive on my behalf in Pennsylvania?
Your Registered Agent in Pennsylvania will primarily receive legal and official notifications, including tax documents, legal filings, and other concerned matter
Can I use a PO Box for my Registered Agent address in Pennsylvania?
No, a PO Box is not a valid physical address for a Registered Agent service in Pennsylvania.
What information do I need to provide to hire a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania?
You’ll typically need to provide your business name, physical address, and other contact information to hire a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania.
Can I add or change Registered Agents anytime in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can change your Registered Agent in Pennsylvania at any time by submitting a statement of change to the state.
What happens if I don’t choose a Registered Agent for my Pennsylvania business?
Without a Registered Agent in Pennsylvania, your LLC or corporation could forfeit its right to do business in the state, face legal and financial penalties.
What is a registered agent and do I need one in Pennsylvania?
A registered agent is a person or company that is designated to receive legal documents and notices on behalf of a business entity. In Pennsylvania, all business entities are required to have a registered agent.
Can I act as my own registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can act as your own registered agent in Pennsylvania if you have a physical address in the state where you can receive legal documents and notices during business hours.
What are the benefits of using a professional registered agent service in Pennsylvania?
One main benefit of using a professional registered agent service in Pennsylvania is that they offer a reliable, secure and discreet way to receive legal documents and notices properly.
Is the registered agent’s information publicly accessible in Pennsylvania?
Yes, a registered agent’s information, including name and address, is publicly accessible in Pennsylvania.
Do registered agents provide any additional services in Pennsylvania?
Many registered agent services in Pennsylvania do offer additional services, such as mail forwarding, document scanning, and compliance assistance.
What kind of entities require a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
All business entities such as corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs) are required to have a registered agent in Pennsylvania.
How do I designate a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, you can designate a registered agent when filing your entity registration documents with the Secretary of State.
What should I look for when hiring a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
When hiring a registered agent in Pennsylvania, you should consider their experience, pricing, and reputation in the industry.
Are there any specific requirements for registered agents in Pennsylvania?
Yes, registered agents in Pennsylvania must maintain a physical address in the state where legal documents and notices can be delivered during business hours.
What happens if I don’t have a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
If you fail to appoint a registered agent for your business entity in Pennsylvania, it can result in penalties and the potential for legal problems such as missed court dates and lawsuits.
Can I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania anytime I want?
Yes, you can change your registered agent as often as you need to in Pennsylvania, just make sure to complete the necessary legal steps.
Do you need to provide any personal information about the registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, when appointing a registered agent in Pennsylvania, you need to provide their name, physical address, and contact information.
Can I change my registered agent in Pennsylvania online?
Yes, you can change your registered agent online in Pennsylvania by filing the necessary paperwork with the Secretary of State.
Can a registered agent in Pennsylvania be located in a different state?
No, a registered agent in Pennsylvania must have a physical address in the state they represent.
Is it possible for a registered agent to decline service in Pennsylvania?
In some cases, a registered agent may decline service in Pennsylvania if they don’t have the resources to properly serve as a registered agent or if they have a conflict of interest with the business entity.
How much does it cost to hire a registered agent service in Pennsylvania?
Fees for registered agent services in Pennsylvania can vary based on the provider, but most services range from $100 to $300 per year.
Can a law firm or attorney serve as a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, law firms and attorneys can serve as registered agents in Pennsylvania.
Do I need a physical address to register as a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, in Pennsylvania, you must have a physical address to register as a registered agent.
How can I verify that my business entity has a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Your business entity’s registered agent information is available through the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website.
What happens if a legal document or notice is delivered to a registered agent and not the actual business entity in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, a registered agent must promptly forward any legal documents or notices to the actual business entity after receiving them.
Can a registered agent also act as a director or officer of the company in Pennsylvania?
Yes, a registered agent can also serve as a director or officer of the company in Pennsylvania.
What should I do if I can’t contact my registered agent in Pennsylvania?
If you can’t contact your registered agent in Pennsylvania, you should immediately update the Pennsylvania Department of State with accurate contact information for your business.
Can an LLC or corporation act as their own registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes, both LLCs and corporations can act as their own registered agent in Pennsylvania provided they meet all the requirements for physical office address.
What are the consequences of failing to maintain a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Failure to maintain a registered agent in Pennsylvania could lead to legal or governmental problems in your business.
How Do you plan to serve and deliver important documents to the owner of a business in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, registered agents are designated to receive official and important documents. Put the PA address of the critical person in the documents and serve through the facilities of a better agent if they have power of attorney to accept documents for the people or businesses they represent.
How do I fill out the Pennsylvania State Change of Registered Agent form if I’m appointing myself?
You can appoint yourself as the registered agent of the business entity by filling out their Pennsylvania state-provided Registered Agency Amendment form and naming yourself instead of the current representative. Sign and return the completed form.
Does Philadelphia have different registered agent laws than the rest of PA?
No, Philadelphia doesn’t have different registered agent laws than the rest of Pennsylvania. They are held to the same regulations.
Could I face litigation if I appoint a professional curator I don’t trust?
There is a bit of danger in giving someone power-of-attorney as you are essentially granting them privilege by having them take critical message for folks or businesses you represent. Not trust your summoned entity breeds during inevitable legal disagreements, but whether an accurate amount of neglect was shown from either side would be called to question in litigation.

Also Read

Conclusion

Selecting the right Registered Agent service is crucial for ensuring your Pennsylvania business remains compliant with Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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.

Leave a Comment