Choosing the Best Registered Agent Service

Choosing the Best Registered Agent Service

You must appoint a registered agent to form a corporation or limited liability company in Florida. But what does that selection process entail? How do you keep from picking the wrong person? Well, don’t worry – we’re here to help you find the best registered agent service for your needs.

Just What Does a Registered Agent Do?

In Florida, a registered agent is an individual or business in charge of receiving a business’s official mail and legal documents. That means that, in the unfortunate case that your business is hit with a lawsuit, it will be either mailed or hand-delivered to who or whatever is listed as your registered agent. A registered agent is required in each state that an LLC or corporation wishes to do business in and plays an important part in how litigation is handled.

Who is Eligible to be a Registered Agent?

The requirements on who can be a registered agent in Florida aren’t strict, but they do exist. They must have a physical street address located in Florida, and this address cannot be a P.O. box. They should also be available during business hours to receive any notices, services, or other documents. A registered agent can be either an individual or a company. Corporations and/or LLCs cannot act as their own registered agents. However, employees or owners are still fair game.

Can I Do It Myself?

While acting as the registered agent for your own business is permitted, that doesn’t make it smart. Doing so puts your name and address on the public record, which can be a problem for those who value their privacy. It also makes you more liable to miss or lose important documents, which can lead to losing cases by default, fines, and other penalties.

For more on the risks of acting as your own Registered Agent, click here.

What Should I Look for in a Registered Agent Service?

So, if you aren’t going to be your own registered agent, then how do you decide on who can handle the responsibility? The most important factors are reliability and timeliness. Documents must be delivered as soon as possible. Otherwise, it might be too late to act by the time you find out.

Looking to start a business or grow your current business? Contact FL Patel Law today by visiting our website or calling (727) 279-5037.