Registered Agent: What It Is and Why It Matters

A registered agent is your official contact for legal and tax documents in your state of incorporation. You must name one to stay compliant and ensure timely delivery of important filings and legal notices.

Why it Matters

The registered agent ensures your startup receives lawsuits, tax notices, and compliance reminders. Without one, you can’t complete incorporation or maintain your legal status in Delaware or any other state.

Founders Checklist

Choose a professional agent with a physical address in your incorporation state
List them in your Certificate of Incorporation
Renew the agent service annually
Keep contact info up to date if your company moves
Monitor forwarded documents and store them securely

Founder Fails

Used a friend instead of a professional > missed important mail
Forgot to renew the agent service
Didn’t update the agent’s info after changing business address
Ignored compliance notices > fell out of good standing

When to ask for Help

If you’re deciding between different agent services
When registering to do business in multiple states
If your agent quits or becomes unavailable
When you're unsure whether you need to register in another state

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What exactly is a registered agent?
A: It’s a person or service designated to receive official mail, such as legal notices, service of process (lawsuits), or annual report reminders.

Q: Do I need one even if I don’t live in Delaware?
A: Yes — if you incorporated in Delaware, you must have a registered agent with a Delaware mailing address.

Q: Can I be my own registered agent?
A: Technically yes — but only if you have a physical office in the incorporation state and are available during business hours. Most founders use a service.

Q: What happens if I don’t maintain one?
A: Your company could lose “good standing” or be administratively dissolved. You could also miss critical legal deadlines.