Did you know that Delaware is the most business-friendly state in the US? More than half of all Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in Delaware. And it’s not just big businesses that love Delaware – small businesses and entrepreneurs find plenty to love about our great state, too. Starting a business here, however, requires one to hire an excellent registered agent. A registered agent plays a crucial role in any established business, ensuring that necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time. Agents are responsible for keeping track of important deadlines, maintaining records, and handling other legalities on behalf of their clients. There are many reasons a business might hire a registered agent, but the most common is ensuring that the company complies with state regulations.
With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which registered agent is the best fit for your business. But because we care about your business and its safety, we diligently researched online on sites such as Google, Facebook, the Better Business Bureau, and others for weeks to find the best reviews. We even contacted each organization directly to confirm details or gather additional information. We’ve done some heavy lifting for you by compiling this list of the best registered agents in Delaware. Also, by answering common questions and addressing legal requirements, this article provides the information you need to decide confidently.
N.W. Registered Agent
Northwest Registered Agent is the best overall due to its numerous pros and a minimal number of cons. Perfect for all sorts of registered agent work.
ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness is the ideal choice if you're interested in starting and growing your business with all sorts of registered agent services right at your fingertips.
Harbor Compliance
Harbor Compliance is the best registered agent in Delaware for monitoring compliance. All documents are processed the same day; perfect if you're in a rush.
Inc Authority
Inc Authority provides highly efficient registered agent services while being very affordable for all sorts of businesses and entrepreneurs.
LegalZoom
LegalZoom is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs who want to do all of their legal correspondence themselves with certain helpful features.
What Is the Best Registered Agent Service in Delaware?
1. Northwest Registered Agent
Best Overall Registered Agent in Delaware ($125/year)
Northwest Registered Agent was founded in 1998 to provide personalized attention and support to its clients. As one of the best-registered agents in Delaware, they offer various services, including an agent for the service of process and document filing.
They pride themselves on offering individualized customer support, ensuring that each client’s needs are met quickly and efficiently. In addition, their experienced team is well-versed in all aspects of Delaware business law. Online reviews praise Northwest Registered Agents for their excellent communication and personalized service.
From business formation to annual report filing, it is a trusted choice for those seeking personalized attention for their business needs and that’s why we’ve chosen them as the best registered agent option.
Pros
- Customized Support: Northwest offers tailored support through its team of experienced professionals.
- Excellent Communication: The company has great reviews for its superb communication with clients.
- Business Formation to Annual Reports: Offers a wide range of services, from business formation to annual report filing
- Discounts: This company offers discounts to customers who sign up for multiple services.
Con
- Might Be Expensive: Some customers complain that the company’s services might be expensive for some.
Pricing
Registered Agent Service ($125/year): The basic service includes professional handling of service of process documents, same-day local scanning, 24/7 online access, compliance alerts, and privacy protection, all for just $125 per year.
They also offer premium mail forwarding for an additional $20 per year and attorney trademark services for just $499.
2. ZenBusiness
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Startups and Small Businesses ($199/year)
Beyond its efficient and affordable services, ZenBusiness also prides itself on being a socially responsible company. They have partnered with the nonprofit 1% for the planet to donate 1% of their profits to environmental causes.
Additionally, they have launched the ZenGives program, which offers pro bono formation services to qualified nonprofits and encourages their team members to volunteer in their communities.
They believe businesses should serve their clients and strive to impact society positively. This dedication to their customers and social responsibility makes ZenBusiness stand out as a leader in the industry and earns them the title of the best corporate mission.
This agent has affordable pricing that enables small businesses to form their entities without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Affordable: ZenBusiness has some of the most affordable rates in the industry.
- Socially Responsible: The company is committed to social responsibility and giving back to the community.
- Wide Range of Services: In addition to registered agent services, they offer a wide range of business formation and compliance services.
- Free Year of Registered Agent Services: ZenBusiness includes a free year of registered agent services with their business formation packages.
- User-Friendly Platform: The company’s online platform is user-friendly.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Offers 24/7 customer support to answer any questions you may have.
Con
- Additional Fees: Additional fees for some of the company’s value-added services, such as expedited filing and document scanning.
Pricing
Registered Agent Service ($199/year): Looking for a reliable registered agent service? Look no further than ZenBusiness. Their annual rate of $199 is reasonable and among the lowest in the industry.
They will keep track of incoming mail and offer the convenience of scanning and uploading necessary documents to your secure client portal. Additionally, ZenBusiness offers add-on services at a great value.
Their first-year starter package, which includes forming your LLC and registered agent services, is only $49. You can upgrade to their pro or premium packages for ongoing support for $199 and $299 per year, respectively.
ZenBusiness offers competitive pricing and comprehensive services for all your business needs.
3. Harbor Compliance
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Compliance Monitoring ($99/year)
Regarding regulatory compliance, multistate organizations have the unique challenge of juggling the various laws and regulations in each state they operate in.
At Harbor Compliance, they specialize in helping multi-state organizations navigate these complexities. The team of experts stays current on all state and federal laws, ensuring that their clients are compliant at every level.
Taking care of the tedious paperwork and being proactive about compliance allows clients to focus on their core business operations.
And it’s not just large corporations who benefit – their services also make a difference for small businesses operating in multiple states, allowing them to thrive without worrying about non-compliance penalties or legal action.
In turn, this contributes positively to their local communities and helps boost the economy. Harbor Compliance understands the importance of regulatory compliance for multistate organizations – and they’re dedicated to making it easy for them to meet their obligations.
Pros
- Compliance Specialists: Harbor Compliance is a team of compliance specialists who stay up-to-date on all state and federal laws.
- Multi-State Services: They offer comprehensive compliance services for businesses operating in multiple states.
- Assistance With Licensing: In addition to compliance assistance, they also help with business licensing applications.
- Free Consultation: Offers a free consultation to discuss your specific needs.
- Affordable: Their prices are very reasonable, especially considering the comprehensive nature of their services.
Con
- Limited Services: Their services are limited to regulatory compliance and business licensing assistance.
Pricing
Registered Agent Service ($99/year): If you’re looking for compliance assistance in just one state, Harbor Compliance offers a flat rate of $99 per year.
4. Inc Authority
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Affordability ($99/year)
As a registered agent, Inc Authority offers numerous benefits for businesses operating on a budget. With their affordable pricing structure and free registered agent services for the first year, Inc Authority helps businesses save money on essential services.
This can mean significant savings on filing fees and other administrative tasks for small businesses. And for community members, it means more efficient and timely service from local businesses.
Inc Authority’s streamlined online processes make it easy for businesses to handle necessary filings and documents efficiently, saving them time and redirecting their resources towards other aspects of their operations.
In addition to being cost-effective, Inc Authority also offers top-notch customer support. Their team is available to assist with any questions or concerns that may arise in registering a business.
Finally, Inc Authority also offers compliance support, helping businesses stay in good standing with state regulations and avoid potential fees or penalties. Inc Authority’s affordable services and streamlined processes make them an excellent choice for budget-conscious businesses.
Pros
- 30 Years of Experience: The company has been in business for over 30 years and is a well-established registered agent service.
- Affordable Pricing: Their prices are very reasonable, especially considering the comprehensive nature of their services.
- Registered in All 50 States: They are registered in all 50 states and can help businesses with compliance in multiple states.
- Free Registered Agent Services: They offer free registered agent services for the first year.
- Compliance Support: They offer compliance support to help businesses stay in good standing with state regulations.
- Customer Support: They have a team of customer support representatives available to assist with any questions or concerns.
Con
- Limited Services: Their services are limited to regulatory compliance and business licensing assistance.
Pricing
Registered Agent Service ($99/year): Inc Authority offers registered agent services for an affordable price – the first year is free, and then only $99 every year. The registered agents are knowledgeable and reliable, always available to assist with any required tasks.
Don’t let the stress of filing paperwork prevent you from starting your own business – let Inc Authority handle it for you. With their registered agent services, you can rest easy knowing your business is in good hands.
5. LegalZoom
Best Registered Agent for DIY Entrepreneurs ($299/year)
As a registered agent, LegalZoom helps facilitate important notifications for businesses, including official state documents and legal notices. This service allows business owners to focus on their company’s operations without worrying about missing important deadlines or documents.
Additionally, registered agents ensure that sensitive information is protected, as all official documents are delivered to the registered agent before being forwarded to the business.
While LegalZoom may be a convenient choice for those already using their services, it may be worth researching other options before committing to their registered agent service.
Pros
- Chat support
- Business document storage
- Tracking important deadlines
- Renewing licenses
- Compliance alerts
Cons
- Can be expensive for some startups
- Relatively weak free features
Pricing
The registered agent service provided by LegalZoom includes acceptance of business correspondence, along with reminders of tax and annual reporting requirements for $299/year. Although the service is more costly than others, the annual fee includes the cost of Delaware state filing fees.
6. Rocket Lawyer
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Ease of Use ($149/year)
When it comes to ease of use, any business owner or individual can appreciate the value of Rocket Lawyer. They offer a wide range of legal services that are simple to use and available at a fraction of the cost of hiring a traditional lawyer.
From creating custom legal documents to filing for trademarks and patents, Rocket Lawyer makes it easy for businesses to get the legal assistance they need without spending a fortune.
The platform allows users to create contracts, file trademarks, and handle incorporations and registered agent services for a low yearly fee. Not only does this save time and hassle for business owners, but it also helps customers feel secure in knowing that their transactions are being handled professionally and legally.
Additionally, Rocket Lawyer’s registered agent services ensure that businesses stay compliant with state regulations, helping to protect both the business and the larger community. Their registered agent services are reliable and affordable, starting at just $149 per year. And if you need any help along the way, their customer support team is always available to assist.
7. Incfile
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Mail Forwarding ($119/year)
Incfile offers mail forwarding as one of their registered agent services, and it can be a huge benefit for small businesses, business owners, and even entire communities. Firstly, for small businesses, having a dedicated mail forwarding service allows them to maintain a professional image by sending all of their mail to a physical mailing address rather than a PO Box or their home address.
This added level of professionalism can help to attract customers and clients.
Additionally, Incfile’s registered agent services allow business owners the freedom and flexibility to work from anywhere without worrying about missing important mail or legal documents.
And for communities with high turnover rates in businesses or residential buildings, mail forwarding helps to ensure that essential pieces of mail are not constantly getting lost or returned to sender.
Incfile’s reliable and efficient mail forwarding service benefits small businesses, business owners, and entire communities by allowing for smooth communication and peace of mind.
Incfile also offers a business filing service, which helps businesses incorporate or form an LLC. The service includes assistance with preparing and filing the necessary paperwork and ongoing support to ensure that the business remains in good standing with the state.
Pros
- Business Filing Services: They offer business filing services to help businesses incorporate or form an LLC.
- Mail Forwarding: They offer mail forwarding as one of their registered agent services, which can be a huge benefit for small businesses, business owners, and even entire communities.
- Bilingual Customer Support: Incfile’s customer support team can help you in English and Spanish.
Con
- Lack of 24/7 Support: Incfile’s customer support team is only available between 9AM and 6PM CST.
Pricing
Registered Agent Service ($119/year): Incfile’s registered agent services are affordable, especially compared to other providers. The first year is free, and then only $119 every year after that.
Additionally, they offer a business filing service, which helps businesses incorporate or form an LLC. The service includes assistance with preparing and filing the necessary paperwork and ongoing support to ensure that the business remains in good standing with the state.
8. BetterLegal
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Full-Service Needs ($90/year)
As a registered agent, BetterLegal offers businesses the vital service of receiving and forwarding legal documents on their behalf.
This helps businesses stay organized and on top of important deadlines and protects their privacy by keeping their personal information out of public record. In addition to registered agent services, BetterLegal offers options for business formation and compliance help, making them a valuable resource for the company’s continued success.
Furthermore, choosing to work with BetterLegal means more than just quality services at an affordable price – it also means supporting a socially conscious company that donates a portion of its profits to various nonprofit organizations in their community.
Other benefits of working with BetterLegal include their easy-to-use online platform and 24/7 customer support. Their services are also some of the most affordable in the industry, starting at just $90 per year.
Whether you’re looking for registered agent services or complete support with your small business needs, BetterLegal is the best choice for full-service solutions.
9. SunDoc Filings
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for E-Commerce Businesses and Compliance ($159/year)
While the state of Delaware may seem like an unlikely choice for e-commerce businesses, it’s a popular option due to its business-friendly laws and low tax rates. However, registering as a Delaware LLC or corporation requires having a registered agent in the state to maintain compliance with local regulations.
This is where SunDoc Filings comes in – they provide a street address in Delaware and act as your registered agent, handling all legal documents and notices on your behalf. And at only $159 per year, they offer a cost-effective solution for e-commerce businesses looking to do business in Delaware.
Their experts can also assist with filing annual reports and maintaining compliance with state regulations. So if you’re running an e-commerce business and want to register in Delaware, SunDoc Filings is the way to go.
10. InCorp
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Agent Specialist ($99/year)
As a registered agent, InCorp’s low fee of $99 per year seems appealing. Like any registered agent service, they offer a registered office and street address in Delaware and accept mail and service of process on behalf of your Delaware LLC. However, when accessing their system, the real problem becomes apparent.
Their online platform is confusing to navigate and lacks organization. In the long run, this can cause frustration and inconvenience for you and your business. When it comes to registered agent services, it’s essential to consider cost, efficiency, and reliability.
InCorp may offer a low price, but this may come at the expense of seamless communication and organization. It may be worth investing in a registered agent with an online platform that provides a better user experience.
11. Swyft Filings
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Fast Turnaround Registered Agent ($149/year)
When starting a business, one crucial step is choosing a registered agent. This person or company will receive legal documents on behalf of the business and ensure that all necessary filings are completed promptly.
Swyft Filings offers registered agent services with a fast turnaround time for only $149 per year. While other registered agents may take weeks to process documents, Swyft Filings can handle filings within 24 hours. In addition, they offer resources and support to help businesses comply with state regulations.
Overall, Swyft Filings is the perfect choice for efficient registered agent services at an affordable price.
12. CSC Global
Best Registered Agent in Delaware For Operating in a Range of Sectors ($299/year)
The registered agent is essential in establishing and maintaining your LLC or corporation. The registered agent acts as a point of contact for legal correspondence and essential documents, such as the service of process in the case of a lawsuit.
CSC Global offers premium registered agent service in all 50 states, not just Delaware. They have experience operating in various industries, from financial services to healthcare, making them well-equipped to handle any needs for your business.
Their annual fee is only $299 – a small price for peace of mind and reliable registered agent service. Trust CSC Global to be your registered agent and take one more responsibility off your plate as a business owner.
13. Registered Agents Inc.
Best Registered Agent in Delaware for Customer Service ($125/year)
When it comes to registered agent services, Registered Agents Inc. sets the bar high with its exceptional customer service. From the initial sign-up process to providing any necessary support, they are there for you every step of the way.
Plus, their registered office and address in Delaware meet all state requirements without hassle. However, one potential drawback is their $200 annual fee for registered agent services – a steep price compared to other options on the market. Registered Agents Inc. excels in customer service but may not be the most cost-effective choice for your business needs.
What Is a Delaware Registered Agent?
A Delaware registered agent, also known as a resident agent or statutory agent, is someone residing in Delaware who serves as the designated recipient for important legal documents such as service of process and tax forms on behalf of a company.
The company must formally appoint the registered agent, and this individual must have a physical address in Delaware where they can receive these documents during regular business hours.
The registered agent is responsible for forwarding any relevant documents to the appropriate parties within the company. Most companies appoint their employees as their registered agents, but they can also nominate a third-party services provider with an address in Delaware.
Many corporations choose to have a third-party registered agent to maintain privacy and avoid potential conflicts of interest.
How Can a Delaware Registered Agent Help Your Business?
There are several ways in which a Delaware registered agent can help your business:
Receive Documents: First, the registered agent will receive any legal documents on behalf of the company, such as the service of process in the case of a lawsuit. This saves the company time and resources by avoiding tracking down these documents.
Maintain Privacy: Second, appointing a third-party registered agent can help maintain the company’s privacy. The company’s contact information will be on public record, but the registered agent’s information will be kept private. This is important for businesses that want to avoid unsolicited sales calls or harassment.
Handle Correspondence: Third, the registered agent can handle any correspondence from state agencies on behalf of the company. This includes tax forms and other filings that must be submitted to the state. The registered agent will ensure that these documents are completed and filed promptly.
Is a Registered Agent Legally Required in Delaware?
Yes. While it may not always be obvious, a registered agent is legally required in Delaware. This individual or entity acts as the official contact for the business, accepting essential and legal documents on behalf of the company.
Without a registered agent, the business may not receive crucial information such as notices of lawsuits or meetings with shareholders.
In addition, Delaware law states that any entity incorporated or formed in the state must have a registered agent at all times. Failing to do so can result in penalties and fines for the business. Choosing an experienced and reputable registered agent is essential to ensure smooth operations for your business in Delaware.
Delaware Registered Agent Q&A
How Much Does a Delaware Registered Agent Cost?
The cost of a Delaware registered agent can vary depending on the provider you choose. Some providers charge an annual fee, while others may charge a monthly or quarterly fee. Some providers also offer discounts if you sign up for multiple years upfront. It’s important to compare pricing and services before selecting a provider.
Can I Be My Own Registered Agent in Delaware?
Yes. You can be your registered agent in Delaware as long as you have a physical address in the state where you can receive legal documents during regular business hours. You must also be a resident of Delaware.
However, many businesses appoint a third-party provider as their registered agent for privacy and convenience.
Can a Company in Delaware Change Its Registered Agent?
Yes. A company can change its registered agent by filing the appropriate paperwork with the state of Delaware
How Long Does It Take to Get a Delaware Registered Agent?
It usually takes a few days (1-3 days) to get a Delaware registered agent. Once you’ve selected a provider and paid the fee, they will file the necessary paperwork with the state of Delaware. You should receive confirmation from your registered agent within a few days.
N.W. Registered Agent
Northwest Registered Agent is the best overall due to its numerous pros and a minimal number of cons. Perfect for all sorts of registered agent work.
ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness is the ideal choice if you're interested in starting and growing your business with all sorts of registered agent services right at your fingertips.
Harbor Compliance
Harbor Compliance is the best registered agent in Delaware for monitoring compliance. All documents are processed the same day; perfect if you're in a rush.
Inc Authority
Inc Authority provides highly efficient registered agent services while being very affordable for all sorts of businesses and entrepreneurs.
LegalZoom
LegalZoom is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs who want to do all of their legal correspondence themselves with certain helpful features.