A registered agent is a person or company with a physical street address in your formation state, appointed to receive legal documents and official state correspondence on the company's behalf. Every US state requires one, and the address must be a real street address in that state - not a PO box.
Why does Registered agent matter for founders?
Non-residents must use a commercial agent because a foreign address will not satisfy the requirement. Independently the service costs roughly $50-$125 a year; inside a formation bundle it costs more. Critically, if you cancel an agent you must appoint a replacement with the state, or the company drifts out of good standing.
Where can I read more about Registered agent?
Note: A plain-English definition for orientation, not legal or tax advice. Rules change - last checked 2026-07-21.