Get a Delaware Registered Agent

Discover the essential role of a Delaware registered agent in your business journey. Uncover the answers to common questions about registered agents in the First State.

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Navigating the complexities of business formation in Delaware requires understanding the role of a Delaware registered agent, a critical aspect for any registered business operating within the state. These agents aren’t just a legal formality — they meet specific legal and regulatory requirements enacted by the state. 

In this guide, we’ll discuss frequently asked questions surrounding Delaware registered agents, providing clear answers to help business owners make informed decisions. Whether you’re starting a new venture or managing an existing one, the insights shared here will illuminate the importance of registered agents in the smooth operation and legal integrity of your business in Delaware.

What is a Delaware registered agent?

A Delaware registered agent serves a pivotal role, acting as a legally designated individual or business entity appointed to receive important legal documents and some state notices on behalf of your business. This role is integral for all registered businesses in Delaware — such as a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation — as the agent handles sensitive and important communications such as service of process notices, legal summons, and certain official government correspondence. 

Maintaining a registered agent helps ensure that your business never misses crucial legal deadlines and maintains good standing in the state. The role isn’t just administrative but serves as a safeguard for the company, promoting compliance and smooth operations within the legal framework of Delaware.

Do you need a registered agent in Delaware?

In Delaware, appointing a registered agent isn’t just a recommendation, but a legal necessity for all registered business entities. As a general rule, if you file formation documents with the Delaware Division of Corporations or submit paperwork to get authority to transact business, then you need a Delaware registered agent

This requirement is in place to guarantee a consistent and reliable channel for the state and others to deliver important legal notices and documents. Without a registered agent, a business risks missing essential legal communications, which can lead to penalties and state fees or even the revocation of the business’s authority to operate within the state.

For example, if your business is served with a lawsuit and the process server can’t locate your company’s registered agent to accept service of process, you run the risk of not knowing about the case against you. You’d potentially lose the opportunity to defend yourself in court.

When should I get a Delaware registered agent?

Securing a Delaware registered agent is one of your initial steps when setting up a business in the state. This agent’s details are necessary for the registration process and must be included in your foundational legal documents. For a Delaware corporation, this means the Certificate of Incorporation, and for an LLC, the Certificate of Formation. If you’re thinking about hiring an agent service to fill this role for you, we recommend doing so during the startup process to avoid change fees and paperwork down the line.

If you’re moving or expanding an existing business into Delaware, appoint a registered agent as part of the relocation process. Timely appointment of a registered agent is crucial, as any delay can impede your business’s ability to legally operate, access state services, and remain compliant with Delaware’s business regulations.

Delaware Registered Agent Requirements

Delaware’s laws specify certain criteria that a registered agent must meet to ensure effective and lawful operation. First, the agent must have a physical address in Delaware, known as a registered office, which cannot be a P.O. box. This requirement helps ensure that there’s a tangible location for the service of legal documents. The agent must be available during normal business hours to receive any deliveries in person.

In terms of who can serve as a registered agent, the choices include an individual Delaware resident or a business entity that’s legally authorized to conduct business in the state. It’s vital to choose a registered agent who fulfills these legal requirements and has a track record of reliability and efficiency. They should have systems in place to promptly notify you and forward any documents received, keeping your business informed and compliant with state laws and regulations.

Who can be a Delaware registered agent?

Technically speaking, anyone can serve as a Delaware registered agent as long as they meet the criteria discussed above. As a result, many entrepreneurs choose to serve as their own registered agent, appoint a trusted individual (such as a family member or friend), or hire a registered agent service. 

These choices are perfectly legal, but they aren’t right for everyone. Let’s walk through the pros and cons of each option so you can confidently choose the best registered agent for your business.

Can I be my own Delaware registered agent?

In Delaware, you have the option to act as your own registered agent for your business. Small business owners often consider this choice if they’re looking to minimize expenses since they don’t have to pay an annual registered agent fee. However, they must personally fulfill all the legal obligations of a registered agent (explained above). For a small business owner, those requirements can be restrictive. 

For example, if your Delaware LLC requires you to be out and about serving clients, you can’t be tied down to a registered office address. You also can’t travel on non-holidays if you serve as your own agent. Furthermore, it’s problematic if you work irregular hours. In short, just because you can serve as your own agent doesn’t necessarily mean you should. For many entrepreneurs, a registered agent service is a better option.

Using Delaware Registered Agent Services

Opting for a Delaware registered agent service can offer significant benefits and peace of mind for business owners. Professional registered agent services specialize in receiving and handling legal documents and compliance notices, helping ensure that nothing gets missed. They maintain a physical presence at a Delaware business address, are available during all required hours, and can forward any documents to you in a timely manner. This is particularly advantageous for those who don’t reside in Delaware or are frequently out of the office for any reason.

Using a registered agent service also comes with some crucial advantages, like helping protect your professional image. If you serve as your own agent and your business is served with a lawsuit, the process server will come to you directly. This can happen at any time, even if you’re with a client or business partner. 

An agent service prevents that embarrassment. In that scenario, your agent would accept the service of process on your behalf, handling it discreetly and professionally.

How much does it cost for a registered agent in Delaware?

The cost of a Delaware registered agent can vary significantly based on the service provider and the level of services offered. Generally, the annual fees for a professional registered agent service range from around $100 to several hundred dollars. The annual registered agent fee covers the basic service of acting as your designated recipient for specific legal documents and government notices. The price for a registered agent company can increase if it includes additional services, such as uploading documents to an online account and other perks. 

It’s important to note that while being your own registered agent can save these costs, the potential risks and responsibilities involved might outweigh the financial savings. When choosing a service, consider not only the cost but also the reliability, reputation, and range of services provided by the agent. Some businesses might benefit from more comprehensive services, while others might only need the basic functions of a registered agent.

How to Get a Registered Agent in Delaware

Securing a Delaware registered agent is a straightforward process. If you decide to act as your own agent, all you have to do is fill in the appropriate information on your formation paperwork.

But if you decide to hire a service, your first step is to research and select a reputable registered agent service provider. You can do this by comparing registered agent services, fees, and reviews online. Once you choose a provider, you’ll typically need to sign up for their service, provide your business details, and pay the associated fees.

No matter what type of agent you hire, it’s crucial to officially designate your chosen agent in your business formation documents filed with the state, such as the Certificate of Incorporation for Delaware corporations or the Certificate of Formation for LLCs. If you’ve already formed your business, then you’ll follow procedures to change your registered agent instead.

How to Change a Delaware Registered Agent

Changing your Delaware registered agent is a relatively easy process. To make the change, you must file a form with the Delaware Division of Corporations — the “Certificate of Change of Registered Agent/Office” for a corporation or the “Certificate of Amendment Changing Only the Registered Office/Agent” for an LLC.

This form requires information about your Delaware company, including its name and type, as well as your new registered agent’s information. Please note that Delaware offers multiple versions of the form, and you’ll need to use the version that matches your business type.

There’s a filing fee of $50 for most entities (nonprofit corporations cost just $5). Once you submit your paperwork, the state will process the change and list your new agent on public record. Be sure to fully set up your new registered agent (and make sure they agree to serve you) before you make the change to help ensure a seamless process.

How to Resign as a Registered Agent in Delaware

Delaware registered agents who want to resign have two options. First, they can resign and appoint a successor agent, filing paperwork to designate this change with the Delaware Division of Corporations directly. However, in 2019, Delaware law changed a bit to allow agents to resign without appointing a successor. 

If an agent chooses this route, they must notify the entity they’re resigning from at least 30 days before they can file their resignation paperwork. That timeframe gives the business plenty of time to appoint a new agent so they don’t have a lapse in registered agent coverage. After the agent notifies the business, they can file the “Certificate of Resignation of Registered Agent Without Appointment” form that matches the business entity type.

Try our Delaware registered agent service

Experience effortless compliance and peace of mind with our Delaware registered agent service. Our expert team provides timely handling of all your legal and state communications, freeing you to focus on growing your business. Start your journey today with our reliable, efficient service, tailored to meet the unique needs of your business in Delaware.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.

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