Delaware Registered Agent: LLC Guide

What is a Delaware Registered Agent?

A Delaware Registered Agent is an individual or business that consents to receive legal correspondence and official notices on behalf of your Delaware LLC.

The Delaware Division of Corporations might also use your Registered Agent's address as the main contact for sending official notices to your LLC.

A Registered Agent might also be called a Delaware Agent for Service of Process. They refer to the same role.

Why Do You Need a Registered Agent in Delaware?

You need a Registered Agent in Delaware because it's required by law (Section 17701.13 of the Delaware LLC Act). Every LLC in Delaware must have one to operate legally.

Registered Agents help with the court and legal systems. They make sure legal mail and court documents are properly delivered and tracked.

What Does a Registered Agent Do?

A Registered Agent gets important documents for you and then passes them on to you.

What Are the Legal Requirements for a Registered Agent?

In Delaware, Registered Agents must:

• Have a physical address in Delaware (not a PO box)
• Keep regular business hours
• Accept legal documents and Service of Process for businesses
• Quickly forward those documents to the businesses

Who can be my Registered Agent in Delaware?

You have three options for choosing your Delaware Registered Agent:

1. You
2. A friend or family member.
3. A Registered Agent Service in Delaware

Opting to be your Registered Agent might save you money, but it does come with some risks.

Who Can Be a Registered Agent in Delaware?

You have three choices for your LLC's Registered Agent in Delaware:

1. You can be the Registered Agent yourself.
2. A friend or family member can be the Registered Agent.
3. You can hire a Delaware Registered Agent Service.

Being your own Delaware Registered Agent

You can be your own Registered Agent if you:

• Have a real street address in Delaware
• Are available during business hours

Pros: It will save you money.

Cons: Your name and address will be public. There are also some risks involved.

Asking a Friend or Family Member to be Your LLC's Registered Agent

You can ask a friend or family member to be your Registered Agent in Delaware.

They need to:

• Have a street address in Delaware
• Be available during business hours

Make sure they agree and understand their duties. Their information will be public.

Pros: It saves money.

Cons: Their address will be public, and they might not be as reliable as a professional service.

Hiring a Delaware Registered Agent Service

A Registered Agent Service handles your LLC's legal mail.

It’s a good choice if:

• You want to keep your address private
• You don't have an address in Delaware
• You're not available during business hours
• You don't want to handle the paperwork
• You need help with setting up your LLC

How Much Does a Registered Agent Service Cost?

In Delaware, Registered Agent Services typically cost between $100 and $300 per year.

Delaware Registered Agent FAQs