How to Get a Texas Registered Agent

Choosing a Texas registered agent is a crucial step for limited liability companies (LLCs) and corporations starting up in the Lone Star State. These agents play a pivotal role in keeping your enterprise compliant with state regulations.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of registered agents in Texas, answering questions you might have and guiding you through the selection process. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just getting started, understanding the role and importance of a registered agent in Texas is vital for your business success.

What is a registered agent in Texas?

A Texas registered agent is a person or business entity designated to receive legal documents and certain state documents on behalf of a business. This is official mail that includes notices of lawsuits and some state correspondence. Essentially, your Texas registered agent acts as a reliable person to receive correspondence from the Texas Secretary of State and forward it to you, the business owner. The agent helps ensure that you never miss an important notice.

Do you need a Texas registered agent?

If you’re forming an LLC, corporation, or other formal registered business entity in Texas, state law mandates that you designate a registered agent. In short, you need a registered agent on your team to accept service of process and other important mail.

This requirement isn’t just a formality — having a registered agent provides the state and others with an official way to communicate with your business. It’s all about accountability and ensuring that crucial documents reach your business in a timely manner.

Texas Registered Agent Requirements

When designating a Texas registered agent, they must meet certain criteria. First and foremost, the agent must have a physical street address in Texas, not just a P.O. box. This is where they’ll receive all legal mail and sign for official correspondence.

Additionally, the registered agent needs to be available during normal business hours. This is to ensure that they can receive any legal documents in person. Business owners can act as their own registered agents, but many opt for a professional registered agent service to provide reliability and consistency for these important responsibilities.

Who can be a registered agent in Texas?

A Texas registered agent can be either an individual or an approved business entity, but they must meet specific state requirements. Let’s examine your options for this role in more detail.

Can I be my own Texas registered agent?

Many business owners choose to be their own registered agents in Texas. However, if you go the self-service agent route, remember that you’ll need to be available at the designated physical address (sometimes called the registered office address) during regular business hours. This ensures you’re there to receive any official notifications or legal documents in person.

For some business owners who start a Texas LLC or corporation, this works out just fine. For others who travel often or have irregular schedules, being their own registered agent might be challenging.

Benefits of Using a Registered Agent Service

For those who feel being their own registered agent isn’t the best fit, there’s always the option of using a registered agent service. These services specialize in receiving and handling official communications on behalf of businesses. Not only do they provide the required Texas registered office address, but they also promptly forward any documents received to the business owner.

Choosing a registered agent service like ours can offer peace of mind, knowing that you won’t miss any crucial notifications or deadlines. Some agents even offer additional services like an online portal for your received mail. Plus, hiring a registered agent service can help maintain your privacy, as you won’t be served with a lawsuit in front of business partners, clients, or employees.

How much does it cost to hire a Texas registered agent service?

The cost for a Texas registered agent service can vary based on whether you choose an individual or a professional service. If you act as your own registered agent, there’s no fee beyond the standard business registration fees. However, if you decide to hire a professional registered agent service, fees can range widely, typically from $100 to $300 per year. It’s important to compare services, understand what’s included in the fee, and choose one that aligns with your business needs and budget. ZenBusiness offers a Texas registered agent service for $119.

Cost of Changing Registered Agents

In Texas, the cost to change from one agent to another is just $15 for most entities; for nonprofits and cooperative associations, the change costs $5. These costs cover the expense of filing the Change of Registered Agent/Office form online or by mail. Please note that there’s a 2.7% convenience fee if you pay by card.

How do I find a registered agent in Texas?

Finding a registered agent in Texas is straightforward. For those seeking professional services, a simple online search for “Texas registered agents” will yield numerous results. It’s advisable to read reviews, compare pricing, and seek recommendations from fellow entrepreneurs.

If you’re considering an individual (including yourself or a member of your team) as your agent, ensure they meet the state requirements. Alternatively, you can skip the search altogether with our affordable and convenient Texas registered agent services. 

How to Change a Registered Agent in Texas

Changing your registered agent in Texas requires filing a specific form with the Texas Secretary of State. This form, the “Statement of Change of Registered Office/Agent,” will ask for details about your business, the outgoing agent, and the incoming agent.

There’s usually a $15 fee associated with the change. Once submitted and processed, the Texas registered agent change takes effect, meaning the new registered agent will officially be on record and responsible for receiving any legal notices.

Of course, any time you choose a new registered agent, they must meet the requirements set out in the Texas Business Organizations Code. This includes ensuring they have a Texas business address and are available at their registered office address during all regular business hours.

Change of Registered Agent Requirements

When changing a registered agent, the new agent must meet the same requirements: be a Texas resident or a business authorized to conduct business in Texas, have a physical street address in the state (no P.O. boxes), and be available during business hours.

Resignation of Texas Registered Agent

If a registered agent needs to resign, they must notify the LLC and submit a “Statement of Resignation of Registered Agent” form to the Texas Secretary of State. The agent remains on file for 31 days post-resignation unless a replacement is appointed sooner.

Steps to Remove a Registered Agent

1. Notify your LLC: Inform your LLC in writing that you’ll be resigning and send a copy of the Statement of Resignation.
2. Submit your resignation: Complete the “Statement of Resignation of a Registered Agent” form to the Secretary of State within 11 days of providing written notice. It’s free to file.
3. Hand off your responsibilities: Help your LLC transition to a new registered agent to avoid penalties. A valid registered agent is crucial to maintaining the LLC’s good standing.

Can I use a virtual address as my registered agent address in Texas?

No, you can’t use a virtual address or a P.O. box for your registered agent address. The address must be a physical street address in Texas.