9 Best Alabama Registered Agent Services (Reviewed for 2024)

Finding the right registered agent in Alabama can be overwhelming, but I’ve got you covered!

I have researched, tested and compiled a list of Alabama’s top registered agent services, highlighting their pros and cons and sharing our honest reviews.

Let this article guide you in making an informed decision and finding the best fit for your business needs.

Top Best Alabama Registered Agent Services

Check out this comprehensive table of the best Alabama registered services:

Registered Agent Service	BBB Rating	LLC Formation	Registered Agent Fee
Northwest Registered Agent	4.61/5	$39 + state fee	$0/first year. $125 renewal
Doola	N/A	$297 + state fees	$297/year
ZenBusiness	3.53/5	$0 + state fee	$199/year
Tailor Brands LLC Service	1.1/5	$0 + state fee	$199/year
MyCompanyWorks	5/5	$79 + state fee	$119/year
Harbor Compliance	3.29/5	$99 + state fees	$299/year
Swyft Filings	3.89/5	$0 + state fee	$149/quarter
LegalZoom	4.5/5	$0 + state fee	$249/year
Rocket Lawyer	4.55/5	$149.99 + state fees	$149.99/year

1. Northwest Registered Agent (overall best)

• LLC Formation Fee: $39 + State Fee
• Registered Agent Fee: $0 for the first year, $125 annual renewal
• Trustpilot Rating: 3.3/5
• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Visit Website: northwestregisteredagent.com

Based in Spokane, Washington, Northwest Registered Agent has established itself as a trusted and experienced provider of registered agent services. With over 20 years of expertise, it has served thousands of businesses across the United States, including Alabama.

I’ve been using Northwest Registered Agent consistently for over half a decade and trust them above all other services on this list.

Here’s why:

• Privacy by Default®: Northwest is renowned for its strong commitment to privacy. It offers a unique Privacy by Default® service, which means it does not sell customer data to third parties and takes extra measures to keep your information secure.
• Free Mail Forwarding: One standout feature is their free limited mail forwarding service, which has been invaluable in managing my business correspondence efficiently.
• Compliance Alerts: Northwest provides compliance alerts to ensure businesses do not miss important filing deadlines. This helps them avoid penalties and stay in good standing with the state.
• Customer Support: Known for their Corporate Guides®, Northwest offers personalized support from experienced professionals who guide compliance and business-related questions.
• Transparent Pricing: Their pricing is straightforward with no hidden fees, which builds trust and reliability among their clients.
• Local Office Network: With offices in all 50 states, Northwest Registered Agent offers localized expertise and can efficiently serve businesses nationwide.

You can read my detailed Northwest registered agent review to learn more about their complete service and my experience with them.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros

• Friendly and effective customer support
• Firm privacy protection
• Quick response time
• Fast turnarounds
• Excellent customer reviews
• Easy checkout
• Same-day business filing
• No hidden upsells
• Easy process, especially for new business owners

Northwest Registered Agent Cons

• Limited online tools
• Limited additional services

My Verdict on Northwest Registered Agent

In my opinion, as a user, Northwest Registered Agent stands out as the top choice for Alabama businesses seeking exceptional registered agent services. Their unparalleled customer support, rigorous privacy protection, and prompt handling of legal documents make them the gold standard.

While more affordable options may exist, Northwest’s superior quality and peace of mind justify the investment.

Moreover, their nationwide presence allows for seamless expansion of your business with a trusted partner.

Although they may not offer the lowest prices or an extensive online toolkit, their unwavering commitment to customer support and privacy solidifies their position as the industry leader.

2. Doola

• LLC Formation Fee: $297 + State Fees
• Registered Agent Fee: $297, renews at $297/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.5/5
• Google Rating: 4.6/5
• Visit Website: doola.com

Doola is a trusted registered agent service in Alabama, renowned for its all-inclusive compliance solutions. With Doola, you can rest assured that your business will receive all critical legal documents and official correspondence, ensuring seamless compliance.

Their smooth and easy approach simplifies maintaining your company’s good standing, providing a hassle-free experience for entrepreneurs and businesses alike.

Doola Pros

• Easy to use and intuitive platform
• Efficient customer support
• User-friendly and easy-to-navigate platform
• Additional perks like CPA consultations and business formation assistance.
• Global reach, which supports international entrepreneurs starting businesses in the U.S.

Doola Cons

• Expensive yearly subscription
• They have a higher plan for compliance, which is expensive ($2k)
• Some users have reported occasional issues with their online portal
• They’re new to the registered agent market and do not have enough reputation.

My Verdict on Doola

Doola is a top-notch choice for small—to medium-sized businesses in Alabama that require dependable registered agent services. Their strengths lie in comprehensive compliance management, competitive pricing, and outstanding customer support.

While they may not offer every advanced feature, their core services are consistently dependable. The user-friendly platform simplifies compliance management, but be mindful of potential extra fees for additional services.

Overall, Doola offers a great balance of quality and affordability, making it a compelling option for businesses seeking reliable registered agent services in Alabama. Read more about my Doola review and pricing guide.

Click to get started with Doola registered agent

3. ZenBusiness

• LLC Formation Fee: $199/year
• Registered Agent Fee: $0 + state fees
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.8/5
• Google Rating: N/A
• Visit Website: zenbusiness.com

ZenBusiness is a top choice for reliable registered agent services for Alabama LLCs. With a competitive annual fee of $199, it appears to be a cost-effective option, but be aware of additional backend upsells for other services.

Despite this, they excel in their core offerings, providing a user-friendly platform that streamlines document management and simplifies compliance.

However, customer support may be slower during peak periods or for complex issues, relying on their AI bot for assistance.

Nevertheless, ZenBusiness remains a solid option for those seeking an affordable and dependable registered agent service, weighing the benefits against the potential drawbacks.

ZenBusiness Pros

• Wide variety of services offered
• Affordable starter pricing
• Great customer support
• Free compliance alerts

ZenBusiness Cons

• Customer service is not the best compared to Doola’s and Northwest’s
• Hidden and high-priced upsells
• Difficult to cancel (based on customer reviews)
• Pretty complicated checkout process

My Verdict on ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness offers an attractive option for affordable registered agent services, starting at $0 plus the Alabama state fee, with a $199 annual renewal fee. This pricing is ideal for small business owners seeking to minimize costs.

Their user-friendly platform simplifies document management, making compliance easy.

However, be aware of potential drawbacks: backend upsells may catch you off guard, and customer support has received mixed reviews, with some users experiencing difficulty in getting help or canceling accounts.

Despite these limitations, ZenBusiness remains a solid choice for those seeking affordable registered agent services, document management, and additional business services.”

4. Tailor Brands LLC

• LLC Formation Fee: $0 + state fee
• Registered Agent Fee: $199/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.5/5
• Google Rating: 4.4/5
• Visit Website: tailorbrands.com/llc

Tailor Brands LLC is a comprehensive business solution provider offering a unique combination of branding, LLC formation, and robust registered agent services.

Their all-in-one platform empowers entrepreneurs to efficiently establish and maintain their businesses with tools designed to streamline operations.

As a registered agent, Tailor Brands expertly handles critical legal documents and ensures state compliance. Their intuitive interface simplifies document management, keeping you organized, informed, and focused on growth.

Tailor Brands LLC Pros

• User-friendly and intuitive platform
• Affordable pricing options
• Offers a wide range of services, including LLC formation, branding, and website design
• Provides a free logo design tool

Tailor Brands LLC Cons

• Limited customer support options
• Additional fees for some services
• No registered agent service is included in LLC formation packages

My Verdict on Tailor Brands LLC

Tailor Brands LLC is a reliable option for small business owners seeking to form an LLC and develop their brand. The platform’s user-friendly interface and competitive pricing make it an attractive choice for a broad customer base. However, additional services may increase costs.

While customer support options are limited, the company offers a comprehensive suite of services and a complimentary logo design tool.

Nevertheless, you may want to explore alternative options if you require a full-scale registered agent service. Overall, Tailor Brands LLC balances affordability and service range, making it a solid choice for entrepreneurs with modest needs.

Click here to get started with Tailor Brands LLC

5. MyCompanyWorks

• LLC Formation Fee: $79 + State fees
• Registered Agent Fee: $119/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 3.0/5
• Google Rating: 4.5/5
• Visit Website: mycompanyworks.com/llc

MyCompanyWorks by RASI (Registered Agent Solutions Inc.) is a one-stop shop for businesses, offering a range of services, including LLC formation, compliance, registered agent solutions, and DBA filing.

Renowned for its intuitive platform and exceptional customer support, MyCompanyWorks simplifies business launching and running, making it a hassle-free experience.

Their registered agent service stands out for its affordability, priced at just $119 per year, delivering unparalleled value compared to other services on this list.

MyCompanyWorks Pros

• Affordable pricing
• Easy to use and navigate platform
• Excellent customer service
• Positive customer reviews

MyCompanyWorks Cons

• You can’t use their address for privacy protection
• Could cost more if you add more service during checkout

My Verdict on MyCompanyWorks

MyCompanyWorks is a reliable and affordable registered agent service in Alabama that is well-suited for small businesses and entrepreneurs with straightforward legal and compliance needs.

Their intuitive platform and exceptional customer service make them an excellent choice, particularly for those just starting out.

While they don’t offer address privacy protection, which may concern some, their overall value proposition makes them a compelling option for businesses seeking a hassle-free, budget-friendly registered agent solution.

If simplicity and affordability are your top priorities, MyCompanyWorks is worth considering.

6. Harbor Compliance

• LLC Formation Fee: $99 + state fees
• Registered Agent Fee: $299/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 3.8/5
• Google Rating: 4.2/5

Since 2012, Harbor Compliance has been a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive registered agent services. It spans all 50 states, including Alabama.

Headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, this experienced provider stands out for its tailored approach, assigning a dedicated compliance specialist to each client. The personalized support ensures seamless navigation of intricate state regulations and compliance requirements.

Harbor Compliance’s extensive offerings encompass registered agent services, business licensing, entity management, and innovative compliance software solutions.

As a result, it is an ideal choice for larger corporations or businesses with sophisticated compliance needs that require robust support and expert guidance.

Harbor Compliance Pros

Pros

• Affordable pricing
• Personalized service with dedicated compliance specialists
• Comprehensive services, including business licensing and entity management
• User-friendly compliance software
• Strong reputation for reliability and excellent customer service

Harbor Compliance Cons

• You can’t use their address for privacy protection
• Limited online reviews
• Less suitable for small businesses with simple compliance needs

My Verdict on Harbor Compliance

I believe Harbor Compliance is a dependable registered agent service provider that balances affordability and reliability, backed by a compliance guarantee.

Their comprehensive services, including business licensing and entity management, make them attractive for businesses with diverse needs.

However, it’s worth noting that their address cannot be used as a business mailing address, and some may find their limited customer support and scarcity of online reviews to be drawbacks.

Nevertheless, Harbor Compliance is a solid choice for those seeking a trustworthy registered agent service without excessive costs.

7. Swyft Filings

• LLC Formation Fee: $0 + state fees
• Registered Agent Fee: $149 per quarter
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.7/5
• Google Rating: 4.3/5
• Visit Website: swyftfilings.com

Swyft Filings is a trustworthy choice for businesses in Alabama seeking a dependable registered agent service. Their comprehensive solutions encompass the secure handling of critical legal documents and expert guidance to ensure seamless compliance with state regulations, providing peace of mind for clients.

Swyft Filings Pros

• Affordable Pricing
• Professional Assistance
• Comprehensive Services
• User-Friendly Platform
• Reputable Service

Swyft Filings Cons

• Additional Charges
• Customer Support
• Cancellation Process
• Mixed Reviews

My Verdict on Swyft Filings

Swyft Filings is a reliable option for registered agent services in Alabama, offering a winning combination of value, dependability, and a proven track record. Their competitive pricing makes them an attractive choice for small businesses, while their user-friendly interface and professional support set them apart.

Although Swyft Filings is very good, it often has additional fees, and the customer support can be inconsistent.

However, if you’re looking for a hassle-free, trustworthy registered agent, Swyft Filings is a solid choice. It provides a straightforward and dependable solution for your business needs.

8. LegalZoom

• LLC Formation Fee: $0 + state fee
• Registered Agent Fee: $249/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.3/5
• Google Rating: 4.4/5

LegalZoom is a seasoned registered agent service provider with a 20-year track record and a vast customer base. They offer a broad spectrum of services, including LLC formation, registered agent solutions, and legal document preparation, making them perfect for businesses.

However, their premium pricing may deter some, and their customer service has received criticism for being uninformative. Despite these limitations, LegalZoom’s extensive expertise and comprehensive service offerings continue to make it a popular choice, solidifying its position as a trusted name in the industry.

LegalZoom Pros

• Extensive experience with over 20 years in the industry.
• Offers comprehensive services including LLC formation and legal document preparation.
• Well-known and reputable brand.
• User-friendly platform.
• Provides a wide range of additional legal services.

LegalZoom Cons

• Higher prices compared to other companies.
• Difficulties in obtaining good information from customer support.
• Excessive upselling of additional services.
• Slower processing times compared to competitors.
• Mixed customer reviews regarding service quality and support.
• LegalZoom’s registered agent service does not include additional features or services, such as mail forwarding or compliance management.

My Verdict on LegalZoom

LegalZoom’s registered agent service is a dependable and respected option for businesses. It offers a user-friendly platform and a wide range of legal services.

However, their premium pricing and notable concerns uncovered through extensive online research, including forum threads and independent reviews, warrant attention.

Specifically, customers have expressed frustration with subpar customer service, feeling misled about the level of legal care, and difficulties in resolving issues. Some have even described their registered agent service as overpriced.

While LegalZoom remains a viable choice for businesses seeking an experienced provider in Alabama, it’s crucial to be aware of these potential pitfalls and carefully weigh the pros and cons before deciding.

9. Rocket Lawyer

• LLC Formation Fee: $149.99 + state fees
• Registered Agent Fee: $149.99/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.7/5
• Google Rating: 4.3/5

Rocket Lawyer is a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive legal solutions. It boasts an impressive track record of serving over 800,000 clients. Its extensive range of services is designed to ensure compliance and legal security.

Rocket Lawyer Pros

• Experienced Service Provider
• Legal Documents
• Subscription Plan
• Easy Document Signing
• Document Compilation and Binding

Rocket Lawyer Cons

• Below Average Service
• Pretty expensive
• Limited Personalization
• Customer Support

My Verdict on Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer is a viable option for businesses requiring extensive legal support, thanks to their broad expertise and diverse services.

Their platform offers convenient access to legal documents and expert advice, making it a valuable resource for many entrepreneurs. However, it’s essential to carefully evaluate their mixed reputation regarding registered agent services and customer support.

If tailored support is a top priority, alternative providers might be a better fit. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of Rocket Lawyer’s services according to your specific needs to determine if they’re the right choice for your business.

What is an Alabama Registered Agent?

An Alabama registered agent helps startups and small and medium-sized businesses with business fillings.

The registered agent can either be an independent individual or a company with a physical address in Alabama who will receive legal documents and service of process on behalf of your business.

Your Alabama registered agent is your official point of contact, available during regular business hours to receive crucial documents like tax notices, lawsuits, and legal correspondence.

This ensures your business stays compliant with state regulations.

As an added benefit, registered agents protect your personal information from public records, keeping your address and details private.

While they can’t provide legal advice, the right registered agent service provides a secure and reliable connection between your business and the state.

How Much Does an Alabama Registered Agent Cost?

The cost of hiring a registered agent in Alabama typically ranges from $100 to $500 per year.

However, this depends on the company’s reputation and the features included. For example, some companies may offer additional compliance services that others do not.

For example, Northwest Registered Agent, which is known for great customer service, offers personalized support and charges around $125 per year. This fee includes several key benefits: free mail forwarding, exceptional customer service, and a strong emphasis on privacy by keeping your personal information off public records.

On the other hand, ZenBusiness, which is ideal for bundling with other compliance services, costs about $199 annually and $399 for their premium service.

What are the Types of Registered Agents in Alabama?

In Alabama, different types of registered agents are available to assist your business with legal requirements. Here’s a look at the main types you can choose from:

1. Commercial Registered Agents

Commercial registered agents are businesses that provide registered agent services to many companies. They often offer additional services like compliance monitoring, document forwarding, and legal reminders. Examples include Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness.

These companies have a physical address in Alabama where they can be reached during regular business hours.

Commercial registered agents handle legal notices and official documents on behalf of multiple businesses. They charge a fee for their services, which can vary depending on the level of service required.

Pros:

• Reliable and consistently available during business hours.
• Enhanced privacy protection by using the agent’s address.
• Additional services like compliance monitoring and document management.
• Expertise in handling legal and compliance matters.

Cons:

• Costs more than using an individual agent.
• Less personal than having someone within the company act as the agent.

2. Non-Commercial/Individual Registered Agents

Non-commercial registered agents typically include individuals or specific firms that do not specialize solely in registered agent services. Instead, they might be lawyers, accountants, or trusted employees but cannot be the business itself.

You may use them if they have a physical address in Alabama. This option is usually more personal but may not offer as many additional services.

Pros:

• Cost-effective, as it typically doesn’t involve any additional fees.
• Direct communication with the agent.

Cons:

• The agent must be available during regular business hours.
• Privacy concerns, as the agent’s address will be public.
• If the agent moves or is unavailable, compliance issues can arise.

How To Choose an Alabama Registered Agent – My Review Methodology

Cost, privacy protection, customer experience, and reputation are crucial when choosing an Alabama registered agent. Ensuring your business complies with legal requirements and receives reliable service is necessary.

Cost and Registered Agent Fee

The cost of a registered agent varies. Some services charge as low as $87, while others can go up to $300 annually.

However, you need to balance your budget with the services offered. Price should not compromise quality. Look for volume discounts if you plan to use the service for multiple years. Make sure there are no hidden fees that might surprise you later.

Privacy Protection

Privacy is critical when selecting a registered agent. Agents receive sensitive legal documents for your business. You want to ensure that your personal information remains confidential. Look for registered agents that use secure methods to handle your data. This can protect you from identity theft and limit public exposure of your personal details.

Customer Experience

Customer support can make or break your experience with a registered agent. You need reliable and friendly customer service. Check if providers offer support through multiple phone, email, or chat channels. Personalized support can help resolve issues more effectively. A good registered agent will keep you informed and assist promptly.

Third-Party Reviews and Reputation

It’s important to check online reviews and third-party ratings. Look at platforms like the Better Business Bureau or Trustpilot. High ratings and positive reviews indicate reliable service. Avoid agents with consistent negative feedback. Testimonials from other businesses can provide insight into what you can expect. It’s a good sign if many clients recommend the service.

Service Offerings

Evaluate the range of services provided by the registered agent. Some offer compliance reminders, document scanning, and secure online portals in addition to the basic duties. These additional services can make a big difference in managing your business effectively. Opt for agents that provide comprehensive support to meet your needs.

Experience and Reliability

Choose registered agents with proven experience and a track record of reliability. Look for companies that have been in business for several years.

Established agents are likely to offer stable and dependable service. Verify their expertise in handling Alabama businesses’ specific requirements. Reliable agents ensure that you never miss important legal notices.

Why Northwest is Our Favorite Alabama Registered Agent Company

Northwest Registered Agent stands out for its affordable services. You can get top-notch registered agent services without breaking the bank.

One key advantage of using Northwest is using their address for privacy purposes. This means your address stays off public records, protecting your privacy.

Another great feature is the free registered agent service for the first year. This offers you significant savings when starting your business.

Northwest also excels in compliance. They help ensure your business meets all legal requirements, so you won’t have to worry about missing important deadlines.

The company is known for providing the best customer support and experience. Their “Corporate Guides” team is always ready to help you with any questions or issues.

There are no hidden upsells or additional costs. What you see is what you get, and there are no surprises or unexpected fees.

Northwest has offices in all 50 states, making it easy to get consistent service no matter where your business operates.

Overall, Northwest Registered Agent offers a combination of affordability, privacy protection, excellent customer support, and compliance assistance, making it our top choice.

Best Alabama Registered Agent — Review Summary

The Best Alabama Registered Agent Services of 2024:

• Northwest Registered Agent: Overall best (mail forwarding, support and privacy)
• Doola: Best for international entrepreneurs
• ZenBusiness: Best for corporate responsibility
• Tailor Brands: Best for branding services
• MyCompanyWorks: Best for easy setup
• Harbor Compliance: Best in compliance
• Swyft Filings: Best for ease of use
• Legal Zoom: Best for legal services
• Rocket Lawyer: Best for legal documents/services

When selecting a registered agent in Alabama, consider the following key factors: reliability, trustworthiness, affordability, and flexibility. If you’re a new business owner, it is best to seek additional support and resources.

After researching and testing 15 companies, Northwest Registered Agent is the top choice. They offer a comprehensive package, including a registered street address, service of process, and legal notifications, all free for the first year. They also prioritize privacy, keeping your details off public records and providing a legal point of contact to maintain good standing.

Additional features include same-day mail scanning, online document access, compliance alerts, and discounts for multi-state and multi-year registrations.

Their user-friendly online system and US-based customer support team, comprising accounting, law, and entrepreneurship experts, make them an ideal choice. All this is available for $125 per state per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change my registered agent in Alabama?

To change your registered agent in Alabama, you need to file a “Statement of Change of Registered Agent” form with the Alabama Secretary of State’s office. Then, provide the new registered agent’s name and address. Ensure you sign the form and have it notarized. And finally, pay the filing fee (currently $28).

What are the typical fees for registered agent services in Alabama?

Fees can range from $100 to $300 annually but vary depending on the company.

How do I find a registered agent provider’s reviews?

You can find registered agent provider reviews on platforms like BBB, Trustpilot, and Google for reviews. These sites provide ratings and customer feedback, giving you insight into their service quality.

What are the legal requirements for appointing a registered agent for my LLC in Alabama?

The legal requirements for appointing a registered agent for my LLC in Alabama are that they must have a physical Alabama address and be available during business hours to receive legal documents.

Can you change your registered agent in Alabama?

You can change your registered agent by filing the necessary form with the Alabama Secretary of State.

Can I use myself as a registered agent in Alabama?

Yes, if you have a physical address in Alabama and are available during normal business hours, you can act as your own registered agent.