9 Best Delaware Registered Agent Services (Ranked for 2024)
Choosing a new registered agent for your Delaware LLC could frustrate or give you peace of mind.
It would be best to avoid a registered agent with poor customer service who masquerades a cheap service behind an expensive upsell, which can be annoying.
In this review guide, you will discover the best-registered agent services in DE that can help simplify the process and keep your Delaware LLC on track. I spent weeks researching and testing these companies for you.
Top Registered Agent Services in Delaware
Here is a table list of the best Delaware 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 |
Tailor Brands LLC Service | 1.1/5 | $0 + state fee | $199/year |
ZenBusiness | 3.53/5 | $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 |
Rocket Lawyer | 4.55/5 | $149.99 + state fees | $149.99/year |
LegalZoom | 4.5/5 | $0 + state fee | $249/year |
Northwest Registered Agent really stands out from the crowd because they offer free registered agent services to new Delaware LLC owners. This is a great way to cut down on your initial business setup costs without sacrificing quality service. Other companies can charge up to $300 a year right off the bat, which feels pretty steep. So if you’re looking to form your new LLC, grab the Northwest offer.
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
Northwest Registered Agent is a prominent player in the registered agent service industry. Based in Spokane, Washington, this company has over 20 years of experience.
They have built a strong reputation by serving thousands of businesses nationwide. Their commitment to privacy, customer support, and ease of use makes them a preferred choice for business owners.
One of Northwest’s standout features is its Privacy by Default® policy.
They do not sell your data to third parties, ensuring your information remains secure. You won’t have to worry about your private details being exposed. Additionally, they offer a free limited mail forwarding service, which helps you manage important correspondence effectively.
Northwest also prioritizes compliance. They provide alerts to ensure you don’t miss important filing deadlines. This feature minimizes the risk of penalties, keeping your business in good standing. The customer support team, Corporate Guides®, is dedicated to helping you with compliance or business-related questions.
Their pricing is transparent and straightforward.
There are no hidden fees, which adds to their reliability. With local offices in all 50 states, they offer knowledgeable support tailored to your needs regardless of where your business operates.
Northwest Registered Agent Pros
- Friendly and effective customer support
- Strong privacy protection
- Quick response times for inquiries
- Fast processing of documents
- Excellent customer reviews across multiple platforms
- Simple checkout process
- Same-day business filing is available
- No hidden upsells or fees
- Easy for new business owners to navigate
Northwest Registered Agent Cons
- Limited online tools
- Fewer additional services compared to some competitors
My Verdict on Northwest Registered Agent
From my personal experience, Northwest Registered Agent is an excellent choice for Delaware businesses needing reliable registered agent services.
After using their services for several years, I also appreciate their exceptional customer support. They make it easy for new business owners to feel secure and informed, and their online document access simplifies organization and compliance.
Privacy is another strong point. Using their address lets you keep your personal information off public records, and their free mail forwarding ensures you receive essential correspondence securely.
Online reviews are mostly positive, with many users praising their services.
With a solid 4.7 rating on Google, it’s clear that many others share this satisfaction. Northwest Registered Agent combines affordability, reliability, and excellent customer service, making it a top choice for business owners.
When you hire Northwest registered agent to form your Delaware LLC, you’ll get a free year of Registered Agent service and pay just $39 + state fees today. Click here to steal the offer.
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 registered agent service that stands out for its affordable pricing and reliable offerings. It caters especially to entrepreneurs looking to start an LLC in Delaware.
With Doola, you can access various services designed to simplify business operations. They provide essential features like mail forwarding and document scanning. Additionally, Doola assists with obtaining an EIN and managing compliance issues.
What makes Doola a convenient choice is its user-friendly platform, which makes it easy for you to navigate and manage your registered agent needs. They also offer more than just basic services. You can benefit from CPA consultations and business formation assistance, making it a comprehensive solution for new business owners.
Thanks to its global reach, Doola is particularly attractive to international entrepreneurs. If you’re looking to establish a business in the U.S. while being based elsewhere, Doola can support you.
Doola Pros
- User-friendly platform that’s intuitive and easy to navigate
- Reliable customer support is available whenever you need assistance
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Comprehensive services, including mail forwarding and compliance management
- Extra perks like CPA consultations and business formation assistance
- Global reach, ideal for international clients starting a U.S. business
Doola Cons
- Higher compliance plan pricing, with the Total Compliance plan costing up to $2,000 annually
- Occasional issues with the online portal reported by some users
- Limited reputation as a newer player in the market compared to more established services
My Verdict on Doola Delaware Registered Agent
Doola is a good choice for a registered agent service in Delaware if you prioritize compliance and a user-friendly experience. Their services are generally solid. However, their pricing might be steeper compared to other options.
While their lowest tier starts at $297, services like Northwest Registered Agent offer more budget-friendly plans at just $39. Read more about my Doola review and pricing guide.
3. Tailor Brands LLC Service
- 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 versatile service that focuses on helping you build your brand while caring for your LLC formation needs. It is designed to be an all-in-one solution for small business owners in Delaware. Their platform offers user-friendly tools for managing legal documents and maintaining compliance with state regulations.
Tailor Brands Pros
- User-friendly platform for easy document and task management
- Affordable pricing with competitive options
- Wide range of services, including LLC formation, branding, and website design
- Free logo design tool to enhance brand identity
Tailor Brands Cons
- Limited customer support options
- Additional fees for some services
- No registered agent is included in basic LLC packages
My Verdict on Tailor Brands
Tailor Brands LLC is a good option if you are starting a business and want to streamline the branding and formation process. Their tools are intuitive, making it easier to complete important tasks. The price is reasonable for the services offered, but be mindful of potential extra charges.
Though the customer support might not be robust, there are still many valuable features, and the free logo tool adds a nice touch. If registered agent services are your priority, consider looking at alternatives to meet that specific need.
4. 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 provides a solid option for anyone seeking registered agent services in Delaware. Priced at $199 per year, it is fairly affordable compared to many competitors in the industry.
With ZenBusiness, you receive free compliance alerts, which can be a helpful tool for keeping your business up to date with requirements.
However, it’s important to note that ZenBusiness may have hidden upsells for additional services that can increase overall costs. Furthermore, customer support during busy periods might not be as responsive as you’d hope, sometimes routing you through an AI bot instead of connecting you directly with a representative. This might cause frustration if you have complex questions or require urgent assistance.
ZenBusiness Pros
- Well-known and trusted in the industry
- Affordable pricing starting at $199 per year
- Easy-to-navigate online platform
- Free compliance alerts to keep you informed
- Good customer feedback overall
ZenBusiness Cons
- Customer support may lag during peak times
- Hidden upsells can make the service more expensive than it appears
- Some users report difficulties in canceling services
- The checkout process can be complicated
- Does not offer legal or tax services
My Verdict on ZenBusiness
If affordability is a priority, ZenBusiness can be a great option. An appealing starting price and a user-friendly platform make managing legal documents straightforward. You should be aware of potential upsells, which could make the final cost higher than expected.
The mixed reviews about customer service are also something to consider.
Some users have experienced challenges when trying to get help or canceling accounts. If you’re okay with these factors, ZenBusiness could still be a wise choice for a budget-friendly registered agent service.
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, a brand under Registered Agent Solutions Inc. (RASI), is a dependable option for businesses needing registered agent services. Their platform makes it easy for you to handle tasks related to LLC formation, compliance, and filing a DBA (Doing Business As).
For just $119 a year, their Delaware registered agent service stands out in value compared to other providers. You will find their user-friendly interface and strong customer support quite helpful.
MyCompanyWorks Pros
- Affordable pricing at $119 per year with no hidden fees
- User-friendly platform that’s easy to navigate
- Excellent customer service with timely and helpful support
- Positive customer reviews indicating reliability and satisfaction
MyCompanyWorks Cons
- No address privacy protection, which might concern those worried about privacy
- Potential additional costs when adding more services during checkout
My Verdict on MyCompanyWorks
In my view, MyCompanyWorks is a practical choice for small businesses and new entrepreneurs seeking cheap registered agent services in Delaware. The user-friendly system and strong support make ongoing compliance a breeze.
While the lack of address privacy protection is something to consider, the overall affordability and straightforward service make it an appealing option.
6. Harbor Compliance
- LLC Formation Fee: $99 + state fees
- Registered Agent Fee: $299/year
- Trustpilot Rating: 3.8/5
- Google Rating: 4.2/5
Harbor Compliance offers a range of services aimed at making legal compliance easier for businesses. They focus on managing registered agent services and helping clients comply with state regulations.
Harbor Compliance Pros
- Live support with knowledgeable agents for quick assistance
- User-friendly platform for efficient navigation of compliance documents
- Simplifies management of multiple entities across various states
- Cost-effective with competitive pricing, especially for multiple entities or ongoing support
- Compliance alerts to keep you informed about important deadlines
Harbor Compliance Cons
- Limited features compared to some premium services
- Variable response times during peak periods
- No free trial available to test services before committing
- Basic online interface with limited customization options
- Less known brand, which may lead to questions about reliability
My Verdict on Harbor Compliance
Harbor Compliance is a solid choice for businesses seeking more than registered agent services—it’s more of an all-in-one platform. Their live support is impressive and makes it easy to get answers quickly.
While they might not have all the bells and whistles that some premium services do, their focus on compliance and customer support stands out.
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 registered agent service that stands out for its simple and efficient approach to helping businesses. Founded in 2012, this company makes business formation and compliance easy for entrepreneurs.
Swyft Filings Pros
- Flat fee structure with no hidden charges
- Fast processing times for quick business setup
- User-friendly platform for easy navigation
- Affordable rates for small businesses
- Responsive customer support
Swyft Filings Cons
- Higher registered agent fees at $149 per quarter
- Limited advanced features
- Potential upselling of additional services
My Verdict on Swyft Filings
Swyft Filings presents a reliable option when you need a straightforward and efficient platform for your business formation and compliance needs. The process is easy, and their customer support can make your journey smoother.
That said, the quarterly fee of $149 for their registered agent service is worth considering. It’s more pricey than alternatives like Northwest, which charges $125 annually. If you are sticking to a strict budget, you might want to explore these lower-cost options for registered agent services.
8. 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 reliable registered agent service that supports small businesses and entrepreneurs. Established in 2008, it has carved out a niche by offering a broad range of legal and business solutions. If you are looking for more than just a registered agent, Rocket Lawyer is a comprehensive resource for business owners.
Their subscription model isn’t a really nice feature, in my opinion.
However, you gain unlimited access to legal documents for a monthly fee and can consult attorneys whenever needed. This is particularly beneficial if you require ongoing legal support and want to avoid the hassle of handling each issue separately. Plus, their platform is designed to be user-friendly, making complex legal tasks easier to manage.
Still, it’s important to note that if you don’t need frequent legal support, the monthly fee might not be ideal.
Rocket Lawyer Pros
- Comprehensive solutions for small business owners
- Unlimited access to legal documents and consultations with a subscription
- User-friendly platform simplifying legal processes
- Experienced attorneys available for legal questions
- Established reputation with years of trust in the business community
Rocket Lawyer Cons
- Monthly subscription fees may not suit everyone
- Service may be excessive if you only need a registered agent
- Higher costs compared to competitors without subscriptions
- Occasional delays in customer service responses
My Verdict on Rocket Lawyer
Rocket Lawyer might be a great option if you’re looking for a full-service legal platform. Accessing legal documents and consulting with attorneys regularly can be a huge time-saver.
The monthly fee could be worth it if you anticipate needing frequent legal advice or document support. However, if you just want a basic registered agent service and prefer to keep costs low, you might want to explore specific services.
9. 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 prominent name in registered agent services. With over 20 years of experience, they serve numerous businesses across the United States. They offer various services, including LLC formation and legal document preparation. While they have a solid reputation, there are critical pros and cons to consider.
LegalZoom Pros
- Extensive experience with over 20 years in the industry
- Comprehensive services including LLC formation and legal document assistance
- Reputable brand known for market credibility
- User-friendly platform for smooth navigation
- Variety of legal services beyond just registered agent support
LegalZoom Cons
- Higher prices compared to other providers
- Customer support issues with accuracy and responsiveness
- Aggressive upselling of additional services
- Slower processing times for applications and requests
- Mixed reviews on service quality and support
My Verdict on LegalZoom
After closely examining LegalZoom’s registered agent services, I find them somewhat unreliable and untrustworthy.
On the positive side, their user-friendly website and extensive legal services are noteworthy.
However, the higher costs are a concern, and numerous reviews highlight significant customer support issues. Some customers have felt misled about the services, leading to frustration. While LegalZoom is a solid choice for many, weighing these potential issues against your specific needs is crucial before deciding.
What is a Delaware Registered Agent?
A Delaware registered agent is a person or business that acts as your official contact for legal matters. They receive important documents like lawsuits, government notices, and compliance information on behalf of your business.
Every business entity in Delaware, including LLCs and corporations, must have a registered agent. This is part of the legal compliance necessary to maintain your business’s good standing.
Here are the key functions of a registered agent:
- Legal Notices: They handle the service of process, which means they receive legal documents if your business is sued.
- Privacy: Using a registered agent helps keep your address private. This protects your personal information from being part of the public record.
- Compliance: They ensure your business meets state requirements by forwarding important notices and reminders, like filing deadlines.
When forming a new LLC or corporation, you’ll provide your registered agent’s information in your articles of organization. This is essential for maintaining your legal standing.
How Much Does a Delaware Registered Agent Cost?
The cost of a Delaware registered agent typically ranges from $120 to $1,000 per year. This wide range depends on the specific services you choose.
When selecting a registered agent, consider both the price and the quality of the service. Look for features that may be important for your business, such as:
- Reliable service: Ensure they are prompt and efficient.
- Customer support: A responsive team can help resolve issues faster.
- Additional features: Services like document scanning and mail forwarding can be valuable.
For example, Northwest Registered Agent charges $125 per year. This competitive rate includes several benefits:
- Free mail forwarding: Keep your business correspondence organized.
- Exceptional customer service: Get support when you need it most.
- Privacy protection: Your personal information remains confidential and off public records.
While some services may charge more, they often do so for features that may not be essential for every business. It’s important to find a good balance between cost and quality to ensure you get the best value for your money. You can choose a registered agent in Delaware that meets your needs without overspending by assessing the pricing structure and the services offered.
What are the Types of Registered Agents in Delaware?
In Delaware, you have three main options for registered agents: individual registered agents, commercial registered agents, and law or accounting firms.
Individual Registered Agents
An individual registered agent can be a Delaware resident or a corporation authorized to do business in the state. This agent must have a physical address in Delaware and be available during regular business hours.
Pros:
- Cost-effective with minimal fees.
- Direct communication with the agent.
Cons:
- Must be available during business hours.
- Their address becomes public, raising privacy concerns.
- If the agent moves, it may lead to compliance issues.
Commercial Registered Agents
Commercial registered agents are businesses focusing on registered agent services. They provide a physical address and handle legal documents for multiple clients.
Pros:
- Typically available during business hours.
- Enhanced privacy using the agent’s address.
- Additional services like compliance monitoring.
Cons:
- More expensive than individual agents.
- Less personal engagement compared to working with someone from your business.
Law or Accounting Firms
Some choose their law or accounting firms to act as registered agents. This option can be convenient if these firms already manage other business aspects.
Pros:
- Access to professional legal and financial expertise.
- Secure handling of sensitive documents.
Cons:
- Can be very costly, with fees ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
- Availability may be limited to normal business hours.
How To Choose a Registered Agent in Delaware – My Review Methodology
Selecting a registered agent in Delaware involves several key factors. Each aspect will help you find a service that fits your business needs.
Consider the following points carefully as you make your choice.
Cost and Registered Agent Fee
When choosing a registered agent, the cost is one of the first factors to consider. Fees can vary greatly between services. Typical registered agent fees range from $120 to $500 per year.
Some providers offer basic services at lower rates, while others with more features can charge higher fees. Look for hidden costs, such as additional fees for mail forwarding or compliance notifications. Comparing multiple services can help you find the best fit for your budget.
Third-party Reviews and Reputation
Researching third-party reviews is crucial for understanding a registered agent’s reputation. You can find feedback on sites like Google, Better Business Bureau, and Trustpilot.
Look for both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view. Pay attention to consistent themes, such as responsiveness and reliability. A good reputation can indicate solid customer service and experience, which are vital in this role.
Customer Experience and Support Channels
Customer experience can significantly impact your satisfaction with a registered agent. Check what support channels they provide, like phone, email, or live chat.
You want a service that offers quick and efficient assistance. Look for testimonials that mention the ease of communication and resolution of issues. Quality customer support should be prompt and helpful, promptly addressing your questions.
Legal Advice and Ongoing Services
Some registered agents offer additional legal advice and ongoing services. This can be beneficial if you need help with business formation or compliance maintenance.
Consider whether you might need such services in the future. Agents that provide these options can save you time and stress. Look for reviews that mention their expertise in law and business operations.
Mail Forwarding and Privacy Options
Mail forwarding is an essential feature for a registered agent. Make sure the provider offers secure and timely mail-handling services.
Some agents may offer digital mail forwarding or cloud storage options to keep your documents organized and accessible. Additionally, consider privacy features. A reputable agent should keep your personal information safe and separate from your business documents.
Industry Experience, Track Record, and Reliability
The experience of a registered agent can impact their effectiveness. You want to choose a service with a proven track record in Delaware.
Look for agents who have been operating in the state for several years. Their familiarity with local regulations and requirements can be beneficial. A reliable agent should have a history of effective service and customer trust.
Continuous Support and Annual Requirements
Finally, consider the continuous support the registered agent provides. Businesses’ annual requirements can include filing reports and maintaining good standing.
Your agent should offer reminders and support for these needs. Make sure they can assist you throughout the year, not just at the time of registration. Knowing that you have ongoing support can help you stay compliant and successful.
Why Northwest is Our Favorite Registered Agent Company
Northwest stands out for several reasons when choosing a registered agent.
- Affordable Services
They offer the most affordable services in the industry. You can rely on their pricing without worrying about hidden fees.
- Privacy Protection
Using their address keeps your personal information off public records. This is essential for anyone wanting to maintain privacy in their business dealings.
- Free Year of Service
Northwest offers a free one-year registered agent service with your business formation. This allows you to save money while ensuring your compliance from the start.
- Compliance Excellence
Northwest is recognized for its compliance expertise. It ensures that you never miss important deadlines or filings, helping your business stay on track.
- Top-Notch Customer Support
The customer support is exceptional. With a team ready to assist you, you can expect a great experience whenever you reach out.
- No Extra Costs
There are no hidden upsells or surprise fees. What you see is what you pay, making it easy to budget for your business needs.
- Nationwide Coverage
With offices in all 50 states, Northwest can help you regardless of where your business operates. This convenience can’t be overlooked.
Best Delaware Registered Agent Reviews – Summary
The Best Delaware Registered Agent Services of 2024:
- Northwest Registered Agent: Overall best (mail forwarding, support and privacy)
- Doola: Best for international entrepreneurs
- Tailor Brands: Best for branding services
- ZenBusiness: Best for corporate responsibility
- MyCompanyWorks: Best for easy setup
- Harbor Compliance: Best in compliance
- Swyft Filings: Best for ease of use
- Rocket Lawyer: Best for legal documents/services
- Legal Zoom: Best for legal services
Consider a few KEY factors when choosing the best registered agent in Delaware.
First, look at the cost since prices can vary, with some services like MyCompanyWorks offering rates as low as $119 per year. Customer support is important too; Northwest Registered Agent is known for its strong customer service during regular business hours.
I’d also recommend you consider your business type—whether small or large, finding a service that fits your specific needs is crucial.
Next, check customer reviews; services like Northwest and ZenBusiness are often praised for their ease of use and premium offerings.
Ask about discount options, as volume discounts can save you money. For example, Northwest offers incredible discounts for multiple-state formations, which is excellent!
Lastly, ensure the agent is available for questions or support, like Harbor Compliance, which has live support agents ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should be considered when choosing the best-registered agent service in Delaware?
When selecting a Delaware registered agent, consider affordable fees and renewal costs. Check for hidden upsells that could increase your total expenses. Customer service should be a priority. Privacy protection and mail forwarding services are also important features to ensure your business information is secure and accessible.
What are the top-rated registered agent services in Delaware?
Delaware’s top-rated registered agent services include Northwest, Doola, and Tailor Brands. Each offers unique benefits, such as personalized attention or comprehensive service packages.
How do I change my registered agent in Delaware?
To change your registered agent in Delaware, file a Certificate of Change of Registered Agent form with the Delaware Division of Corporations. Provide the new agent’s information and pay any required fees.
How much do registered agents cost in Delaware?
Registered agent costs in Delaware typically range from $120 to $500 per year. Prices may vary based on the services included and the provider you choose.
Can a business owner serve as their own registered agent in DE, and what are the implications?
Yes, a business owner can serve as their own registered agent. This means you are responsible for receiving legal documents. It may affect your privacy, as your address will be publicly available.
Do I need a registered agent in Delaware?
Yes, having a registered agent is required for all businesses in Delaware. A registered agent ensures that your business complies with legal requirements and receives important documents.
How long does it take to form a Delaware LLC?
Forming a Delaware LLC can take as little as one day if all paperwork is in order. However, processing times may vary based on the workload and the method of filing you choose.
Disclosure: We may earn commissions if you buy via links on our website. Commissions don’t affect our opinions or evaluations. We’re also an independent affiliate of many platforms, including ClickFunnels, Kartra, GoHighLevel, Podia, Northwest Registered Agent, and others. We’re not employees of these services. We receive referral payments from them, and the opinions expressed here are our own and are not official statements of these companies.