9 Best Massachusetts Registered Agent Services (2024 Reviews)

Choosing the best Massachusetts registered agent service for your business can be daunting.

You want to meet all the state’s requirements while finding a reliable partner to handle critical legal documents and notices. We get it —compliance can be complex.

That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you.

I have evaluated Massachusetts’s top registered agent services, considering reliability, customer service, and value for money.

Top Best Registered Agent Services in Massachusetts

Below is a table listing the top-rated registered agent services in Massachusetts:

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
Swyft Filings	3.89/5	$0 + state fee	$149/quarter
Harbor Compliance	3.29/5	$99 + state fees	$299/year
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: 3.1/5
• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Visit Website: northwestregisteredagent.com

Northwest Registered Agent is a leading provider of registered agent services in Massachusetts. They prioritize privacy, customer support, and ease of use, making more suitable for your business.

Northwest’s Privacy by Default policy ensures that your data is not sold to third parties, and their free limited mail forwarding service helps manage important correspondence.

They also prioritize compliance, providing alerts to ensure you file all necessary documents on time and minimize the risk of penalties. Their dedicated customer support team, Corporate Guides, offers expert assistance with compliance and business-related questions.

Northwest Registered Agent is a reliable choice with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.

Their local offices in all 50 states provide tailored support to businesses nationwide.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros

• Their dedicated corporate guides and seasoned business experts provide personalized support to ensure a smooth LLC setup experience.
• Strong local presence in all states, including Georgia
• Transparent pricing and fees, with no hidden upsells
• Solid privacy protection for clients
• Fast business services, like same-day filings
• Strong online reviews from customers

Northwest Registered Agent Cons

• No free trial, although there is a 90-day refund policy
• No legal services

My Verdict on Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is an excellent choice for managing your registered agent needs in Massachusetts. Their focus on customer service truly stands out. I appreciate the value of getting a free year of service when forming an LLC, which is a significant financial benefit.

I also value transparent pricing without hidden charges. You know exactly what you’re paying for, simplifying budgeting and planning.

Their commitment to data privacy gives me peace of mind. Your information is kept safe and isn’t shared with anyone else.

While they may not handle all legal documents directly, the partnership with third-party services covers that gap well. Overall, Northwest Registered Agent is worth considering if you seek reliable support.

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 has emerged as a reputable choice for registered agent services in Massachusetts. The company quickly established itself by focusing on business compliance and support. They handle crucial tasks like obtaining an EIN from the IRS, making them valuable for new business owners.

The LLC formation fee is $297 plus Massachusetts state fees, which is competitive today. The registered agent service also costs $297 and renews annually.

If you have doubts, you can check out our Doola’s reviews. Client feedback has been positive, with Trustpilot and Google ratings of 4.5/5 and 4.6/5, respectively. However, some users have noted inconsistencies in service; hence, experiences may vary.

Doola Pros

• Doola’s rates are budget-friendly compared to other agents.
• Users often highlight prompt and responsive customer support.
• The online dashboard is intuitive.
• Doola organizes legal documents for you, keeping everything accessible and neat.
• You’ll receive timely reminders about important filing deadlines.
• The company processes documents quickly, which can speed up the formation of your LLC.
• Doola caters to U.S. residents and international clients wanting to establish businesses in the U.S.

Doola Cons

• Some features may incur extra costs, raising the total expense over time.
• While the platform is effective, a few users feel the available resources could be more extensive.
• Doola covers essential services but lacks some of the competitors’ advanced features.

My Verdict on Doola Massachusetts Registered Agent

If you’re considering Doola as your registered agent, you’ll find a good mix of quality and cost. Their services are well-rounded, covering LLC formation and compliance effectively. I value their commitment to customer service, especially when you need assistance.

Thanks to their simple platform, accessing documents is straightforward.

Though the feedback is mostly positive, not every customer has had the same experience. Their pricing starts competitively at $297 per year, but it might be worth exploring other budget options if that’s your priority.

Click to get started with Doola registered agent

3. ZenBusiness

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

ZenBusiness is a solid option for registered agent services in Massachusetts, attracting many business owners with its competitive pricing and positive customer reviews. This service stands out for its affordability and range of support, making it easy for entrepreneurs to manage their compliance needs.

ZenBusiness Pros

• Free business formation service and an affordable state filing fee
• High customer satisfaction with excellent customer support
• Compliance assurance for LLC
• Easy online management

ZenBusiness Cons

• The annual fee is too high
• Separate registered agent services
• Limited additional services

My Verdict on ZenBusiness Registered Agent Service

ZenBusiness is a dependable choice for those seeking reliable registered agent service in Massachusetts without overspending.

Their pricing is competitive, and the positive reviews from users reflect their commitment to customer satisfaction. I appreciate the compliance reminders that provide added security in managing deadlines.

Though some advanced features may be missing, the essentials are well-handled. If you’re starting a business, ZenBusiness will likely meet your needs effectively.

4. 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 is a well-known name in business formation services. It offers LLC formation and registered agent services in Massachusetts as part of its package.

This service is geared towards small and medium-sized businesses, providing the tools to start, manage, and grow your business. While they offer various services, their focus also includes branding and marketing, making it easier to create a strong business identity.

Tailor Brands Pros

• With the affordable packages, Tailor Brands makes it easier for budget-conscious entrepreneurs to form an LLC.
• You gain access to tools for logo design and marketing materials.
• The website is straightforward.
• Tailor Brands provides same-day filing.
• Some users have reported positive experiences with customer support.

Tailor Brands Cons

• On platforms like the BBB, Tailor Brands has a low rating of 1.15/5 stars.
• Full-featured packages can reach $249 plus state fees, which may not be necessary for every business owner.
• You may find that they don’t offer the ongoing legal support that some businesses need.
• Not all package features may suit your needs, potentially leading to extra costs for services you won’t use.

My Verdict on Tailor Brands

Tailor Brands’ strength in LLC formation makes it a perfect option for your registered agent service. It is also a plus if you need branding assistance.

The easy setup and low entry price are attractive features.

However, the mixed reviews raise concerns about customer support and ongoing legal help. If these factors are critical for your business’s success, you might want to consider other services that offer more robust support.

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 is a trusted choice for registered agent services in Massachusetts. This service is appealing due to its affordable pricing, user-friendly platform, and excellent customer support.

They offer a 90-day money-back guarantee for first-time clients, which is a nice perk.

As a registered agent, MyCompanyWorks keeps you informed about important documents and compliance requirements so you can focus on growing your business.

Their basic LLC service starts at $79, while a more comprehensive package with registered agent services costs $279. Notably, you will also receive an LLC handbook, which can help guide you in your business journey.

MyCompanyWorks Pros

• An easy-to-navigate online platform for managing documents.
• Support is available via phone and email for quick issue resolution.
• The compliance feature sends alerts for important deadlines and legal requirements.
• They manage legal documents, allowing you to focus on your business growth.
• MyCompanyWorks also provides LLC formation and annual report filing.
• MyCompanyWorks is also knowledgeable about Massachusetts regulations to help you stay compliant.
• The registered agent service fee is $119 per year, which is very affordable.

MyCompanyWorks Cons

• Some users may find fewer choices for tailoring services.
• Basic services are affordable, but extra features can increase costs.
• While most experiences are positive, some users report delays during busy periods.

My Verdict on MyCompanyWorks

In my view, MyCompanyWorks is a solid option for registered agent services in Massachusetts. You will appreciate the user-friendly interface and reliable customer support, which make managing your business much easier.

The compliance reminders they send are beneficial, so you can avoid unnecessary stress.

That said, consider the limitations regarding customization and the potential costs of adding premium features. Reviewing their pricing structure is essential to ensuring you get the right service for your needs.

6. 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 well-regarded registered agent service in Massachusetts, especially known for helping businesses with their formation and paperwork needs.

They focus on providing essential services, such as compliance alerts and tax ID acquisition, to make the startup process easier for entrepreneurs.

One key benefit of using Swyft Filings is the reasonable pricing. It suits small businesses that want quick service and the option to pay in installments. You will appreciate their user-friendly website, making signing up and managing your account simple.

Swyft Filings Pros

• Your personal details remain confidential as Swyft Filings acts on your behalf.
• You have immediate access to important documents online.
• The website is easy to navigate.
• On weekdays, they offer support through phone and online chat.

Swyft Filings Cons

• Swyft Filings may not provide as many advanced tools for compliance and other business needs as its rivals.
• Some users have reported delays in customer service responses.
• For $149 per quarter, adding registered agent services can strain your budget.

My Verdict on Swyft Filings

Swyft Filings is appealing for its strong privacy measures and user-friendly interface. Its services are solid and very valuable.

My caution arises from some negative feedback regarding their subscription cancellation processes. This could be a concern if you’re not careful. Still, it might be a good fit for basic services if you monitor the costs.

7. 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 is an established registered agent in Massachusetts that also delivers LLC formation services and compliance assistance.

Its main goal is to keep your business compliant with legal requirements.

However, their registered agent service costs $299 annually and is not bundled with their LLC formation services.

Harbor Compliance Pros

• Offers a variety of formation services
• Easy-to-use platform
• Affordable pricing, which is great for larger businesses
• Supports non-profit organizations

Harbor Compliance Cons

• It doesn’t offer bundled services; hence, it charges extra for most of its services, including Employer Identification Number (EIN) filing and amendments.
• Doesn’t offer a free option like some of its competition
• No money-back guarantee or refunds
• Mixed online reviews, with most being negative

My Verdict on Harbor Compliance

I believe Harbor Compliance is a solid option for many business owners in Massachusetts. They provide a great balance of affordable services and useful features.

Their customer support is particularly noteworthy, especially when dealing with necessary paperwork.

Nonetheless, their registered agent fees can be high, primarily attracting larger companies. If you run a smaller business or have budget constraints, options like Northwest may offer better value at a lower cost.

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 recognized legal services industry name known for its extensive offerings. It provides various services, including registered agent solutions in Massachusetts. While it boasts a strong reputation and many features, its pricing is higher than some alternatives.

LegalZoom Pros

• LegalZoom has a long business history, making it trustworthy and credible.
• Beyond just registered agent services, LegalZoom offers LLC formation, document review, and more.
• You can benefit from unlimited cloud storage for your important documents.
• LegalZoom provides solid customer support.
• The online platform is designed for easy navigation.

LegalZoom Cons

• LegalZoom may cost more than other providers for registered agent services, about $249 per year.
• While the services are dependable, the experience might be less tailored to your needs.
• Some customers report experiences with annoying upsells.
• Renewal fees after the first year can also be steep.

My Verdict on LegalZoom

LegalZoom is a comprehensive option for those needing legal services. The platform is convenient and has a solid reputation.

However, the annual fees starting at $249 might not fit every budget. While their support is effective, the response times may vary. You may need to explore other options if you are looking for a more personal touch or lower costs.

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 powerful platform offering registered agent services and a range of legal support. It might be a good fit if you seek convenience and comprehensive legal tools. Its features are particularly beneficial for individuals and businesses that need frequent legal documents and advice.

Rocket Lawyer Pros

• You can access various legal documents and services to handle multiple legal needs.
• If you subscribe, you get discounted rates on registered agent services, making it more cost-effective for regular users.
• You can manage your services and documents directly from their user-friendly website anytime.
• Ask legal questions and receive guidance from qualified attorneys, adding confidence to your decisions.
• You can choose a monthly or annual plan based on your business’s needs.

Rocket Lawyer Cons

• Regular fees can add up if you only need a registered agent occasionally, which may strain your budget.
• As an online service, you might miss out on personalized interactions that local agents often provide.
• If you aren’t a member, you’ll pay more for registered agent services, which might not be ideal for everyone.
• Rocket Lawyer’s complex offers could feel overwhelming if you’re new to legal services.

My Verdict on Rocket Lawyer

If you frequently require legal guidance or documents, Rocket Lawyer’s subscription model could benefit you in the long run. You can easily ask questions and get direct support from lawyers, which is a great advantage.

On the flip side, if your need for a registered agent is infrequent, the ongoing costs might be a drawback.

Rocket Lawyer might feel less appropriate for businesses with tighter budgets or fewer legal requirements. Additionally, while they cover many basics, specialized situations could require more focused expertise from other agencies.

What is a Massachusetts Registered Agent?

A Massachusetts registered agent is a person or organization that represents your LLC or corporation. They are responsible for receiving critical legal documents, such as tax notifications and service of process.

Every business in Massachusetts must have a registered agent to comply with state law and ensure its good legal standing.

• Receive Legal Documents: Your agent handles important papers from the Secretary of State and other necessary notices.
• Maintain Compliance: They help you stay on track with corporate regulations in Massachusetts.
• Forward Information: Your agent quickly sends important documents to you as needed.

Registered agents must have a physical address in Massachusetts to fulfill their role. A P.O. Box is not permissible.

Choosing a dependable registered agent is particularly important when starting an LLC. They can assist with filing your articles of organization and maintaining your operating agreement.

Many small business owners opt for service companies as their registered agents. These services often offer added benefits like assistance with obtaining an EIN and tracking compliance. This approach can significantly simplify managing your legal responsibilities.

How Much Does a Massachusetts Registered Agent Cost?

When you choose a registered agent in Massachusetts, the cost can vary. Prices often depend on the services provided and the company you select.

For instance, Northwest Registered Agent offers a competitive rate of $125 per year and provides the first year of service for free, making it an attractive option for many businesses.

In contrast, Swyft Filings charges about $149 each quarter, up to roughly $596 annually. This price might seem high for small businesses or startups.

Many registered agent services offer extras. These may include features like compliance reminders, document scanning, and online account access. These additional services can increase the overall price.

What are the Types of Registered Agents in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, registered agents have two main options: Individual Registered Agents and Commercial Registered Agents.

Individual Registered Agents

You can appoint a person as your registered agent. Here are the criteria they must meet:

• Resident of Massachusetts: They should have a physical address in the state.
• Available During Business Hours: They must be reachable during standard business hours.
• Age: The individual must be at least 18 years old.

Choosing an individual agent provides a personal touch. Many clients prefer this option for its cost-effectiveness and direct communication.

Commercial Registered Agents

These agents are companies that provide professional registered agent services. They usually offer more extensive support, including:

• Document Handling: Managing official documents for you.
• Privacy Protection: Keeping your personal information safe.

Well-known firms like Northwest and ZenBusiness are examples of commercial registered agents.

To qualify, they must have a physical address in Massachusetts and be accessible during business hours.

Commercial agents are often chosen for their expertise in compliance and handling complex documents. They may charge more than individual agents but can offer valuable services that simplify your business operations.

When selecting a registered agent, consider:

• Cost: Individual agents may offer lower fees.
• Service Needs: A commercial agent might suit you better if you need extra support.
• Expertise: Commercial agents typically have more experience than individuals.

How To Choose a Registered Agent in Massachusetts – My Review Methodology

Selecting a registered agent in Massachusetts requires careful consideration of various factors. You’ll want to ensure they have the right experience, pricing, and services to meet your business needs. Here’s how to evaluate your options effectively.

Evaluating Provider’s Industry Experience, Track Record and Reputation

When choosing a registered agent, look for their industry experience. A provider with several years in business is more likely to understand the complexities of compliance and regulations.

Check their track record for reliability and efficiency. Research how many clients they serve and how well they manage legal documents.

A solid reputation means they likely handle communications promptly and accurately.

Also, pay attention to any awards or certifications the company may have received. This can indicate a level of professionalism and trustworthiness that benefits your business.

Third-party Reviews and Reputation

Read third-party reviews to truly understand a registered agent’s quality. Websites like Trustpilot or the Better Business Bureau can provide insights from actual clients.

Look for patterns in reviews. Are customers generally satisfied? Do they mention responsiveness, accuracy, or user-friendly services? Positive feedback in these areas is crucial for your choice.

Negative reviews can highlight red flags. If many clients report similar issues, it may indicate potential problems for your own business.

Price and Registered Agent Fee

Cost is a significant factor when selecting your registered agent. Compare pricing among various providers to balance cost and services offered.

Be wary of meager prices. They may come with hidden fees or reduced services that could impact your compliance needs. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs.

Mail Forwarding and Privacy Options

Your registered agent should offer mail forwarding services. This means important documents are directed to you promptly, which helps you maintain compliance.

Privacy is another critical factor. A good registered agent will provide identity theft protection services. This can include keeping your personal information secure and out of public records and safeguarding your business from potential online threats.

Ask about the privacy policies of any potential agents. Your confidentiality should be a top priority for the service you choose.

Customer Experience and Support Channels

Your experience with a registered agent relies heavily on customer support. Look for firms that offer multiple support channels, such as phone, email, and live chat.

Evaluate their response times. A quick reply is crucial, especially if you have urgent compliance questions. Check if they offer a dedicated representative for your account; this can enhance personalized service.

You may also want to explore user-friendly online portals. These can make managing your documents and compliance alerts much easier.

Other Key Essential Services Offered

Beyond basic registered agent duties, consider what additional services a provider can offer. Compliance alerts and notifications keep you informed about key deadlines.

Look for features like a compliance calendar. This tool can help you track important dates related to your business filings.

Some agents also offer identity theft protection or other business support services. Assessing these options can add significant value to your choice, making it easier to manage compliance while focusing on your business’s growth.

Why Northwest is Our Favorite Registered Agent Company

Choosing Northwest as your registered agent benefits you from their affordable services. They offer some of the cheapest rates in the industry without sacrificing quality.

Additionally, they offer a free year of registered agent service if you hire them to form your LLC. This is a great way to save money while getting high-quality service.

One of the major advantages is privacy. You can use Northwest’s address for your business. This keeps your personal address off public records, which is crucial for maintaining privacy.

Northwest also stands out because of its commitment to compliance.

It ensures that your business stays in good standing with state requirements, which is important to avoid penalties or issues later on.

Customer support is another area where Northwest excels. You get access to knowledgeable staff who can help with any questions. They provide a smooth experience, making it easy for you to manage your registered agent needs.

There are no hidden fees or surprise upsells with Northwest. The price you see is the price you pay. This transparency makes managing your expenses straightforward.

Lastly, Northwest has offices in all 50 states. This national presence means they can assist you wherever your business may be located.

Choosing Northwest means you’re getting trusted support always.

Read my Northwest registered agent review guide here.

Best Massachusetts Registered Agent Reviews – Summary

When selecting a registered agent in Massachusetts, you have several solid options. Here’s a quick look at some of the best services available:

• Northwest Registered Agent: Overall, best registered agent service(mail forwarding, support, and privacy)
• Doola: Best for international entrepreneurs
• ZenBusiness: Best for corporate responsibility, like offering a corporate mission statement.
• Tailor Brands: Best for branding and marketing services
• MyCompanyWorks: Best for easy setup
• Swyft Filings: Best for ease of use and quick filings
• Harbor Compliance: Best in compliance monitoring and alert
• LegalZoom: Best for legal services
• Rocket Lawyer: Best for legal documents/services

Northwest Registered Agent is highly recommended for a reason.

They offer a complete package that includes a registered street address in Massachusetts. This address is essential for receiving legal notifications and state documents.

Their service highlights include:

• Free First Year: Enjoy the first year without any charge.
• Stellar Customer Support: Their team consists of experts ready to assist you.
• Same-Day Mail Scanning: All your mail is scanned and uploaded right away.
• Online Access: Access your legal documents anytime through an online portal.
• Compliance Alerts: Get reminders for important filing dates to stay compliant.

ZenBusiness is another strong contender. They offer services at a competitive rate of $199 annually and boast a high volume of positive customer feedback. Their user-friendly app makes managing your documents easy.

You might also consider Doola and Tailor Brands. They are known for being cost-efficient while still providing reliable service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to register an LLC in Massachusetts?

Registering an LLC in Massachusetts costs $500. This fee is paid when you file your Articles of Organization with the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

How much does it cost to register a foreign entity in Massachusetts?

To register a foreign entity in Massachusetts, you must pay a $500 filing fee. This is required to do business in the state as a foreign corporation or LLC.

What should I look for when reading reviews of Massachusetts registered agent services?

When reading reviews, focus on customer experiences regarding reliability, communication, and additional services. Pay attention to overall satisfaction and whether the service meets business needs.

What are the legal requirements for becoming a registered agent in Massachusetts?

To become a registered agent in Massachusetts, one must be a resident of the state or a business entity authorized to do business there. The agent must have a physical address in Massachusetts where they can receive legal documents.