9 Best New York Registered Agent Services (2024 Reviews)
Your choice of a new registered agent for your New York LLC could frustrate you or give you peace of mind.
It would be best to avoid a registered agent with poor customer service that masquerades a cheap service behind an expensive upsell – which can be annoying.
I’ll break down NY’s top 9 registered agents in this guide, providing essential details like fees, ratings, and renewal costs. I spent weeks researching and testing these companies for you.
Top Registered Agent Services in New York
Here is a table of the best New York 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 is unique amongst all of the companies above because it offers new New York LLC owners free registered agent services. This is a fantastic way to save on initial business setup costs while still getting excellent service. Many other registered agent services can charge up to $300 a year from the start, which seems quite high to me. Form your new LLC here.
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 well-respected name in the registered agent service industry. Based in Spokane, Washington, it boasts over 20 years of experience. It serves thousands of businesses across the United States, offering reliable and effective services tailored to entrepreneurial needs.
A key feature of Northwest is their Privacy by Default® approach.
This means your data is protected, as they don’t sell your information to third parties. Their commitment to privacy is strong, which is crucial for any business owner.
They also provide a free mail forwarding service.
This service helps you manage important business communications without hassle. Compliance alerts keep you on top of important filing deadlines, which reduces the risk of penalties.
Customer support is another standout feature. The company offers their Corporate Guides®, compliance and business requirements experts personalized guidance. This makes navigating the complexities of maintaining a business much easier for you.
Transparent pricing makes what you’re paying for clear. There are no hidden fees, so you won’t face unexpected charges. With offices in all 50 states, Northwest provides helpful local expertise no matter where your business is located.
Northwest Registered Agent Pros
- Friendly and effective customer support
- Strong privacy protection
- Quick response times
- Fast processing for documents
- Excellent reviews from clients
- Simple checkout process
- Same-day business filing is available
- No hidden upsells
- Easy for new business owners to navigate
Northwest Registered Agent Cons
- Limited online tools for self-service
- Fewer additional services compared to some competitors
My Verdict on Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest Registered Agent is a great, cost-effective choice of registered agent services in New York. They’re especially popular for their excellent customer service, which is a big plus if you’re starting.
You can easily access your documents online, helping you stay organized. They also prioritize privacy, so your details aren’t publicly accessible. Plus, their free limited mail forwarding ensures you get all your important mail on time.
With a 4.7-star rating on Google, Northwest has a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction. It’s a solid option if you’re looking for affordability, trustworthiness, and good support for your new business.
When you hire Northwest registered agent to form your New York 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 designed to help businesses operate smoothly in New York. They offer several services that cater to the needs of entrepreneurs, especially those forming LLCs. Doola’s focus on your LLC compliance and reliability makes it a good option for many business owners.
Doola Pros
- User-friendly platform
- Strong customer support
- Competitive Pricing
- Comprehensive services
- Additional perks
- Global reach
Doola Cons
- High compliance plan cost
- Occasional portal issues
- Newer in the market
My Verdict on Doola New York Registered Agent
As you consider Doola for your registered agent needs, it’s clear they offer solid support and a user-friendly experience. Their additional services can be appealing, especially for new business owners.
However, their pricing might leave you wanting more affordable options.
While their lowest plan starts at $297 annually, this is higher than rivals like Northwest Registered Agent, which charges significantly less. If reliable customer service is what you prioritize and you don’t mind the cost, Doola could be an excellent match for your business needs. 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 provides New York businesses with a comprehensive branding and LLC formation service. This company streamlines the process of establishing and managing your company.
Their registered agent services include receiving crucial legal documents and ensuring compliance with state laws. The user-friendly platform makes it simple to keep track of important papers and deadlines.
Tailor Brands Pros
- User-friendly platform (easy to navigate for managing business documents)
- Affordable pricing (competitive rates for small business owners)
- Wide range of services (LLC formation, branding, website design, etc.)
- Free logo design tool (create a logo at no extra charge)
Tailor Brands Cons
- Limited customer support (few options for reaching support)
- Additional fees (extra charges for some services)
- No registered agent included (registered agent services are not bundled with LLC packages)
My Verdict on Tailor Brands
Although their strong suit isn’t business formation – I find Tailor Brands LLC a strong option for those looking to create their LLC and develop a brand in New York. The platform’s ease of use and affordability stand out, making it suitable for various business owners. While its limitations include fewer customer support options and additional fees, its broad range of services is impressive.
4. 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 offers a strong registered agent service for LLCs in New York. Priced at $199 per year, it stands out as an affordable choice compared to many other options. ZenBusiness is known for its user-friendly platform that helps you manage essential documents easily. You’ll also receive free compliance alerts, a valuable feature for keeping your business on track.
ZenBusiness Pros
- ZenBusiness Pros
- Well-known in the industry (trusted by many business owners)
- Affordable starter pricing ($199 per year)
- Simple and easy-to-use platform (user-friendly and organized)
- Free compliance alerts (notifications for important deadlines)
ZenBusiness Cons
- Customer service can be slow (help may take longer during busy times)
- Hidden and high-priced upsells (additional costs for some services)
- Difficult to cancel (complicated cancellation process)
- Complicated checkout (tedious checkout process)
- No legal or tax services (no assistance with legal or tax issues)
My Verdict on ZenBusiness
Choosing ZenBusiness is a solid option if you’re looking for an affordable registered agent service. Starting at $199 annually, it’s an excellent choice for budget-minded small business owners. The user-friendly platform simplifies handling important documents, which is a big plus.
That said, watching for hidden upsells that could increase your costs unexpectedly is wise. Customer support has mixed reviews, with some users reporting challenges in getting timely assistance.
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 service that simplifies starting and maintaining a business in New York. It provides registered agent services, LLC formation, and compliance assistance. With its competitive pricing and user-friendly platform, you can easily navigate the business setup process.
At $119 per year, MyCompanyWorks stands out for its affordability and comprehensive support options. Their platform is designed to be intuitive, making it accessible for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just getting started.
MyCompanyWorks Pros
- Affordable pricing ($119 a year)
- User-friendly platform (easy to manage business needs)
- Excellent customer service (responsive and knowledgeable support team)
- Positive customer reviews (reliable and satisfying service)
MyCompanyWorks Cons
- No address privacy (information remains public)
- Potential extra costs (additional services can increase the overall price)
My Verdict on MyCompanyWorks
My research on MyCompanyWorks has been quite positive. Their pricing is reasonable, and I appreciate the ease of use. This could be a solid choice if you’re looking for a registered agent in New York.
The lack of privacy protection is a drawback, but it isn’t a deal breaker for many. If you want a reliable service that won’t break the bank, you might find MyCompanyWorks a great fit.
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 is a registered agent service helping businesses since 2012. They are based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, but offer services in all 50 states. This company is recognized for its dedicated customer service, assigning each client a compliance specialist. This is beneficial if you have questions about state regulations and compliance issues.
Their offerings go beyond just being a registered agent. They assist with business licensing and entity management and provide compliance software that makes it easier to stay organized.
Harbor Compliance Pros
- Affordable pricing (competitive rates for various business sizes)
- Personalized service (dedicated compliance specialist for each client)
- Comprehensive services (includes business licensing and entity management)
- User-friendly compliance software (helps track compliance requirements)
- Strong reputation (reliable and excellent customer service)
Harbor Compliance Cons
- Privacy limitations (cannot use their address for privacy protection)
- Limited online presence (fewer customer reviews available)
- Not ideal for small businesses (extensive services might be unnecessary for simple needs)
My Verdict on Harbor Compliance
Harbor Compliance can be a great fit if you run a larger business with intricate compliance needs.
Their pricing is budget-friendly, and they support businesses with a wide range of compliance needs. The fact that they provide a dedicated compliance specialist is a real advantage. However, remember that their address cannot be used for privacy purposes, which could be a drawback for some. Additionally, their limited online reviews may raise concerns for those seeking extensive feedback before deciding.
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 focuses on helping you easily start and maintain your business in NY. Since its founding in 2012, it has developed a reputation for being efficient and user-friendly. They specialize in LLC formation, registered agent services, and ongoing compliance needs, which can relieve the stress of starting your business.
Swyft Filings Pros
- Flat fee structure (consistent fee for easier budgeting)
- Efficient turnaround (quick processing times)
- User-friendly platform (easy navigation for all users)
- Affordable options (competitive rates)
- Responsive support (attentive customer service)
Swyft Filings Cons
- Higher costs (fees may be higher than some competitors)
- Limited features (fewer advanced features compared to premium services)
- Upselling concerns (possible upselling for additional services)
My Verdict on Swyft Filings
I believe Swyft Filings is a great choice if you want an efficient and easy-to-use platform for starting your business. The straightforward process and responsive customer support can make things much easier for you.
That said, their fee of $149 per quarter for New York registered agent services feels steep. You might discover better deals with competitors offering similar services at lower annual rates.
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 recognized provider in the registered agent service space, especially valued by small businesses. Established in 2008, they stand out for combining various legal and business solutions under one roof. This approach simplifies the process for entrepreneurs who may not have legal expertise.
One of the highlights of Rocket Lawyer is its subscription-based model – which offers unlimited legal documents and consultations with experienced attorneys for a monthly fee. This is particularly useful if your business requires ongoing legal guidance.
Rocket Lawyer Pros
- Comprehensive solutions (LLC formation and legal advice)
- Unlimited access (constant access to documents and attorney support)
- User-friendly platform (simplifies complex legal tasks)
- Established reputation (over a decade of industry trust)
- Supportive team (attorneys available for various legal questions)
Rocket Lawyer Cons
- Monthly fees (ongoing cost for forms and attorney help)
- It is not a basic choice (it might be too complex if you only need registered agent services)
- Higher costs (subscription can be pricier than one-time fees from competitors)
- Subscription may not be necessary (could be excessive for infrequent legal needs)
- Customer service delays (some users report slower response times)
My Verdict on Rocket Lawyer
Rocket Lawyer can be an excellent choice for businesses needing extensive legal assistance.
Their services range widely, from LLC formation to document creation, all through a convenient subscription. This model is beneficial if you require regular legal input. Yet, if you focus solely on registered agent services with no ongoing legal needs, you might want to explore other options with lower costs and simpler structures.
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 registered agent service industry name boasting over 20 years of experience. They offer various services, such as LLC formation, legal document preparation, and registered agent services. Many businesses turn to LegalZoom because of its reputation and the extensive support that seems to be available.
However, it’s important to note that LegalZoom’s pricing is generally higher than many competitors. Some customers have reported challenges in getting useful information from their customer support.
LegalZoom Pros
- Extensive experience (over 20 years)
- Comprehensive services (includes LLC formation and legal document preparation)
- Reputable brand (trusted by many business owners)
- User-friendly platform (easy to navigate)
- Various legal services (offers many additional legal options)
LegalZoom Cons
- Higher prices (fees can be significantly higher than competitors)
- Customer support issues (some users report challenges with assistance)
- Upselling practices (reports of aggressive upselling for additional services)
- Processing times (may be slower than other services)
- Mixed reviews (customer opinions vary, with some dissatisfaction)
My Verdict on LegalZoom
After looking into LegalZoom’s service, I think it’s a reliable choice if you seek a well-established registered agent. Their platform is user-friendly, and you can access various legal services.
That said, I noticed some concerns when reading Reddit, Google, and BBB user reviews. Many customers mentioned difficulties with customer service. Some felt misled, thinking they had direct access to a lawyer when they didn’t. Others felt the registered agent service wasn’t worth the price.
What is a New York Registered Agent?
A New York registered agent is a person or a service designated to receive legal documents on behalf of a business. This is an important role for any business owner, especially those forming an LLC.
When you create an LLC in New York, you must submit your Articles of Organization. This document requires you to list a registered agent. This person or service is your business’s official point of contact.
The registered agent ensures that all legal documents, like lawsuits or official notices, reach you in a timely manner. This is crucial for maintaining legal compliance and good standing in the state.
You can choose a professional registered agent service or appoint yourself. If you decide to use a service, ensure they have a reliable reputation and good customer support.
Having a registered agent also allows you to keep your personal information private. The registered agent’s address is public, not yours. This helps protect your privacy as a small business owner.
Remember, a registered agent must have a physical address in New York. They must also be available during regular business hours to receive documents.
How Much Does a New York Registered Agent Cost?
The cost of hiring a registered agent in New York typically ranges from $120 to $1,000 per year. This wide range can depend on the specific services offered.
When choosing a registered agent, consider not just the price but also the quality of the service.
Look for benefits that fit your business needs, such as:
- Reliable service for receiving important documents
- Good customer support for any questions or concerns
- Additional features like document scanning or mail forwarding
For example, Northwest Registered Agent charges $125 annually. This price is competitive in the market.
Their service includes:
- Free mail forwarding
- Excellent customer support
- Strong privacy protection, ensuring your personal information stays off public records
While some services may charge more and add extra fees for similar features, Northwest offers great value for affordability and quality.
What are the Types of Registered Agents in New York?
In New York, registered agents have three main options: individual registered agents, commercial registered agents, and attorneys or accounting firms.
1. Individual Registered Agents
An individual registered agent can be any resident of New York or a corporation authorized to do business there. They must have a physical address in the state.
Pros:
- Cost-effective with no extra fees.
- Allows for direct communication.
Cons:
- Must be available during business hours.
- Their address becomes public, raising privacy concerns.
- You may face compliance issues if they move or cannot be reached.
2. Commercial Registered Agents
These are businesses that specialize in registered agent services. They have dedicated resources to handle documents for multiple companies.
Pros:
- Always available during business hours.
- Offers better privacy by using their address.
- Can provide services like compliance monitoring.
Cons:
- Generally more expensive than an individual agent.
- Less personal compared to having a dedicated person from your company.
3. Law Firms and Accounting Firms
Some businesses use their law or accounting firm as their registered agent. This can be convenient if they already handle other aspects of your business.
Pros:
- Provides legal and financial expertise.
- Professional management of sensitive documents.
Cons:
- Can be very costly, often ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
- Availability might be restricted to standard hours.
How To Choose a Registered Agent in New York – My Review Methodology
Choosing a registered agent in New York involves several important factors. These include:
- costs and annual renewal fees
- privacy protection
- the range of services offered
- the agent’s reputation
Understanding these elements can help you make an informed decision that meets your business needs.
Cost and Registered Agent Fee
Cost is a crucial factor when selecting a registered agent. Many services offer competitive pricing, but it’s important to evaluate what you get for the fee. Typically, prices range from $100 to $300 per year.
For example, MyCompanyWorks offers rates as low as $119 for New York services. At the same time, Northwest Registered Agent provides more personalized support and privacy but starts with a $0 registered agent for the first year and a $125 renewal fee.
Privacy Protection
Privacy is a key concern for many business owners. Using a registered agent allows you to keep your address off public records.
Any legal notices sent to your business will go to the registered agent’s address. This provides an added layer of protection for your personal information.
Your chosen agent must offer a reliable privacy policy to ensure your details are kept confidential. I’d recommend you also find out how they handle sensitive information to maintain your privacy.
Evaluating Service Offerings
Registered agents can provide different services beyond just receiving legal notices. Some may offer EIN services, mail forwarding, compliance alerts, business emails, website hosting, and business formation assistance.
It would be best to consider what additional services might benefit your business. A more comprehensive service can save you time and hassle in the long run.
Third-party Reviews and Reputation
Reputation plays a critical role in choosing a registered agent. Look for customer reviews and ratings on trusted sites. This can give you insights into their reliability and quality of service.
I have included the average reviews of these companies on different review platforms to help make that decision.
Pay attention to feedback on their responsiveness and customer support. Obviously, registered agents with consistently positive reviews are typically more reliable.
Customer Experience and Support Channels
Customer service and support are essential when selecting a registered agent. You want to choose someone who is responsive and provides multiple ways to reach them, such as phone, email, and chat.
Consider how quickly they respond to inquiries and whether they offer personalized support. Some companies, like Northwest Registered Agent, are known for their strong customer support.
Industry Experience, Track Record, and Reliability
The experience of the registered agent is another important factor I’d consider.
Agents with a long history in the industry tend to have a better understanding of legal requirements and processes. Check their track record with businesses similar to yours. Ask about their success rates in handling legal notices.
Agents that have worked with various industries may offer valuable insights and services tailored to your needs. Reliability is paramount, so look for agents that have demonstrated commitment and effective service over time.
Why Northwest is Our Favorite Registered Agent Company
Northwest Registered Agent stands out as a top choice for registered agent services in New York.
Here’s why you might consider them for your business needs.
- Affordable Pricing
Northwest offers some of the most affordable services in the industry. You can get quality service without breaking the bank.
- Privacy Protection
Using their address means you can keep your address off public records. This is a crucial step for many business owners who value their privacy.
- Free First Year
One attractive feature is the free first year of registered agent service. This helps you save money while meeting your legal requirements.
- Compliance Focus
Northwest excels in compliance. They ensure you stay on top of important deadlines and requirements, which are essential for maintaining your LLC.
- Customer Support
Their customer support is widely regarded. You’ll find knowledgeable representatives ready to assist you with questions or concerns.
- No Hidden Fees
With Northwest, there are no hidden upsells or extra costs. What you see is what you get, making budgeting easier.
- Nationwide Presence
Finally, they have offices in all 50 states. This means you’ll have consistent support no matter where your business operates.
Best New York Registered Agent Reviews – Summary
The Best New York 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
Northwest Registered Agent is the top choice when choosing a registered agent service in New York. They offer a comprehensive package with a registered address for receiving important legal documents.
You can expect great features such as:
- Free for the first year: If you’re a new business, you can use their free one-year registered agent service.
- Same-day mail scanning: All your important mail is scanned and uploaded on the same day it arrives.
- Online access: You will have a secure portal to easily manage all your legal documents.
- Compliance alerts: Receive timely alerts for important dates, like filing annual reports.
- Cost: Their service is $125 per state per year, making it affordable.
- Customer support is another highlight. Their US-based team consists of experienced professionals ready to assist you.
Other services like ZenBusiness also offer appealing features at competitive rates. They provide user-friendly tools and personalized support, which can be helpful, especially for new businesses.
For budget-conscious users, MyCompanyWorks is a solid option. It keeps costs low while still delivering essential services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I search for a New York registered agent?
To search for a New York registered agent, search online for registered agent services or check local business directories. Many companies provide this service and have user-friendly websites where you can view their offerings.
What are the top-rated registered agent services in New York?
Three top-rated registered agent services in New York are Northwest Registered Agent, Doola, and Tailor Brands. Northwest is known for its comprehensive service features. Doola offers specialized support for new businesses, while Tailor Brands combines branding services with registered agent functions.
Can I serve as my own registered agent in New York, or should I use a service?
You can serve as your own registered agent in New York if you meet certain criteria. However, a professional service can provide benefits like privacy, reliability, and the ability to receive legal documents during business hours.
How much does a registered agent cost in NY?
The cost of a registered agent in New York typically ranges from $120 to $300 annually, depending on the service provider. Many companies offer packages with additional features, which can affect the pricing.
How do I change my registered agent in New York?
To change your registered agent in New York, you must fill out a form called the “Change of Registered Agent” and submit it to the New York Department of State. You may also need the new agent’s consent.
How do I find a registered agent provider’s reviews?
You can find reviews for registered agent providers on websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google. These platforms offer customer feedback, ratings, and insights into other users’ experiences.
What are the benefits of using a professional registered agent service in New York?
Using a professional registered agent service provides several advantages. It ensures compliance with state requirements, protects your privacy, and helps you manage important documents efficiently.
Does New York require a registered agent for LLCs?
Yes, New York requires LLCs to designate a registered agent. This agent must have a physical address in New York and is responsible for receiving important business documents.
How long does it take to form a NY LLC?
Forming a New York LLC typically takes 5 to 10 business days if filed online. If you submit your application by mail, it might take longer. Expedited services are also available for quicker processing.
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.
