9 Best Ohio Registered Agent Services (2024 Reviews)

The best Ohio registered agent services offer various benefits to help you manage your business effectively. Whether you seek personalized support or a range of additional services, there’s a perfect fit for your needs.

Ohio is an excellent state for forming your LLC, thanks to its favorable business climate.

Having a reliable registered agent ensures compliance with state regulations, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

In this blog post, you’ll discover which registered agent services stand out in Ohio and what makes them your best choice.

Top Registered Agent Services in Ohio for Your LLC

Here is a table of the best Ohio 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

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, founded in 1998, has established itself as one of the premier registered agent services in the United States, including Ohio. They offer an impressive array of services, including same-day filing and a complimentary first year of registered agent services.

With over 25 years of experience, Northwest has grown to serve an impressive 3 million active clients, catering to their business needs with exceptional customer service and a robust Privacy by Default ®️ policy. This policy ensures that client privacy is always protected, and they proudly declare on their website that they never sell customer data or reveal it to public records.

What sets Northwest apart from its competitors is its team of Corporate Guides, who are skilled communicators and experienced business experts dedicated to guiding business owners and entrepreneurs through the entire process of forming and managing their local businesses.

These Corporate Guides specialize in LLC filings and handling other critical corporate documents.

While the registered agent service fee is waived for the first year, please note that state fees, LLC formation ($39), and EIN registration ($50) may still apply.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros

• Free one-year registered agent service
• Friendly and effective customer support
• Firm privacy by Default® policy
• Quick response time and fast turnarounds
• Free operating agreement
• Excellent customer reviews
• Easy checkout process
• Same-day business filing
• No hidden upsells

Northwest Registered Agent Cons

• No legal services
• Limited online tools
• Limited additional services

My Verdict on Northwest Registered Agent

From my experience, Northwest Registered Agent is a trustworthy option for businesses needing registered agent services. Their top-notch customer support makes it easy to get answers to any questions along the way. I appreciate their emphasis on privacy. Using their address keeps yours off public records, which provides peace of mind.

The free mail forwarding service is also a huge plus. It lets me manage important correspondence without worrying about missing anything. I’ve seen many positive reviews on different platforms, and a high rating on Google backs up my experience.

For new business owners, Northwest offers reliability and clarity in pricing. Their approach to service ensures you feel supported as you navigate the challenges of starting a business.

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 provider that offers affordable and reliable options for businesses in Ohio. They cater to entrepreneurs looking to establish Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) with various services that simplify business formation and compliance.

With offerings like mail forwarding, document scanning, and assistance in obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), Doola allows you to focus on growing your business while they handle essential details.

Their platform is designed for ease of use, making navigating and managing your registered agent services simple. Additionally, Doola provides comprehensive support that includes compliance management and even CPA consultations, making them a popular choice among new business owners.

Doola Pros

• Easy-to-use platform
• Reliable customer support
• Competitive Pricing
• Comprehensive services
• Additional perks
• Global reach

Doola Cons

• High compliance plan cost
• Online portal issues
• Registered agent service is only an add-on
• Limited reputation because it is a relatively new company to others like Northwest

My Verdict on Doola Ohio Registered Agent

Doola can be a solid choice if you seek a dependable registered agent service in Ohio. Their customer support is strong, and their service is straightforward, which is reassuring.

However, their pricing may not appeal to those on a tight budget. For example, their lowest tier starts at $297 per year, making it pricier than some competitors, like Northwest Registered Agent, whose services begin at $39.

While Doola delivers various beneficial features, they come at a higher price. If affordability is key, you might want to look at other options. Yet, if you value excellent support and don’t mind spending more, Doola could be a fitting choice for your business needs. Check my Doola review here.

==> Get Doola Registered Agent Discount

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 provides a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to form an LLC in Ohio and manage their brand. They focus on offering a user-friendly platform that simplifies handling important legal documents.

With a range of services extending beyond just registered agent options, Tailor Brands aims to help you establish and maintain your business while ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Tailor Brands Pros

• User-friendly interface
• Affordable pricing
• Variety of services
• Free logo design tool

Tailor Brands Cons

• Limited customer support
• Extra fees for add-ons
• Registered agent service not included in packages

My Verdict on Tailor Brands

After reviewing Tailor Brands, I find it to be a solid choice for small business owners in Ohio who want an integrated approach to forming their LLCs. The platform is straightforward and user-friendly for those new to the process. Pricing is reasonable, but be cautious about add-on costs that can accrue if you select more services.

While it’s excellent for branding and initial setup, you may consider other options if your focus is primarily on dedicated registered agent services, as Tailor Brands may not fully meet your needs.

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 is another impressive registered agent service in Ohio. Their platform is designed to manage important business documents and ensure compliance with state regulations. With a focus on affordability, their pricing starts at $199 per year, which is competitive compared to other services.

This service is well-known in the industry, giving you confidence in its reliability. ZenBusiness offers a user-friendly platform that simplifies document management. Plus, they provide free compliance alerts to keep you informed.

ZenBusiness Pros

• Well-known and solid reputation in the registered agent space.
• The system is designed for ease of use.
• Free compliance alerts

ZenBusiness Cons

• Compared to competitors like Doola and Northwest, their support can be lacking.
• You may encounter additional fees for services that aren’t clear upfront.
• Some users report difficulties when trying to cancel their service.
• The initial signup can be more complex than expected.
• They do not offer legal or tax assistance, which may be a drawback for some.

My Verdict on ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is great for those looking for an affordable registered agent service. Their competitive renewal fee and user-friendly platform are very appealing. Yet, I believe it’s essential to watch for unexpected upsells that can add costs.

Many users appreciate their simplicity, but the reported customer service issues mean you might face challenges if you need urgent help. If you’re okay with these factors, ZenBusiness can be a smart, budget-friendly choice for your business needs.

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 robust registered agent service provided by Registered Agent Solutions Inc. This service simplifies running your business by offering LLC formation, compliance support, and more.

With a simple platform, it’s designed to help you start and maintain your business with ease. Priced competitively at $119 per year, MyCompanyWorks stands out for its value, especially for those just beginning their business journey. It offers clients an LLC handbook for running their business.

Their platform is easy to navigate, making it straightforward to manage your registered agent needs. Excellent customer support is also a significant feature. Many users praise their responsive and helpful staff. This service is particularly useful for small businesses and entrepreneurs who seek reliability and affordability.

MyCompanyWorks Pros

• Affordable registered agent service fee
• Intuitive and easy to navigate website
• Excellent customer service
• Free business tax consultation
• 90-day money-back guarantee
• Toll-free telephone support service
• Virtual office service offerings
• Helpful compliance monitoring services

MyCompanyWorks Cons

• Lack of privacy protection
• Not suitable for non-profits
• Potential extra costs
• Separate services instead of a complete service bundle
• Contains unnecessary features business may not need

My Verdict on MyCompanyWorks

I see MyCompanyWorks as a strong option for entrepreneurs and small businesses. The platform is easy to use, and their customer service is dependable. While they lack privacy protection, which may concern some business owners, the overall value is commendable. If you’re looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly registered agent service, consider MyCompanyWorks—it covers essential needs without overwhelming you.

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, a trusted registered agent service since 2012, is headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and serves businesses across all 50 states, including Ohio. What sets them apart is their commitment to personalized customer support, assigning a dedicated compliance specialist to guide clients through state regulations and compliance requirements.

Their services extend beyond registered agent duties. They offer business licensing, entity management, and user-friendly compliance software, making them ideal choices for larger organizations or those with complex compliance needs.

Harbor Compliance Pros

• Comprehensive services like registered agent p, compliance alerts, and document management.
• Online dashboard is easy to navigate
• Useful ancillary services

Harbor Compliance Cons

• Limited customer service
• Basic online features
• While they score reasonably well, some reviews indicate they don’t always meet the highest customer satisfaction standards.
• Their services focus mainly on compliance and registered agent tasks, which might not suit businesses looking for a broader range of legal services.

My Verdict on Harbor Compliance

After looking into Harbor Compliance, I find them to be a solid choice for those who need reliable registered agent services without breaking the bank. The affordability paired with their essential features makes it a favorable option for many businesses.

Their platform is user-friendly, which is a big plus for anyone who values convenience. However, if you prefer personalized customer service, you may want to consider other options. Still, for basic compliance needs, Harbor Compliance gets the job done well.

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 provider that focuses on making business formation and compliance simple and effective. Founded in 2012, they have tailored their services to help entrepreneurs set up their LLCs and keep up with necessary requirements. If efficient and user-friendly service is what you’re after, Swyft Filings aims to deliver just that.

Swyft Filings Pros

• Flat fee structure
• Quick processing
• User-friendly web interface

Swyft Filings Cons

• Their registered agent service is unreasonably high for new businesses, charging at $149 per quarter
• While they offer solid services, they lack advanced features found in pricier options.
• Beware of potential upselling for additional services, which may increase your total costs.

My Verdict on Swyft Filings

Swyft Filings presents a dependable choice for those looking to streamline their business setup and compliance needs. Their platform is straightforward, and it’s reassuring to know that help is at hand when you need it.

That said, the quarterly fee of $149 for their registered agent service feels steep when compared to alternatives like Northwest, which charges around $125 per year, or MyCompanyWorks at $119. If you’re keeping an eye on your budget, exploring these cheaper options is smarter. Overall, if you prioritize efficiency and ease of use, Swyft Filings could still be a great fit for you.

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 well-known as a reliable registered agent service that has been helping small businesses since 2008. They provide a wide range of legal and business solutions, allowing you to manage your legal needs easily.

One of the main benefits of using Rocket Lawyer is its subscription model, which gives you unlimited access to legal documents and attorney consultations for a monthly fee.

This service acts as a one-stop shop for business owners. You can handle everything from LLC formation to legal document creation, all in a user-friendly environment. The platform is designed to simplify complex legal processes, letting you focus more on growing your business.

Rocket Lawyer Pros

• You get a variety of legal and business services tailored for small companies.
• Unlimited access to legal documents and consultations for a monthly subscription.
• The platform makes it easy to navigate complex legalities.
• Rocket Lawyer has been around since 2008, building trust in the industry.
• It offers everything from LLC formation to ongoing legal advice.
• Their team of experienced attorneys is available to answer your legal questions and provide support.

Rocket Lawyer Cons

• Accessing forms and consultations comes with a recurring cost, which can be tiring.
• Not just for registered agent services, so the service is just an add-on
• The costs may be steeper than competitors that focus solely on registered agent services.
• Businesses with occasional legal needs may find the subscription unnecessary.
• Based on my research on Trustpilot, the customer service can be slow to respond to questions or requests.

My Verdict on Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer is a strong option if you want a complete solution for your business’s legal needs. They offer various services under one roof, which is great for regular support. The subscription model makes sense if you often require legal help. But if you’re mainly looking for a straightforward registered agent service without ongoing costs, Rocket Lawyer might not be your best option.

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 the registered agent service industry. With over 20 years of experience, they’ve assisted thousands of businesses with various legal needs. Their services go beyond just acting as a registered agent; they also help with LLC formation, legal document preparation, and much more. This extensive range of offerings makes them a convenient choice for many entrepreneurs.

LegalZoom Pros

• Extensive experience having over 20 years in the business, establishing trust among users.
• Comprehensive services offering LLC formation, registered agent service, and a variety of legal documents.
• The website is designed for ease of use, allowing you to navigate services quickly.
• In addition to registered agent services, they offer many legal options to suit your needs.

LegalZoom Cons

• LegalZoom’s services tend to be pricier than other registered agent providers.
• Many users report challenges in receiving helpful information from customer service.
• Customers often encounter attempts to sell additional services that may not be necessary.
• Compared to other providers, their processing times can be on the slower side.
• Customers have aired grievances regarding the quality of services and support.

My Verdict on LegalZoom

When you look at LegalZoom’s registered agent service, you can see its reliability and solid reputation. Their user-friendly platform offers easy access to various legal services, which is a strong point for users.

However, the higher costs and reports of poor customer service are concerning. I’ve read numerous reviews on Reddit, Trustpilot, and BBB where customers felt misled, thinking they were getting professional legal advice when they were not. Some have described the service as not delivering value for money.

Even with these concerns, LegalZoom still presents a viable option for those who seek a well-established provider in Ohio, but it’s wise to consider these potential downsides.

What is an Ohio Registered Agent?

An Ohio registered agent acts as your business’s official point of contact. This person or service receives important documents for your LLC or corporation. These documents may include tax forms, legal notices, and other official communications.

Having a registered agent is a legal requirement in Ohio. Your business needs one to maintain its legal standing. This ensures that you remain compliant with state laws and regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Receive Legal Documents: Your agent gets lawsuits and other legal papers on your behalf.
• Handle Compliance Notices: They ensure you receive important notices about your business’s legal obligations.
• Maintain Privacy: Using a registered agent helps keep your personal address off public records.

When choosing a registered agent, consider their reliability and privacy policies. This is especially vital for small business owners who want to protect their personal information.

You can appoint an individual or a registered agent service. Many business owners prefer using a service for the convenience and expertise they provide.

How Much Does an Ohio Registered Agent Cost?

In Ohio, the cost of a registered agent can range significantly, generally falling between $120 and $1,000 per year. The exact price you pay will depend on the specific service you select.

When evaluating options, it’s crucial to consider both cost and the quality of service. Look for features like reliable support and additional services such as document scanning or mail forwarding. These can add value to your experience.

For example, Northwest Registered Agent charges approximately $125 annually. This fee is competitive and includes several benefits like:

• Free mail forwarding
• Exceptional customer service
• Privacy protection

Some services may offer lower prices but could charge extra for features that are included with others. It’s a good idea to review these factors to find the best deal for your business needs.

Additionally, while some providers might feature lower starting prices, they may require upsells for essential services. Paying a bit more initially can save you from unexpected costs later. Always read the fine print to ensure you’re fully aware of what you’re getting with your chosen registered agent service.

What are the Types of Registered Agents in Ohio?

In Ohio, there are three main types of registered agents: individual registered agents, commercial registered agents, and attorneys. Each has its benefits and drawbacks.

Individual Registered Agents

An individual registered agent can be any resident of Ohio or a corporation that is authorized to do business in the state. They must have a physical address in Ohio and be available during regular business hours.

Pros:

• Cost-effective with typically no additional fees.
• Direct line of communication with the agent.

Cons:

• Must be available during business hours, which can limit flexibility.
• Their address becomes public, raising privacy concerns.
• If the agent moves or is unavailable, compliance issues may arise.

Commercial Registered Agents

Commercial registered agents are businesses that specialize in registered agent services. They provide a physical address for legal and official documents and are usually reliable during business hours.

Pros:

• Consistently available, enhancing reliability.
• Offers privacy protection since their address is used.
• May provide extra services like compliance monitoring.

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to individual agents.
• Less personal connection as they are a separate entity.

Law Firms and Accounting Firms

Some businesses choose to use their law or accounting firms as registered agents. This option can seem convenient but often comes with higher fees.

Pros:

• Access to professionals with legal and financial expertise.
• Careful handling of sensitive documents.

Cons:

• Can be very expensive, with fees ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
• Availability may be limited, similar to individual agents.

How To Choose an Ohio Registered Agent – My Review Methodology

Choosing the right registered agent in Ohio requires careful consideration of several key factors. Each element plays a vital role in ensuring that your business remains compliant with state regulations and has the support it needs to thrive. Below are the most important criteria to guide your selection.

Cost and Registered Agent Fee

Cost is a crucial factor when selecting a registered agent. Registered agent fees in Ohio can vary widely, typically ranging from $50 to $300 annually. Be sure to evaluate what you get for your money. Some agents charge a lower base fee but may have hidden costs for services like document storage or mail forwarding.

Tip: Look for clear pricing structures. Agents that offer discounts for multiple years or additional services included in the package can provide better value. Consider if they offer a money-back guarantee or a free trial period.

Industry Experience, Track Record and Reliability

Experience matters. A registered agent with a proven track record in Ohio can navigate local laws effectively. Look for agents that have operated for several years and have a history of reliability. Check for industry certifications or memberships in reputable business organizations. This indicates professionalism and compliance with regulations.

Recommendation: Research online for customer reviews and case studies. A company that treats its clients well will often have positive feedback. Prioritize agents familiar with your industry for tailored support.

Customer Experience and Support Channels

A registered agent should provide excellent customer support. Evaluate the channels available for assistance. Do they offer phone, email, and live chat options? Quick response times can be critical when you need immediate help.

Consideration: Test their customer service by reaching out with questions. Note how promptly and thoroughly they address your concerns. You want an agent that not only responds quickly but also provides clear and helpful information.

Legal Advice and Ongoing Services

Some registered agents provide extra services such as legal advice or business formation assistance. This can be beneficial if you plan to expand your business or require guidance on compliance issues.

Note: Make sure to understand what additional services are available. This could range from basic legal consultations to more comprehensive packages that include document preparation.

Third-party Reviews and Reputation

Third-party reviews are essential in gauging the reputation of a registered agent. Look for reviews on platforms like Google, TrustPilot, Reddit, or industry-specific forums. A consistent pattern of positive feedback can indicate a reliable choice.

Action: Pay attention to both the number and nature of reviews. A high volume of positive reviews will generally speak to the quality of service. Be cautious of businesses with numerous complaints or unresolved issues.

Mail Forwarding and Privacy Options

Mail forwarding is a necessary feature for many businesses. Ensure the registered agent offers efficient and secure mail handling. Services should include quick notifications when documents arrive.

Privacy consideration: Your registered agent should also provide privacy protection. Confirm if they keep your business information confidential and offer secure storage for sensitive documents. This can protect your personal information while handling business matters effectively.

Why Northwest is Our Favorite Registered Agent Company in Ohio

When choosing a registered agent, Northwest Registered Agent stands out for several reasons.

First, they offer affordable services that fit within almost any budget. You get reliable assistance without worrying about high costs or hidden fees.

Privacy is another big advantage. With Northwest, you can use their address for your business. This means your personal address stays off public records, enhancing your privacy.

For first-time users, Northwest provides a free one-year registered agent service when you form an LLC with thepersonal s a great way to save money while ensuring your business is compliant from the start.

Speaking of compliance, Northwest is known for being the best in this area. They make sure you meet all necessary requirements, so your business stays on track.

Customer support is a highlight too. You will receive top-notch service whenever you need help. Their tenecessary ledgeable and ready to assist you with any questions.

Transparency matters, and Northwest excels here. You won’t find hidden upsells or unexpected costs. What you see is what you get.

Finally, Northwest has offices in all 50 states, including Ohio. This national presence means they are well-equipped to support your business’s needs, no matter where you are.

With these benefits, it’s easy to see why Northwest is a favorite choice for registered agent services in Ohio.

Read my Northwest registered agent review guide here.

Best Ohio Registered Agent Reviews – Summary

When selecting a registered agent service in Ohio, consider the following top options:

• 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

When choosing a registered agent in Ohio, consider what small businesses often need: reliable service and affordability.

Here are key points to consider:

• Customer Feedback: Look for agents with high satisfaction rates. Northwest Registered Agent often tops the list due to its strong customer support and overall value.
• Cost of a Registered Agent: Prices can vary. Some services offer free first-year promotions, making them budget-friendly for new businesses.
• Personalized Customer Support: You should value the support that feels tailored to your needs. Northwest Registered Agent excels here with responsive assistance.
• Available During Regular Business Hours: Ensure your chosen agent is accessible when you need them. This is crucial for handling documents and important notifications.
• Volume Discounts: If you have multiple businesses, look for providers who offer discounts for handling several registrations. This could save you money in the long run.

Finding the right registered agent involves balancing cost with the level of service. Focus on options that maximize convenience and support for your business needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should be considered when choosing the best-registered agent service in Ohio?

When selecting a registered agent service, consider important factors like affordable fees, renewal cost, customer service, no hidden upsells, privacy protection, and mail forwarding.

How much do registered agents cost in Ohio?

The cost for registered agent services in Ohio typically ranges from $99 to $300 per year. Prices can vary based on the level of service provided and any additional features included. Always compare different services to find the best deal.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Ohio?

Forming an LLC in Ohio usually takes about 7 to 10 business days if filing online. If you choose to mail in your application, it may take longer. Expedited services are available for an additional fee to speed up the process.