9 Best South Carolina Registered Agent Services (2024 Reviews)

The best South Carolina registered agent services offer privacy, reliable communication, and support tailored to your business.

A registered agent is more than just a legal requirement; they’re your business’s first line of defense, handling critical documents and ensuring you stay compliant with state regulations.

You have plenty of options in South Carolina, but not all registered agents are created equal. That’s why I’ve thoroughly researched and reviewed the best registered agent service in SC.

From privacy protection to compliance expertise, I researched the best features, pricing, and customer support to help you make an informed decision.

Top Registered Agent Services in SC

Here is a table list of the best South Carolina 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 is a well-established and reputable company in the registered agent service industry, with over 20 years of experience and a strong presence in Spokane, Washington.

They have built an impressive reputation by serving thousands of businesses across the United States, including in South Carolina. Their commitment to privacy, customer support, and ease of use has made them a preferred choice among business owners.

One of the standout features of Northwest Registered Agent is their Privacy by Default® policy, which ensures that your personal and business data is kept secure and not sold to third parties.

This means you can have peace of mind knowing that your private information is protected. Additionally, they offer a free limited mail forwarding service, which helps you manage important correspondence and stay on top of critical documents.

Northwest Registered Agent also prioritizes compliance, providing alerts and reminders to ensure you meet important filing deadlines. This feature helps minimize the risk of penalties and keeps your business in good standing. Their dedicated customer support team, Corporate Guides®, is always available to assist with compliance or business-related questions.

Their pricing is transparent and straightforward, with no hidden fees, which adds to their reliability. Plus, with local offices in all 50 states, they offer knowledgeable support tailored to your specific needs, regardless of where your business operates. Overall, Northwest Registered Agent is a trustworthy and reliable partner for businesses seeking registered agent services.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros

• Transparent Pricing: You won’t find hidden fees here. Their pricing is clear and straightforward.
• Available Nationwide: They operate in all 50 states, giving you options if you ever expand.
• User-Friendly Platform: Their system is easy to navigate and perfect for newcomers.
• 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee: If you’re not satisfied, you can get your money back within 90 days.
• Simple Checkout Process: Getting started is quick and easy.
• Expert Customer Support: Known as Corporate Guides, their support team has knowledge about local business issues.
• Same-Day Filings: Need it done quickly? They can file on the same day.
• Free Registered Agent Service: Enjoy your first year for free with your LLC.
• Positive Customer Reviews: Highly rated on sites like Trustpilot and Google.
• Privacy by Default®: They prioritize your privacy and will never sell your information.
• Mail Forwarding Services: You can receive your business mail without hassle.
• Compliance Alerts: They help you stay on top of important filing dates.
• Quick Inquiry Responses: Their team is prompt in answering your questions.
• Free Operating Agreement: Get a basic operating agreement at no extra cost.

Northwest Registered Agent Cons

• No Legal Services: If you need legal help, they may use third-party services or you may have to look elsewhere.
• Add-Ons Increase Costs: While the base service may be affordable, extras like EIN filing can add up.
• No Mobile App: Access to their services via an app isn’t available, which some find inconvenient.

My Verdict on Northwest Registered Agent

I find Northwest Registered Agent to be a great choice for your LLC. One major advantage is they offer services beyond just LLCs, catering to various business types. What stands out to me is their customer service. When you reach out, you connect with real people, not automated systems.

Their Corporate Guides genuinely want to assist you, making the process smoother.

Plus, the first year of registered agent service is free, which helps keep your startup costs low. Many competitors charge significant fees right away. With Northwest’s lengthy history of more than 25 years, it’s clear they excel in what they offer. If you value privacy and quality support, this service will meet your needs effectively.

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 another notable registered agent service in South Carolina that is designed to support business operations. It shines in compliance services and offers a streamlined process for LLC formation. This is particularly beneficial for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish their LLCs in the United States, including South Carolina.

Doola takes a comprehensive approach to compliance. Their Total Compliance service encompasses important tasks like annual state filings and IRS tax filings. They provide ongoing compliance monitoring and alerts to keep you on track with your obligations. As a registered agent, Doola also delivers legal and compliance guidance, which is valuable for business owners navigating regulations.

The registered agent fee from Doola is competitive at $297 per year.

This pricing may appeal to many, especially those seeking robust support. Their services include prompt same-day filing and transparent pricing, so there are no hidden surprises. Additionally, Doola offers perks like consultations with certified public accountants (CPAs) and assistance with business formation. Read more about my Doola review here.

Doola Pros

• Easy to navigate platform
• Reliable and responsive customer support
• Smooth LLC formation process for foreign entrepreneurs
• Strong compliance services tailored to your needs
• Same-day filing available
• Competitive pricing, especially for the Starter plan
• Additional features like CPA consultations and business formation help
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Comprehensive offerings, including mail forwarding and compliance management
• Global reach, making it suitable for international clients

Doola Cons

• May have hidden upsells
• Mixed customer reviews, with some leaning negative
• Total Compliance package can be pricey, which may not suit new entrepreneurs

My Verdict on Doola South Carolina Registered Agent

Using Doola can be a smart choice if you’re looking for a reliable registered agent. They offer varied services that can help keep your business compliant and thriving. The pricing is competitive, though additional fees can add up.

While many users report challenges, I believe their customer service is a strong point. If you can manage the costs, Doola provides a solid foundation for your LLC in South Carolina.

Click to get started with Doola registered agent

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 is a solid choice for small to medium-sized businesses aiming for a strong online presence. Along with LLC formation, they provide various additional services that can help you build your brand and grow your business.

Their user-friendly platform is designed to simplify the process of starting and managing your LLC. Tailor Brands’ services services include LLC formation, EIN, sales tax, permit filing, business account creation, logo design, website building, customer domain creation, legal document filing, taxes and accounting, graphic design, and digital business cards, among others.

Tailor Brands Pros

• Affordable Pricing: Starting your LLC with Tailor Brands comes at zero cost plus state fees, making it budget-friendly for new entrepreneurs.
• Comprehensive Services: They offer services beyond LLC formation, including EIN acquisition, logo design, website creation, and digital branding.
• Responsive Customer Service: Customers often find the support team quick to address needs and inquiries.
• Free Logo Design: You receive a free logo design, which can enhance your brand without extra cost.
• 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee: There’s peace of mind in knowing you have a chance for a refund if you’re not satisfied.
• Ease of Use: The platform is simple to navigate, making it easy for anyone to manage necessary business tasks.
• Variety of Business Services: Tailor Brands combines LLC creation with many other helpful tools, like accounting and digital business cards.

Tailor Brands Cons

• Extra Costs for Add-Ons: While the base service is affordable, additional features can increase the overall price of using Tailor Brands.
• Possible Hidden Upsells: You may encounter that can be frustrating if you are not looking to purchase additional branding services.
• Limited Customer Service Options: Although responsive, customer service can be less effective during peak times or busy periods.
• Registration Costs Extra: The registered agent service comes as an additional charge, not included in the basic LLC package.

My Verdict on Tailor Brands

I see Tailor Brands as a great tool for building an online business. They offer an impressive range of features to help you launch and grow. However, I find the extra costs for add-ons a bit off-putting. The upselling can feel overwhelming at times. Still, the benefits make it worthwhile for those looking to strengthen their online presence.

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 known for being a reliable and cost-effective registered agent service in South Carolina. You will find their focus on business formation services very appealing. With ZenBusiness, you can tackle tasks like forming your LLC, monitoring compliance, and registering your EIN, all in one place. This all-in-one service helps minimize hassle for business owners.

ZenBusiness Pros

• Affordable Pricing: ZenBusiness offers a great starting price for LLC formation at $0 plus state fees. This makes it an attractive option for new entrepreneurs.
• Positive Customer Reviews: Many users praise ZenBusiness for its efficient services and support, indicating a strong reputation in customer satisfaction.
• Efficient Legal Filings: They manage the legal filings efficiently, which saves you time and helps keep your business compliant.
• Excellent Customer Support: Their customer support team is responsive and knowledgeable, and they are available through live chat to assist you with your questions.
• Comprehensive Services: Besides registered agent services, they offer compliance monitoring, operating agreements, and other critical business formation services.

ZenBusiness Cons

• Paid Registered Agent Service: While ZenBusiness provides various services, the registered agent service is a paid add-on at $199 annually, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious clients.
• Limited EIN Service: If you need an EIN, you’ll find this service is only available in the higher-priced packages, potentially increasing your initial costs.
• Basic Low-Tier Plan: The lowest-tier plan is quite basic, meaning you might need to purchase additional add-ons, which can lead to higher expenses than expected.

My Verdict on ZenBusiness

Using ZenBusiness can be a great move if you’re starting a business in South Carolina. The process is fast and stress-free, which I appreciate. I found their customer support team to be effective, especially when I needed quick answers.

The annual fee for registered agent services at $199 seems reasonable given the benefits. If you prioritize affordability without sacrificing quality, ZenBusiness should be on your list as a trusted partner in your business journey.

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’ main focus is to help you set up and manage your LLC in South Carolina. They are part of Registered Agent Solutions Inc. and are recognized for their friendly and easy-to-use online platform.

With their registered agent service priced at $119 per year, you get solid services without breaking the bank.

They offer support for various business needs like forming an LLC, keeping your compliance in check, and even filing a DBA, or Doing Business As. Many users appreciate their good customer service and find the platform easy to navigate, making it a good choice for both new business owners and those looking for efficient service.

MyCompanyWorks Pros

• Affordable Pricing: At $119 per year, this service is reasonably priced compared to others.
• User-Friendly Platform: You’ll find the website easy to navigate, making it stress-free to access your information.
• Excellent Customer Service: MyCompanyWorks is known for its responsive and helpful support team, which assists you with any questions.
• Positive Customer Reviews: Many users have shared positive experiences, highlighting the reliability of the service.

MyCompanyWorks Cons

• Address Privacy Protection: You cannot use their address for privacy, which might be important for some businesses.
• Additional Costs for Services: If you decide to add more services during checkout, your total could increase, so be mindful of that.

My Verdict on MyCompanyWorks

I believe MyCompanyWorks is a dependable choice for anyone looking to start or manage an LLC in South Carolina. The affordable pricing and solid customer support make it a smart option, especially for those just getting started.

But remember that the lack of address privacy protection may not suit every business’s needs. Still, if you’re looking for a straightforward and cost-effective registered agent service, MyCompanyWorks is definitely worth considering.

6. Harbor Compliance

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

Harbor Compliance is a well-known registered agent service headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It provides registered agent services across all 50 states, making it a versatile option for businesses operating in multiple locations.

This service focuses heavily on compliance solutions, which is crucial for LLCs, corporations, and non-profits. When you choose Harbor Compliance, they will receive your legal and government documents on your behalf. You will also benefit from timely reminders about important compliance tasks, like annual report filings.

However, their registered agent service is not bundled with other services. Instead, you pay an annual fee of $299 for this separate add-on.

Harbor Compliance Pros

• Affordable Pricing: Harbor Compliance is relatively cost-effective compared to other agents.
• Personalized Service: You will have dedicated compliance specialists assisting you with your needs.
• Comprehensive Services: They offer business licensing and entity management, making it a good one-stop shop.
• User-Friendly Software: Their compliance software is designed to be straightforward and easy to navigate.
• Strong Reputation: Many users highlight their reliability and high-quality customer service.

Harbor Compliance Cons

• Limited Privacy: You cannot use their address for privacy protection.
• Few Online Reviews: Not many online reviews are available, which might make you hesitate.
• Not Ideal for Simplicity: Smaller businesses with basic compliance needs might find this service more complex than necessary.

My Verdict on Harbor Compliance

From my experience, Harbor Compliance is a reliable registered agent service option. The pricing may be high for some startups or small businesses but it is also affordable for bigger corporations. And if you need additional compliance help, they have plenty to offer. However, you cannot use their address for privacy. The limited online reviews might be a concern if you prefer more feedback from other users.

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 another well-regarded option for registered agent services in South Carolina. Based on my research, it is highly recommended for people with bigger budgets.

Initially focused on helping entrepreneurs form LLCs, Swyft Filings provides essential services that cover the paperwork and compliance needs for starting a business. Their platform is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through the various services they offer.

In addition to registered agent services, Swyft Filings has expanded to include compliance alerts, tax ID acquisition, and a range of other support options for small businesses.

They aim to deliver fast turnaround times at competitive prices, making them appealing to new entrepreneurs. If you’re seeking a straightforward experience without excessive jargon, Swyft Filings could be a practical choice for your business needs.

Swyft Filings Pros

• User-Friendly Website: The navigation and registration process on their website are clear and straightforward.
• Comprehensive Services: Beyond registered agent services, they assist with LLC formation, compliance, and other legal necessities.
• Quick Processing: Many customers value the efficiency in handling paperwork and state filings.
• Responsive Customer Service: They provide solid support during business hours, helping you resolve issues efficiently.
• Compliance Monitoring: You receive timely notifications regarding compliance requirements, keeping your business on track.

Swyft Filings Cons

• Additional Costs: Asides the very high registered agent fee, be cautious of extra fees, as some services can accumulate unexpectedly.
• Generic Service Experience: Compared to other providers, their offerings may feel less tailored to your specific needs.
• EIN Registration Fee: Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) incurs an extra charge.
• Mixed Customer Reviews: Some clients report dissatisfaction with the quality of service received.
• Premium Pricing for Registered Agent Service: At $149 per quarter, it may be too steep for many new entrepreneurs.

My Verdict on Swyft Filings

Swyft Filings is suitable if you want an easy-to-use platform for business formation and compliance. They simplify the setup process and offer helpful customer support, which can ease your entry into the business world.

However, the registered agent service comes with a significant fee of $149 every quarter. This price tag might not be feasible for everyone. Alternatives are available, such as services from Northwest or MyCompanyWorks at lower annual rates. Balancing your budget with your business needs is key when deciding if Swyft Filings is right 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 a strong option for registered agent services, especially if you’re looking for more than just basic support. It has been around since 2008 and offers a range of legal solutions tailored for small businesses. You can consider it a one-stop shop for your legal needs.

For a monthly fee, you can access various legal documents anytime, along with the ability to consult with attorneys. This can be very helpful if your business requires consistent legal support throughout the year. The platform itself is user-friendly, making it easier for you to manage important legal tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

On the flip side, some might find the subscription cost to be higher than what typical registered agent services charge. Additionally, while many customers praise their responsive customer service, there have been indications of delays in getting timely responses.

Rocket Lawyer Pros

• Access to Legal Documents: Easily find and use legal documents via their website.
• Comprehensive Legal Services: They offer help with contracts, business formation, and more beyond just registered agent services.
• Responsive Customer Support: Their customer service team is known for being helpful and knowledgeable.
• Deadline Updates: Stay informed on important compliance deadlines and avoid missing crucial filings.

Rocket Lawyer Cons

• Higher Costs: The total fees can increase quickly if many legal documents or advice are needed.
• Less Specialized Expertise: It may lack in-depth insights into specific state laws compared to some specialized agents.
• Insufficient for Larger Businesses: Basic services might not meet all the needs of bigger or more complex businesses.
• Relative Pricing: Registered agent fees are generally higher than those of competitors like Northwest Registered Agent.

My Verdict on Rocket Lawyer

I find Rocket Lawyer an excellent option if you’re looking for a comprehensive legal services platform. The convenience of accessing a variety of legal documents and having help with your business needs is valuable.

However, keep in mind that costs can quickly add up if you require lots of legal help. If you’re running a larger business or need specialized services, you might not find everything you’re looking for here. Weighing these factors is essential. Rocket Lawyer is worth considering if you prioritize ease of use and broad legal 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 leading registered agent service known for its extensive experience and range of services. With over 20 years in the industry, this provider has helped many businesses with LLC formation, legal document preparation, and more.

They are well-regarded for their compliance features, which keep you informed about important deadlines, reducing the risk of missing filings.

While LegalZoom offers a wealth of services, their pricing is on the higher side. Annual fees for registered agent services start at $249, which can be expensive for small businesses. Despite some customer service complaints, they maintain a large, satisfied customer base. Overall, LegalZoom stands out for its trustworthiness and variety of offerings.

LegalZoom Pros

• Wide Range of Services: LegalZoom allows you to handle all your legal needs in one place, including LLC formation and legal documents.
• Compliance Reminders: Their attention to filing deadlines helps you avoid costly mistakes by missing critical dates.
• Trusted Reputation: With millions of customers, LegalZoom is a reputable name in legal services.
• Identity Theft Coverage: Their plans often include up to $1 million in identity theft protection, which offers peace of mind.
• User-Friendly Website: Their online platform is clear and easy to navigate, making document management simple.

LegalZoom Cons

• Higher Fees: With annual registered agent fees starting at $249, it might not be the best fit for budget-conscious businesses.
• Generic Service: Some customers feel that the services can lack personalization, making the experience feel less tailored.
• Slow Customer Support: Despite having good support, some users report longer wait times due to high demand.
• Pushy Sales: Users occasionally find that LegalZoom promotes additional services that may not be necessary for their specific needs.

My Verdict on LegalZoom

I find LegalZoom to be reliable if you’re looking for a comprehensive legal service platform. They provide a broad range of features that can simplify your business’s legal needs. The compliance reminders and identity theft coverage are excellent benefits.

However, the starting fee of $249 might be too much for smaller businesses. While their support is generally good, it can be slow at times, and the pushiness for extra services can be off-putting. If you are looking for a trusted service and can accommodate their costs, LegalZoom could be a strong choice for you.

Worthy Mentions of Other South Carolina Registered Agents

Several other registered agent services in South Carolina provide valuable options for business owners. Each service has unique features, benefits, and pricing structures. Below are notable mentions that may fit your needs.

10. Bizee (formally Incfile)

Bizee offers an affordable way to manage your registered agent needs in SC. Their service starts at $119 per year. You receive a wide range of features, including compliance alerts and access to legal documents. This ensures you’re always aware of important deadlines.

One drawback is that customer support may not be as responsive as other firms. Depending on your situation, this might be a concern if you have urgent questions. However, for budget-conscious businesses, Bizee could be a strong contender.

11. InCorp

InCorp provides strong registered agent services at a competitive price starting around $99 annually. They offer a variety of tools to keep your business compliant. This includes online document access and compliance notifications for important deadlines.

InCorp’s customer service is generally well-rated, which is a significant plus. However, users sometimes report that the website can be a bit difficult to navigate. Nonetheless, InCorp remains a reliable choice for many entrepreneurs.

12. CSC Global

CSC Global is a well-established name in the registered agent field. Their services start at $299 per year but provide a comprehensive suite of compliance tools. This includes document management and 24/7 online access to your records.

While they might be pricier than other options, the extensive features may justify the cost for larger businesses. However, smaller startups may find them less budget-friendly. If you prioritize security and thoroughness, CSC could be a great fit.

13. Inc Authority

Inc Authority is a popular choice that provides free registered agent service for the first year, with plans starting at $99 thereafter. Their services are designed for new businesses, offering various resources to help you navigate the process. This includes formation services and compliance help.

On the downside, the company’s focus on upselling additional services can be a turn-off for some. If you’re looking for straightforward registered agent services, you might find their approach less appealing. However, Inc Authority’s free first year is appealing.

14. Firstbase.io

Firstbase.io offers registered agent services starting at $19 per month. This approach provides flexibility in payments and allows you to tackle budgeting easily. Their services include compliance monitoring and document storage online.

While they are cheaper per month, the annual cost can add up. Some users may prefer a flat annual fee instead. Despite that, Firstbase.io caters perfectly to tech-savvy business owners looking for convenience.

15. CorpNet

With services starting at $79 per year, CorpNet is another option worth considering. They provide comprehensive services, including compliance tracking and access to legal forms. Their competitive pricing makes them an attractive choice for small businesses.

However, some customers have pointed out that their customer support can be inconsistent. If you need frequent assistance, this could pose challenges. Still, if you are conscious of budget and need solid services, CorpNet is worth a look.

What is a South Carolina Registered Agent?

A South Carolina registered agent is a person or business designated to receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC. This ensures that important notice, such as lawsuits or tax documents, reaches you promptly.

Their key responsibilities include:

• Receiving Legal Papers: Your agent must be available during normal business hours to accept the service of process.
• Providing a Physical Address: The registered agent must have a physical street address in South Carolina, as P.O. Boxes are not allowed.

As a business owner, you are required to list a registered agent when you file your articles of organization. This is crucial for legal compliance and maintaining your LLC’s good standing.

Having a registered agent helps your business appear professional. It also ensures that you don’t miss any important notices that could affect your legal standing.

Additionally, your registered agent can help manage important documents related to your operating agreement and EIN. This can reduce stress and allow you to focus on growing your small business.

Choosing the right registered agent means you have peace of mind knowing that your legal matters are handled correctly. Keep in mind that some registered agent services also offer additional benefits, like mail forwarding and compliance reminders.

How Much Does a South Carolina Registered Agent Cost?

When setting up an LLC in South Carolina, you’ll find that the cost of a registered agent can range quite a bit. Typically, you can expect to pay between $120 and $1,000 per year.

The price often depends on the specific service and features included. Some services offer basic support, while others provide additional features and benefits.

Here are some examples of costs for popular registered agent services in South Carolina:

Service Provider	Annual Cost	Key Features
Northwest Registered Agent	$125 (free for first year)	Free mail forwarding, privacy focus
ZenBusiness	$199	Great customer support
MyCompanyWorks	$119	Pricing transparency
Swyft Filings	$149/quarter	Basic service package

When choosing a service, consider the value it offers. Look for responsive customer support, reliable service, and document scanning and mail forwarding features.

Some services may charge extra for these features or have upsells, which can increase your overall costs. Therefore, it is wise to compare your options. Services like Northwest Registered Agent focus on providing high-quality features at a competitive price, making it a good choice for many LLC owners.

What are the Types of Registered Agents in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, there are three main types of registered agents: individual registered agents, commercial registered agents, and law or accounting firms.

1. Individual Registered Agents

An individual registered agent must be a resident of South Carolina or a corporation authorized to operate there. This agent needs a physical address in the state where they can be reached during regular business hours.

Pros:

• Cost-effective, with minimal fees.
• Encourages direct communication.

Cons:

• Must be available during business hours.
• The agent’s address becomes public information.

2. Commercial Registered Agents

These are businesses that specialize in providing registered agent services. They handle legal documents and notices for multiple businesses and have a physical location reachable during business hours.

Pros:

• Reliable availability and service.
• Additional privacy by using the agent’s address.
• Often provide extra services like compliance monitoring.

Cons:

• Typically, it is more expensive than an individual agent.
• Less personal interaction compared to an in-house agent.

3. Law and Accounting Firms

Some businesses opt to use law or accounting firms as their registered agents. This can work well if those firms are already managing other business matters.

Pros:

• Access to professional legal and financial advice.
• Careful handling of important documents.

Cons:

• Generally, it is much more costly than other options.
• Availability might be restricted to regular business hours.

How To Choose a South Carolina Registered Agent – My Review Methodology

Selecting the right registered agent for your LLC in South Carolina requires careful consideration. It’s essential to examine cost, privacy protections, service options, reputation, customer experience, and reliability. Below, I’ll break down the important factors you should think about.

Cost and Registered Agent Fee

When choosing a registered agent, cost is often a primary concern. In South Carolina, you will typically find fees ranging from $100 to $1,000 per year. This price can vary based on the services included.

Look for agents who are transparent about their fees and avoid hidden costs. Comparing a few options will help you gauge the average pricing. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always provide the best service. Consider what’s included in the fee, such as document forwarding and online account access.

Privacy Protection (Keeping your contact off the public record by using their address)

Privacy is crucial when running a business. A reputable registered agent will use their address for public records. This means your personal address stays off public databases, safeguarding your privacy.

Ensure the agent you choose can provide this service. The registered agent’s address will be listed for legal notices, so it’s helpful to have a professional address instead of your home address. This can also enhance your business’s image, adding a layer of professionalism.

Evaluating Service Offerings

Different registered agents provide various services. Common offerings include mail forwarding, online document access, and compliance notifications.

Make a list of what services are most important for your LLC. If you expect to receive significant legal documents, select an agent that offers timely notifications. Some agents also provide additional support, like help with filing annual reports. Assess each agent based on the services that align with your specific needs.

Third-party Reviews and Reputation

Before making a decision, check third-party reviews and ratings. Websites like Trustpilot and Google Reviews can provide honest feedback from other business owners. Look for agents with high ratings and positive comments regarding their reliability and service quality.

Pay attention to any negative reviews, especially those mentioning issues with responsiveness or missed notifications. A strong reputation is a good indicator of consistent service and customer satisfaction, which can significantly impact your business operations.

Customer Experience and Support Channels

The quality of customer support is vital when selecting a registered agent. You should feel confident that help is available when you need it. Look for agents that offer multiple support channels, such as phone, email, and live chat.

It’s useful to test their response time before signing up. Reach out with a question and see how they handle your inquiry. Good customer service should be prompt and helpful. A responsive registered agent can make a difference in how you handle legal matters for your LLC.

Industry Experience, Track Record and Reliability

Choose a registered agent with a solid track record and experience in the field. Established agencies will likely have extensive knowledge of state laws and regulations, which can be an asset for your business.

Look for agents that have operated in South Carolina for several years. Experience usually means they are aware of local requirements and can provide better service. Reliable agents will ensure that you don’t miss important legal documents, safeguarding your business interests.

Why Northwest is My Favorite South Carolina Registered Agent Company

Northwest Registered Agent stands out to me for several reasons that are key for any LLC owner.

First, they offer some of the most affordable services in the industry. You won’t have to break the bank to get quality support for your business.

Another essential feature is their address privacy. You can use their address in your LLC paperwork. This keeps your home address off public records, ensuring your personal information remains safe.

Northwest provides a free one-year registered agent service with LLC formation. This is a great way to save money when starting your business. You get solid support without extra charges.

Their focus on compliance is impressive. They send alerts for annual reports and other important filings. This means you’ll never miss a deadline.

One of my favorite aspects of Northwest is its customer support. They provide top-notch assistance whenever you need it. It’s reassuring to know you can get help quickly.

Unlike many other services, there are no hidden upsells or extra costs. You pay for what you see, which builds trust.

Lastly, Northwest has offices in all 50 states. This means they understand the unique rules and regulations in South Carolina. You’ll get tailored support wherever you are.

With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why Northwest is my top choice for registered agent services in South Carolina.

Best South Carolina Registered Agent Reviews – Summary

The Best South Carolina 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

When searching for a registered agent in South Carolina, it’s important to focus on key features and customer feedback.

Top Choice: Northwest Registered Agent

• Best Overall Service: Northwest Registered Agent tops the list for its comprehensive offerings.
• Free First Year: Enjoy your first year at no cost along with exceptional support.
• Privacy Focus: They keep your personal information off public records.

Key Features:

• Registered Address: Provides a physical address in South Carolina for receiving important legal documents.
• Mail Management: All mail is scanned and uploaded the same day it’s received.
• Online Access: You get a user-friendly online portal to manage your documents.
• Compliance Alerts: Get notifications for important deadlines like annual report filings.
• Personalized Help: Their customer service team consists of former accountants and lawyers ready to assist you.
• Affordable Pricing: For $125 per year, you gain access to all these features with transparent management.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a registered agent cost in South Carolina?

Registered agent services in South Carolina typically range from $100 to $300 per year. Pricing varies based on the services included, such as mail forwarding and document storage.

How do I change my registered agent in South Carolina?

To change your registered agent, you must file a form with the South Carolina Secretary of State. This process involves providing the name of your new registered agent and paying a small fee. It’s important to ensure your business records are up-to-date.

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

You can find reviews for registered agent providers on platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google. These sources provide customer feedback and ratings to help you evaluate the reputation and service quality of a company.

What are the benefits of using a professional registered agent service in South Carolina?

Using a professional registered agent service offers several benefits. They provide privacy, as your personal address won’t be listed publicly. They also ensure compliance with state requirements and can handle important documents efficiently.

Does South Carolina require a registered agent to form an LLC?

Yes, South Carolina law requires every LLC to have a registered agent. This agent must have a physical address in the state and be available during business hours to receive legal documents.

How long does it take to form a South Carolina LLC?

Forming an LLC in South Carolina typically takes about 10 to 15 business days if filed online. If you choose to file by mail, it may take longer. Expedited services are available for a faster processing time.