9 Best South Dakota Registered Agent Services (2024 Reviews)

Choosing a reliable registered agent is the first critical step in protecting your South Dakota business – and your personal assets.

These agents ensure you comply with state regulations, shield your personal information, and avoid costly mistakes. But with so many options, selecting the best South Dakota registered agent can feel like a high-stakes gamble.

Fortunately, I’ve done the heavy lifting for you. I’ve reviewed the top contenders and compared their features, costs, and benefits.

Whether you’re a startup or looking to switch, this guide will help you find your perfect match and confidently kickstart your business.

Best Registered Agent Services in South Dakota

Here’s a detailed table of the best South Dakota registered agent services for your LLC:

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: 3.1/5
• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Visit Website: northwestregisteredagent.com

Northwest Registered Agent is easily the best choice for registered agent services in South Dakota. This is because its features are specifically tailored to all registered agent activities.

Their commitment to privacy, strong customer support, competitive pricing, and free mail forwarding are just a few reasons they are highly rated.

Another reason Northwest is so preferred in South Dakota is its low registered agent fee. The fee is as low as $125 annually, affordable for all businesses. Even better, you’ll get one full year of free registered agent service—no payments or commitments at all.

Northwest has a wide reach across the U.S., being present in all 50 states.

Additionally, they guarantee privacy with their strict Privacy by Default policy. This is one of the areas they are so confident about.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros

• Transparent pricing
• User-friendly platform
• 90-Day money-back guarantee
• Efficient checkout process
• Knowledgeable support team
• Same-day filings
• Free service for your first-year
• Positive customer feedback
• Strong privacy policies
• Compliance alerts

Northwest Registered Agent Cons

• No legal services
• Potential add-ons
• No mobile app

My Verdict on Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is undoubtedly a solid choice for your registered agent needs in South Dakota. Their focus on customer service and privacy is impressive.

You can feel secure knowing your information is protected, and you’ll have access to experts who can guide you.

With their free registered agent service for the first year, you truly get a lot of value.

I like their customer service team, called “Corporate Guides,” because they are local business experts who provide business advice when necessary. I find it very helpful.

Overall, Northwest has extensive experience, with a track record of over 25 years. If you want a service that values your privacy and offers solid support, this could be the one for you.

2. Doola

• LLC Formation Fee: $297 + State Fees
• Registered Agent Fee: $297, renews at $297/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.6/5
• Google Rating: 4.6/5
• Visit Website: doola.com

Doola stands out among registered agent services in South Dakota, providing extensive support for business compliance and LLC formation. This service is particularly valuable for foreign entrepreneurs establishing their LLCs in the U.S.

Doola offers essential services designed to keep your business compliant and running smoothly.

Doola Pros

• Easy to use
• Excellent customer service
• Strong LLC formation
• Comprehensive compliance services
• Same-day filing option
• Competitive pricing for Starter plan

Doola Cons

• Hidden upsells
• Mixed reviews
• High cost for Total Compliance package

My Verdict on Doola’s South Dakota Registered Agent

Doola’s focus on LLC formation and business compliance makes it a strong contender for best South Dakota registered agent service.

It is popular for its strong presence and expertise across all U.S. states, making it a flexible choice for LLCs, corporations, and non-profits alike.

The same-day filing and complimentary mail forwarding add a nice touch to the services offered. While the Total Compliance package is pricey, if you seek robust business compliance alongside registered agent services, Doola could be an excellent fit for your needs.

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 great fit for SMBs forming an LLC and seeking additional online branding tools. It offers a one-stop solution for legal and marketing needs, including LLC formation and various services that help manage and grow your business.

Tailor Brands aims to streamline your business setup with an affordable starting fee and various helpful features.

Tailor Brands Pros

• Affordable starting costs
• Comprehensive features
• Responsive customer service
• Free logo design
• 90-day money-back guarantee
• Quick document processing

Tailor Brands Cons

• Add-ons increase costs
• Hidden upsells
• Limited customer support
• Extra cost for registered agent services

My Verdict on Tailor Brands

In my opinion, Tailor Brands stands out for those who want to build a robust online presence alongside their LLC.

I love how extensive their services are. They offer registered agent services and other helpful features that help you grow your business. The starting costs are appealing.

If you want more than the basic setup, be prepared for additional fees.

While their upselling can be bothersome, the value they provide is substantial, especially in branding and marketing support.

Nonetheless, Tailor Brands shouldn’t be your first choice for a registered agent service because the service is only an add-on. Hence, the features are quite basic.

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 top registered agent service in South Dakota. It offers a range of business services without charging high fees.

The registered agent service costs $199 a year, making it accessible for many business owners. ZenBusiness focuses on helping you set up and maintain your business effectively.

With ZenBusiness, you receive compliance alerts to help you track important deadlines.

They also assist with legal filings and support creating your operating agreement.

Their user-friendly online platform makes managing your business needs effortless. Many customers appreciate their straightforward approach and the valuable resources they provide for startups and established businesses.

ZenBusiness Pros

• Positive customer feedback
• Additional business services
• User-friendly platform
• Affordable pricing
• Compliance alerts
• Efficient filings

ZenBusiness Cons

• Limited custom services
• Longer customer service wait times
• Additional fees for extra features

My Verdict on ZenBusiness registered agent service

In my view, ZenBusiness is a practical choice for your registered agent needs. Their pricing is fair, and the service they offer is solid.

The high user ratings prove their strong commitment to customer satisfaction, which is essential when running a business.

The compliance alerts they provide are particularly beneficial; they help ensure you stay on top of your legal responsibilities. While there may be some minor drawbacks, such as wait times for customer support, I believe the advantages make ZenBusiness worth considering.

5. MyCompanyWorks

• LLC Formation Fee: $79 + State fees
• Registered Agent Fee: $119/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 2.8/5
• Google Rating: 4.5/5
• Visit Website: mycompanyworks.com/llc

MyCompanyWorks is a registered agent service that focuses on helping you manage your business effectively. You can count on them to securely receive important legal documents and notifications.

Their services are available in all 50 states and ensure your business complies with state regulations. This is especially helpful for South Dakota LLCs.

Their user-friendly platform makes it easy for you to handle business filings and documents hassle-free. MyCompanyWorks provides cloud storage for your important documents, ensuring your data is secure and accessible whenever needed.

MyCompanyWorks Pros (in bullet point)

• Strong knowledge of South Dakota’s business regulations
• Competitive pricing
• User-friendly platform
• Responsive customer support
• Document handling

MyCompanyWorks Cons (in bullet point)

• Extra costs
• Higher registered agent fee
• Limited to only LLCs and corporations, and not non-profits

My Verdict on MyCompanyWorks

I find MyCompanyWorks a reliable option for registered agent services in South Dakota. They offer an approachable and straightforward platform, making it easy to keep track of important tasks.

While the registered agent fee is steep, the excellent support and compliance features make it worthwhile.

For small to medium-sized businesses, their services can help you avoid penalties and focus on what really matters—growing your business. If you’re looking for a trusted and efficient solution, MyCompanyWorks is 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 popular choice for businesses seeking registered agent services in South Dakota. They provide essential support for managing legal documents.

They help you stay organized and compliant by offering reminders about compliance alerts and report filings.

They have a good reputation, with ratings of 3.8/5 on Trustpilot and 4.2/5 on Google.

Harbor Compliance Pros

• Suitable for various business types
• Same-day filings
• Nationwide coverage
• Excellent customer support
• Affordable LLC formation fees

Harbor Compliance Cons

• No free trial or money-back guarantee
• Higher annual registered agent fee
• Basic features:

My Verdict on Harbor Compliance

From my perspective, Harbor Compliance is reliable in its registered agent services. Its commitment to helping you stay compliant makes it a trustworthy partner.

While it may lack some of the advanced features others offer, its core services are solid.

If you prefer dependability over flashy extras, Harbor Compliance can be suitable. You can rely on their ability to handle important documents and compliance reminders effectively.

However, their registered agent fee is higher than most better alternatives.

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 known for its user-friendly approach and comprehensive services for small businesses and startups. This company provides a solid option for registered agent services in South Dakota while offering additional business support options like LLC formation and compliance alerts.

Swyft Filings Pros

• Ease of use
• Variety of services
• Fast turnaround
• Competitive pricing
• Responsive support
• Compliance Monitoring

Swyft Filings Cons

• Extra costs
• Generic services
• EIN registration
• Negative reviews
• High Fees for registered agent

My Verdict on Swyft Filings

Swyft Filings presents a practical choice for registered agent services, especially for new businesses. The straightforward website and prompt service stand out.

However, the additional costs for features and the higher price for registered agent services are discouraging. Although you can pay the fees in installments, the total amount is still high.

While customer support is responsive, the negative feedback on service quality shouldn’t be overlooked, so you know what to expect from them. If you’re searching for tailored support and better value, it could be wise to explore alternative providers.

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 offers registered agent and legal services for South Dakota LLCs. They also offer many useful legal tools for business owners.

Their user-friendly platform allows you to access various legal documents and services from your computer. This makes managing your business’s legal needs more straightforward.

Rocket Lawyer Pros

• Comprehensive services
• Responsive customer support
• Deadline notifications
• Good ratings

Rocket Lawyer Cons

• Costly services:
• Limited insights on state regulations
• Basic services not suitable for larger needs
• Higher registered agent fees than other registered agent services like Northwest and Doola.

My Verdict on Rocket Lawyer

As I consider Rocket Lawyer for registered agent services, their extensive range of offerings stands out. Their site is easy to navigate, making it user-friendly.

If you need ongoing legal support, their membership may be beneficial.

However, weigh their costs against your specific needs. The higher fees might be a concern for smaller businesses. Rocket Lawyer is a solid option if you appreciate having a comprehensive set of legal tools available.

9. LegalZoom

• LLC Formation Fee: $0 + state fee
• Registered Agent Fee: $249/year
• Trustpilot Rating: 4.2/5
• Google Rating: 4.4/5

LegalZoom is a prominent player in the online legal service market, especially for businesses needing registered agent services in South Dakota.

Its strong reputation for customer support and easy-to-use online platform has become a go-to choice for many business owners. Beyond registered agent services, you can access a broad range of legal assistance, making the process smoother and more integrated.

LegalZoom Pros

• Covers various legal needs
• Steady and timely compliance reminders
• Trusted name
• Identity theft protection
• User-friendly website

LegalZoom Cons

• Higher registered agent fees
• Generic services
• Resolution time
• Sales pressure

My Verdict on LegalZoom

In my experience, LegalZoom presents a strong option for those seeking a comprehensive array of legal services. Their user-friendly platform offers helpful compliance notifications that keep you on track.

The identity theft protection is a notable advantage that adds value to their services.

However, the $249 annual fee for registered agent services could be a bit high for smaller businesses.

Additionally, while customer support is generally reliable, longer resolution times might be a drawback for some. If you prefer a personalized touch or have budget constraints, you might want to consider other options.

What is a South Dakota Registered Agent?

A South Dakota registered agent is a person or business you appoint to receive important legal documents for your company, such as lawsuits and tax notices.

Every LLC and corporation in South Dakota must have a registered agent. This helps ensure your business complies with state law, maintains your legal standing, and allows you to respond to notices promptly.

Your registered agent must have a physical address in South Dakota. This is important because it provides a reliable location for receiving documents.

If a legal notice arrives, the agent will forward it to you without delay.

Registered agents make sure you receive all essential documents. This way, you won’t miss anything that could impact your business operations. They also assist with compliance tasks. They help you file articles of organization and manage other requirements with the Secretary of State.

Additionally, a registered agent can guide you in drafting an operating agreement and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN). By having professional assistance, you can focus more on running your business.

How Much Does a South Dakota Registered Agent Cost?

The cost of a registered agent in South Dakota can differ based on the provider and the services included. Generally, you can expect to pay between $100 and $1,000 per year.

Here are some examples of pricing from various services:

• Northwest Registered Agent: $125 per year
• ZenBusiness: $199 per year (excluding LLC formation)
• Harbor Compliance: $299 per year

Northwest Registered Agent is often recommended due to the added value they provide with their services.

Some providers may also charge extra for features such as:

• Document scanning
• Email notifications
• Customer support

It’s essential to consider these additional costs when comparing different registered agents.

Before choosing a service, research and compare the offerings. Look for a registered agent who meets your business needs and fits within your budget. This can help ensure you select the right partner for your business compliance.

What are the Types of Registered Agents in South Dakota?

Registered agents in South Dakota have several options, each with its own benefits.

1. Individual Registered Agents

These are individuals, often small business owners, who have a physical address in South Dakota. They offer more personalized service. However, they don’t often have the same resources as commercial services and could be unavailable during business hours.

2. Commercial Registered Agents

These are companies that specialize in registered agent services. They offer services like document scanning, compliance monitoring, and customer support. Although they are more expensive than individual agents, they have a physical office and are available during business hours.

3. Law Firm or Accounting Firm Registered Agents

These agents are qualified professionals, such as attorneys or accountants, providing expert support. They offer additional services like legal advice and financial planning. However, they cost more than other agents and may not specialize solely in registered agent services.

How To Choose a Registered Agent in South Dakota – My Review Methodology

Choosing a registered agent in South Dakota involves considering various factors that impact your business’s compliance and privacy. These factors include mail forwarding services, overall reputation, customer experience, pricing, and additional services offered.

Mail Forwarding and Privacy Options

When selecting a registered agent, look for mail forwarding and privacy features. These features ensure that legal documents or official notices reach you promptly while keeping your personal address private.

Many registered agents provide a physical address for business use. This is crucial for maintaining privacy. Look for services that forward important mail to your preferred address.

Additionally, consider if they offer identity theft protection. Companies that focus on privacy protection can give you peace of mind in handling sensitive information.

Third-party Reviews and Reputation

You should check third-party reviews and ratings to gauge the reputation of a registered agent. Websites that specialize in user feedback can provide insights into past customer experiences.

Look for any patterns in complaints or praises. A registered agent with consistently high ratings indicates good service. Professional associations or certifications can also enhance a provider’s credibility. Research if the provider is recognized within the industry.

Customer Experience and Support Channels

Customer support is a vital aspect of service. A registered agent should offer multiple channels for you to reach them, such as phone, email, and live chat.

Assess your potential agent’s response time and expertise by reaching out with questions. Good customer service can help you navigate the complexities of compliance. Ensure they have a robust support infrastructure to assist you when needed.

Price and Registered Agent Fee

Pricing can vary widely among registered agents, from $119 to $1000 per year. However, high prices do not always equal better service.

Look closely at what is included in the fee. Some providers offer free features like compliance alerts, reminders for annual reports, or mail forwarding in their packages. Weigh these features against the cost to determine the best value for your business.

Evaluating Provider’s Industry Experience, Track Record and Reputation

Check how long a registered agent has been in business and their track record. A seasoned provider often offers more reliable service than a new entrant.

Experience often translates to expertise in handling compliance and legal matters. Researching their history can uncover how they’ve managed to protect and assist businesses. It’s also valuable to see if they specialize in specific industries, as this can benefit your specific needs.

Other Key Essential Services Offered

Look for additional services that may be critical for your business. Some registered agents offer compliance calendars, notifications, and alerts to inform you about deadlines.

Also, consider whether they provide package deals for forming an LLC or corporation. Premium services may include features like virtual office space or document storage. Assess how these extras can save you time and help you maintain compliance effectively.

Why Northwest is Our Favorite Registered Agent Company

Northwest stands out as a top choice for your registered agent needs for several reasons.

Affordable Services
They offer some of the most affordable services in the industry. This helps you manage costs effectively while staying compliant with state laws.

Privacy Protection
You can use Northwest’s address on your LLC paperwork. This keeps your personal address off public records, enhancing your privacy.

Free One-Year Registered Agent Service
You get a free one-year registered agent service when you form your LLC through Northwest. This is a great way to try their services without any upfront cost.

Compliance Expertise
Northwest is known for being the best in compliance. They track important deadlines and filings, minimizing the risk of penalties.

Exceptional Customer Support
You will experience excellent customer support with Northwest. They respond to your questions quickly, providing clear answers.

Transparent Pricing
Northwest does not offer hidden upsells or unexpected fees. Its pricing is straightforward, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Nationwide Presence
With offices in all 50 states, Northwest offers consistent support no matter where you establish your business.

Northwest is an excellent option for anyone looking for a reliable registered agent service.

Read my Northwest registered agent service review here.

Best South Dakota Registered Agent Reviews – Summary

Here are the best SD Registered Agent Services for this year:

• 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

Choosing the right registered agent is important for your business. You should consider what matters most to you, such as support, services, and price.

Northwest Registered Agent is a top choice. Here are some reasons why:

• Free First Year: You won’t pay for the first year of service.
• Excellent Customer Support: Their team comprises experts ready to help.
• Same-Day Mail Scanning: You can access your legal documents online right away.
• Compliance Alerts: Stay informed about important filing deadlines to keep your business compliant.
• Free mail forwarding
• Privacy by Default policy

Another notable option is Tailor Brands. It costs $199 a year and offers certain advantages:

• User-Friendly App: Manage your documents easily with their easy-to-use app.
• Positive Reviews: Many customers have shared favorable experiences with their service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can be a registered agent for an LLC in South Dakota?

A registered agent in South Dakota can be an individual or a business entity. The agent must have a physical street address in the state and be available during regular business hours.

Can I be my own registered agent in South Dakota?

Yes, you can be your own registered agent in South Dakota. You must provide your physical address in the state and be available during business hours for any legal documents.

What are the criteria for selecting a reliable registered agent in South Dakota?

When selecting a registered agent, consider their experience, reputation, and customer service. They must be reliable and maintain confidentiality.