9 Best Tennessee Registered Agent Services (2024 Reviews)

Starting a business in Tennessee? Your first key decision is choosing a reliable registered agent.

This crucial partner will help you comply with state laws, saving you time and money. They’ll handle essential documents and legal notifications; some even offer extra features like compliance tracking to help you manage your business smoothly.

There are hundreds of options to consider. With this detailed list of the best Tennessee registered agent services, you can easily select the ones that best resonate with your business needs.

Top Best Registered Agent Services in Tennesse

Here is a table of the best Tennesse 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 + Tennessee 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, based in Spokane, is a trusted partner for business formation and registered agent services. Their comprehensive services include streamlining business formation in Tennessee, providing registered agent services, managing compliance, and ensuring privacy.

They handle all necessary paperwork, offer reminders and filing services, and provide customizable templates and document scanning.

Additionally, Nortwest assists with obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business. Their LLC formation package is a one-stop solution that sets your business up for success, and their ongoing support ensures you stay on track.

However, they don’t offer legal services, which may be important for some clients.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros

• Dedicated support from specialized corporate guides and experienced business experts
• With offices in all 50 states, including Tennessee, you can feel confident you’ll receive local support.
• They maintain clear pricing without hidden fees or sudden upsells.
• Northwest offers strong privacy measures, safeguarding your data from third-party sales.
• They offer quick application processing, including same-day filing for urgent needs.
• Their reputation is backed by numerous satisfied customers who praise their reliable services.

Northwest Registered Agent Cons

• Their services don’t include this legal advice or services.
• There isn’t a free trial, but they do provide a 90-day refund policy.

My Verdict on Northwest Registered Agent

As a long-term Northwest Registered Agent user, I’ve enjoyed using their expertise to ensure my LLC complies with state regulations.

Their dedication to customer service is apparent, and you’ll appreciate how they inform you about important legal requirements. You can count on them to manage essential documents, alleviating stress.

Another aspect I value is their team of Corporate Guides. They are seasoned professionals who provide insightful business consultancy.

Their services are reasonably priced, and the value you receive is high. Their expertise can save you time and prevent potential issues. While they do not offer legal services, their strong offerings make up for it.

If you are looking for dependable service from a company that prioritizes your business needs, you can’t go wrong with Northwest Registered Agent.

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, previously known as StartPack, is designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking for a registered agent service in Tennessee.

It offers a reliable way to manage legal communications and compliance requirements.

The service focuses on streamlining business incorporation, allowing you to direct your energy toward growing your LLC instead of dealing with administrative hurdles.

Doola emphasizes LLC compliance to support you on your business journey.

With a user-friendly platform, you can expect an efficient experience tailored to new business owners and busy entrepreneurs. Its complete registered agent service bundle covers legal services necessary to keep your business in good standing.

Doola Pros

• Doola provides competitive rates that suit various budgets.
• The interface is simple to navigate, making it great for those new to business setups.
• They have a responsive support team ready to assist with your questions.
• Doola offers solid services to help keep your LLC compliant with state laws.
• Their services include necessary legal support and protection.
• If unsatisfied, you can receive a refund minus state filing fees.

Doola Cons

• Doola may have limited features compared to other registered agent services.
• Some users may find a lack of guidance for fully setting up an LLC.
• The ‘Total Compliance’ package can increase expenses when renewing services.

My Verdict on Doola Tennessee Registered Agent

In my experience using Doola, it is a strong registered agent choice for new LLC owners. Its affordability and user-friendly design are particularly attractive if operating within a budget.

Plus, their customer support is impressive, making it easy to get help when you need it.

However, the plan that includes registered agent service is very expensive—almost $2000. If this is way above your budget, you may have to purchase the service as an add-on or choose cheaper options like Northwest Registered Agent.

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 one of the most popular registered agents in Tennessee. It offers a user-friendly online platform to simplify forming an LLC.

The service combines various tools for business management, branding, web design, and legal assistance. With its streamlined process, you can focus on growing your venture while staying compliant with state laws.

Tailor Brands Pros

• Tailor Brands provides competitive pricing for forming an LLC, which can fit well into budgets.
• The interface is designed to be intuitive.
• Various services include LLC formation, registered agent, branding, and marketing tools.
• You’ll receive notifications to help you comply with Tennessee state regulations and avoid potential fines or penalties.
  

Tailor Brands Cons

• Customers have reported diverse experiences, leading to uncertainty about the reliability of the service.
• Compared to its competitors, the support options may not be as robust.
• Some legal services you may expect to find are not included, which could result in needing additional assistance.
• Some users have found the checkout process to be less straightforward than anticipated, potentially causing frustration.
• Additional costs may be added during the process.

My Verdict on Tailor Brands

I believe Tailor Brands is a good choice, especially for cost-conscious individuals. The initial low prices for LLC formation and the easy-to-use platform are major pluses.

Still, the mixed reviews and limited support options do raise some flags. If you decide to go with them, be ready for potential hiccups. Balancing a tight budget with the need for help is crucial to ensure a smooth experience.

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

As one of the best-registered agents in Tennessee, ZenBusiness has a competitive price compared to other competitors. With a solid online presence and more than 12,000 reviews—around 95% of which are positive—ZenBusiness has built a reputation for excellent customer service.

They have a physical office in Tennessee, which means they meet all the state’s requirements. ZenBusiness efficiently handles the service of process and important legal documents, helping you stay compliant.

Their platform allows for easy online management, so you can keep track of your documents and compliance needs without hassle.

ZenBusiness Pros

• Free business formation service saves you money if you’re starting a new business.
• Many users praise their excellent customer support.
• They ensure your LLC stays compliant with state requirements.
• You can easily manage documents and compliance through their platform.

ZenBusiness Cons

• The registered agent service is not bundled with other services, which may be inconvenient.
• They do not offer a wide range of extra services compared to some competitors.

My Verdict on ZenBusiness Registered Agent Service

ZenBusiness is a solid choice for registered agent services in Tennessee. Their pricing is reasonable, especially given the quality of their service. The high number of positive reviews indicates they are committed to providing excellent customer care.

While you get reliable service and a user-friendly platform, remember that their registered agent service is an add-on.

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 more suitable for entrepreneurs seeking reliable support. This service caters to various business types, helping you establish and manage your company effectively. While it offers many useful features, it does not assist non-profit organizations.

They provide essential services, such as guidance for opening a business bank account, a helpful checklist for the formation process, and a detailed LLC handbook.

The plans include Entrepreneur and Complete packages covering the basics and additional services like compliance tracking and annual report submission for an extra fee. This flexible setup allows you to select only the services you need.

MyCompanyWorks Pros

• There is free business tax consultation.
• First-time clients have a 90-day money-back guarantee.
• The compliance monitoring keeps you informed about important deadlines.
• The customer support is efficient, offering quick responses and assistance when needed.
• MyCompanyWorks is available in all 50 states and ensures support no matter where you’re based.

MyCompanyWorks Cons

• Some of the features may be unnecessary and not benefit all businesses.
• The customer support hours are limited.
• MyCompanyWorks is not suitable for non-profits.
• The registered agent services and compliance monitoring are add-ons that cost extra fees.
• The service structure lacks completeness compared to some competitors.

My Verdict on MyCompanyWorks

I find the 90-day money-back guarantee appealing, as it ensures a risk-free experience. Their free business tax consultation is also a fantastic perk for new business owners.

On the downside, I’m not a fan of their restriction to for-profit businesses, leaving non-profits without options.

Furthermore, the lack of a complete service bundle feels somewhat limiting. You may need to pick and choose the add-ons you want, which can lead to cost confusion. Some users have expressed concerns about this structure, feeling it lacks transparency.

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 offers a wide range of services for small businesses and nonprofits. It stands out because it specializes in supporting nonprofit organizations.

Along with registered agent services, they also handle annual report filing, business license procurement, and other compliance needs. Their focus on affordability and user-friendly software makes them an appealing option.

Harbor Compliance Pros

• Harbor Compliance assists nonprofit formation, fundraising compliance guidance, and business formation.
• Their online platform is easy to navigate.
• Their pricing is competitive, particularly beneficial for larger businesses or those on a budget.
• Harbor Compliance excels at supporting nonprofit organizations, unlike competitors like MyCompanyWorks.

Harbor Compliance Cons

• Harbor Compliance does not offer a free tier, which may deter some potential users.
• They do not provide a money-back guarantee or refunds.
• Online reviews are varied, with several customers citing negative experiences regarding customer support.
• They don’t have bundled service options.

My Verdict on Harbor Compliance

I think Harbor Compliance is a decent option for those seeking a budget-friendly registered agent service. Their platform is straightforward and makes managing your business needs easier.

While they focus on LLC formation, just one of their services, their comprehensive monitoring tools can greatly benefit new entrepreneurs.

Affordability is their strong point, especially for smaller businesses. Still, I have noticed a few complaints regarding customer support quality. I believe they should address these issues to improve their offerings. Their transparent pricing model adds a layer of trustworthiness.

7. 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 focuses on simplifying legal processes for Tenessee small businesses. It offers various services that can help you easily manage your business needs.

The company stands out for its subscription model, allowing you unlimited access to legal documents and consultations with licensed attorneys. This feature makes it especially useful for business owners who need ongoing support.

With Rocket Lawyer, you can navigate complex legal issues without a hassle. Their platform supports registered agent services and LLC formation and drafting of important legal documents. This makes it a convenient one-stop shop for your business’s legal needs.

Rocket Lawyer Pros

• There is a wide range of legal services and documents available.
• You can test the services with no commitment before purchasing.
• The membership subscription gives you good value for ongoing legal needs.
• They ensure all your legal papers are managed correctly.
• You have access to licensed attorneys for real-time consultation.

Rocket Lawyer Cons

• The rates are higher for non-members as prices can increase significantly without a subscription.
• The registered agent service is an add-on and not the main focus.
• The customer support availability can be inconsistent.
• Depending on your chosen services, expenses can add up.
• Unlike some competitors, Rocket Lawyer doesn’t provide free services for starting a business.

My Verdict on Rocket Lawyer

With Rocket Lawyer, you can access various legal documents and consultations that cover many business needs. From LLC formation to contract creation, the service helps simplify everything. The app makes document management easy, allowing you to interact with legal professionals wherever you are.

If you’re an entrepreneur looking for an all-in-one legal solution, Rocket Lawyer delivers robust options for legal documents and ongoing advice. However, while it offers many resources, add-on fees may add up quickly.

8. 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 provides a streamlined online service for businesses seeking registered agent support. Their system manages important paperwork, handles legal notices, and tracks mail. They aim to ensure you meet all business deadlines and compliance requirements without hassle.

Swyft Filings Pros

• You can pay for their services in installments, making it easier to manage expenses.
• The online setup is user-friendly and quick, allowing you to complete registrations without delays.
• They offer additional services like annual report filing for those needing extra help.
• You will receive updates and notifications to comply with Tennessee state laws and deadlines.
• Your information is kept secure, giving you peace of mind while handling business matters.
• Their support team is ready to assist you with any queries during business hours.

Swyft Filings Cons

• Customer service is available only from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT on weekdays, which may not suit all businesses.
• If you need help on weekends, you won’t be able to reach them, potentially delaying your processes.
• While functional, their online service lacks features you may find with other providers.
• At $149 per quarter, the registered agent fees could be a significant expense for small businesses.

My Verdict on Swyft Filings

Swyft Filings is a great option to start your Tennessee business quickly and easily. Their services are designed for efficiency, providing essential tools like compliance alerts and a personalized company kit.

While their registered agent service is an add-on, the convenience and features they offer do make it appealing.

However, the higher costs might be challenging for smaller businesses. If you value strong privacy and a straightforward setup, Swyft Filings may be worth considering despite some drawbacks.

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 well-regarded name in business services and legal support.

Established in 2001, it has earned a solid reputation as a reliable provider of legal documentation and business assistance. LegalZoom offers a user-friendly registered agent service in Tennessee that stands out for those needing additional legal resources.

The annual fee for their registered agent service is $249.99. This includes several valuable features, such as unlimited cloud storage for your business documents.

You also gain access to comprehensive legal services beyond just registered agent duties, which can be beneficial if your business requires more support. Customer support is available seven days a week, allowing you to get help when needed.

LegalZoom Pros

• Unlimited cloud storage for all your business documents.
• Customer support seven days a week, making assistance accessible.
• Unlimited calls with a business attorney for extra support.
• Access to legal advice for documents received on your behalf.

LegalZoom Cons

• Customer support is unavailable 24/7, which could be a drawback for some.
• The annual fee is relatively high at $249, which may not suit every budget.

My Verdict on LegalZoom

I find that LegalZoom’s registered agent service is particularly advantageous for Tennessee business owners seeking easy access to legal guidance.

With unlimited 30-minute consultations with experienced attorneys, you can confidently manage legal documents, including potential lawsuits.

The higher price point may deter smaller businesses or those with tighter budgets. The comprehensive legal support can be quite valuable if you have the resources to invest. However, if costs are a significant concern, you might want to explore more budget-friendly options.

What is a Tennessee Registered Agent?

A Tennessee registered agent is a person or business that acts as your official go-between for legal documents. These might include court papers or notices from the Secretary of State. Tennessee law requires all businesses to have a registered agent.

The main duties of a registered agent include:

• Receiving Legal Documents: They accept important documents on behalf of your business.
• Maintaining Compliance: Ensuring that your company follows state regulations.
• Service of Process: In case of a lawsuit, they receive the legal papers.

Business owners setting up an LLC or corporation must designate a registered agent. This information is included in the articles of organization you file with the Secretary of State.

To be a registered agent in Tennessee, you need to meet certain criteria:

• Be a resident of Tennessee or a qualified business entity.
• Have a physical address in the state (not just a P.O. box).

Using a registered agent helps you focus on running your small business while ensuring legal compliance. This also supports maintaining your company’s legal standing.

Your business needs to have an operating agreement in place, especially if you are an LLC. When forming your business, an EIN (Employer Identification Number) is also necessary for tax purposes.

Choosing the right registered agent can greatly impact your business’s efficiency and compliance with corporate regulations.

How Much Does a Tennessee Registered Agent Cost?

The cost of hiring a registered agent in Tennessee can vary quite a bit. Generally, expect to pay between $110 and $1000 annually. However, some services may charge more based on added features.

For example, ZenBusiness offers its service for $199 per year.

Many users find this price reasonable, considering the quality of service. It provides solid support and customer satisfaction.

Northwest Registered Agent is another popular option, charging around $125 annually. This service is well-regarded for offering privacy protection. It keeps your personal information off public records and provides free mail forwarding, which adds great value.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, there are alternatives. Some services may start at $0 for the first year, but costs can rise afterward. Keep in mind that basic services might lack additional benefits.

Before choosing a registered agent, consider your business’s needs. Higher-priced services might deliver more comprehensive support, which can help you comply with state laws.

What are the Types of Registered Agents in Tennessee?

You can choose from different types of registered agents when forming a business in Tennessee. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks.

1. Individual Registered Agents

This type includes individuals who serve as your registered agent. They are often cost-effective, with low or no fees, and you’ll have direct communication with them. However, they must be available during business hours, and their address may become public information.

2. Commercial Registered Agent Services

These companies provide a professional option for registered agent services. They maintain a physical address in Tennessee and handle essential legal notices for your business. Although commercial registered agents offer additional features like compliance monitoring, they tend to incur higher costs and have less personal interaction.

3. Law Firms and Accounting Firms

Using a law or accounting firm can be beneficial if you’re already working with them. They bring legal and financial expertise to your business. Their fees range from $2,000 to $10,000, and they usually have limited availability during standard business hours.

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

Selecting a registered agent in Tennessee requires careful evaluation of several key areas. Consider their experience, reputation, pricing, privacy features, and customer support. These elements will help you find a provider that effectively meets your business needs.

Evaluating Provider’s Industry Experience, Track Record and Reputation

When choosing a registered agent, focus on their industry experience. A provider with several years in business typically indicates reliability and knowledge.

Their track record in handling compliance alerts and legal notifications is crucial for maintaining your business standing.

Investigating their reputation is equally important. Use online resources and business rating sites to learn about their service quality. Positive feedback often reflects a company’s commitment to clients. Don’t forget to ask other business owners for referrals to get a clearer picture.

Third-party Reviews and Reputation

Third-party reviews are valuable for assessing a registered agent’s performance. Utilize platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews to find feedback from actual users. This can give you insight into customer satisfaction and service reliability.

Be wary of only relying on the testimonials found on the company’s website. Independent reviews typically provide a more authentic view. You should also check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for any patterns of complaints that could suggest underlying issues.

Price and Registered Agent Fee

Pricing can significantly impact your choice of registered agent. While some services offer low fees, they may not provide the full range of features you need.

Compare the costs of the best registered agent options to find the most value.

In Tennessee, registered agent fees usually range from $110 to $1000 annually. Pay attention to what is included in the fee. Look for details on charges for compliance alerts, document handling, and privacy options. Ask for a complete list of costs to avoid unexpected expenses.

Mail Forwarding and Privacy Options

Mail forwarding is an essential service offered by registered agents. Investigate how the provider manages business correspondence. They should promptly forward important documents such as tax notifications and compliance alerts.

Privacy is also a critical consideration. You want a registered agent that protects your personal information. Seek out providers that offer privacy options to ensure your address remains confidential.

Additionally, ensure they have a secure process for handling sensitive documents to protect your business’s interests.

Customer Experience and Support Channels

Evaluating customer support can enhance your overall experience with a registered agent. Look into their support channels, such as phone, email, or live chat. Responsiveness is key, as having assistance available can help resolve issues quickly.

Reading reviews on customer service can also provide insight into their performance. Consider features like online access to documents or compliance calendars. These tools can keep you updated on critical deadlines and notifications for your business.

Why Northwest is Our Favorite Registered Agent Service Company

Northwest Registered Agent stands out as a top choice for registered agent needs in Tennessee. They provide affordable and comprehensive services.

You can use their address for privacy. This means your personal address is kept off public records, protecting your privacy. This feature is especially helpful for LLC paperwork.

Key Benefits of Choosing Northwest:

• Affordability: They offer some of the most competitive pricing in the industry.
• Free First Year: When you sign up, you get a free year of registered agent service.
• No Hidden Fees: Northwest does not charge surprise fees or offer upsells. What you see is what you pay.
• Free mail forwarding
• Strong privacy protection

Their compliance knowledge is impressive. They help ensure your business stays in good standing with state requirements.

Customer support is another area where Northwest excels. You can expect responsive and knowledgeable assistance whenever you need it. Their team is dedicated to providing a great experience.

Additionally, Northwest has offices in all 50 states. This means they can offer consistent service regardless of where you operate.

With these benefits, it’s clear why Northwest is our preferred registered agent service for Tennessee businesses.

Best Tennessee Registered Agent Reviews – Summary

The Best Tennessee 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
• Rocket Lawyer: Best for legal documents/services
• Swyft Filings: Best for ease of use
• LegalZoom: Best for legal services

When looking for the best registered agent in Tennessee, Northwest Registered Agent stands out as the top choice. They offer essential services competitively and focus on excellent customer support.

Here’s what you can expect from Northwest Registered Agent:

• Official Street Address: They provide a registered address in Tennessee, where you can receive important legal documents and notifications.
• Privacy Protection: Your details stay off public records, helping keep your information safe.
• Document Management: All mail is scanned and uploaded on the same day. You can access your legal documents through an online portal whenever needed.
• Compliance Alerts: Receive timely reminders about important business deadlines, such as annual report filings.
• Support and Guidance: Their team, comprised of ex-lawyers and accountants, is ready to answer any questions.

For $125 per state per year, you get a comprehensive service. Plus, discounts are available for multi-year or multi-state registrations. Northwest Registered Agent combines value, convenience, and outstanding service, making it a reliable option for your registered agent needs in Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated registered agent companies in Tennessee?

Northwest Registered Agent is known for strong customer support. Doola offers affordable options for startups, while ZenBusiness also provides solid services at competitive prices.

Does Tennessee require a registered agent?

Yes, Tennessee law requires every business to have a registered agent. This agent acts as the official contact for legal documents and communication from the state.

How do I add a registered agent to my LLC in Tennessee?

To add a registered agent, you need to file a change of registered agent form with the Tennessee Secretary of State. Make sure to include the name and address of your new agent.

How much typically does a registered agent service cost in Tennessee?

Most registered agent services in Tennessee cost between $120 and $2000 annually. Some premium services may charge more, so comparing options based on your budget and needs is important.

Are there free registered agent services available in Tennessee, and how do they compare to paid services?

Currently, there are no completely free registered agent services in Tennessee. However, Northwest Registered Agent offers a free first year, making it a cost-effective choice.

What is the process for becoming a registered agent in Tennessee?

To become a registered agent in Tennessee, you need to be a resident or a licensed business agent. You must consent to serve as the agent and provide a physical address for the process service.