Louisiana Registered Agents: Everything Small Business Owners Need to Know
In the bustling business landscape of the Bayou State, it’s not just good practice but a legal requirement for formal business entities to appoint a registered agent. In this guide, we’ll explain what they do, how to find one you can trust, and why getting a Louisiana registered agent is essential for your business’s success.
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What is a Louisiana Registered Agent?
A Louisiana registered agent (or RA) is a person or company that receives legal and state communications on behalf of a company doing business in Louisiana. Also known as “statutory” or “resident” agents, a registered agent must be of legal age and have a physical address in the state of Louisiana.
The registered agent ensures that your company can be contacted by the Louisiana Secretary of State and that in the case of a lawsuit, your company can always be reached for service of process.
In accordance with Louisiana state law, specifically TITLE 12 – RS 12:1308, formal business entities must maintain a registered agent.
Who is Required to Maintain a Registered Agent in Louisiana?
These formal business entities are required to have a Louisiana registered agent:
- Corporations
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
- Limited Partnerships (LPs)
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
- Nonprofit Corporations
These formal business entities don’t require a Louisiana registered agent:
- Sole Proprietorships
- General Partnerships
Benefits: What Does a Louisiana Registered Agent Do for Me?
While it may seem a like hassle, having a designated RA has many perks. They take a lot off business owners’ plates, freeing up your time and offering peace of mind so you can focus on your business. These are the main duties of a Louisiana registered agent and how they benefit you:
- Compliance and point of contact. RAs assist in maintaining compliance with state regulations, serve as your point of contact with state authorities, and ensure important communications are efficiently routed to you.
- Privacy protection. They help protect your privacy by receiving legal documents at their address instead of yours—no embarrassing surprises at your home or place of business!
- Legal document reception. RAs receive and manage your legal documents and official government notifications, ensuring timely awareness and response to legal matters. These documents can include tax notices, legal summons, and other correspondence from Louisiana state authorities.
For many, the convenience and benefits of having a commercial Louisiana registered agent is well worth the cost. That’s why it’s smart to hire one, but you can act as your own registered agent if you choose.
Becoming Your Own Louisiana Registered Agent
It’s OK to act as your own Louisiana registered agent. But keep in mind, taking on the role of registered agent for your business may put your privacy at stake. Your name and address will be public record, and that means solicitors, neighbors, your competitors, and scammers alike will have access to your personal info. On the other hand, you can pay a professional a reasonable fee to protect your privacy and help to keep you and your business in good standing.
To act as your own agent you must meet these requirements:
- You are at least 18 years of age
- You have a physical address, not a P.O. box or virtual office
- You are available during business hours at your physical address to receive service of process and state communications
- You will forward legal communications to all LLC owners
- You consent to making your registered address public record
Serving as your own registered agent can be a viable option for some business owners, especially for smaller operations. It’s important to consider your availability and all the responsibilities required before making this decision. Once your name and personal info becomes public record, it’s difficult to remove it. If you have the means, we recommend hiring a pro—one less thing to worry about!
How to Act as Your Own Louisiana Registered Agent
If you meet the eligibility requirements and do want to act as your own agent, visit the official website of the Louisiana Secretary of State. The “geauxBIZ” website allows you to submit the necessary information in order to become your own agent.
First, you’ll need to sign in or create an account. Then, locate the required forms for becoming a registered agent and complete the forms accurately. And be sure to include the required fees with your submission.
Once you’re approved, it’s crucial to maintain your compliance. If you fail to receive a state communication or legal notice, your LLC could be dissolved or you could lose your limited liability protection. Registered agent appointments typically need to be renewed annually or as specified by the Louisiana SOS. If you choose to act as your own agent, ensure that you keep up your RA status!
Remember, you can always opt to hire a professional Louisiana registered agent to help you navigate the paperwork and compliance requirements more efficiently.
Louisiana Registered Agents We Recommend
You can get a list of registered agent service companies registered in Louisiana by request at the Louisiana Secretary of State website, and here are a couple that stand out from the rest:
Budget-Friendly Louisiana Registered Agent
Louisiana Registered Agent ($49/year)
Sign up easily in just a few minutes and get professional registered agent service instantly, with no hidden fees. They offer compliance tracking and same-day document scans. Louisiana Registered Agent is a great choice for getting your filings done faster, because you’ll have instant access to your secure online account where you’ll find every Louisiana business form you’ll ever need. If you want to save time and money, this option is a win-win.
Best Premium Louisiana Registered Agent Service
Northwest Registered Agent ($125/year)
If you want more comprehensive RA services, these guys go the extra mile. They will form your LLC for $39 and list their address instead of yours whenever possible on the Articles of Organization. This helps to avoid unwanted junk mail, spam calls, and prying eyes. If you ask us, that benefit is worth every penny! Not to mention, you get same-day scans of important notifications, annual report reminders, and Privacy by Default®.
Traits of a Top-Notch Louisiana State Registered Agent
Choosing a Louisiana registered agent is like choosing someone to serve as a trusted partner for your business. They do much more than simply fetch your mail. It’s important to consider their availability, commitment to privacy, and their track record in compliance management. Choosing right helps to ensure your business’s success and offers you peace of mind as you focus on daily operations.
You can expect a good registered agent to:
- Keep your personal data private
- Keep your personal info safe from third party vendors
- Provide an online portal or hub that makes it easy to view all your state communications and legal notices all in one place
- Keep you updated about annual reports and other compliance issues
- Protect your privacy by using their address instead of yours wherever possible, even on business formation documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can change your registered agent service provider at any time by filing the necessary forms with the Louisiana Secretary of State. First visit the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website and download the appropriate form. Fill out the form completely and accurately. Be sure to include the name and address of your new registered agent. Finally, submit the completed form by mail or online.
Failure to have a registered agent can lead to legal and regulatory complications, including the risk of losing good standing status for your business or facing penalties. It may also result in missed legal deadlines and potential legal liabilities.
The cost of hiring a registered agent can vary depending on whether you choose a professional service or serve as your own registered agent. Professional services typically charge annual fees, which can range from around $50 to $150 or more.
Absolutely. Professional RA services offer privacy protection, reliability, and expertise. They are equipped to handle the responsibilities associated with being an RA, allowing you to focus on your business operations.
You’re typically required to renew your RA services on an annual basis. You need to ensure that your RA remains in good standing and continues to fulfill their duties throughout the year. Failing to renew your RA services or allowing them to lapse can have consequences, including potential legal and compliance issues that could harm your business.