Tips for Choosing an Online Registered Agent - The KZ Group, LLC #120
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As you know, the Internet provides us with a wealth of options on just about any topic you can think of; however, not all options are equal when shopping around for products or services. There is a myriad of companies on the web offering professional registered/resident agent services. They can range from bureaucratic ridden overpriced companies to inexperienced start-up companies. In this article we will help you select the right Registered Agent for your business.
What Things Should I Be Looking For?
The first step in finding the right provider is to confirm that they specialize in this service. Being able to receive service of process on a company's behalf and deliver that service of process in a reliable and timely manner is the single most important job of any registered agent. Service of process is notice, typically notice of a lawsuit. If your registered agent doesn't provide you with this notice of a lawsuit against you, you won't know you are a party to a lawsuit and will fail to answer. This could result in an adverse judgment from a court against you and your company. Many companies offer registered agent services as simply an add-on to their core services. In many cases, these companies do not have the necessary resources or expertise needed to offer reliable registered agent services to their client.
Registered Agents must be available to receive service of process during normal business hours. If your designated agent is not available to receive service of process, you are at risk of having a default judgment entered against your company. A default judgment is entered when one party fails to answer a complaint against them and appear in court for the lawsuit.
Another important factor to consider when trying to find the right online provider is the accessibility and the experience of the customer service representatives. Sometimes larger companies use a single customer service group to support all types of services. You should look for a company that has dedicated representatives that are always available when you have questions regarding services and handling service of processes.
When it comes down to the fee structure, you need to investigate if there are any hidden fees. Less reputable companies will offer their services for lower than market standards, but charge you extra for delivery and postage fees when forwarding legal documents.
How Important is Reputation?
Reputation is very important. It is good practice to check with the Better Business Bureau when making an online purchase. National Registered Agents, Inc. has a BBB rating of A+. Choose a company who has a successful history of providing services. If your registered agent disappears or goes bankrupt, it leaves you and your company at risk, the risk of losing your limited liability protection.
Adding Extra Value
A reputable service company will offer tools that help your business stay in compliance. These tools will help to ensure that state deadlines and other important filings are not missed. Registered agent companies that have developed these types of additional services show that they understand the needs of their clients and will offer solutions that are in compliance and keep your company in good standing.
What if Legal Action is Taken Against My Company?
If legal action is taken against your company, your agent should offer many different options for notifying you. You will want immediate notification which should include a phone call with details pertaining to the action, a summary transmittal form specifying the details of the documents served, e-mail notification containing action details, and finally a copy of the documents sent via express mail.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many things to consider when choosing a registered agent online. This article is intended to provide an overview of the things to watch for the next time that you are starting or expanding your business into new states.