A registered agent is designated to receive service of process and other official documents on behalf of a registered business entity, such as a corporation or a limited liability company. These documents are sent to the registered agent at the corporation's registered office. The registered agent is responsible for notifying a member of the business entity (usually the corporate secretary or governance officer) on receipt of the documents.

Often, the service company engaged by a corporation to file its certificate of incorporation will act as its registered agent for an additional fee. Specific requirements vary from state to state, so it is important to review the statutes governing business entities in each state.

For more information on registering an agent and other steps necessary in forming a corporation, see: