Starting your own business is exciting — but keeping up with all the requirements can be stressful.
One of those requirements is selecting a registered agent.
What are the requirements for a registered agent?
According to the Tennessee Secretary of State, entrepreneurs must have a registered agent to start a limited liability company (LLC) in Tennessee. Otherwise, the business doesn’t comply with state law.
Business owners also need a physical address to receive official mail and other documents during business hours. Unfortunately, this can’t be a P.O. box. A registered agent serves this purpose.
A registered agent receives business documents on your behalf, such as tax documents and important annual report reminders. They scan the documents into an online portal and then notify you.
Who can be a registered agent for an LLC in Tennessee?
Business owners can serve as their own registered agent if they are located in the state of Tennessee. However, many still hire a third-party registered agent to work on their behalf. Foreign-based Tennessee LLCs without a physical presence in Tennessee must hire a Tennesssee-based third-party registered agent.
Now that you know why you need a registered agent, who should you pick?
Let’s go over the best Tennessee registered agents and the advantages of each option.
Top 6 registered agent services in Tennessee
If you’re looking for an inclusive, seamless registered agent service provider in Tennessee, there are many options.
Here are the six best Tennessee registered agent services:
Prices were quoted at the time of publication and are subject to change.
1. Northwest Registered Agent
If you’re looking for the best of the best at an affordable price, look no further than Northwest Registered Agent. Whether you’re a large enterprise or a small business, Northwest’s extensive services cover everything you need to start and grow your business.
The service provides a registered business office, all-access customer support, and room for your business to grow. Plus, the online accounts portal makes it easy to view documents you’ve received in the mail.
Offering an affordable price and the most comprehensive customer service system on this list, Northwest Registered Agent is our number one choice.
- Cost: $125/year
- Visit Website
2. Tennessee Registered Agent
Tennessee Registered Agent’s low price point and quality services make it an excellent choice for many businesses.
This company might not have all the bells and whistles of others on this list, but it covers all the basics. If you need help navigating the filing fees for LLC formation or complying with state guidelines, Tennessee Registered Agent has you covered.
- Cost: $49/year
- Visit Website
- Address:116 Agnes Road, STE 200, Knoxville, TN 37919
3. ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness offers a customized, straightforward approach to registering your business and assigning a registered office. Plus, the intuitive website makes it easy for people who aren’t tech-savvy.
The platform is reliable. And ZenBusiness has 4.5/5 stars on Trustpilot, with nearly 12,000 reviews talking about the company’s caring customer service and simple software.
- Cost: $99/first year, $199/year for renewal
- Visit Website
4. LegalZoom
As a seasoned veteran in the industry, LegalZoom offers dependable services to all types of businesses. The extensive range of services has made it a trusted choice for both registered agent services and online legal advice.
Navigating LegalZoom's user-friendly platform is a breeze, even for those with limited technical know-how. LegalZoom might be right for you if you’re looking for services that go over the top (including legal advice) and can afford its higher price point.
- Cost: $299/year
- Visit Website
5. Incfile
Incfile is an efficient and cost-effective choice for businesses needing everything from LLC formation services to filing annual reports. The competitive pricing is especially appealing for startups. And if you’re looking to expand to other states, Incfile makes it easy.
Businesses that file their LLC through Incfile will receive one year of registered agent services for free. While Incfile may not have as many premium features as some competitors, it consistently delivers reliable and professional services personalized to your core needs.
- Cost: $119/year
- Visit Website
6. Rocket Lawyer
Rocket Lawyer is ideal for businesses seeking long-term legal support and comprehensive registered agent services. Known for an extensive range of online legal services, it caters to businesses of all sizes and offers assistance from LLC formation to estate planning.
Rocket Lawyer has a strong track record of helping businesses. It provides near-instant notifications, assists with crafting articles of organization, and helps with general business services.
Rocket Lawyer is a strong contender for businesses searching for a one-stop shop for all their legal needs.
- Cost: $149.99/year
- Visit Website
7. Harbor Compliance
Harbor Compliance is a one-stop shop for all of your legal and LLC needs, including registered agent service. They are also a small business software provider.
Harbor Compliance has a 4.4 out of 5 star rating on Google and offers an attractive initial price point of $99. They provide discounts for recurring clients. Harbor Compliance is a national provider with the ability to serve your business in multiple locations, including Tennessee.
- Cost: $99/year
- Visit Website
8. CT Corporation
CT Corporation is Wolters Kluwer’s Registered Agent and LLC services company. Wolters Kluwer is one of the largest information technology services providers in the world. High quality and top notch technology is what this company is known for, and their registered agent services are no different.
Among other services, their registered agent services start at $337/year. They provide numerous other services that can assist as your company grows and scales.
- Cost: $337/year
- Visit Website
- Address: 300 Montvue Rd, Knoxville, TN 37919
Verdict: The best Tennessee registered agent service
Selecting a reliable Tennessee registered agent service can be a tough decision since so many options are available.
But no matter what company you choose, you’ll get more time to spend on your core business operations. The best registered agent services offer same-day notifications, an office address, and possibly even legal assistance.
If you’re on the fence, we recommend choosing Northwest Registered Agent. This company’s unmatched customer service makes it a no-brainer for any business, big or small.
How do I appoint a registered agent in Tennessee?
Tennessee asks you to provide your registered agent details in your Articles of Organization. Once the state approves the document, your appointment becomes effective.
How do I change my registered agent in Tennessee?
To change your registered agent or update their information, you will have to file a form with the state. Download and submit “Form SS-4534t” form. This change will cost you $20.
Can I be my own registered agent in Tennessee?
Yes, as long as you meet the requirements for a registered agent in Tennessee, you can be your own registered agent.
