When starting a nonprofit, you’ll quickly come across the term “registered agent.” But what exactly is a registered agent, and do you really need one? Let’s break it down and answer some common questions.
What Is a Registered Agent?
A registered agent is an individual or business designated to receive legal documents on behalf of your nonprofit. These documents can include important state notices, service of process (lawsuits), and compliance notifications. The registered agent ensures your nonprofit stays in good standing with the state and promptly handles any legal matters.
Can I Be My Own Registered Agent?
Yes! In most cases, you can serve as your own registered agent for your nonprofit. To do so, you’ll need to meet the following basic requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old.
You must have a physical address in the state where your nonprofit is registered (this can’t be a P.O. box).
You must be available during normal business hours to receive any official documents.
If you live in the state where your nonprofit is incorporated and are comfortable handling your nonprofit’s legal documents, being your own registered agent can save you the cost of hiring a third-party service.
When Would I Need a Paid Registered Agent?
While you can often serve as your own registered agent, there are specific situations when using a paid registered agent service is a smart—or even necessary—choice:
Your Nonprofit Is Incorporated in Multiple States
If your nonprofit operates in multiple states or you don’t live in the state where it is incorporated, you’ll need a registered agent with a physical address in that state.You Don’t Have a Fixed Address
If you expect to travel frequently, move, or don’t have a reliable physical address, hiring a registered agent ensures someone will always be available to receive important documents.You Want Privacy
When you list yourself as the registered agent, your name and address become public record. If you prefer to keep this information private, a registered agent service can act as a buffer.You Want Peace of Mind
By using a professional service, you don’t have to worry about missing an important legal document or being unavailable to receive a time-sensitive notice. A paid registered agent ensures everything is handled efficiently.
Why Choose a Service Like Harbor Compliance?
At Instant Nonprofit, we partner with Harbor Compliance, a trusted registered agent service that charges approximately $99/year. Harbor Compliance provides:
A secure, reliable address in your nonprofit’s state of incorporation
Immediate notification of any legal documents received
Peace of mind knowing your nonprofit stays compliant with state regulations
For many nonprofits, the small annual fee is well worth the assurance that all legal matters are being managed smoothly.
What’s Next?
If you’re comfortable serving as your own registered agent, that’s great! Just be sure to meet the state requirements and stay available to handle any legal matters that arise.
If you’d rather leave it to the professionals—or your situation requires it—Harbor Compliance is a simple, cost-effective solution to ensure your nonprofit stays compliant. Our link to inquire about their services is here.