What is "Service of Process"?

"Service of Process" is official notification of an action or proceeding by the delivery of a legal or court document. This is usually being accompanied with a request to answer in a specific period of time. Also known as Notice of Service of Process may include summons, complaints, or order of notice obtained by the court. Once the registered agent accepts these forms, your company will have been officially served.

What is a registered agent?

A registered agent is someone that can accept service of process on behalf of the LLC or corporation. It is important that the registered agent be and individual at least 18 years of age and a resident of the state in which the filing is being submitted. The registered agent must have a physical address; therefore it cannot be a PO Box address. You may also serve as your own registered agent as long as you meet the requirements above.

The duty of the registered agent is to receive official state documents such as franchise tax notices and annual reports on behalf of the corporation. The registered agent must be available at all times. A valid phone number may be required. Incorporate Fast can provide you with a Third-Party registered agent at a reasonable fee if you are unable to appoint one yourself. You may also serve as your own registered agent if you meet the requirements above.

If you fail to designate a registered agent, your company will fall out of “good standing” with the state. If a registered agent is appointed to you, you must renew the services annually to keep your company from being delinquent, or you may otherwise hinder your company’s ability to enter into any legal contracts and gain access to the state courts.