6 Best Registered Agent Services in California in (2025)

Jon Morgan
Published by Jon Morgan | Co-Founder & Chief Editor
Last updated: February 16, 2025
FACT CHECKED by Lou Viveros, Growth & Transition Advisor
Methodology
We diligently evaluate each service provider showcased in our reviews and guides. By interacting anonymously with their business formation and services, and leveraging the insights of an independent review team, we strive to offer unbiased, evidence-based suggestions. Learn more

A registered agent service is crucial to keep your business in line with California's laws and regulations.

As a team of experts with years of experience in business formation and compliance, we spent weeks researching, testing, and listing some of the best-registered agent services.

To list the best services, we tested multiple companies and looked at several key factors to make a selection, including their reputation, price, customer support, and overall package qualities.

Read to the end to find out who offers free registered agent services in California when starting a new LLC.

Company Registered Agent Price Service Features Money-Back Guarantee BBB Accredited Advisory Services
Northwest
(Best Overall)
$125/year. First year free with LLC purchase. Same-Day Scans, Instant Notifications
Privacy by Default®
Business Address & Free Mail Forwarding
Free Domain, Website, Email & Business Phone.
90 days No, A rating No
ZenBusiness
(Best Essentials)
$199 Receiving and forwarding official legal mail, scanning and uploading documents to the customer’s dashboard, and notifying the customer via email. 60 days Yes Accounting Consultation
Harbor Compliance
(Most Affordable)
$88-$99 Same-Day document access, email notifications, annual report notifications to stay compliant. No Yes No
Rocket Lawyer(Best Premium) $249.99 with Rocket Legal / $124.99 with Rocket Legal+ Receive important legal and tax communications, scanned official documents to your email, keep your personal business address private. 30 days Yes Legal: Ask-a-lawyer
via email &
30-minute monthly
phone consultation
per new matter (with subscription)
Bizee (formerly Incfile) $119/year. First year free with LLC purchase. Manages the paperwork for you, avoid missed deadlines, tiresome paperwork, noncompliance and the associated fines or penalties. Order refundable before state payment (usually 24h), minus $30 fee. No Tax: Free 1-hour
Consultation
LegalZoom $249/year Alerts & reminders, documents scanned and uploaded, unlimited cloud storage for business documents. 60 days Yes, A+ rating Attorney Consultations (Premium Plan)


6 Best California Registered Agent Services (February 2025)

1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)

Rated 4.78/5
Northwest Registered Agents logo with an office worker in the background
4.9
Support
4.6
Price
4.8
Privacy
4.7
Compliance
4.9
Ratings
4.8
Features
Sign Up To Northwest Registered Agent

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Northwest ensures your address remains private.
  • Customizable services to match your needs.
  • Exceptional customer support with expertise.
  • Exclusive discount available for Venture Smarter readers.
  • A track record of over 25 years in business demonstrates reliability.
  • Commits to customer data privacy, no selling.
Cons
  • LLC formation necessitates them as the registered agent.
  • The lack of BBB accreditation might be a concern.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Businesses seeking a reliable and privacy-focused agent

Who is it not for?

  • Those who prefer a more budget-friendly option without extra perks

The Verdict

Northwest offers a robust service with a focus on privacy and comprehensive support, making it a top choice for businesses prioritizing reliability and comprehensive support.

Would you recommend Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)?

Northwest Registered Agent is one of the most recommended services for setting up a business online.

We tested this well-known company to evaluate the process of LLC formation, and based on our experience, you’ll get dedicated help from their assigned agents.

Northwest offers a special LLC formation package for just $39, which includes a free registered agent service for the entire year. This deal is available when you enroll via our link.

During our experience, their service assisted us in filing all the necessary legal paperwork, and their employees made us feel well-informed at each step of the journey.

We felt secure knowing that Northwest Registered Agent values customer privacy and operates with a secure online platform that doesn’t distribute client data to third-party entities.

While Northwest features a comprehensive range of business services, their plans at this time don’t include an EIN, which we think might improve their package even further.

Service Highlights:

  • Registered Agent Service ($125/year): The initial year of registered agent service is free when Northwest manages your LLC formation. This service provides mail forwarding, expert corporate guides, and privacy-by-default protections.
  • Full-Service LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $75 State Fee): This comprehensive package includes priority filing, a full year of registered agent service, an LLC operating agreement, free business tools like a domain, website, email, and business phone, and privacy-protecting practices.

2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)

Rated 4.70/5
A working young entrepreneur and a ZenBusiness logo
4.8
Support
4.7
Price
4.6
Privacy
4.6
Compliance
4.8
Ratings
4.7
Features
Sign Up To ZenBusiness

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Embraces social responsibility, engages with the community actively.
  • Offers valuable support to small businesses, including a community-focused grant program.
  • Streamlined and efficient purchase process for convenience.
  • Provides a separate service for annual report filing and compliance.
Cons
  • Lacks inclusion of a Registered Agent in their business formation plans.
  • Customer support hours are limited, potentially hindering timely assistance.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Small businesses and startups looking for value

Who is it not for?

  • Larger enterprises needing more tailored services

The Verdict

ZenBusiness provides excellent value with comprehensive features at a competitive price, ideal for small businesses.

Would you recommend ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)?

ZenBusiness is a registered agent offering high-quality, reliable, and affordable services in California, a state where the vast majority of businesses—99.8% (4.1 million)—are micro-enterprises, according to 2023 US Small Business statistics [1].

Their full package includes filing documents, receiving mail, and other services for a flat fee.

They are known for their affordable prices and customer dedication, which we have had the opportunity to attest to and confirm.

Additionally, we found their website easy to navigate, allowing us to find the information we needed quickly.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($199): ZenBusiness will upload digital copies to your dashboard so you can view them anytime and discreetly monitor all state notices to the address of your registered agent in California.
  • Starter LLC Formation Plan ($0 + $70 State Fee): ZenBusiness offers a basic package for free, just covering the $5 state fee. It includes expense and deduction tracking, standard filing speed (7 to 10 business days), and a 100% accuracy guarantee. Enjoy a 1-month free trial for both Banking and Bank Account services, each at $5/month afterward. The package also offers Money Pro Bookkeeping with a 1-month free trial, then $30/month. The worry-free compliance option is available for the first year, with the choice to renew at $199/year if accepted. This plan is great for startups and those on a fixed budget.
  • Pro LLC Formation Plan ($199 + $70 State Fee): You'll get this package at an affordable $199 per state plus a $5 state fee. The Pro Plan includes access to a guided operating agreement for $99, an EIN, and the fastest "rush" filling speed of 1 business day on average.
  • Premium LLC Formation Plan ($299 + $70 State Fee): Premium Plan includes all Pro Plan features plus a domain name, an email address, a business document template, and a customizable business website. This plan also comes with a 1 business day processing time.

3 - Harbor Compliance (Most Affordable)

Rated 4.68/5
Harbor Compliance logo with a business person reading a notebook in the background
4.7
Support
4.6
Price
4.8
Privacy and Security
4.5
Compliance Alerts
4.9
User Ratings
4.6
Features
Sign Up To Harbor Compliance

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Fast and efficient compliance handling.
  • Discounts for extended commitments.
  • Personalized expert consultations.
  • Comprehensive service options.
Cons
  • Premium pricing drawback.
  • Some customer service concerns.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Multi-state businesses needing streamlined compliance

Who is it not for?

  • Small businesses that might find the pricing model less economical

The Verdict

Harbor Compliance excels in handling complex compliance requirements for multi-state operations with its advanced software.

Would you recommend Harbor Compliance (Most Affordable)?

Harbor Compliance is a trusted partner of the California Secretary of State and is committed to providing reliable and cost-effective registered agents to its clients.

They will help you with the entire formation process, from filing the Articles of Organization to submitting your formation statement.

From our experience, they will also provide helpful resources to help business owners better understand the complexities of California business law.

As one of the most experienced LLC service providers, Harbor Compliance has a BBB ranking of A+ (the Better Business Bureau is a trusted body that rates businesses based on their performance). This rating reflects its commitment to providing quality service.

We were impressed by their professionalism during our first contact with their reps. To help us get the best plan for our business, they asked us the right types of questions.

By checking out our review for Harbor Compliance you can learn more about this company and their services.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Service ($89-$99): Yearly rates range from $89 to $99 per state, with no other expenses. If you pay for registered agents in advance for more than two years, you can save 5–10%. Online access to the registered agent's address is available immediately.
  • LLC Formation Plan ($99 + $5 State Fee): This LLC formation service includes checking name availability and filing your Articles of Organization.

4 - Rocket Lawyer (Best Premium)

Rated 4.57/5
Rocketlawyer logo with an office person in the background
4.6
Support
4.6
Price
4.4
Privacy and Security
4.7
Compliance Alerts
4.5
User Ratings
4.6
Features
Sign Up To Rocket Lawyer

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Provides a broad spectrum of legal solutions.
  • Enhanced contract security with Document Defense®.
  • User-friendly interface for document generation.
Cons
  • Billing complexities during the free trial period.
  • Difficulties in reaching customer support.
  • Legal consequences for misleading claims.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Businesses needing additional legal services

Who is it not for?

  • Those only looking for basic registered agent services

The Verdict

Rocket Lawyer is ideal for those needing a broader range of legal services along with registered agent duties, though it may be overkill for simpler needs.

Would you recommend Rocket Lawyer (Best Premium)?

Rocket Lawyer is a reliable option for businesses looking for high-quality registered agent services. Their comprehensive range of business solutions is thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs of business owners, providing efficient LLC formation and legal compliance.

They offer multiple LLC formation and attorney services, managing paperwork and filings with ease. Additionally, they include a free trial, so you can test out their features before signing up.

Rocket Lawyer’s attorney services made easy the job of managing our paperwork and filings. The free trial was an excellent way to experience their offerings without commitment.

Their easy-to-navigate list of premium services and pricing allowed us review options and choose the ideal plan for our needs.

For more information about this provider, we encourage reading our Rocket Lawyer review.

Service Highlights:

  • Registered Agent Service ($249.99 for non-members): For Rocket Legal+ members, this service is available to $124.99/year, with a membership cost of $19.99/month (billed annually at $239.88 after a free 7-day trial).
  • LLC Formation Package ($0 + $75 State Fee): Form your first LLC for FREE when you sign up for Rocket Legal+ ($19.99/month billed annually at $239.88 after a free 7-day trial).

5 - Bizee

Rated 4.52/5
bizee
4.4
Support
4.5
Price
4.7
Privacy and Security
4.5
Compliance Alerts
4.4
User Ratings
4.6
Features
Sign Up To Bizee

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Get a free 1-year Registered Agent service.
  • Established credibility over 25 years.
  • Affordable Registered Agent priced at $119.
  • Easy-to-use dashboard for navigation.
Cons
  • Document scanning may experience occasional delays.
  • Customer support is limited to weekdays.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • New businesses and entrepreneurs on a tight budget

Who is it not for?

  • Businesses looking for more hands-on customer service

The Verdict

Bizee offers a budget-friendly option with essential services, making it suitable for startups but not for those who need more comprehensive support.

Would you recommend Bizee?

Bizee (formerly IncFile) distinguishes itself in the competitive California market, a crucial hub where micro-enterprises employ approximately 7.2 million people, accounting for 48.5% of the private workforce, as highlighted by the Office of the Governor's Small Business Sheet [2].

Our Venture Smarter team tried their California registered agent service and found that they are fast to answer any question and keep your paperwork up-to-date.

Their free LLC formation service is a great option for small business entities or those who are just testing the business world, such as gig workers and freelancers.

As a California business owner, you can also take advantage of getting your own registered agent in California in the first year.

This service includes 24/7 access to the online dashboard, which we were pleased to find gave us the ability to forward emails and customize notifications.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($119): If you opt for a formation package, this fee will be waived for the first year. You'll then pay $119 per year after the first year. 
  • Silver LLC Formation Plan ($0 + $5 State Fee): This package includes filing the Articles of Organization, free year of registered agent service, limitless name searches, and phone & email support.
  • Gold LLC Formation Plan ($199 + $5 State Fee): With this plan, you'll receive everything Silver Package features plus crucial business tax documents, such as the EIN Business Tax Number and IRS Form 2553. This plan also includes operating agreements and banking resolutions. To help you stick to your deadlines and never miss a filing, this plan offers lifetime company alerts and an online access dashboard. Business banking account setup and business tax consultation are also included.
  • Platinum LLC Formation Plan ($299 + $5 State Fee): Platinum Package users will enjoy everything the Gold Package offers, plus business contract templates, rapid next-day filing service, a web domain name, and business email.

6 - LegalZoom

Rated 4.38/5
Legalzoom logo with an office worker in the background
4.3
Support
4.5
Price
4.4
Privacy and Security
4.2
Compliance Alerts
4.4
User Ratings
4.5
Features
Sign Up To LegalZoom

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Provides expert guidance on legal matters.
  • Unlimited cloud storage simplifies file management.
  • Diverse free business templates available.
Cons
  • Comparatively pricey LLC services.
  • Tops the chart for registered agent costs.
  • Overzealous upselling of extras.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Established businesses needing a range of legal solutions

Who is it not for?

  • Startups or very small businesses looking to minimize costs

The Verdict

LegalZoom offers a comprehensive suite of services that can cover all legal needs, but its pricing may be prohibitive for smaller startups.

Would you recommend LegalZoom?

LegalZoom is one of the leading California registered agent services. With decades-long experience, they are backed by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Their plans are fair for both small companies and business entities.

LegalZoom also provides various quality registered agent service options, such as business formation, trademark registration, and document filing.

Our brand-new business was a perfect fit for their entry-level registered agent packages, and their customer support staff was helpful and quick.

From our experience, if you want to work with one of the most experienced LLC formation services in California, LegalZoom is a good choice, even though their business formation is more expensive than competitors.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($299): If you wish to create your LLC with them, the first year costs $249. Following that, renewal would cost $299. The service features include a Compliance calendar, email alerts, unlimited cloud storage, and $1 million in protection against identity theft.
  • Basic LLC Formation Plan ($0 + $5 State Fee): This package equips entrepreneurs with the essentials for launching their LLC, including a comprehensive name search and articles of organization. To help guide you through online processes, this plan also offers a digital welcome packet. The plan also includes a customizable website in partnership with Wix.
  • Pro LLC Formation Plan ($249 + $5 State Fee): This plan includes everything in the Basic package, plus an operating agreement to settle entity disputes and form guidelines. The package also includes an EIN, tax-saving consultations, and an exhaustive guide on California business licensing.
  • Premium LLC Formation Plan ($299 + $5 State Fee): You will get all the Pro package features and a personalized, engaging guide from a professional California attorney. You will also enjoy unlimited consultation with an attorney for 30 minutes, plus updates on your formation documents within 90 days of the initial subscription.

Why Should You Trust Us?

Choosing the right registered agent service for your California-based business is essential, and my extensive background and direct involvement in the industry position me as a trustworthy source of guidance.

As the CEO, co-founder, and chief editor of Venture Smarter, I have dedicated over nine years to advising both emerging startups and established firms, guiding them through growth and effectively navigating the intricacies of their operational needs.

My career is underpinned by a solid educational foundation in business management, complemented by a variety of industry-specific certifications.

Throughout my career, I've engaged closely with a multitude of registered agent services, significantly contributing to the operational triumphs of numerous clients. This broad spectrum of experience gives me a well-rounded perspective on the essential services businesses require from their registered agents.

Therefore, my endorsement of Northwest Registered Agent as the premier choice for companies in California stems from a blend of authoritative insight and a track record of favorable outcomes, both key elements of the advisory services provided by Venture Smarter.

My dedication to supporting businesses in reaching their objectives reinforces my guidance, ensuring my recommendation of Northwest Registered Agent is a reliable and informed choice you can trust.

How We Picked And Tested The Best Registered Agent Services In California?

The best registered agent services in California were selected and tested based on a comprehensive review that included criteria such as affordability, service speed, or feature sets.

Our Venture Smarter team conducted a thorough review of 10 registered agent services in California, engaging with each provider under the guise of anonymity to maintain objectivity.

We assessed each contender based on their quickness to respond, digital prowess, and the user-friendliness of their services.

"From the state's perspective, having a registered agent serves as a dependable contact point for the corporation, ensuring legal and tax notices are properly managed. From the corporation's standpoint, it guarantees awareness and timely response to any crucial legal or tax communications."

- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions

1. Pricing

Pricing is crucial for businesses, especially for startups with tight budgets.

We conducted an in-depth analysis of the cost structures, comparing base fees, bundle packages, and potential savings from long-term commitments.

For instance, we reviewed Northwest Registered Agent's offering at $125, assessing what this price includes compared to Harbor Compliance’s range of $89–$99, considering the value over a 1-year and 3-year period. LegalZoom's fee of $299 was evaluated for comparative value, assessing additional services against the baseline price.

We also looked for hidden fees, noting any that exceeded $50, to ensure transparency in pricing for startups calculating their expenses.

2. Customer Support

Customer support effectiveness was evaluated by initiating contacts at different times of the day and measuring response times: immediate (0–5 minutes), short (5–30 minutes), moderate (30 minutes–2 hours), and delayed (over 2 hours).

For example, ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent were tested for responsiveness, with ZenBusiness averaging a response time of 15 minutes and Northwest at 10 minutes during business hours. After-hours inquiries were noted, with responses categorized as overnight (8–12 hours) or next-day (>12 hours).

We assessed the quality of each interaction based on the clarity and usefulness of the information provided and the ease of accessing human support versus automated systems.

3. Service Features

We assessed the comprehensiveness of service features by creating mock accounts and engaging with each platform's tools. Online dashboard usability was evaluated based on load times (seconds), navigation ease (number of clicks to find key information), and alert frequency (daily, weekly, monthly).

For example, Northwest Registered Agent's dashboard was noted for its load time of under 3 seconds and intuitive navigation within two clicks. Compliance alert effectiveness was measured by the accuracy and timeliness of mock compliance events, with ideal alerts being both actionable and educational.

Additional services, such as mail forwarding and annual report filings, were tested for efficiency, with turnaround times measured in days (e.g., 1-3 days for mail forwarding and 5-7 days for report filings), to ensure they meet the urgent needs of businesses aiming to maintain legal compliance.

4. Turnaround Time

The speed at which a registered agent service processes and relays documents is vital for maintaining legal compliance.

A fast turnaround time ensures that businesses can respond promptly to legal notices and maintain good standing.

Companies like Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness are known for their quick processing times, while others like Harbor Compliance have slower turnaround times, which could put businesses at risk of non-compliance.

5. Third Party Reviews

We considered third-party reviews to provide an unbiased perspective on the quality of a registered agent service. Platforms like Trustpilot and BBB offer insights into customer satisfaction and service reliability.

Companies with high ratings on these platforms, like ZenBusiness, are generally more trusted, while those with lower ratings, like LegalZoom, may need to improve their services.

6. Confidentiality

Data protection is paramount in today's digital world. Registered agent services like Northwest and LegalZoom that go above and beyond to protect client information set themselves apart.

These companies that prioritize confidentiality and have a clean track record will be more appealing to privacy-conscious businesses.

7. Ease of Use

The user-friendliness of a company's online platform can greatly affect the customer experience. A straightforward, intuitive interface can simplify the process of managing legal documents and compliance.

We have top-ranked companies like Bizee that offer a seamless online experience and avoid those with complicated or outdated systems that may deter potential clients.

8. Transition Process

When switching registered agent services, businesses need assurance of a smooth transition without any gaps in coverage.

We prioritized companies like Northwest that facilitate a hassle-free changeover and provide continuous service during the transition.

How Much Do Registered Agent Service Providers Cost in California?

Generally, a California registered agent service costs between $89 and $299 a year. The exact cost of a California registered agent service depends on the company you choose, the services you require, and the length of your contract.

However, it costs $0 if you act as your own registered agent or appoint a family member or friend.

Similar Articles:

Requirements For A California Registered Agent

searching for a California registered agent

Here are the key requirements for being a California registered agent:

  1. Physical Presence: The agent must have a physical location in California — a P.O. Box or mailbox service is not acceptable, as the agent must be available to personally sign for documents.
  2. Availability: The individual or company must be available at the listed address during normal business hours to sign documents.
  3. Residency: If an individual is appointed as a registered agent, they must be a resident of California.
  4. Public Record: The name and street address of the registered agent must be included in the public records of California.
  5. Consent: An individual appointed as a registered agent must consent to the appointment.
  6. Reliability: It's important to choose a reliable registered agent to ensure that crucial documents are received and handled in a timely manner to avoid legal and administrative consequences.

Learn how to change a registered agent in California if you aren't satisfied with your current one.

FAQs

Is It Necessary for My California LLC to Have a Registered Agent?

Yes, your California LLC must have a Registered Agent. According to California's LLC Act, the registered agent and office address must be provided when filing the LLC formation documents with the California Secretary of State. Failure to meet this requirement will nullify your formation filling.

What Does a California Registered Agent Do?

A registered agent's work entails receiving, reviewing, and forwarding important documents on behalf of a business. This includes documents from the Secretary of State and other official correspondence. A registered agent must also ensure that any documents are received in a timely manner and are accurately recorded.

Can I Act as My Own California Registered Agent?

Yes, you can act as your own California Registered Agent if you meet certain requirements. As the registered agent, you will be responsible for receiving all official documents on behalf of your LLC. You must be a resident of California or a corporation or LLC authorized to transact business in California. You must also have a physical address in California where you can receive service of process.

 

What is the Best Registered Agent Service in California?

If you plan to expand your business and follow state offices and regulations while saving time and money and protecting your privacy, choosing the best California registered agent is essential for your continued service of the process.

Northwest Registered Agent is our top choice. They are very reliable, up to date with compliance filing deadlines, and offer a client-focused service with former lawyers and experts in the field.

Our experience with Northwest Registered Agent showed us they have mastered it all during their twenty years of experience in the industry.

Our #1 Recommendation

Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)

Northwest Registered Agents logo with an office worker in the background
Rated 4.78/5
4.9
Support
4.6
Price
4.8
Privacy
4.7
Compliance
4.9
Ratings
4.8
Features
Pros
  • Northwest ensures your address remains private.
  • Customizable services to match your needs.
  • Exceptional customer support with expertise.
  • Exclusive discount available for Venture Smarter readers.
  • A track record of over 25 years in business demonstrates reliability.
  • Commits to customer data privacy, no selling.
  • Get the BEST PRICE until the end of February
Cons
  • LLC formation necessitates them as the registered agent.
  • The lack of BBB accreditation might be a concern.

References

  1. https://advocacy.sba.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023-Small-Business-Economic-Profile-CA.pdf
  2. https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Small-Business-Fact-Sheet-9.9.20.pdf

About The Author

Venture Smarter | 6 Best Registered Agent Services in California in ([y])
Co-Founder & Chief Editor
Jon Morgan, MBA, LLM, has over ten years of experience growing startups and currently serves as CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter. Educated at UC Davis and Harvard, he offers deeply informed guidance. Beyond work, he enjoys spending time with family, his poodle Sophie, and learning Spanish.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Venture Smarter | 6 Best Registered Agent Services in California in ([y])
Growth & Transition Advisor
LJ Viveros has 40 years of experience in founding and scaling businesses, including a significant sale to Logitech. He has led Market Solutions LLC since 1999, focusing on strategic transitions for global brands. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in Communications, LJ is also a distinguished Matsushita Executive alumnus.
Learn more about our editorial policy

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