As an entrepreneur, you'll need to submit LLC formation paperwork to the State of Iowa to get your venture off the ground.
Considering all the paperwork required to get your business off the ground, you should hire an Iowa registered agent service.
As seasoned professionals ourselves, we understand the importance of hiring a qualified registered agent, so we've taken extra steps to locate Iowa's top registered agent services.
After conducting in-depth research and consulting with legal professionals, we have comprehensively reviewed the four best-registered agent service providers in Iowa for you.
Northwest
ZenBusiness
IncfileTop 4 Registered Agents in Iowa (May 2023)
1 - Northwest Registered Agent Service (Editor's Choice)
1000+ Reviews
Northwest Registered Agent stands out at the top of our best registered agent service list for its unbeatable security and privacy.
With its registered office address in Iowa, we were able to keep our identity and address private and safeguard our personal data.
The company also delivered court summons and exchanged letters with the Iowa Secretary of State for us.
We were especially impressed by their easy online filing process. They also provided us with some more helpful resources for establishing and managing an LLC in Iowa.
Therefore we can attest that Northwest Registered Agent will service you with information about taxes, fees, and other legal requirements.
Northwest Registered Agent also takes responsibility for forwarding your mail seriously. Not only that, but they will also scan and upload it to your online account to ensure nothing goes overlooked.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($125): The first year of registered agent service is free if you create your LLC with Northwest.
- Basic LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $50 State Fee): If you want to open an LLC in Iowa, this plan offers articles of incorporation, an operating agreement, a one-year free registered agent service, as well as standard and expedited processing rates.
- Full Service LLC Formation Plan ($225 + $50 State Fee):Â You`ll get same-day filing, registered agent service for a full year, an operating agreement, and a client account with free forms and services in this package.
- Protecting your privacy
- Excellent customer-based
- Experience of 20 years
- Apparent fees
- Their formation package has complimentary Iowa registered agents for a full 12 months
- It may not be the most cost-effective
2 - ZenBusiness
2000+ Reviews
ZenBusiness is another great service option that you can consider for your Iowa LLC.
ZenBusiness made it to the 2nd spot on our list mainly because their customer support team provided us with excellent software access.
Their software allows you to easily keep track of and update your company's annual reports. This gives you peace of mind that you're always up to date with your company's progress.
After thorough research and consultations with legal experts, we decided to use ZenBusiness to help us register our LLC in Iowa.
We were impressed with their straightforward process, friendly customer service, and competitive pricing.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($199): Renews annually for $199.
- Starter LLC Formation Package ($0 + $50 State Fee): This membership covers the standard corporation filing service, as well as a name availability search. This product's filing rate takes typically from 2 to 3 weeks.
- Pro LLC Formation Package ($199 + $50 State Fee): Features of the Basic Package and additional LLC creation services, such as faster filling speed (4 to 6 days).
- Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $50 State Fee): This LLC formation plan covers the platform's services (plus state filing fees). It also includes 1-2 days of filling speed and a customized business website.
- Pricing is straightforward and affordable
- Chat customer support hours are extended.
- Have given positive feedback from clients
- Refund within 2 months if unsatisfied
- Fewer advanced features
3 - Incfile
1000+ Reviews
IncFile is a nationwide registered agent service that provides reliable services in Iowa - at an affordable price.
Their packages start at $119 per year, making them one of the most popular and budget-friendly LLC and agent services.
If you're yet to start a business and require a free Iowa registered agent service provider in the formation process, they deliver an excellent complimentary LLC formation service.
We were very satisfied with both IncFile's service and price. Not only did they provide us with a free Iowa registered agent service, but the entire process was so smooth and easy.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($119): While IncFile charges $119/year for the registered agent service, for those who choose to start their limited liability company with them, it is free of charge.
- Free Silver LLC Formation Package ($0 + $50 State Fee): The Iowa LLC formation package provides you with articles of organization preparation and filing, unlimited name searches, and a year of free registered agent service.
- IncFile Gold LLC Formation Package ($199 + $50 State Fee): The silver package is included in this plan, along with an EIN business tax number, IRS Form 2553, and an operational agreement. In addition, there are banking resolutions, an internet access dashboard, and tax counseling.
- Platinum LLC Formation Package ($299 + $50 State Fee): The plan includes the Gold Package. It also provides free company websites, domain registration, business contract templates, and the option to file for free the next day.
- Highly-functional online dashboard.
- All formation packages include the service of a registered agent
- Orders are quick and efficient
- No hidden costs
- Support options are limited
4 - Rocket Lawyer
Rocket Lawyer is renowned for offering company owners and entrepreneurs trustworthy legal advice and assistance.
The ability to connect with highly skilled attorneys for comprehensive legal advice on both personal and business matters is a standout feature of Rocket Lawyer.
We could access legal counsel via phone, email, or chat and their support team was highly responsive.
Rocket Lawyer offers a free 7-day trial, which we found pretty neat. We had the opportunity to explore their services and evaluate if they meet our needs during this time.
While this trial only offers limited access, it allowed us to choose the most suitable plan before committing to a subscription. It's important to note that if you don't cancel the trial, you will be automatically charged.
They're perfect for business owners who anticipate needing legal help. Their Iowa registered agent services are available as part of its "Business Bundle" plan.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($149.99 for non-members): Monthly membership is $39.99. Members will receive a 25% discount.
- LLC Formation Package ($99.99 + $50 State Fee): Users receive free legal documents and attorney services, as well as a free LLC business formation and a 25% discount on Iowa registered agent services. It's also free with a $39.99 monthly membership.
- Excellent customer support and registered agents
- Provides expert legal assistance
- Offers up to a 25% discount for premium members
- Limited service features
- Requires a credit card to avail of the free trial
What Are the Benefits of Working With an Iowa Registered Agent?
Using an Iowa registered agent service provides several advantages over acting as your own registered agent [1].
Here are the four benefits of working with a registered agent in Iowa:
1. Ensures Compliance
Working with a registered agent in Iowa ensures that your business always complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
This includes keeping up with filing deadlines, payment requirements, and other vital obligations.
2. Gives You Peace of Mind
A registered agent in Iowa will give you peace of mind knowing that your business is in good hands.
They will ensure that all paperwork is properly filed and delivered on time, so you don't have to worry about missing any important deadlines.
3. Availability
An Iowa registered agent service is a great choice for busy business owners, as it is available during regular business hours.
Some business owners may have a more sporadic schedule, but Iowa registered agents provide convenience for those who operate within regular business hours.
4. Maintains Privacy
Setting up Iowa registered agents for your business entity is a great way to ensure confidential documents are received and protected.
Your registered agents will provide an actual street location for all paperwork to be sent to, including any legal proceedings your business entity may face. Once documents arrive, you'll be notified straight away [2].
What is the Cost of Hiring a Professional Registered Agent Service?
The cost of hiring a professional registered agent service starts from $35 a year for basic services. The prices will vary depending on your business's specific needs and the services you desire. It usually costs around $99 to $349 for more advanced services for your Iowa LLC.
Be aware that while a premium registered agent might be very beneficial to you, doing so would add to the cost of forming an LLC in Iowa.
Qualifications for an Iowa Registered Agent
Under the Iowa State Code 489.113 and Iowa State Code 490.501, a registered agent must:
- Be a resident of Iowa
- Be a corporation authorized to transact business in Iowa
- Be a foreign corporation authorized to transact business in Iowa
- Have a physical street address in Iowa
- Be available during normal business hours
- Be able to accept service of process on behalf of the entity for which they are registered
Our Selection Process
Throughout our selection process, we prioritized companies that can give you the highest satisfaction and best service possible. With the help of our legal advisors and licensed attorneys, we compared and scored every service using these strict and specific criteria.
1. Price
We analyzed each Registered agent service's overall pricing model and promotions and compared each to other services available in Iowa.
Our goal was to ensure our chosen companies gave you the best possible value for their money.
2. Expertise
We have scored companies with extensive experience handling registered agent services.
We were dedicated to providing a list of the best registered agent services with a good track record and broad knowledge in all areas.
3. Customer Support
We also went through the process of testing each service's level of customer support. Our goal here was to give credit to all registered agent service providers who can answer your questions and solve your problems.
4. Turnaround Time
Finally, we reviewed the entire process of ordering each registered agent service and noted the fastest turnaround time they have provided. We wanted to ensure they have met our strict criteria to give you the best recommendation.
If you are dissatisfied with your current agent, and want to change a registered agent in Iowa, process is very simple.
FAQs
What is an Iowa Registered Agent?
Iowa Registered Agent is any organization or person residing in Iowa who consents to accept official state correspondence, service of process, and annual charter renewal notice on behalf of business entities registered in the state.
Who Can Become a Registered Agent Service in Iowa?
Anyone can become a registered agent service in Iowa as long as they reside in the state and are accessible at the address they have listed during regular business hours on weekdays. However, we advise that all corporations, registered organizations, and limited liability companies employ a registered agent service.
Do I Need a Registered Agent for My LLC in Iowa?
Yes. You need to have a registered agent if you have an LLC. Iowa states require that all LLCs and Iowa companies list a registered agent on their documents.
Do I Need to Hire a Registered Agent Before Forming My Business in Iowa?
Yes, you need to hire a registered agent before forming your business entity with the Secretary of State, you must appoint a registered agent. You cannot establish an LLC or corporation in the state without a registered agent.
Is It Possible for Me to Be My Own Registered Agent in Iowa?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent for your Iowa LLC. You can designate yourself as your own registered agent for your business in Iowa, which means that you will be responsible for accepting all legal correspondence on behalf of your business.
How Can I Resign as a Registered Agent in Iowa?
You can resign as an Iowa registered agent by filing a Statement of Resignation of Registered Agent with the Business Services Division of the Iowa Secretary of State.
BEST Registered Agent in Iowa is...
The role of an Iowa registered agent is essential to your business's compliance and legal standing.
After in-depth research and solid consultations, we concluded that Northwest Registered Agent is the best choice for your business in Iowa.
We had a great experience with them while formating our new venture in Iowa. We were impressed with the speed and efficiency of their services, and their customer service was very helpful and knowledgeable.
Northwest Registered Agent will offer everything you need to start and maintain a business as an entrepreneur, especially their professional registered agents.
From our experience, Northwest will manage all the documents, forward emails, and store all data with high privacy protection.
Our #1 Recommendation
Northwest Registered Agent Service
- Protecting your privacy
- Excellent customer-based
- Experience of 20 years
- Apparent fees
- Their formation package has complimentary Iowa registered agents for a full 12 months
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of May
- It may not be the most cost-effective
