6 Best Registered Agent Services in Maine to Try in 2023
To establish an LLC in Maine, partnering with a professional registered agent is crucial. They help ensure compliance with state regulations and manage essential paperwork.
My team of legal advisors and I conducted thorough research on top registered agent companies.
And sure enough, we were able to identify the best registered agent service in Maine to inform your decision.
Northwest
ZenBusiness
IncfileTop 6 Best Agent Services in Maine (November 2023)
1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
Having used Northwest Registered Agent for one of our ventures, we can vouch for their reliability. With over 20 years in the business, they prioritize customer support and privacy, which we greatly appreciate.
Northwest can also provide useful tools and resources, such as a Compliance Calendar for example, to help you keep track of your state filings and stay compliant with state regulations.
Unlike some other Maine registered agents that charge extra for compliance notices and customized filing calendars, Northwest Registered Agent's standard service includes these features.
Their user interface is second to none in our opinion. And although they are a bit pricey, we believe you get your money's worth.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($125): You will get a free first year of Maine registered agent service if you decide to open your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent. Among the services includes, is privacy, free mail forwarding, and professional corporate advisers.
- Basic LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $175 State Fee): This package includes an operating agreement and articles of incorporation. It also provides standard and quick processing rates, as well as a complimentary one-year registered agent service.
- Full Service LLC Formation Plan ($225 + $175 State Fee): A client account is available, which includes free forms and services. This bundle contains same-day filing, registered agent service for an entire year, and an operating agreement.
- Protection of privacy
- Excellent client service and support
- Well-versed in their 20 years of existence
- Transparent registered agent pricing
- An entire year of free registered agent services
- Quite expensive Maine registered agent
2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)
When we were exploring options for one of our startups, ZenBusiness stood out with its competitive pricing and user-friendly platform. Their focus on customer service was evident when we had queries, making the process seamless.
ZenBusiness's $199 price point for registered agent services is also very reasonable compared to other options in the market.
Additionally, their platform is easy to navigate, and we found it convenient to use their software to keep track of and archive our company's annual reports.
This company offers banking services and a bank account to help keep your finances secure and organized. Additionally, it assists you in tracking your income and expenses, free of charge for the first month.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($199): The annual renewal for the registered agents is $199.
- Starter LLC Formation Package ($0 + $175 State Fee): This membership includes both the basic company filing service and a name availability search. This LLC filing service takes the standard filing time of 2 to 3 weeks on average. For $0, plus the state fee, you will get a 100% accuracy guarantee. With Starter you can get optional worry-free compliance free for a full year. After 12 months you can renew it for $199 per year.
- Pro LLC Formation Package ($199 + $175 State Fee): Basic Package features and extra LLC formation services in Maine, are included here, such as the fastest ''rush'' filing speed of 1 to 2 business days. Next to swift business formation, with Pro plan you will get an operating agreement to help you structure internal operations, and minimizing conflicts, making processes fast and structured. Included EIN will streamline the process of interacting with the IRS.
- Premium LLC Formation Package ($349 + $175 State Fee): The Premium option enhances Pro features by including business document templates for improved time and process management. These templates are carefully designed to reduce time-consuming and monotonous tasks, which can also be expensive. With the Premium option, you will have access to bookkeeping (free for a month) and a customizable website builder, also available free of charge for a month.
- Realistic and clear registered agent price scheme
- Extended chat customer support
- Has earned positive reviews from customers
- 60-day money-back guarantee for their registered agent
- Fewer advanced features for Maine registered agents
3 - Incfile (Most Affordable)
Incfile's combination of affordability, comprehensive services, and a focus on client support makes it a popular choice for entrepreneurs looking to start and grow their businesses efficiently.
The company's Learning Center is also a great resource for business owners who need guidance on various topics related to starting and managing a business.
Additionally, IncFile's virtual mailbox service allows international companies to obtain a primary Maine street address for their business entity along with a commercial registered agent office location.
As their clients, we had access to Incfile’s Business Growth Dashboard, which consolidated business essentials in one place, including compliance alerts and reminders.
IncFile is known for its customer support and has been utilized by over a million entrepreneurs across all 50 states, indicating a high level of trust and reliability in their services.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly but still decent service, we would recommend IncFile.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($119): This is a yearly subscription, but if you let IncFile form the LLC for you, the first year of Maine registered agents comes at no cost to you.
- Free Silver LLC Formation Package ($0 + $175 State Fee): There are Articles of Organization preparation and filing features, as well as a year of free registered agent service, and unlimited name searches.
- IncFile Gold LLC Formation Package ($199 + $175 State Fee): There are banking resolutions, an online access dashboard, and a tax advice option. This package also includes the Silver bundle, as well as an EIN business tax number, IRS Form 2553, and an operating agreement.
- Platinum LLC Formation Package ($299 + $175 State Fee): The package includes the Gold Package, as well as free business websites, domain registrations, and business contract templates. Users can also file for free the next day.
- They have a user-friendly platform
- Every formation package comes with a cost-free agent service
- Quick processing of registered agent orders
- There are no extra registered agent charges
- Client support options are limited for registered agents
4 - LegalZoom (Best Premium)
We once faced a complex legal challenge while setting up a subsidiary, and LegalZoom was our go-to. They not only assisted with the LLC formation in Maine but also provided customized registered agent services tailored to our business needs
This includes document filing, legal paperwork management, and guidance on business formation, taxation, and other legal matters.
The service ensures you're informed of filing deadlines and any forms you need to submit to the Maine Secretary of State.
We found LegalZoom's pre-filled Operating Agreement to be incredibly convenient and were impressed with the professionalism and expertise of their support teams, who provided valuable guidance throughout the process.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($299): You'll pay $249 to form an LLC with them for the first year alongside Maine registered agents. After that, renewal would cost $299. The service features include alerts on emails, a compliance calendar, unlimited online storage, and a $ 1M worth of impersonation theft.
- LLC Basic Formation Package ($0 + $175 State Fee): The package provides you with a thorough digital LLC welcome packet and articles of organization. In addition, there is an extensive name search and a customizable website.
- LLC Pro Formation Package ($249 + $175 State Fee): The plan includes all Basic package features with an operating agreement, an EIN, and important consultations on insurance and taxes. In addition, you also get a detailed business licensing guide.
- LLC Premium Formation Package ($299 + $175 State Fee): This plan covers everything in the Pro package. Along with that, it offers an engaging guide from a Miane business attorney specialist. You'll also get updates to your formation documents and 30-minute unlimited consultations from a legal attorney for the first 90 subscription days.
- Reputable service provider in the country
- High customer volume
- Provides other legal services alongside Maine registered agents
- Relatively expensive registered agent
- LLC formation doesn't come with a registered agent
5 - Rocket Lawyer
In the early days of our business, we often turned to Rocket Lawyer for legal guidance. Their range of services, from simple document templates to more intricate legal assistance, was invaluable.
Rocket Lawyer offers a premium membership for $39.99 per month, giving access to various premium features and a 25% discount on the company's registered agent service.
We found the representative we talked with to be a highly skilled attorney and we appreciated their user-friendly platform that allowed us to quickly generate legal documents and obtain legal advice.
If you are not sure about using Rocket Lawyer, they offer a 7-day free trial so that you can try out their premium features and get a sense of how the company works.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($149.99 for non-members): Members will receive a 25% discount to get their own registered agent, while monthly membership costs $39.99.
- LLC Formation Package ($99.99 + $175 State Fee): It's free with a $39.99 monthly membership. You may be eligible for free legal documentation and attorney services, as well as a free LLC creation and a discount of 25% on registered agent services.
- Comes with a bundle of online legal services
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for their registered agents
- Free 30-minute lawyer consultation for premium members
- Relatively expensive registered agent
- Joining without legal documents can cost you more
6 - MyCompanyWorks
MyCompanyWorks is a business formation service with years of experience, having helped over 60,000 entrepreneurs in establishing their business entities in Maine.
Their satisfaction guarantee is 100%, and you're entitled to a 90-day free refund.
The company also offers a Startup Wizard, an online checklist tool that helps entrepreneurs launch their companies.
We were impressed with the quality of their services, which effectively handled court documents and IRS communications to keep us up-to-date on essential matters.
However, MyCompanyWorks only offers free registered agent services if you purchase either the entrepreneur package or the complete package. There are no additional fees for the next year.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($99): The Entrepreneur Package and the Complete Package both provide one year of free registered agent service.
- Basic LLC Formation Package ($59 + $175 State Fee): This package includes organizational minutes, an LLC operating agreement, and tailored operational management. There is also the opening of a business bank account.
- Entrepreneur LLC Formation Package ($179 + $175 State Fee): Users will get access to everything in the Basic Package. In addition, they will receive lifetime documents and tax instructions, a one-year registered agent service, and a federal tax ID.
- Complete LLC Formation Package ($259 + $175 State Fee): There is a premium plan that contains all of the previous two tiers' service features, as well as initial and yearly report filing service. In addition, the bundle includes compliance lock notifications, automated minutes and resolutions, corporate entity monitoring, and priority assistance.
- Excellent customer feedback
- Reliable and efficient registered agent services
- Knowledgeable and friendly customer service team
- The basic package doesn't provide Maine Registered Agent services
- Pricey registered agent service
What Should I Consider When Choosing a Registered Agent in Maine?
Our methodology for selecting the best registered agent service in Maine is a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach, taking into account various critical aspects that impact the effectiveness and reliability of these services.
We considered various aspects such as pricing, customer support, service features, turnaround time, third-party reviews, confidentiality, ease of use, and transition process.
Services are ranked based on their performance across all criteria.
1. Service Features
Comprehensive service features ensure that businesses can manage legal requirements efficiently. Features like compliance alerts, online dashboards, and additional services like mail forwarding are crucial for smooth operations.
Northwest Registered Agent was rated 5/5 for its comprehensive features including a compliance calendar and free mail forwarding.
In contrast, services with fewer advanced features, such as MyCompanyWorks, might not meet the needs of businesses requiring more comprehensive support.
2. Turnaround Time
Quick collection and relay of legal documents are crucial to maintaining compliance and responding to legal requirements promptly.
Companies like IncFile and ZenBusiness, known for their swift processing, were rated 5/5 as they are preferable for businesses that value speed.
Others like Rocket Lawyer with slower turnaround times might not be as suitable for time-sensitive operations.
3. Customer Support
Efficient customer support is vital for timely and accurate assistance, especially in legal matters where delays can have significant consequences.
The best services offer multiple communication channels like phone, email, and live chat.
ZenBusiness provided extended chat support, ensuring accessibility. The response time and the nature of the human interaction also played a crucial role in the effectiveness of customer support.
In contrast, IncFile had more limited support options.
4. Pricing
Price is a critical factor, especially for new or small businesses with limited budgets. It's essential to find a balance between cost and quality of service. A high price doesn't always guarantee superior service, and a low price might mean compromised features or support.
In Maine, registered agent services range from $99 to $299 annually. For instance, MyCompanyWorks offers a competitive rate of $99 per year, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious businesses.
On the other end, LegalZoom, with its $299 fee, is pricier, potentially aligning with businesses looking for premium services.
5. Third-Party Reviews
Reviews provide insights into customer satisfaction and service reliability. Platforms like TrustPilot offer unbiased user feedback.
Companies with high ratings and positive reviews on platforms like TrustPilot are generally more reliable. For instance, Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness have garnered positive feedback, indicating high customer satisfaction.
6. Confidentiality
In the digital age, data protection is paramount. Businesses must ensure their registered agent service maintains strict confidentiality to prevent data breaches.
Services that prioritize data protection, like Northwest Registered Agent, are preferable. Any history of data breaches or lax security measures in a service provider should be a red flag.
7. Ease of Use
A user-friendly platform simplifies the management of legal documents and compliance, saving time and reducing errors.
Companies with intuitive online platforms, such as ZenBusiness, enhance user experience, while those with more complex systems like Rocket Lawyer might deter users.
8. Transition Process
A seamless transition to a new registered agent service is crucial to avoid any gaps in legal coverage.
Services like Northwest Registered Agent that facilitate an easy transition process, providing comprehensive support and guidance, are ideal.
How Much Do Registered Agent Service Providers Cost in Maine?
The best Maine registered agent services can cost between $99 to $299 per year, depending on the level of service required. Many of these services also provide add-ons.
You may benefit from choosing a cheap registered agent because this is a significant price that adds to the cost of forming an LLC in Maine.
Alternatively, you can act as your own registered agent for free if you're of legal age and have a physical address in Maine.
Requirements For A Maine Registered Agent
A registered agent in Maine (clerk) is responsible for the following duties under Maine law (Title 5: Chapter 6-A: Model Registered Agents Act, 114):
- Must be 18 years of age and above and can receive documents for your business.
- Send notifications upon receipt of service of process or official mail.
- Be available during regular business hours at a physical mailing address in-state to accept legal documents (service of process) and official mail.
- Keep the registered office address and contact information updated.
If you aren't satisfied with your current agent, you can change the registered agent in Maine at any time.
FAQs
Why Do I Need a Registered Agent for My LLC in Maine?
A registered agent is a mandatory procedure by the state for business owners when starting an LLC. All Maine LLCs, corporations, and nonprofits must choose and maintain a professional Maine registered agent service and office.
What Happens if My Maine Registered Agent Is Unable to Meet Their Duties?
Failure of your Maine registered agent to meet their duties could be detrimental to your company. For instance, a misplaced legal document could result in legal action against your business without your knowledge.
Our Verdict on the Best Registered Agent Service in Maine
From our practical journey in setting up businesses, we've realized the importance of having a reliable registered agent. After diving deep into the offerings in Maine, we can confidently say that Northwest Registered Agent stands out.
Their commitment to privacy, coupled with their comprehensive services, made our LLC management a breeze. The added bonus of compliance notifications and a tailored filing calendar was a lifesaver for us.
If you're in Maine and need a registered agent, we'd personally recommend giving Northwest a shot.
Our #1 Recommendation
Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
- Protection of privacy
- Excellent client service and support
- Well-versed in their 20 years of existence
- Transparent registered agent pricing
- An entire year of free registered agent services
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of November
- Quite expensive Maine registered agent
