8 Best Registered Agent Services in Michigan to Try in 2025
According to the Michigan Secretary of State, Michigan boasts over 200 registered agent service providers, offering various options for businesses of all sizes and industries.
As a seasoned expert in this field, I have conducted extensive research to help business owners choose the best registered agent services available in the state.
Having personally navigated the complexities of setting up a business in Michigan, I can attest to the importance of a reliable registered agent. My team and I delved deep, analyzing ratings, reviews, and gathering firsthand feedback to curate this list of the best registered agent services in the state
After gathering this information, we are confident that we have identified Michigan's top-rated registered agent companies.
| 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 |
| Bizee (formerly Incfile) (Most Affordable) | $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 |
| 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) |
| MyCompanyWorks | $119/year. First year free with when buying Entrepreneur & Complate Package | Ensures Statutory Compliance, Moving your business requires no forms or fees, Easy online updating of forwarding address, Immediate Notification and Delivery of Service of Process, Forms, etc. Extra layer of privacy between you and your company. | 90 days | Yes, A+ | Trademark Consultation & 1-hour Tax Webinar |
| LegalZoom | $249/year | Alerts & reminders, documents scanned and uploaded, unlimited cloud storage for business documents. | 60 days | Yes, A+ rating | Attorney Consultations (Premium Plan) |
| Harbor Compliance | $88-$99 | Same-Day document access, email notifications, annual report notifications to stay compliant. | No | Yes | No |
| Swyft Filings | $149 every 3 months | Get notified of all incoming mail and upcoming government deadlines for tax filing and annual reports. | 60 days | No | No |
NorthwestTop 8 Registered Agents in Michigan (January 2025)
1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Protects your address from public records, Northwest's unique feature.
- Flexibility to choose services based on your specific needs.
- Exceptional customer support praised for expertise and responsiveness.
- Exclusive discount available for Venture Smarter readers.
- Proven reliability with 25+ years in business.
- Prioritizes data privacy, no selling of customer data.
- Mandatory agent appointment for LLC formation.
- Lack of BBB accreditation might concern some customers.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses seeking robust nationwide support and privacy protection.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses looking for the cheapest option.
The Verdict
Northwest offers a comprehensive suite with excellent privacy and support, ideal for growing businesses.
Northwest Registered Agent is one of the best-rated services for starting a business through the internet.
We tested this popular company to experience the process of starting an LLC, and based on our assessment, you’ll be provided with dedicated assistance from expert agents assigned to your account.
Northwest features a special LLC formation package for just $39, which comes with a free registered agent service for the entire year. This deal is available when you register via our link.
During our experience, their service assisted us in submitting all the necessary business formation paperwork, and their team made us feel well-informed at every step of the process.
We felt confident knowing that Northwest Registered Agent respects customer privacy and uses a secure online platform that doesn’t share client data to external organizations.
While Northwest features a comprehensive range of assistance, their plans as of now don’t include an EIN, which we think could enhance their package even further.
Service Highlights:
- Registered Agent Service ($125/year): The 1st year of registered agent service is free when Northwest handles your LLC formation. This offering offers mail forwarding, knowledgeable corporate guides, and privacy-first protections.
- Full-Service LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $50 State Fee): This all-in-one package covers quick filing, a full year of registered agent service, an LLC operating agreement, free extras like a domain, website, email, and business phone, and privacy-first practices.
2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Prioritizes social responsibility and community involvement.
- Assists small businesses with services and grants.
- Offers a hassle-free purchase process.
- Provides options for selecting a Registered Agent.
- Requires additional payment for annual report filing.
- Limited customer support availability.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small to mid-sized businesses needing affordable and reliable registered agent services.
Who is it not for?
- Larger corporations that might need more tailored solutions.
The Verdict
ZenBusiness provides a great balance of cost and services, making it perfect for new and small businesses.
ZenBusiness can assist you with business formation in Michigan and provide you with great registered agent LLC services.
Together with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, they can help you with drafting your articles of incorporation.
We enlisted the ZenBusiness LLC formation service to establish an LLC in Michigan for our company. We were impressed by the swiftness and effectiveness of their procedures.
In merely a matter of days, our LLC was registered, complete with all the essential documentation. The customer service team at ZenBusiness was both responsive and well-informed.
Additionally, their platform was incredibly user-friendly.
For a price of $199 per year, they give your LLC a name and address in the state of Michigan, receive mail for your business, and allow service of process.
You're also eligible for a discount if you take on an additional service.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($199): Renews annually for $199. The registered agent fee is a delayed charge and is not taken until after the formation of the business is complete.
- Starter LLC Formation Package ($0 + $50 State Fee): This membership covers the standard corporation filing service and a name availability search. This product's filing rate is typically 7 to 10 business days. The package also offers a 100% accuracy guarantee, a 1-month free trial for banking services, Money Pro Bookkeeping, and Website Builder. There's also optional worry-free compliance for the first year, which can be renewed at $199/year if chosen.
- Pro LLC Formation Package ($199 + $50 State Fee): It has the Starter package features, an operating agreement ($99), and an EIN. With the package, you'll also get the fastest rush-filling speed (1 day).
- Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $50 State Fee): This LLC formation plan covers the Pro package services, business document templates, business domain name, privacy, email address, a customized business website, and rush filing speed of 1 working day.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Free 1-year Registered Agent included with all packages.
- Established for over 25 years, underscoring our proven reliability.
- Cheap Registered Agent Service, priced at only $119.
- User-Friendly Dashboard: Easy navigation and access to services.
- Document scanning isn't always prompt.
- Customer support only available Monday-Friday.
Bizee authorizes your business to use the registered agent's name and personal or office address.
The registered agent receives mail on regular business days and accepts processes and notices from the Secretary of State and the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs on your behalf.
We found their website user-friendly and with plenty of resources that helped us get started.
Based on our experience, their customer service is very knowledgeable and professional, as they promptly respond to emails and phone calls.
The one drawback of Bizee (formerly Incfile) lies in its third-party promotions and upselling. However, despite this minor issue, Bizee continues to be a top contender in its industry.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($119): If you buy any LLC formation packages, you receive the registered agent for free in the first year. After the first year, the renewal charge will be $119.
- Free Silver LLC Formation Package ($0 + $50 State Fee): A year of free registered agent service and preparation and filing of the Articles of Organization.
- Bizee Gold LLC Formation Package ($199 + $50 State Fee): The Silver package plus an EIN business tax number and an IRS Form 2553. You'll also get an operational agreement, banking resolution, lifelong company notifications, an online access dashboard, a business banking account, and business tax advice.
- Platinum LLC Formation Package ($299 + $50 State Fee): Everything from the Gold Package. In addition, it offers free business websites, domain names, business contract templates, and filing for free on the next day.
4 - Rocket Lawyer (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Offers a wide spectrum of legal assistance.
- Document Defense® bolsters contract security.
- User-friendly document creation process.
- Access to free consultations with legal experts.
- Complaints about undisclosed fees.
- Billing issues during the free trial.
- Challenges in contacting customer support.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses of all sizes requiring reliable legal and compliance support across multiple states.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses preferring a more personalized, boutique service approach.
The Verdict
Rocket Lawyer offers comprehensive legal services with a strong emphasis on compliance and nationwide reach.
Rocket Lawyer is a preferred choice for businesses looking for trusted registered agent services. Their comprehensive range of business solutions is specifically crafted to address the unique demands of business operations, providing seamless LLC creation and legal compliance.
They feature multiple LLC formation and attorney services, managing paperwork and filings with efficiency. Additionally, they include a free trial, so you can test out their services before signing up.
Rocket Lawyer’s attorney services made easy the job of managing our paperwork and filings. The free trial was an valuable way to evaluate their offerings without risk.
Their easy-to-navigate list of premium services and pricing helped us compare options and choose the best plan for our requirements.
For more details about this provider, we suggest reading our Rocket Lawyer review.
Service Highlights:
- Registered Agent Service ($249.99 for non-members): For Rocket Legal+ members, this service drops 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 + $50 State Fee): Register 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 - MyCompanyWorks
Pros and Cons
- MyCompanyWorks provides cost-effective services at just $99/year, suiting small budgets.
- Outstanding customer reviews consistently reflect high satisfaction among numerous clients.
- Rapid response times, with most inquiries addressed within 20 minutes during business hours.
- Limited phone support, available only on weekdays from 8 AM to 4 PM PST.
- The refund policy includes processing fees and becomes void after document submission to the state.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small businesses and startups that value speed and efficiency in services.
Who is it not for?
- Large companies that may need more extensive resources.
The Verdict
MyCompanyWorks is ideal for small businesses focused on fast and effective compliance and entity management.
Businesses across the United States can employ a registered agent service from MyCompanyWorks for just $119 per year.
Their Entrepreneur Package and the comprehensive package offer a free first year of registered agent service, making them attractive.
We were pleased with their activity tracking tool, which made it effortless to keep track of legal deadlines.
MyCompanyWorks is also known for its reliable customer support. Based on our interaction, they return your queries to phone calls and emails within 30 minutes or less during business hours—unlike many industries competitors, which can take a full day.
Service Highlights:
- Registered Agent Services ($119/year): Starting at $119 annually if purchased separately, the middle-tier and all-in-one packages come with the first year of registered agent service for free.
- Basic Formation Package ($79 + $50 State Fee): This foundational package features essential business setup services like Articles of Organization, same-day processing, unlimited phone/email support, name availability search, a personalized operating agreement, business bank account setup, banking resolution, access to scanned documents online, a free logo, and more.
- Entrepreneur Formation Package ($199 + $50 State Fee): Expands upon the Basic Package, including lifetime access to MyCompanyForms & tax guide, a free first-year registered agent service, and a Federal Tax ID (EIN).
- Complete Formation Package ($279 + $50 State Fee): This top-tier package includes everything in the Entrepreneur Package plus MyCompanyWorks Premium, which includes Initial and Annual Report Filing Service, ComplianceLock™ Alerts, Automatic Minutes and Resolutions, E-Ledger, E-Certificates, Business Entity Monitoring, and Priority Support.
6 - LegalZoom
LegalZoom has been in business for over 20 years. The company provides economical, reliable, and essential services for small corporations and corporate entities.
Although they charge a higher price than their rivals, they offer an extra layer of protection for your information.
LegalZoom provides customers with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, affording them sufficient time to assess their services and seek reimbursement if needed.
Their customer support is available during flexible hours, including weekdays and Saturdays during regular business hours.
We found the pre-populated Operating Agreement furnished by LegalZoom to be exceedingly convenient, and we were grateful for the knowledge and guidance of their expert support teams.
Nevertheless, a few companies that offer registered agent services in Michigan provide comparable quality and functionality to LegalZoom at a substantially lower price point.
Pros and Cons
- Provides expert legal advice and support.
- Effortless document management with cloud storage.
- Extensive library of free business templates.
- Higher LLC service fees may deter some.
- Tops the list in registered agent service pricing.
- Persistent attempts to upsell additional services.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($299): The initial cost to form an LLC with them is $249 during the first year, with subsequent renewals priced at $299. Their service includes identity theft protection worth up to $1 million, unlimited online storage, and prompt notifications for crucial emails.
- LLC Basic Formation Package ($0 + $50 State Fee): This bundle offers business owners all necessary resources to form an LLC, such as a thorough name search, a website developed jointly with Wix, articles of organization, and a comprehensive digital LLC welcome packet.
- LLC Pro Formation Package ($249 + $50 State Fee): The package is inclusive of all features present in the Basic bundle along with additional perks such as an EIN, comprehensive guidance on Michigan licensing, expert advice on insurance and tax, and an operating agreement.
- LLC Premium Formation Package ($299 + $50 State Fee): This package is inclusive of all Pro package features plus individualized guidance from a qualified Michigan business attorney. Additionally, you can expect revisions to your LLC formation document and extensive consultations with the attorney for a period of 90 days from the start of your subscription.
7 - Harbor Compliance
When I was in the initial stages of my business, Harbor Compliance was a lifesaver. Their registered agents, with their negotiation prowess, provided me with immediate online services, streamlining many of my initial setup processes.".
They also offer a flat annual fee to scan your document on the same day and a 5–10% volume discount if you choose multiple years of service for Michigan-registered agents.
Apart from acquiring the business license and forming the LLC, this LLC formation service guarantees adherence to fundraising regulations while providing annual reports and registered agent services in Michigan.
A significant benefit we valued about Harbor Compliance's web-based legal services is their prompt turnaround time.
Unlike other online business formation services, Harbor Compliance relieves you of the task of generating compliance documents.
As part of the LLC formation process, the company designated a registered agent to gather our details and prepare and dispatch any essential documents.
Pros and Cons
- Streamlined compliance task handling.
- Cost-saving options for long-term contracts.
- Personalized consultations with experts.
- Premium pricing compared to rivals.
- Mixed reports on customer service quality.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($89): The year rates range from $89 to $99 per state, with no further expenses. You can save 5-10% if you pay for registered agent services in advance for more than two years.
- LLC Formation Package ($99 + $50 State Fee): It consists of preparing and filing your articles of incorporation with the state, as well as confirming name availability.
8 - Swyft Filings
When I was juggling a packed schedule while setting up my third startup, Swyft Filings was truly a lifesaver. They handled all my legal paperwork promptly, giving me the freedom to dedicate time to other key aspects of my operations.
Swyft Filings features 24/7 online mailbox services and provides helpful reminders for upcoming due dates and deadlines. This ensures you stay organized and that your business remains in good legal standing.
This is particularly relevant in states where the unemployment rate stood at a notable 3.5% in 2024, according to the Department of Commerce. This highlights the local economic stability and favorable conditions for entrepreneurs.
Although Swyft Filings is a newcomer to the registered agent service industry, they’re quickly rising as one of the best providers, backed by impressive customer reviews.
Pros and Cons
- Efficient and accurate document filing.
- User-friendly DIY tools available.
- Responsive customer service team.
- No personalized legal advice.
- Additional costs for some features.
Service Highlights:
- Registered Agent Service ($149 every 3 months): Swyft Filings requires a quarterly fee for this essential service.
- Basic Plan ($0 + $50 State Fee): Features the submission of your articles of incorporation and LLC formation.
- Standard Plan ($199 + $50 State Fee): This expanded LLC package includes the basic plan, including a Federal Tax ID (EIN) and key documents like an operating agreement, banking resolution, and organizational minutes.
- Premium Package ($299 + $50 State Fee): Features all foundational services plus premium features such as free domain registration, hosting for your business website, a personalized digital corporate kit, and FedEx delivery with a tracking number for your authorized articles.
Why Should You Trust Us
You should trust Venture Smarter for your Michigan registered agent needs because our team, deeply rooted in legal and business consultancy, brings a wealth of experience and a comprehensive understanding of Michigan's business landscape. With a significant portion of Michigan's economy being driven by small businesses—99.6 percent, to be precise—our team recognizes the critical role registered agents play in the success and compliance of these businesses.
The Venture Smarter team is not just a group of advisors; we are your partners in navigating the complexities of business compliance and growth. Our extensive research and hands-on experience in evaluating registered agent services in Michigan ensure that our recommendations are based on thorough analysis and real-world application.
Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities within Michigan, we've tailored our recommendations to meet the specific needs of local entrepreneurs. Venture Smarter team's commitment to transparency and integrity means that our reviews and recommendations are always unbiased and evidence-based.
By choosing Venture Smarter for your registered agent needs in Michigan, you're not just selecting a service; you're joining a community of successful entrepreneurs and business owners. Our expertise, derived from a solid foundation of legal and business knowledge, is at your disposal to guide you through the complexities of maintaining your business's legal standing in Michigan.
How We Picked And Tested The Best Registered Agent Services in Michigan?
To identify the top registered agent services in Michigan, we reviewed over 20 providers, engaging anonymously for an unbiased experience.
Our methodology included insights from legal experts familiar with Michigan's business environment, focusing on factors like pricing, turnaround times, service features, customer support quality, and third-party reviews.
Each service was evaluated on criteria such as responsiveness, technological capabilities, and user experience, integrating average scores, external feedback, and provider reputation into our final recommendations.
1. Pricing
Price is a critical factor, especially for small businesses and startups operating on limited budgets. It's essential to balance cost with the quality of services received.
We found Harbor Compliance to be the one that offers the most budget-friendly option with a registered agent service priced at $89 annually. This makes it an attractive choice for cost-conscious businesses.
While Northwest Registered Agent is slightly pricier at $125 annually, they provide a comprehensive range of services making them a value-for-money option.
LegalZoom on the other hand, is positioned at the higher end of the spectrum with a $299 annual fee, it may be suitable for businesses that prefer a brand with a long-standing reputation despite the higher cost.
"Think of a registered agent service as an extension of your legal team. Choose a provider with features beyond basic service of process."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
2. Service Features
Comprehensive service features ensure that businesses remain compliant and receive the necessary support for various administrative tasks.
Based on our evaluation of the service features, we rated Northwest Registered Agent 5/5 as it offers a broad range of services including mail handling, legal notices, and a free year of registered agent services in their formation package.
Bizee on the other hand, despite being affordable, received a 3/5 because of its limited features, rigorous upselling, and third-party promotions, which might detract from the overall user experience.
3. Customer Support
Effective customer support is crucial for timely assistance and resolution of issues, ensuring smooth business operations.
Drawing from our analysis of customer support, Northwest Registered Agent ranks top with its excellent customer service, knowledgeable staff, quick responses, and a range of communication channels.
Conversely, LegalZoom fell slightly short because while providing extensive support, it has limited support hours.
4. Turnaround Time
A registered agent that consistently demonstrates quick turnaround times is likely to be more reliable and efficient. This reliability can be critical in situations where prompt action is required to protect your business interests.
MyCompanyWorks got a 5/5 for same-day order processing across all their packages.
On the other hand, Swyft Filings received a 3/5 because while offering versatile plans, their turnaround time may vary depending on the chosen package.
5. Confidentiality
A registered agent must be a trustworthy and professional entity because they are integral to your business operations. Knowing that your registered agent maintains confidentiality fosters a relationship of trust, which is essential for any business partnership.
Our top companies for confidentiality include Northwest Registered Agent which takes privacy policies seriously, offering robust data protection, and LegalZoom which offers an extra layer of protection for information, though at a higher price.
On the other hand, Harbor Compliance is known for prompt services but lacks specific mention of data protection measures.
6. Third Party Reviews
Reviews from actual users can give you a sense of what it's really like to work with a registered agent. They can share experiences about the agent's responsiveness, efficiency, customer service quality, and how well they handle legal documents and compliance issues.
Based on this criterion Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness have received 5-star ratings and positive feedback for their services and customer support.
LegalZoom despite its reputation, has mixed ratings and feedback and it does not always align with customer expectations, especially considering its pricing.
7. Ease of Use
An intuitive and user-friendly platform is more accessible to people with varying levels of technical expertise. This inclusivity ensures that all relevant members of your team can use the service effectively, regardless of their technical background.
ZenBusiness got a 5/5 for offering an incredibly user-friendly platform.
Bizee also received a 4/5 as it offers an excellent online dashboard but has issues with upselling.
8. Transition Process
Changing registered agents can involve various administrative tasks, such as updating state records and informing relevant parties. A new agent that facilitates a smooth transition can significantly reduce the administrative burden on your business.
We found Northwest Registered Agent to excel the most in this area it has a hassle-free transition process and excellent customer support.
How Much Do Registered Agent Service Providers Cost in Michigan?
In Michigan, registered agent services cost between $89 and $299. Some companies include registered agents in their LLC formation packages, while others charge a fee for it.
This could substantially increase the cost of forming your Michigan LLC, so we suggest that you look into packages that include a free registered agent for the first year.
Alternatively, you can act as your own registered agent for free or choose a close friend or family member for the role.
Requirements For A Michigan Registered Agent
Your resident agent is required to comply with the following in line with Michigan Law sections 450.1241 (for corporations) and 450.4207 (for LLCs):
- A registered agent in Michigan needs to have an official street address in the state.
- It is a requirement that all Michigan registered agent professionals must be 18 years or older and able to receive legal documents.
- The registered agent service organization should be based in Michigan.
According to the Office of Advocacy, in Michigan's economy, a huge 99.6 percent of businesses are small businesses.
Related Articles:
- LLC Look Up in Michigan
- How to End an LLC in Michigan
- How to Change a Registered Agent in Michigan
FAQs
Do I Need a Registered Agent for My LLC in Michigan?
Yes, it's necessary to have a registered agent for your LLC in Michigan. It is required by state law, and your LLC must be listed on specific forms for every business entity in Michigan.
How Do I Assign a Registered Agent for My LLC in Michigan?
To assign a registered agent for your LLC in Michigan, you can hire one that offers services that fit your budget. If you are forming a new company or changing agents, you must notify the Michigan Department of Corporations.
Do I Hire a Registered Agent Before or After Forming My LLC in Michigan?
It is highly recommended that you hire a registered agent before establishing your LLC in Michigan. Without an agent, forming an LLC or corporation would be nearly impossible.
Our Verdict on the Best Registered Agent Service in Michigan
For your business, we recommend Northwest Registered Agent, a renowned agent service in Michigan. They can manage all legal documents and processes that can impact your business.
Northwest Registered Agent makes managing business compliance so easy.
They provided us with professional, experienced guidance every step of the way, ensuring that all our paperwork and filing were completed accurately and on time.
With Northwest Registered Agent, you can enjoy a year of free Michigan registered agent service, personalized customer support service, free email forwarding, scanning, and same-day local document scanning.
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The comprehensive services offered by Northwest, including mail handling and legal notice management, make it a great choice for businesses.