7 Best Registered Agent Services in Mississippi (2024 Upd.)
If you own a Mississippi-based business, you must have a registered agent service to help you navigate the legal side of your business.
You need to ensure you hire a reliable agent responsible for receiving legal documents on your behalf and maintaining up-to-date paperwork required by the Secretary of State.
With over 5 years of experience in Limited Liability Companies, I conducted in-depth research on Mississippi-based services and found seven whose pricing plans, turnaround time, and customer support service are worth your time.
In Venture Smarter research, I teamed up with legal professionals to evaluate registered agent providers to provide you with honest and unbiased information.
NorthwestTop 7 Registered Agent Services in Mississippi (October 2024)
1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Expert Corporate Guides provide valuable insights.
- User-friendly interface simplifies navigation.
- Free Mail Forwarding in some packages.
- Annual report compliance service keeps business on track.
- Extensive experience in LLC formation and compliance.
- Offers services in all 50 states for wide coverage.
- Premium services still require additional investment.
- May be overwhelming for those new to business formation.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses that value privacy and comprehensive support.
Who is it not for?
- Those seeking the cheapest option available.
The Verdict
Northwest Registered Agent is renowned for its exceptional support and privacy protection, making it a top choice for businesses that prioritize these aspects. Their pricing reflects the premium services they offer.
Northwest Registered Agent has a strong reputation as the most reliable agent service.
They will provide a Mississippi registered office address, legal notices, and a notice from the Mississippi Secretary of State.
We used their registered agent service, and each step was explained to us. According to our experience, you will receive ongoing help because they allocate agents to each client account.
If you create an LLC through them, the first year of this service is free. As per our expertise, lots of add-ons are unnecessarily pricey, but this didn't push us away, as their no-pressure upsells and transparent fees are a big plus.
We also discovered that Bizee (formerly IncFile) has more affordable pricing compared to Northwest Registered Agent, which has a faster turnaround time and more professional and faster customer service.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($125): The first year of registered agent service is free if you form your LLC with Northwest.
- Basic LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $54 State Fee): This package includes articles of incorporation, an operating agreement, and a one-year free registered agent service. It provides also standard and fast processing rates.
- Full Service LLC Formation Plan ($225 + $54 State Fee): This bundle includes same-day filing, registered agent service for a full year, an operating agreement, and a client account with free forms and services.
2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Comprehensive compliance services, keeping business on track.
- Positive customer reviews, indicating reliability.
- Transparent pricing structure, avoiding hidden costs.
- Customizable business templates, streamlining paperwork.
- Support wait times can vary during peak hours.
- Compliance package costs extra after initial period.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small businesses and startups that need affordable registered agent services.
Who is it not for?
- Large corporations that may require more customized solutions.
The Verdict
ZenBusiness provides an economical yet reliable service that's perfect for smaller companies looking to maintain compliance without overstretching their budgets. Their user-friendly service is appreciated by many customers.
ZenBusiness made it second on our list for their best essential services in Mississippi.
Purchasing its Mississippi registered agent services for the first year costs $199, which is much cheaper than other companies.
This is why gig workers, freelancers, and even real estate investors can benefit from this service.
We used ZenBusiness's premium service. We were impressed with the transparency, affordability, and customer dedication they gave us.
After evaluating their Mississippi registered agent company, we noticed some processes are still being developed.
They are a young company, best seen in a slower turnaround time.
Working with them has its drawbacks, but the biggest is that their packages don't include a free registered agent service for your Mississippi company.
Since they don't have hidden add-ons or upsells, we recommend them.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services Basic Package ($199): You'll get the registered agent services during the formation process and pay a fee of $199 after the business is formed. This fee renews annually at $199.
- Starter LLC Formation Package ($0 + $54 State Fee): This bundle includes ordinary filing speed (often 2 to 3 weeks), cost and deduction tracking, and a guarantee of 100% compliance. The package offers a one-month trial for Money Pro Bookkeeping, Banking, and Website Builder services. You'll also get an optional worry-free compliance in the first year at a renewal fee of $199/yr if accepted.
- Pro LLC Formation Package ($199 + $54 State Fee): This bundle includes all Starter features plus the quickest rush filling speed of between 1 to 2 days. You'll also get a guided operating agreement ($99) and an Employer Identification Number.
- Premium LLC Formation Package ($349 + $54 State Fee): It does include all Pro features, a domain name, business document templates, an email address, and a customizable company website.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Educational resources to help new business owners.
- Transparent pricing with detailed breakdowns.
- Nationwide service availability for broad coverage.
- Streamlines annual reporting and compliance requirements.
- Limited customization options for unique business needs.
- Additional charges for state fees and expedited filing.
Charging zero dollars in the first year, Bizee provides the lowest prices for representation services among the companies on our list.
However, it only comes with the LLC formation package and can’t be purchased separately.
Bizee is definitely one of the most affordable registered agent services in the business, but its biggest pain point is its customer service.
We could benefit from faster turnaround time and more extended hours. Their customer support is available only during the week, which is tricky if an emergency arises on the weekend.
Hiring Bizee comes with a full year of registered agent service for free in all their plans. We loved their real-time order tracking tool and specialized dashboard.
Overall, we loved the great pricing, but live chat support was something that we could benefit from.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($119): Bizee will give you a free year of registered agent service if you decide to form your LLC with them. After that, the renewal fee will be $119 every year. It includes a customizable Dashboard for easy online access to your files.
- Free Silver LLC Formation Package ($0 + $54 State Fee): This package will offer you the preparation and filing of Articles of Organization and unlimited name searches. Also, there is a year of free registered agent service.
- Bizee Gold LLC Formation Package ($199 + $54 State Fee): With the silver bundle included, there is also an EIN business tax number, IRS Form 2553, an operational agreement, and tax advice for the firm.
- Platinum LLC Formation Package ($299 + $54 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.
4 - Rocket Lawyer (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Subscription model offers ongoing legal support.
- Helps with business formation and compliance.
- User-friendly interface for document creation.
- Specific legal issues may require additional fees.
- Full legal representation not included.
- Business services may be basic for complex needs.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses that require additional legal services along with registered agent service.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses looking solely for a basic registered agent without additional legal advice or services.
The Verdict
Rocket Lawyer is well-suited for companies that might need legal assistance in addition to compliance. Their comprehensive approach to legal and registered agent services provides valuable support for growing businesses.
Rocket Lawyer is a reputable all-in-one legal solution in Mississippi. One thing that sets it apart from the companies we mentioned in this list is its monthly subscription service arrangements.
Rocket Lawyer delivers consistently good customer service, as seen by its numerous favorable Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
It provides help via live chat and email, and phone-based customer support is available seven days a week.
According to their website, It has already assisted more than 7 million businesses with any form of legal service, including representation services.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($149.99 for non-members): The monthly membership fee is $39.99. Members are eligible for a 25% discount.
- LLC Formation Package ($99.99 + $54 State Fee): You may be eligible for free legal paperwork and attorney services, as well as a free LLC creation and a 25% discount on registered agent services. It's free with a $39.99 monthly membership.
5 - MyCompanyWorks
Pros and Cons
- Affordable packages for business formation.
- User-friendly platform simplifies setup process.
- Personal customer support for direct assistance.
- Additional costs for state fees and services.
- Expedited services require higher fees.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small to medium-sized businesses looking for fast and efficient registered agent services.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses that require services in less common jurisdictions or highly specialized compliance management.
The Verdict
MyCompanyWorks excels in providing quick and efficient service, making it a good option for businesses that need to ensure rapid compliance. Their straightforward and prompt service is highly rated by customers.
MyCompanyWorks guarantees that your company complies with state regulations. We highly value their service due to an extra element of privacy, ensuring that your information is not shared with anyone else.
Another fantastic selling factor is their 90-day return policy, which protects you if disappointed.
In our experience, updating a mailing address online was simple, and we received fast alerts.
If you wish to replace an existing registered agent, we recommend them since they will supply you with an easy-to-fill online form and the appropriate costs.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($99): Both the Entrepreneur Package and the Complete Package provide a free first year of registered agent service.
- Basic LLC Formation Package ($59 + $54 State Fee): For $59, MyCompanyWorks will draft the LLC operating agreement.
- Entrepreneur LLC Formation Package ($179 + $54 State Fee): Users will be offered everything the Basic Package includes. In addition, they will get lifetime forms & tax guides, one-year registered agent service, and a federal tax ID.
- Complete LLC Formation Package ($259 + $54 State Fee): All service elements from the previous two tiers are included in the premium plan, as well as initial and yearly report filing service, compliance lock notifications, automated minutes and resolutions, business entity monitoring, and priority assistance.
6 - Harbor Compliance
If you're looking for the best commercial registered agents in Mississippi on a budget, you can never go wrong with Harbor Compliance.
They offer customers a one-time fee that covers the entire registered agent service for a full year, with generous discounts for subscriptions in multiple years.
This Pennsylvania-based national registered agent has an impressive track record of working with over 20,000 companies, corporations, and nonprofits to meet their compliance-related needs, according to their website.
Looking at their client feedback, we’ve concluded that Harbor Compliance has maintained an A+ customer rating from BBB.
Sign Up To Harbor CompliancePros and Cons
- Specializes in multistate compliance, simplifying complex processes.
- Time-saving solutions reduce risk and enable growth.
- Free Harbor Compliance Score™ assesses your compliance status.
- Customized solutions can lead to higher costs.
- Secure data management comes with additional costs.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($88): The annual charges range from $89 to $99 per state, with no additional fees. If you pay for registered agent services in advance for more than two years, you can save 5-10%.
- LLC Formation Package ($99 + $54 State Fee): Has a single LLC formation package that includes essential LLC formation services in Mississippi, entails preparing and filing your articles of incorporation with the state, as well as confirming the availability of a name.
7 - LegalZoom
Pros and Cons
- LLC plans start at $0 + state fees, making startup affordable.
- Preliminary name check ensures business name availability.
- Straightforward process for business formation.
- Additional services and state fees can add up.
- Full legal representation not included in basic packages.
- Complex legal issues may require higher-tier services.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses of all sizes that value brand recognition and a broad range of legal services.
Who is it not for?
- Those seeking the most cost-effective solution without additional legal services.
The Verdict
LegalZoom offers a comprehensive suite of services including registered agent services, leveraging their strong brand reputation. It's particularly beneficial for businesses that might also need legal services alongside basic compliance handling.
LegalZoom has been operating since 1999, with millions of satisfied customers. In Mississippi, they offer comprehensive legal services unique to each business' needs.
LegalZoom is 7th on our list due to its high pricing. One important factor we're considering is the registered agent's competitive pricing.
LegalZoom understands the value of its brand and charges customers accordingly. Their services include features from other companies at a lower price.
But, if you're a Mississippi business owner who values experience and brand power more than the price tag, consider LegalZoom for your LLC.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($299): To establish an LLC alongside them, the initial year carries a price tag of $249, while subsequent renewals demand $299. The features encompass email notifications, a Compliance Calendar, and boundless cloud storage. You'll also get a $1 M cover in case of identity theft.
- LLC Basic Formation Package ($0 + $54 State Fee): This package comprises a digital welcoming packet, a thorough name search, a website that can be personalized according to individual preferences, and articles of organization.
- LLC Pro Formation Package ($249 + $54 State Fee): The package includes all the features in the Basic plan. It, additionally, offers, a thorough consultation on business licensing matters. You'll also receive an EIN, an operating agreement, as well as the benefit of initial phone consultations to address concerns related to taxes and insurance.
- LLC Premium Formation Package ($299 + $54 State Fee): It consists of the Pro package with the addition of a comprehensive tutorial from a knowledgeable Mississippi-based lawyer. Moreover, you'll also benefit from LLC formation document revisions and an unrestricted 30-minute consultation with a business attorney to address current legal issues within the initial three months of subscribing.
Why You Should Trust Us
When it comes to selecting the right registered agent service for your Mississippi business, my extensive background and firsthand experience in the field position me as a trustworthy source of guidance.
As the CEO, co-founder, and editor-in-chief of Venture Smarter, I've dedicated over nine years to consulting with startups and established businesses alike, assisting them in navigating the complexities of legal compliance and operational success. My journey is grounded in a solid academic foundation in business management, complemented by numerous industry certifications.
Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work closely with a variety of registered agent services, directly contributing to the legal and operational success of countless clients in Mississippi. This depth of experience has given me a well-rounded perspective on what businesses genuinely need from their registered agent providers.
Therefore, when I recommend Northwest Registered Agent as the premier choice for your registered agent needs in Mississippi, it's with a mix of professional expertise and a track record of favorable outcomes.
My dedication to your success is supported by years of aiding businesses in maintaining compliance and achieving their objectives, making my endorsement of Northwest Registered Agent a recommendation you can trust with confidence.
How We Picked And Tested The Best Registered Agent in Mississippi
In selecting the best-registered agent service in Mississippi, Venture Smarter approach was meticulous and multifaceted. We reviewed seven leading service providers, ensuring a comprehensive and diverse selection.
Our methodology involved anonymous interactions with these services, allowing us to experience their offerings firsthand without any bias.
This approach was crucial in assessing the real-world effectiveness and reliability of each service.
We considered the following factors:
1. Price
Understanding the pricing structure of registered agent services is vital for businesses, particularly for those mindful of budget constraints.
We compared each service's annual fees, including any additional costs for essential services like mail forwarding and annual report filings, to determine the most cost-effective solutions for Mississippi businesses.
In our analysis, we discovered a range of pricing options, catering to various business needs and financial capabilities.
For instance, Bizee emerged as a highly affordable option, offering a free year of registered agent service with their LLC formation package and an annual renewal fee of $119.
This pricing model is especially attractive for startups and small businesses looking for cost-effective solutions.
2. Support
Customer support is a critical component of registered agent services. Businesses rely on timely and effective communication, especially when dealing with legal documents and compliance issues.
We conducted multiple test calls and live chat sessions with each service to evaluate the responsiveness, knowledgeability, and helpfulness of their customer support teams during business hours.
Our evaluation revealed a range of customer support options among the reviewed services.
For instance, Rocket Lawyer offers support through live chat, email, and phone, with availability seven days a week, indicating a strong commitment to customer service.
3. Service Features
The range and quality of service features are crucial in determining the value of a registered agent service.
We created a checklist of essential features for Mississippi businesses, such as compliance alerts and document filing, and assessed each service based on the presence and effectiveness of these features.
Our evaluation focused on identifying services that offer a comprehensive set of features catering to the diverse needs of businesses.
Northwest Registered Agent offers a range of services, including a customizable dashboard, legal notices, and a notice from the Mississippi Secretary of State, making it a comprehensive choice for businesses.
4. Turnaround time
The speed at which registered agent services process and relay legal documents is a critical factor for businesses.
A swift turnaround time ensures that businesses can respond promptly to legal requirements and maintain compliance.
Our analysis aimed to identify services that excel in this area, providing quick and efficient handling of documents.
We noted that some services offer expedited filing options, which can be a significant advantage for businesses needing to meet tight deadlines.
For example, ZenBusiness, despite being a relatively young company, offers rush filling speeds of between 1 to 2 days in their Pro LLC Formation Package, demonstrating their commitment to quick service delivery.
5. Third Party Reviews
Third-party reviews and ratings play a significant role in assessing the reputation and reliability of registered agent services. Platforms like Google Review and TrustPilot offer valuable insights into customer experiences and satisfaction levels.
In our evaluation, we considered these external reviews to gain a broader perspective on each service's performance and customer perception.
Services with consistently high ratings and positive reviews were highlighted as reliable choices.
Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness received favorable feedback for their customer service and overall service quality.
6. Ease of Use
The user-friendliness of a registered agent service's online platform is a key consideration, especially for businesses that value simplicity and efficiency.
An intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface can significantly enhance the user experience, making it easier for businesses to manage their legal documents and compliance requirements.
ZenBusiness and Bizee offer a user-friendly dashboard that allows clients to access their files and track their orders in real-time easily.
7. Confidentiality
Data protection and confidentiality are paramount in registered agent services, as they handle sensitive legal documents and personal information.
Our analysis focused on identifying services that prioritize data security and confidentiality.
We looked for companies with robust privacy policies and measures to protect client information.
In our review, we highlighted services that excel in data protection and those that may have shortcomings in this area.
For instance, Northwest Registered Agent emphasizes data privacy and does not sell customer information, a significant trust factor for businesses concerned about data security.
8. Transition Process
The process of switching to a new registered agent service is an important consideration, particularly for businesses that are already established and looking to change their service provider.
A smooth transition process without any coverage gaps is essential to ensure continuous compliance and legal protection.
Northwest Registered Agent offers a straightforward transition process, with detailed guidance and support to businesses changing their registered agent service.
Related Articles:
- Looking Up an LLC in Mississippi
- Dissolving an LLC in Mississippi
- Starting an LLC in Mississippi
How Much Do Registered Agent Service Providers Cost in Mississippi?
A registered agent service provider in Mississippi costs between $50 to $300 annually. However, the total cost depends on the type of company you choose and the service plans or features you think your LLC needs.
It's important to note that acting as your own registered agent incurs no cost.
Requirements For A Mississippi Registered Agent
There are three main requirements for a Mississippi registered agent:
- The individual or business entity must be over 18.
- They must have a business address in Mississippi.
- They must be available to receive SOPs during regular business hours.
Your Mississippi registered agent can be the LLC owner, the LLC itself, a family member or trusted friend, or a registered agent service company.
"When initiating a Mississippi LLC, the state mandates the designation of a Registered Agent, which is an individual or entity responsible for accepting legal documents on behalf of the LLC in the event of a lawsuit."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
FAQs
Does the Mississippi Secretary of State Require a Registered Agent?
Yes, the Mississippi Secretary of State requires a registered agent for every business entity formed and registered to the Mississippi Secretary of State. If you fail to list a resident agent upon submission, your LLC formation documents will be rejected by the state.
Can I Act as My Own Registered Agent in Mississippi?
Yes, you can act as your own registered agent in Mississippi. If you are over 18 years old, have a registered office address in Mississippi, and are available to receive official documents during normal business hours, there should be no problem in appointing yourself as your own registered agent.
Can I Use a PO Box for My Registered Agent Office in Mississippi?
No, you can't use a PO box for your registered agent office in Mississippi. Instead, your Mississippi business must appoint a registered agent and office with a physical street address within the state.
Venture Smarter Verdict On The Best Registered Agent Service in Mississippi
Hiring an industry-leading Mississippi registered agent service is important to avoid mismanagement that could result in fines or the dissolution of your business.
We recommend Northwest Registered Agent because they are the perfect combination of affordability and quality service.
When you read their client feedback on different review platforms, nearly all praise their customer-focused registered agent service.
Overall, Northwest Registered Agent provided us with the quality service and support we needed to ensure our LLC was compliant and running smoothly.
