4 Best Registered Agent Services in Missouri to Try in 2024
Choosing the right Missouri registered agent service is crucial for your business's success. They ensure legal compliance, protect confidential information, and secure assets.
Together with our certified legal team and LLC experts, we've researched and compiled a list of top-rated registered agent services in Missouri to help you make an informed choice for your LLC.
NorthwestTop 4 Registered Agents in Missouri (December 2024)
1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Safeguard your address from public records.
- Customize services to meet your unique needs.
- Customer support highly praised for expertise and responsiveness.
- Exclusive discount offered to Venture Smarter readers.
- A proven track record of over 25 years in business.
- Prioritizes data privacy, no customer data sales.
- Mandatory agent appointment for LLC formation.
- Absence of BBB accreditation may be a concern.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses seeking highly personalized services and a strong privacy commitment.
Who is it not for?
- Smaller businesses or startups looking for the most cost-effective solution due to its higher price point.
The Verdict
Northwest Registered Agent offers exceptional privacy protections and personalized services, ideal for businesses that prioritize confidentiality and have a larger budget for these services.
Northwest Registered Agent tops our list for providing comprehensive corporate services to ensure compliance with Missouri regulations.
When we used Northwest Registered Agent for our business, we were particularly impressed by their commitment to safeguarding our personal information and assets. Their proactive measures gave us a sense of security.
Their online platform was designed with ease of use in mind. Its simple navigation and clear instructions made it straightforward for us to complete all the necessary processes.
What sets Northwest Registered Agent apart from other competitors in the industry is its policy against outsourcing any of its online LLC services.
This policy provides a unique level of autonomy and understanding, enhancing their expertise and reputation.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($125): If you incorporate your LLC with Northwest services, the first year of registered agent service will be free for you.
- Basic LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $52 State Fee): This package includes an operating agreement and articles of incorporation. It also provides standard and fast processing rates with a complimentary one-year registered agent service.
- Full Service LLC Formation Plan ($225 + $52 State Fee): This pack includes same-day filing, registered agent service for a full year, and an operating agreement. A customer account is also available.
2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Demonstrates commitment to social responsibility and community involvement.
- Supports small businesses with services and grants.
- Simplifies the purchasing process.
- Provides options for selecting a Registered Agent.
- Incurs additional fees for annual report filing.
- Limited customer support availability.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- New businesses and entrepreneurs looking for an affordable and straightforward registered agent service.
Who is it not for?
- Larger corporations that might require more tailored and extensive business services beyond basic registered agent tasks.
The Verdict
ZenBusiness is perfect for startups and small businesses needing cost-effective compliance and basic service needs, not suited for those needing extensive corporate services.
As one of the best Missouri registered agent services for LLC formation, ZenBusiness has just started making its services available to the general public.
Our team tried ZenBusiness and appreciated their proactive approach. Their support staff efficiently handled our compliance filings, ensuring our company stayed compliant with Missouri regulations.
The experience was made more convenient by the option to pay for a standalone service without having to sign up for an annual membership.
Before making it available to everyone, ZenBusiness acted as Missouri registered agents for those who created a business entity with them.
As a result, they have quality experience in the area, although there are still some hiccups.
If you'd like to know more about this organization, we encourage you to read our comprehensive review of ZenBusiness.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($199): $199 is the annual renewal fee for registered agent service.
- Starter LLC Formation Package ($0 + $52 State Fee): This membership includes the basic company filing service and a name availability check service. The normal filing time for this product is to be 7 to 10 business days. Additionally, you'll have access to various tools: banking and bank account services, Money Pro Bookkeeping at $30/month, and a Website Builder available at $15/month, all services following the 1-month free trial. For added convenience, worry-free compliance is offered for the initial year, and if chosen, it renews at $199/year thereafter.
- Pro LLC Formation Package ($199 + $52 State Fee): It has the features of the Starter package and the fastest "rush" filing speed, averaging just 1 business day. Furthermore, an LLC operating agreement template is available for purchase at $99. Additionally, Zen Business facilitates your business growth by assisting in obtaining an Employer Identification Number.
- Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $52 State Fee): This LLC formation plan includes the Pro package features, business document templates, email address, domain name, privacy, 1-day filing speed, and a personalized business website platform.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Complimentary 1-year Registered Agent included.
- Proven reliability with 25+ years of experience.
- Budget-friendly Registered Agent service for $119.
- User-friendly dashboard for easy navigation.
- Occasional delays in document scanning.
- Customer support is available only on weekdays.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs and small businesses needing affordable compliance solutions with basic services.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses that might need more robust support and faster service, as there are reports of occasional delays.
The Verdict
Bizee (formerly IncFile) offers an affordable registered agent service with a solid track record, suitable for those on a budget but not ideal for those requiring instant, extensive support.
Bizee, recognized as one of Missouri's preferred registered agent and LLC services providers, offers its services starting at $119 per year.
The company has a solid track record, having supported the formation of over 1 million businesses nationwide, which underlines its popularity and reliability in the industry.
They can help you file your articles of incorporation, provide a Missouri registered office, and are reliable enough to manage service of process or other legal paperwork on your behalf.
Bizee (formerly Incfile) offered us a fantastic free LLC formation service that we wholeheartedly recommend to clients who want to start an LLC and are looking for a cheaper option.
One drawback however is that there are many annoying upsells and third-party promotions.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($119): If you incorporate your LLC using Bizee's services, the registered agent will come at no cost in the first year. After that, a $119 annual payment is required.
- Free Silver LLC Formation Package ($0 + $52 State Fee): Articles of Incorporation will be prepared and filed, as well as unlimited name searches and a year of free registered agent service.
- Bizee Gold LLC Formation Package ($199 + $52 State Fee): This package includes the silver bundle, as well as an EIN business tax number, IRS Form 2553, and an operating agreement. The service also has banking resolutions and a tax advice option.
- Platinum LLC Formation Package ($299 + $52 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.
4 - LegalZoom (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Extensive library of free business templates.
- Comprehensive legal support for diverse cases.
- User-friendly website streamlines navigation.
- LLC services come at a higher cost.
- Leads in registered agent service pricing.
- Persistent attempts to upsell extra services.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Well-established businesses looking for a comprehensive service package with access to legal services and extensive resources.
Who is it not for?
- Cost-conscious businesses due to its premium pricing.
The Verdict
LegalZoom provides a broad range of services including legal support, making it ideal for businesses that need more than just a registered agent but might be expensive for those with limited needs or budgets.
LegalZoom would be another good choice for your LLC. Despite being the most expensive, we believe they offer services that make the cost worthwhile.
And it is still more affordable than hiring a traditional lawyer.
LegalZoom's user-friendly platform and pre-filled legal documents made it easier for me to handle legal matters on my own, without the need for extensive legal knowledge or experience.
They also provide a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, which gave me plenty of time to evaluate their services.
Their customer support was available from Monday to Saturday and they were always quick to reply.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($299): The initial year of subscription for their Limited Liability Company package is priced at $249. Afterward, renewal would incur a fee of $299. This package entails one million dollars in protection cover against identity theft, an infinite amount of virtual storage capacity, and prompt updates on significant emails.
- LLC Basic Formation Package ($0 + $52 State Fee): This package offers all the essentials for business formation service in Missouri featuring a comprehensive name search, a WIX-powered website tailored to one's preferences, as well as the provision of articles of organization.
- LLC Pro Formation Package ($249 + $52 State Fee): The package includes all of the elements found in the Basic option, along with an EIN, an operating agreement, expert guidance on tax and insurance matters, and a comprehensive licensing guide relevant to Missouri.
- LLC Premium Formation Package ($299 + $52 State Fee): The package offers everything in the Pro package, along with personalized guidance from an expert business attorney based in Missouri. You'll also be entitled to periodic revisions in your LLC formation document and multiple consultations with the attorney for a duration of 30 minutes during the initial 90-day subscription period.
Why You Should Trust Us
You should consider Venture Smarter for your Missouri registered agent services due to our unmatched expertise and commitment. Our team's experience, grounded in thorough research and practical implementation, guarantees that our advice is both knowledgeable and customized to fit the distinct needs of each Venture Smarter reader.
At Venture Smarter, we take great pride in our detailed method of assessing registered agent services in Missouri. The Venture Smarter team has reviewed various providers with a strict set of criteria to ensure that our recommendations adhere to the highest standards of dependability and client satisfaction. Our unwavering commitment to quality is what positions us as a reliable guide for our readers.
Moreover, our dedication to the Venture Smarter community goes beyond just providing advice. We are devoted to the success of every Venture Smarter reader, offering ongoing support and resources to help ensure that your business's foundation is as strong as it can be.
By opting for Venture Smarter, you are not merely choosing a service; you are becoming part of a community committed to nurturing business growth and achievement in Missouri.
How We Picked And Tested The Best Registered Agent Services In Missouri?
In our quest to identify the top registered agent services in Missouri, we meticulously reviewed and interacted with over 20 providers.
Our team engaged anonymously to ensure an unbiased perspective.
We also leveraged the expertise of a certified legal team and LLC experts, who helped us understand the nuances of Missouri's business regulations.
1. Pricing
Pricing is a crucial factor, particularly for small Missouri businesses and startups that need to manage their budgets effectively.
"Effective financial planning is fundamental for startups and small businesses in Missouri, where every dollar counts."
- Emma Smith, Small Business Advisor & Financial Strategist
We evaluated services based on their affordability and value for money. For example, Bizee offers a competitive rate of $119 annually, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious businesses.
In contrast, services like LegalZoom, which charge around $299 annually, were considered more expensive.
2. Service Features
A comprehensive range of service features can significantly enhance the value of a registered agent service. A company with comprehensive features offers more value to the customer and makes it easy to access different services with one package.
We looked for services offering features like timely service of process delivery, document scans, legal notification, annual report reminders, and additional services such as mail forwarding.
Northwest Registered Agent received a 5/5 for its variety of features including a free year of registered agent service with LLC formation, same-day local scans, free mail forwarding, and Privacy by Default®.
3. Customer Support
Robust customer support is essential for timely assistance and resolution of business and legal issues.
We assessed the availability of support channels, response times, and the nature of the support (human or automated).
Services like Northwest Registered Agent, known for their personalized attention and efficient support, stood out and were rated 5/5.
4. Turnaround Time
A registered agent service with a fast turnaround time ensures that legal documents are processed and relayed to the business in a timely manner, helping the business respond appropriately and avoid penalties for late submissions.
We evaluated how quickly services process and relay documents. Companies like ZenBusiness, known for their fast processing times, were highly rated. The 30-day turnaround time for LegalZoom could be better.
5. Third-Party Reviews
Independent reviews provide insights into customer satisfaction, platform usability, service delivery, and reliability of a Missouri registered agent service.
We considered ratings on platforms like TrustPilot, looking for services with consistently high ratings. ZenBusiness, for example, has received 5-star ratings and excellent customer feedback.
6. Confidentiality
Breaches in confidentiality can lead to legal disputes with clients, partners, or third parties. By maintaining strict confidentiality protocols, a registered agent service can help a business avoid costly and time-consuming litigation.
We assessed the data protection measures of each service. Northwest Registered Agent's commitment to safeguarding customer data was particularly noteworthy.
7. Ease of Use
An intuitive platform allows clients to quickly find the information they need and complete necessary tasks without confusion or delay. This efficiency is particularly important for business owners and managers who often have limited time to navigate complex systems.
Services with easy-to-navigate online systems, like the one offered by Northwest Registered Agent, were preferred.
8. Transition Process
Switching registered agents can involve a fair amount of paperwork and coordination. A smooth process minimizes the administrative burden on the business, allowing owners and managers to focus on their core operations.
Our team rated Northwest and ZenBusiness 5/5 because they offered the smoothest transition without coverage gaps.
How Much Do Registered Agent Service Providers Cost in Missouri?
Missouri registered agent service providers normally cost between $119 and $299 depending on the size of the business.
However, you can act as your own registered agent for free and you must be available through business hours to receive and process legal documents.
Related Articles:
- How to Look Up an LLC in Missouri
- How to End an LLC in Missouri
- How Long Does It Take to Create an LLC in Missouri
Requirements For A Missouri Registered Agent
Regardless of the type of company you have, like an LLC, C-corporation, or S-corporation, Missouri Law 351.370 states that a registered agent must meet a certain criteria:
- Must be a state resident or a business offering agent services.
- Obligated to keep a registered office (a physical address in Missouri).
- During regular business hours, you must be accessible to accept documents (service of process).
Keep in mind that if you aren't satisfied with your registered agent you can easily learn how to change a registered agent in Missouri.
FAQs
Do I Need to Hire a Registered Agent for My LLC in Missouri?
Yes, you need to hire a registered agent for your LLC in Missouri because the law mandates using a registered agent. The Articles of Organization must include a list of the registered agents.
What Is the Role of a Missouri Registered Agent?
The role of a Missouri registered agent is to accept and deliver all legal documents. To obtain legal documents (service of process) and official mail on behalf of your LLC, Missouri company, or nonprofit, Missouri registered agents must have a physical address in the state.
Can I Change my Registered agent in Missouri?
Yes, you can change your registered agent in Missouri. You must file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent form with the Missouri Secretary of State to change the registered commercial agent. You're required to pay a filing fee of $10.
Our Verdict on the Best Registered Agent Services in Missouri
From our firsthand experience, Northwest Registered Agentis a standout choice in Missouri's registered agent services.
Their two-decade-long expertise, commitment to privacy, and top-notch customer support made our business journey in Missouri a breeze.
While they might be on the pricier side, the peace of mind and quality service they offer are unparalleled.
If you're setting up shop in Missouri, we'd wholeheartedly recommend giving Northwest Registered Agent a shot.
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