6 Best Registered Agent Services in New Jersey (2025 Upd)

Jon Morgan
Published by Jon Morgan | Co-Founder & Chief Editor
Last updated: December 29, 2024
FACT CHECKED by Lou Viveros, Growth & Transition Advisor
Methodology
We diligently evaluate each service provider showcased in our reviews and guides. By interacting anonymously with their business formation and services, and leveraging the insights of an independent review team, we strive to offer unbiased, evidence-based suggestions. Learn more

In New Jersey, businesses must hire a reliable registered agent to meet statutory obligations and state rules.

Utilizing my extensive experience and working closely with Venture Smarter in-house legal advisors, we have conducted thorough testing and assessment of the leading registered agent firms in New Jersey. Our analysis focuses on service features, turnaround time, and customer support.

Here are 6 registered agents in New Jersey that you can hire for your company or LLC.

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
LegalZoom
(Best Premium)
$249/year Alerts & reminders, documents scanned and uploaded, unlimited cloud storage for business documents. 60 days Yes, A+ rating Attorney Consultations (Premium Plan)
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
Harbor Compliance $88-$99 Same-Day document access, email notifications, annual report notifications to stay compliant. No Yes No


Top 6 Registered Agents in New Jersey (January 2025)

1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)

Rated 4.83/5
Northwest Registered Agent Service logo with an office worker in the background
4.9
Support
4.8
Price
4.8
Privacy and Security
4.8
Compliance Alerts
4.9
User Ratings
4.8
Features
Sign Up To Northwest Registered Agent

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Keeps your address off public records.
  • Great customer support.
  • Very reasonable prices with LLCU discount.
  • 20+ years in business.
  • They don’t sell your customer data.
  • Free Registered Agent service for 1st year.
Cons
  • Not the cheapest option available, which might deter budget-conscious startups.
  • Additional services can become pricey, increasing overall cost.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Businesses seeking a reliable registered agent service with an emphasis on privacy and same-day service.

Who is it not for?

  • Companies looking for the cheapest service.

The Verdict

Northwest offers excellent privacy protections and immediate document access, ideal for businesses that value data security and swift communication.

Would you recommend Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)?

Northwest Registered Agent is one of the best-rated services for starting a business through the internet.

We tested this renowned company to evaluate the process of creating an LLC, and based on our trial, you’ll receive dedicated support from expert agents assigned to your account.

Northwest features a exclusive LLC setup deal for just $39, which offers a free registered agent service for the first year. This offer is available when you register using our link.

During our trial, their service helped us preparing all the necessary legal paperwork, and their specialists made us feel guided at every step of the process.

We felt assured knowing that Northwest Registered Agent prioritizes customer privacy and uses a secure digital system that doesn’t sell client data to unauthorized organizations.

While Northwest provides a solid range of business services, their plans currently don’t include an EIN, which we think could enhance their value even further.

Service Highlights:

  • Registered Agent Service ($125/year): The 1st year of registered agent service is free when Northwest manages your LLC formation. This service includes mail forwarding, professional corporate guides, and built-in privacy protections.
  • Full-Service LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $130 State Fee): This complete package covers quick filing, a full year of registered agent service, an LLC operating agreement, free business tools like a domain, website, email, and business phone, and built-in privacy practices.

2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)

Rated 4.73/5
ZenBusiness logo and a young entrepreneur using a laptop in the background
4.8
Support
4.7
Price
4.7
Privacy and Security
4.7
Compliance Alerts
4.8
User Ratings
4.7
Features
Sign Up To ZenBusiness

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • All-inclusive business formation service.
  • Variety of add-on products for tailored service.
  • Straightforward pricing model, clear a-la-carte options.
  • Alerts help track recurring filing deadlines.
Cons
  • Better deals for ancillary services might be found elsewhere.
  • Recurring fee for worry-free compliance after first year.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Startups and small businesses looking for comprehensive support and good customer care.

Who is it not for?

  • Larger corporations that might need more tailored services beyond standard registered agent offerings.

The Verdict

ZenBusiness provides essential services with a focus on simplicity and support, making them a great choice for small businesses and startups.

Would you recommend ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)?

ZenBusiness offers a straightforward platform for business formation. Their interface simplifies New Jersey LLC document submission, and their alert system keeps you updated on filing deadlines.

What I liked about ZenBusiness was getting a thorough evaluation from one of their professional accountants, who helped me with my accounting books and bookkeeping.

I would recommend ZenBusiness for any business owner in New Jersey who wants to make their statutory filings easier and less expensive.

To access a detailed assessment of this organization, refer to my ZenBusiness complete evaluation.

Service Features:

  • ZenBusiness Registered Agent Standard ($199): Registered agent service, online document access, and unlimited client assistance.
  • ZenBusiness Starter costs ($0 + $130 State Fee): The starter subscription covers LLC filing service, providing name availability search capabilities and file access through the company's website. Standard filing speed applies (7 to 10 days) offering a 100% accuracy guarantee. Additionally, optional worry-free compliance adds an extra layer of protection, at no cost for a full year. Banking services and a bank account are free for a month with a fee of $0 plus state fee, making it ideal for those without urgency.
  • ZenBusiness Pro ($199 + $130 State Fee): The Pro package will provide additional New Jersey LLC formation services like the fastest ''rush'' filing speed of 1 business day. This package will also offer financial reports, employment ID number (EIN), and compliance reviews and alerts. An operating agreement is included in this plan to assist you in streamlining both business and internal processes, while obtaining an EIN ensures your legal status in the eyes of the IRS.
  • ZenBusiness Premium ($299 + $130 State Fee): This plan includes all features from Pro plan and adds business document templates to expedite business procedures. With this plan, you can keep track of your finances using bookkeeping and even send invoices for faster payments. For an online presence, you will receive a secure domain and a business email. The plan also has a 1-day filing speed.

3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)

Rated 4.63/5
bizee
4.7
Support
4.6
Price
4.6
Privacy and Security
4.6
Compliance Alerts
4.7
User Ratings
4.6
Features
Sign Up To Bizee

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Streamlined business formation options.
  • Affordable service packages available.
  • Free registered agent services for one year.
  • Fast processing with an average turnaround of one business day.
Cons
  • Not recommended for larger businesses with in-house resources.
  • Refunds only available before paperwork is submitted to the state.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Businesses needing affordable registered agent services with basic compliance management.

Who is it not for?

  • Businesses that require more hands-on support and complex services.

The Verdict

Bizee offers a budget-friendly solution for startups and small businesses prioritizing cost over additional services.

Would you recommend Bizee (Most Affordable)?

Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers cost-effective packages for LLCs, corporations, and nonprofits. Their extensive services cover formation, regulation, and New Jersey registered agent needs.

Their streamlined user interface is easy to use, even for beginners, and you can order any services from there.

I easily accessed their prompt support from the online dashboard, and they were quite helpful during the entire process.

Bizee has earned a reputation for providing quality service at a lower cost than its rivals.

Bizee is among the top registered agents at a reasonable price. The only possible disadvantage is that Bizee does not provide volume discounts for registered agent services. However, this is mainly an issue for organizations wishing to purchase in bulk.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services (starts at $119): Includes an Online Dashboard, Email Forwarding, and more. You will get a free registered agent service in the first year if you decide to form your LLC with Bizee.
  • Silver LLC Formation Package ($0 + $130 State Fee): This bundle comes with unlimited name searches, a year of free registered agent service, filing of the articles of organization, and phone and email support.
  • Gold LLC Formation Package ($199 + $130 State Fee): You will receive everything included in the Silver Package in addition to crucial business tax documentation, such as an EIN Business Tax Number and an IRS Form 2553.
  • Platinum LLC Formation Package ($299 + $130 State Fee): All the features of the Gold Package are available to users, in addition to business contract templates, next-day filing, a web domain name, and a business email.

4 - LegalZoom (Best Premium)

Rated 4.53/5
Legalzoom logo with an office worker in the background
4.6
Support
4.5
Price
4.5
Privacy and Security
4.5
Compliance Alerts
4.6
User Ratings
4.5
Features
Sign Up To LegalZoom

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Affordable services for individuals and small businesses.
  • Wide range of customizable legal documents.
  • Convenient online and phone support.
Cons
  • Registered agent services can be costly at $299 per year.
  • Additional services and add-ons can get expensive.
  • Public information availability if acting as your own registered agent.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Well-established businesses looking for a range of legal services beyond basic registered agent duties.

Who is it not for?

  • Small businesses or startups that are very cost-sensitive.

The Verdict

LegalZoom is well-suited for businesses that require additional legal services and can afford a slightly higher price for comprehensive support.

Would you recommend LegalZoom (Best Premium)?

LegalZoom, a leader in online legal services for nearly 20 years, is known for its reliability, diverse offerings, and top-notch customer service, despite not being the cheapest option. They have assisted over 2 million businesses in turning ideas into reality, according to information provided on their website.

In my experience, their Compliance Calendar has been particularly helpful in keeping me informed of crucial compliance dates.

LegalZoom also carefully reviews and copies pertinent documents, and in my capacity as a registered agent, they promptly contacted me by phone when I received a court date.

Their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction has been truly impressive.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($299/year): Their LLC formation service costs $249 for the initial year, followed by a renewal cost of $299. The service package incorporates Identity Theft Protection coverage worth up to 1 million dollars, infinite cloud storage, email notifications, and a Compliance calendar.
  • Baisc LLC Formation Package ($0 + $130 State Fee): This bundle provides a business name search service, a digital onboarding package, a WIX-enabled website to establish a credible and authoritative online presence, and articles of organization.
  • Pro LLC Formation Package ($249 + $130 State Fee): The bundle incorporates all the features of the Basic package plus an Employer Identification Number, an operating agreement, initial tax and insurance consultation sessions, and a comprehensive guide on obtaining business licenses.
  • Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $130 State Fee): Features include all Pro package features. You'll also get an unrestricted 30-minute consultation with a qualified attorney and updated LLC formation documents during the initial 90-day subscription period. Additionally, a proficient business attorney will provide a customized and practical guide LLC formation guide.

5 - Swyft Filings Registered Agent Service

Rated 4.43/5
Swyftfilings logo with a business person on a computer in the background
4.5
Support
4.4
Price
4.4
Privacy and Security
4.4
Compliance Alerts
4.5
User Ratings
4.4
Features
Sign Up To Swyft Filings Registered Agent Service

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • High customer satisfaction with a Trustpilot rating of 4.8 stars.
  • Clear and helpful customer support throughout the process.
  • Quick and easy setup for business formation.
Cons
  • Some customers may find additional services unnecessary and costly.
  • Potential for upselling services that may not be needed by all customers.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Companies operating across multiple states who need a scalable and efficient compliance solution.

Who is it not for?

  • Very small businesses or solopreneurs who may not need robust multi-state compliance support.

The Verdict

Harbor Compliance excels in managing multi-state registrations and compliance, offering great value through bundled services and software.

Would you recommend Swyft Filings Registered Agent Service?

When I was juggling a packed schedule while setting up my third startup, Swyft Filings was truly a lifesaver. They took care of all my filing needs efficiently, freeing me up to focus on other key aspects of my business.

Swyft Filings features 24/7 online mailbox services and delivers helpful reminders for important due dates and deadlines. This ensures you stay on top of things and that your business is kept in full compliance.

This is especially notable in states where the unemployment rate stood at a steady 3.5% in 2024, according to the Department of Commerce. This highlights the region's economic stability and growth opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Although Swyft Filings is newer to the registered agent service industry, they’re becoming prominent as one of the top-rated providers, backed by strong customer reviews.

Service Highlights:

  • Registered Agent Service ($149 every 3 months): Swyft Filings requires a quarterly fee for this essential service.
  • Basic Plan ($0 + $130 State Fee): Features the submission of your articles of incorporation and LLC setup.
  • Standard Plan ($199 + $130 State Fee): This comprehensive LLC package expands upon the basic plan, adding a Federal Tax ID (EIN) and essential documents like an operating agreement, banking resolution, and organizational minutes.
  • Premium Package ($299 + $130 State Fee): Features all basic and standard 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.

6 - Harbor Compliance Registered Agent Service

Rated 4.33/5
Harbor Compliance logo with a business person in the background
4.4
Support
4.3
Price
4.3
Privacy and Security
4.3
Compliance Alerts
4.4
User Ratings
4.3
Features
Sign Up To Harbor Compliance Registered Agent Service

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Fast LLC formation can take as little as two business days.
  • Specialized licensing services for regulated industries.
  • Simplifies licensing and entity management.
Cons
  • No free option for cash-strapped startups.
  • Charges for registered agent service, unlike some competitors.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Entrepreneurs and small businesses that need quick, reliable registered agent services and support.

Who is it not for?

  • Businesses looking for the lowest cost without considering service responsiveness and additional features.

The Verdict

Swyft Filings offers fast and reliable service, making it ideal for businesses that need to ensure they meet compliance deadlines efficiently.

Would you recommend Harbor Compliance Registered Agent Service?

Harbor Compliance, backed by governmental licensing and digital innovation experts, offers top-notch compliance solutions. With experience serving over 20,000 entities, they're a go-to for compliance needs, according to their website.

I enlisted Harbor Compliance as my registered agent and found their service pretty decent.

They efficiently managed official communications between government entities and my company, ensuring that all legal requirements were met in a timely manner.

Their attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction made me confident in their ability to handle my business's compliance needs effectively.

The goal of the Harbor Compliance Registered Agent Service is to provide businesses of all sizes with a reliable and affordable solution to fulfill their legal duties.

Find out more about this company by checking the Harbor Compliance review.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Service ($88-$99/year): Includes free file scanning, a performant dashboard, customizable alerts, and friendly support.
  • LLC Formation Service ($99 + $130 State Fee): Availability of names, Operating Agreement Form, Articles of Incorporation, and federal TIN.

Why You Should Trust Us

When it comes to selecting the right registered agent service for your New Jersey-based 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 operational success of countless clients. This depth of experience has given me a well-rounded perspective on what businesses genuinely need from their registered agent service providers in New Jersey.

Therefore, when I recommend Northwest Registered Agent as the premier choice for your registered agent needs in New Jersey, 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 reaching 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 Services In New Jersey?

VS Testing methodology

In Venture Smarter quest to find the best-registered agent services in New Jersey, I examined over 10 different providers. My team engaged with these services anonymously to ensure an unbiased evaluation.

I paid special attention to factors like service efficiency, reliability, customer support, and additional features that enhance the overall experience.

Each service was scrutinized for its ability to handle legal documents promptly and accurately, its track record in the industry, and customer feedback. I also looked for services that offered extra features like compliance reminders and user-friendly online platforms.

This comprehensive approach helped me formulate well-rounded recommendations.

"While there is limited variation in the types of services offered by registered agent service providers, it's crucial to evaluate factors such as overall cost, service speed, document forwarding options, and additional services that may distinguish them from competitors."

- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions

1. Price and Affordability

Price is a critical factor when choosing a registered agent service, particularly for startups and small businesses operating with limited budgets. The cost of a registered agent service can significantly impact a company's operational expenses.

Therefore, finding a service that balances affordability and the comprehensive features necessary for effective legal and compliance management is essential.

We compared annual fees and setup costs across different registered agent services in New Jersey.

New Jersey, Bizee, and Harbor Compliance emerge as the most affordable options, with annual fees of $119 and $88-$99 respectively, appealing to budget-conscious businesses.

Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness offer mid-range pricing at $125 and $199 per year, respectively, balancing cost with a comprehensive range of services.

On the higher end, LegalZoom and Swyft Filings stand out for their pricier services, charging $299 and approximately $396 annually, catering to those who might prioritize brand reputation or specific service features.

2. Ease of Use

Ease of use is a critical factor when selecting a registered agent service, especially for startups and small businesses that may not have extensive legal or administrative resources.

A user-friendly online platform simplifies managing legal documents, compliance deadlines, and other statutory requirements. This saves time and reduces the likelihood of errors.

We navigated each service's website and dashboard, noting the ease of finding information, the simplicity of the signup process, and the clarity of instructions for service use.

Northwest Registered Agent, ZenBusiness, and Bizee stand out for their ease of use. LegalZoom, while offering a comprehensive platform, may present a steeper learning curve due to its wide range of services.

3. Third-Party Reviews

Third-party reviews are vital in evaluating registered agent services as they offer unbiased insights from actual users.

These reviews, found on platforms like TrustPilot, Google, and other review sites, provide a real-world perspective on the quality, reliability, and overall performance of these services.

We analyzed customer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and Google for each service.

Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness stand out for their positive customer feedback, particularly in areas of customer service and user-friendly platforms.

LegalZoom and Swyft Filings have received mixed reviews while offering robust features due to their higher pricing and slower turnaround times.

4. Features of a Top Service

Service features in registered agent services are crucial as they determine the efficiency and effectiveness of the service.

Features like online dashboards, compliance alerts, and additional services such as mail forwarding and annual report filings can significantly enhance the ease of managing legal obligations for businesses.

I preferred services that offered additional features, such as compliance calendars or online dashboards.

Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness stand out for their comprehensive service features, including user-friendly online platforms and additional services that enhance the overall experience.

LegalZoom and Swyft Filings, while offering robust features, are on the pricier side, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious businesses.

5. Confidentiality

Confidentiality is paramount in registered agent services as these entities handle sensitive legal and business documents.

Protecting this data ensures the privacy and security of a business's legal and financial information, which is critical in maintaining trust and integrity in business operations.

Northwest Registered Agent stands out for its explicit privacy and data security commitment.

6. Transition Process

The transition process when switching to a new registered agent is critical for maintaining legal compliance and ensuring no disruption in handling important legal documents.

A seamless transition is vital to avoid coverage gaps that could result in missed legal notices or non-compliance with state regulations.

With their strong customer support and user-friendly platforms, companies like Northwest Registered Agent, ZenBusiness, and Bizee will likely ensure a seamless transition for new clients.

7. Turnaround Time

Turnaround time is critical to registered agent services, especially in New Jersey. It refers to how quickly these services collect and relay legal documents from the State Secretary's Office (SOS) to your business and vice versa.

Efficient turnaround time ensures that your business remains compliant with legal requirements and deadlines, avoiding potential legal issues or penalties.

Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee stand out for their efficient processing times, with options for expedited services.

LegalZoom had slower turnaround times while offering a range of premium features. This could be a concern for businesses needing quick document processing.

8. Customer Support

Customer support is a critical aspect of registered agent services. It ensures that businesses receive timely assistance and guidance in managing legal documents and compliance issues.

Effective customer support can significantly impact the ease of doing business and maintaining legal standing.

Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness excel in customer support, offering swift, accurate, and human-centric assistance.

LegalZoom, while providing comprehensive support, can have slower response times, especially during peak periods.

How Much Does a Registered Agent Service Cost in New Jersey?

A registered agent service in New Jersey normally costs between $50 and $300 each year. This price varies according to the company and the service features you choose for your business.

Generally, the fewer features you want, the lesser the fee, and the more premium agent services you want, the more will raise the cost of your New Jersey LLC.

You can also be your own registered agent for free.

Related Articles:

Requirements for a New Jersey Registered Agent

A business person using a laptop

These are the requirements of a registered agent in New Jersey according to the New Jersey Corporations and Associations Act (14A:4-1. & 15A:4-1):

  • The New Jersey registered agent must be a person who is legally residing in the state or a business that provides the best registered agent services there.
  • For New Jersey registered agents, a corporate office headquarters with a specific address in the state is necessary.
  • The New Jersey registered agent should handle pertinent documents during regular working hours.
  • To be recognized as a registered agent in New Jersey, a candidate must be of legal consenting age (18 or older).

FAQs

Do You Need a Statutory Agent in New Jersey?

Yes, you need a statutory agent in New Jersey. All businesses, limited liability companies (LLCs), and general partnerships in New Jersey must have a registered agent.

When Should I Hire a Registered Agent, Before or After Starting My New Jersey Business Entity?

You should hire a registered agent before your New Jersey business entity. In the event that you do not designate a registered agent, the New Jersey Division of Revenue will invalidate your company registration application.

What Is a Registered Agent’s Key Role in New Jersey?

A registered agent’s key role in New Jersey is to acquire paperwork as a representation of the company and contact or prompt them directly to the responsible party at the firm.

Venture Smarter Verdict on the Best Registered Agent in New Jersey

After researching numerous New Jersey registered agent services, Northwest Registered Agent stood out as my top choice.

I put them to the test, and they exceeded my expectations. They offer unlimited name searches, smooth annual compliance report filing, and federal tax ID registration assistance. Their strong commitment to data security reassured me.

Moreover, upon signing up, I received the first year of registered agent service for free. Their exceptional customer support team promptly addressed all my questions and concerns. When it comes to handling legal documents, they are highly reliable.

With over a decade of experience, Northwest Registered Agent is your hassle-free choice for starting your LLC.

About The Author

Venture Smarter | 6 Best Registered Agent Services in New Jersey ([y] Upd)
Co-Founder & Chief Editor
Jon Morgan, MBA, LLM, has over ten years of experience growing startups and currently serves as CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter. Educated at UC Davis and Harvard, he offers deeply informed guidance. Beyond work, he enjoys spending time with family, his poodle Sophie, and learning Spanish.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Venture Smarter | 6 Best Registered Agent Services in New Jersey ([y] Upd)
Growth & Transition Advisor
LJ Viveros has 40 years of experience in founding and scaling businesses, including a significant sale to Logitech. He has led Market Solutions LLC since 1999, focusing on strategic transitions for global brands. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in Communications, LJ is also a distinguished Matsushita Executive alumnus.
Learn more about our editorial policy

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