Last updated: March 13, 2023

The right North Carolina registered agent will help your company meet its legal obligations and keep all vital information private.

When choosing a North Carolina registered agent service for your business, you want to ensure you're getting the best, so we've researched for you.

We looked at some of the highest-rated North Carolina registered agents. We've consulted with industry professionals and attorneys to help us write this comprehensive guide, so you can confidently decide the best registered agent service suitable for your business.

Let's begin!


Top 10 Registered Agent Services in North Carolina (March 2023)

1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Editor's Choice)

Northwest Registered Agent logo with a business woman doing work in the background

Northwest Registered Agent is a top-rated registered agent service in North Carolina that provides its customers with various services.

Their team supplies businesses with a street address in the state and accepts service of process on their behalf.

Plus, Northwest registered agent will scan and forward any documents they receive for their clients, ensuring they get all essential papers promptly.

They also provide a US-based customer support team composed of former attorneys, accountants, small company owners, and entrepreneurs.

We were very impressed with the level of service provided by Northwest registered agent in North Carolina during our one-month trial. They kept us updated on our compliance filing deadlines.

This helped us stay organized with our reports, franchise tax, and other tax documents.

Overall, we had a great experience with the Northwest Registered Agent in North Carolina and would highly recommend their services.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($125): The registered agent package costs $125 but if you form your LLC with Northwest, the first year is free of charge.
  • North Carolina LLC Formation (starts at $125 + $128 State Fee): This registered agent includes Local Corporate Guides®, professional agent service, superior Privacy by Default®, complimentary mail forwarding and scanning, and fast document scanning service - all at your fingertips!
Pros
  • Solid privacy defense
  • Customizable and reliable customer service
  • 20 years of industry experience
  • Pricing transparency
  • Along with the formation package is a one-year free service
Cons
  • Quite expensive
Sign Up To Northwest Registered Agent

2 - ZenBusiness

Logo of ZenBusiness with a background of a woman writing down notes in front of a laptop

ZenBusiness registered agent company offers an incredibly affordable registered agent service in North Carolina. For just $199, you'll access their easy-to-use software and personalized customer service.

Their experienced professional registered agents are also always on standby to help you with your business needs, from setting up your business to managing all the legal and financial requirements.

We had the chance to use ZenBusiness registered agents for our business requirements in North Carolina.

Our legal specialists and attorneys valued the user-friendly interface and the range of services ZenBusiness provided. Their Package made it easy to manage the legal and financial elements of setting up our business.

ZenBusiness landed the second spot on our top 10 list for registered agents in North Carolina, with more than 4,500 online reviews from happy customers.

The registered agent has an average score of 4.7/5 is awe-inspiring, making them a great choice!

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Service ($199): You'll get standard registered agent services for this price billed annually.
  • ZenBusiness Starter costs ($0 + $128 State Fee): This plan includes standard corporate filing service, covering name availability search capabilities and access to your files via the ZenBusiness site. The standard filing speed come in this package (2 to 3 weeks).
  • ZenBusiness Pro ($199 + $128 State Fee): This plan provides different North Carolina LLC formation services like accelerated filing (4 to 6 days), financial reports, employment ID number generation, and compliance reviews and alerts.
  • ZenBusiness Premium ($299 + $128 State Fee): Premium plan incorporates the platform's services, meaning everything from Pro package. The the fastest rush filling speed come in this package (1-2 days), and customizable business website.
Pros
  • Their own registered agent pricing model is both affordable and straightforward
  • Offer extended customer service chat feature
  • Great customer reviews
  • 60 days money-back guarantee
Cons
  • Low customer brand recognition
Sign Up To ZenBusiness

3 - IncFile

A businesswoman using a laptop with the incfile logo in the foreground

If you're an entrepreneur forming an LLC in North Carolina in 2023, IncFile should be on top of your registered agent list.

This registered agent company offers the most affordable registered agent services around and a free LLC formation service with complementary registered agent services for a year.

Our legal team had the opportunity to use IncFile services in North Carolina, and the experience was very positive. IncFile made the process of setting up our business simple.

Their knowledgeable registered agent team accurately filed our legal documents, and they were promptly delivered in perfect condition at an affordable price.

So, IncFile can give you a great head start - especially on a low budget if you're a small business or startup.

IncFile's exceptional registered agent service is highlighted by over 13,500 online positive reviews and only a handful of negative ratings.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($119): This registered agent package includes a registered agent in the formation package. The first year is free, after which the service renews annually at $119.
  • Free Silver LLC Formation Package ($0 + $128 State Fees): They will prepare & file the Articles of Organization. Additionally, they will do the name search, and offer you a free registered agent service for a year.
  • IncFile Gold LLC Formation Package ($199 + $128 State Fee): The Gold package includes the silver package and a few more features like IRS Form 2553, an operating agreement, an EIN business tax number an online dashboard, and more.
  • Platinum LLC Formation Package ($299 + $128 State Fee): The Platinum package includes the gold Package, plus free business websites, domain registrations, business contract templates, and free next-day filing.
Pros
  • Their online dashboard is handy
  • They offer free registered agent service if you form your business with them
  • Fast order response
  • There are no hidden registered agent fees
Cons
  • Registered agent support options are limited
Sign Up To IncFile

4 - Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer LLC Service logo in front of an office worker working

Rocket Lawyer is a registered agent company famous for its strong and effective estate planning software. Aside from that, they also offer other legal services like creating LLCs and providing registered agent services.

So, if you own a business and are searching for long-term legal advantages, then you can consider Rocket Lawyer.

They have already helped 80,000+ businesses, so be sure of getting complete satisfaction with their agent services.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Service ($149.99 for non-members): You can save 25% if you sign up for a monthly membership ($39.99).
  • LLC Formation Package ($99.99 + $128 State Fee):  You'll receive it without cost if you buy a $39.99 monthly membership. Free legal forms, free LLC establishment, legal services, and a 25% discount on registered agent services for members.
Pros
  • The registered agent pricing structure is based on subscription
  • You’ll get access to all legal documents
  • The support team are legal professionals
Cons
  • Features offered are limited
  • Needs a credit card to get the free trial
Sign Up To Rocket Lawyer

5 - Swyft Filings

A person talking to another person

Swyft Filings is best suited for Florida LLC owners who have no time to deal with the complications and inconveniences of paperwork.

Swyft Filings is here to ensure your filing requirements are taken care of - any time, day or night!

Swyft Filings offers 24/7 mail access and helpful reminders for due dates and deadlines so that you can stay on top of all your filing requirements.

Swyft Filings is a newcomer to the registered agent service industry, but they're quickly becoming one of the top service providers with the highest customer ratings.

Their 4,122 reviews on Trustpilot have earned them an impressive 4.7 average customer rating.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Service ($99 every 3 months): Swyft Filings will continue to charge a quarterly membership fee for this service.
  • The Basic Package ($49 + $128 State Fee): Filling out the articles of incorporation and create the LLC for you.
  • The Standard Package ($149 + $128 State Fee): It includes the basic Package, and additionally it enables you to receive a Federal Tax ID (EIN) and the majority of the paperwork needed to start your business (operating agreement, banking resolution, and organizational minutes).
  • Premium Package ($299 + $128 State Fee): All fundamental and mandatory services are included, along with a few extras like free domain registration and hosting for business websites, a customized digital corporate kit, and FedEx delivery of your authorized articles with a tracking number.
Pros
  • You get a full refund if you are not satisfied with your own registered agent
  • LLC creation packages are budget-friendly
  • Provide outstanding customer service
Cons
  • No forms specific to each state
  • Turnaround time is different depending on your state
Sign Up To Swyft Filings

6 - Harbor Compliance

Two businessmen talking while looking to a gadget

Harbor Compliance is the cream of the crop regarding registered agent services in North Carolina—boasting a clean A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau with unbeatable quality of service.

The registered agent company makes it easy and affordable to get all your formation process. A single payment of $99 gets all the work done for a whole year. Plus, you'll get a discount if you sign up for multiple years.

Multi-state LLCs can also benefit from Harbor Compliance's nationwide registered agent service, which offers unbeatable security and streamlined efficiency.

Their handy registered agent features make them a great choice for small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($99/ year): This registered agent package allows you to enjoy document scanning for free, electronic paperwork delivery on the same day, personalized notifications, plus bulk discounts.
  • Formation Package ($99 + $128 State Fee): The preparation and submission of your articles of organization with the state as well as a name availability check are included in the formation package.
Pros
  • Convenient electronic delivery service
  • Tailored services specific to customers' need
  • The formation package comes with a complimentary Free registered agent
Cons
  • High cost of services
  • Customer support is not that efficient
Sign Up To Harbor Compliance

7 - LegalZoom

The LegalZoom logo with a business person in the background doing work

LegalZoom is an excellent registered agent choice if you're looking for a wide range of legal services all in one place.

They have extensive experience and expertise to offer full-service legal assistance for all your needs, from filing your business documents to managing your taxes.

With their strong presence in the market, you can expect higher prices than the other competitors. Despite the high price, you can be sure you are getting quality registered agent services and your own registered agent for your business.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($299/ year): This registered agent package offers data security, an up-to-date compliance calendar, and limitless online data storage. Furthermore, their service offers an amazing premium feature of up to $1 million coverage for identity theft protection.
  • North Carolina LLC Formation ($79 + $128 State Fee): For the smaller package you will get a standard business entity formation. However, they have 3 different formation packages that fits every budget.
Pros
  • High customer demand
  • Provide a broad range of legal assistance
  • Impressive registered agent brand reputation
Cons
  • Less-than-impressive customer feedback
  • Very costly registered agent
Sign Up To LegalZoom

8 - MyCompanyWorks

MyCompanyWorks logo in front of a businessman clenching his fist

MyCompanyWorks has been a trusted registered agent business since 2001 and is the go-to for making forming an LLC simpler, swifter, and more affordable.

Their prices also don't compromise the quality of service you'll receive.

MyCompanyWorks commits to a 100% satisfaction guarantee and is thus best for start-up businesses. Their account setup process is relatively straightforward.

It also has one of the best refund policies in the industry. They will refund your service fee anytime within 90 days if you are unsatisfied with their service level—no questions asked!

They are rated as A+ by the Better Business Bureau and have a high satisfaction rate based on verified customer reviews from ShopperApproved.

Service Features:

  • Registered Agent Services ($99): Starting at $99 per year - The Entrepreneur Package and the Complete Package include a free first year of registered agent service.
  • North Carolina LLC Formation-basic package ($59 + $128 State Fee): With exclusive features like a Free Logo, $250,000+ in Rewards and Start-up Discounts, a Free E-book, a Start-up wizard, and lifetime access to the vendor network.
Pros
  • Excellent customer reviews
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Has a highly competitive price point
Cons
  • Agent service not included
  • Mediocre basic package
Sign Up To MyCompanyWorks

9 - SunDoc Filings

SunDoc logo with business people in the background

SunDoc Filings provide an excellent registered agent service in all 50 states and have earned a fantastic 4.8 review on Trustpilot.

Not only can they give you an address, point of contact, and email receiving and forwarding, but they'll also make sure you stay compliant.

With two decades of experience, they have established themselves as a trusted provider of LLC services in North Carolina for domestic and international clients.

Service Features:

  • Registered agent service ($159): This package includes hands-on register agents that will receive your documents and correspondence. Once scanned, the agents will also send you a copy of all your documents. Additionally, they will provide a private physical address.
  • LLC Formation (starts at $79 + $128 State Fee): Their base package is $79 plus state fees, their key bundle is $99 plus state fees, and their premier bundle is $279 plus state fees.
Pros
  • Fast and efficient processes of acquiring a registered agent
  • Have a wealth of knowledge and expertise
  • Their customer service is reliable and experienced
Cons
  • Limited features
  • Mediocre registered agent package

10 - North Carolina Registered Agent

Two employees discussing a North Carolina LLC and how does it work

North Carolina Registered Agent is an outstanding choice due to their local presence, established trust with customers, and comprehensive knowledge of North Carolina business entity regulations.

They're also very affordable, and for just $49, you can have all the registered agent services features.

Service Features:

  • Registered agent service ($49/year): This package includes an annual report, tax notification, and commercial business address. We'll scan your documents before sending them to you, and you'll be able to view them online in real time.
  • LLC formation service ($276 including state fees): Includes a year of free registered agent service, a draft of an operating agreement, LLC membership certificates and resolution, annual report reminders, lifetime client support, and access to an online account.
Pros
  • No hidden fees
  • Fast and reliable when it comes to document delivery
  • Personalized customer service
Cons
  • Support options are limited
  • Add-ons are limited

Advantages of Using a Registered Agent Company in North Carolina

Two businessmen agreeing about the advantages of working with a registered agent service in North Carolina

Using a professional registered agent service can be worthwhile, even though it may initially cost more than acting as your registered agent. There are clear advantages to the extra fees that you can't overlook [1].

Here are some of the benefits:

1. Convenience

A registered agent company in North Carolina can take on the administrative burden of managing your company's legal documents.

The company will ensure that all documents are delivered on time, so entrepreneurs never have to worry about missing important deadlines. Business entity owners can, thus, free up time to focus on the more important tasks of their business entity.

2. Cost Saving

By using a registered agent, LLCs can avoid costly late fees and penalties associated with missed filing deadlines. An experienced agent will promptly deliver all documents and pay filing fees without delay [2].

3. Maintains Privacy

A registered agent service allows LLC owners to maintain their privacy by shielding their personal addresses from public records [3]. This helps to protect owners from unwanted solicitations.

Furthermore, a registered agent can provide a private physical address for legal documents and notices. This is beneficial for owners who are not based in North Carolina.

4. Highly Dependable

A registered agent service in North Carolina provides businesses with a reliable source of support and guidance regarding matters of state or corporate law. As a business entity owner, you can trust that your registered agent will:

  • Be available to answer any questions you may have
  • Receive and forward any documents you need
  • And help you stay compliant with all applicable laws

What Is the Cost of a Registered Agent Service in North Carolina

The cost of a Registered Agent Service in North Carolina varies from company to company and usually ranges from around $50 to $300 annually.

Some companies also offer discounts for signing up for multiple years. So, shop around and compare services and fees to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Who Is Eligible To Become a North Carolina Registered Agent?

Office workers posing for the camera crossing their arms

Any individual or business entity can become a North Carolina registered agent service as long as they meet the following requirements:

  • Be a North Carolina resident
  • Be over 18 years of age
  • Have a business address in the state
  • Be available during regular business hours to accept and process legal documents

FAQs

Do I Need a Registered Agent for My LLC in North Carolina?

Yes, you need a registered agent for your LLC in North Carolina. Without one, the Secretary of State won't accept the formation files for your LLC.

What Does a North Carolina Registered Agent Service Do?

A North Carolina registered agent service represents your business in the state. They provide the North Carolina Secretary of State with annual reports and other necessary legal documents on your behalf.

How Do I Choose a Good North Carolina Registered Agent Service?

You can choose a reliable North Carolina registered agent service by looking at their online reputation and experience.

Check if they are registered with the North Carolina Secretary of State and up to date with their filings. It's also wise to ask and get feedback from other businesses using the agent.

Can I Act as My Own North Carolina Registered Agent Service?

Yes, you can act as your own North Carolina registered agent service. It'll be your responsibility to receive all official documents on behalf of the organization.

Can I Use the Registered Agent Office Address as My Business Address?

No, you cannot use the registered agent's office address as your business address. The registered agent's office address only receives legal documents and notices. You will need a separate address as your business's primary address.

Can I Use a PO Box for My LLC in North Carolina?

Absolutely! You can use a PO Box for your LLC in North Carolina. It's a great way to receive mail for your business without giving out your physical address.

Just make sure to register the PO Box with the North Carolina Secretary of State's office to comply with state regulations.

Best Registered Agent Service in North Carolina is...

When looking for the best-registered agent service in North Carolina, you should base your decision on the service features, customer support, and cost.

After extensive research and firsthand experience, our professional team settled on Northwest Registered Agent as the best choice in North Carolina.

We were impressed by the quality of service and knowledgeable staff that Northwest Registered Agent offered. Their competitive prices and no-hassle approach made them the perfect choice for us.

Northwest Registered agents will take care of all your legal documents and inform you of your tax deadlines, so you can focus solely on growing your business.

Our #1 Recommendation

Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent logo with a business woman doing work in the background
Support
5.0
Price
4.8
Turnaround
5.0
Overall
4.9
Pros
  • Solid privacy defense
  • Customizable and reliable customer service
  • 20 years of industry experience
  • Pricing transparency
  • Along with the formation package is a one-year free service
  • Get the BEST PRICE until the end of March
Cons
  • Quite expensive

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