7 Best Registered Agent Services in Oregon to Try in [2023]
Selecting the right registered agent service in Oregon is crucial for the seamless operation of your business.
Recognizing this challenge, I meticulously evaluated and tested a wide range of LLC services across Montana to guide you through this critical phase of your business journey.
I partnered with industry experts and leveraged their insights to ensure a thorough and practical evaluation of each service.
During Venture Smarter evaluation, we considered factors like pricing, customer service, and features.
This comprehensive guide unveils the top 7 LLC services in Montana for 2023, each carefully selected for its exceptional capabilities in simplifying the LLC formation process.
Northwest
ZenBusiness
BizeeTop 7 Best Registered Agent Services in Oregon (April 2024)
1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
1000+ Reviews
Northwest Registered Agent is the best overall choice for LLC formation, offering a blend of reliability, comprehensive services, and exceptional customer support.
Their expertise in swift LLC formation is unparalleled, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for your business needs.
One of the most convenient aspects we found was their provision of pre-filled state forms and annual reports, significantly simplifying the paperwork process.
While they may not be the cheapest option in the market, the value they provide is undeniable.
Their package includes same-day filing, free forms, and tools, making them a comprehensive solution for your business needs.
The customer support responsiveness to every query, whether through email or phone, was prompt and thorough.
A piece of advice from our experience: when interacting with Northwest, it’s best to keep your questions short and direct.
Their professionals are incredibly knowledgeable and can provide in-depth responses, which, while informative, can be time-consuming if you’re looking for quick answers.
Northwest Registered Agent is the best overall choice if you're seeking a reliable, comprehensive, and expertly managed LLC formation service.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($125): The first year of the registered agent services is free if you hire Northwest to form your LLC. Oregon registered agent service includes free mail forwarding, expert corporate guides, and privacy by default.
- Basic Plan ($39+ $100 State Fee): Basic Oregon Plan can be used to create LLCs, corporations, and organizations. It includes articles of organization, an operating agreement, and more.
- Full Service LLC Formation Plan ($225 + $100 State Fee): Full Service Oregon Formation plan includes same business day filing, a full year of registered agent services, free limited mail forwarding, an operating agreement, and a client account loaded with free forms and tools.
- Keeps your address off public records.
- Great customer support for any queries.
- Very reasonable prices with special discounts.
- Over 20 years of business experience.
- They don’t sell your customer data.
- Free Registered Agent service for the 1st year.
- Not the cheapest option available.
- Limited physical presence for in-person service.
2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)
2000+ Reviews
ZenBusiness emerged as the quintessential choice for entrepreneurs in Oregon seeking affordable yet comprehensive LLC formation and registered agent services.
According to Trustpilot, ZenBusiness maintains an excellent rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 14,335 reviews, underscoring high customer satisfaction and trust in their services.
What sets ZenBusiness apart is the ability to tailor their services to the unique requirements of each business.
They understand the importance of confidentiality and efficient document management, ensuring that your business operations are seamless and secure.
I tried their registered agent packages, and after testing them, I can say that they are solid.
Their package is less expensive than their competition, including everything you need to get your firm off the ground, from licenses to registration services.
To learn more about this business, take a look at our thorough ZenBusiness review.
Service Features:
- ZenBusiness Registered Agent Service ($199): Contains online document access, business formation access, and professional assistance.
- ZenBusiness Starter Package ($0 + $100 State Fee): The Starter Oregon plan includes standard corporate filing, covering name search. Usual filing time (2 to 3 weeks) is fitting if not rushed. Opt for Starter to receive free first-month banking and a bank account. Try bookkeeping for tax savings and faster invoicing. Don't overlook optional worry-free compliance, shielding from legal consequences; free for the first year.
- ZenBusiness Pro Package ($199 + $100 State Fee): Choose the Pro Plan for quicker expedited filing (1 to 2 business days). This package offers extra Oklahoma LLC formation benefits compared to the Starter option, including an EIN and an operating agreement.
- ZenBusiness Premium Package ($349 + $100 State Fee): The ZenBusiness Premium Plan contains all Pro plan features and introduces business document templates to avoid repetitive tasks that are often time-consuming. This plan also provides a complete digital presence package, including domain name registration, domain privacy, and a dedicated business email address, ensuring your online presence is cohesive and professional.
- 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.
- Better deals for ancillary services might be found elsewhere.
- Recurring fee for worry-free compliance after first year.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
1000+ Reviews
Bizee (formerly Incfile) is unquestionably the most economical LLC formation service compared to other companies. They assist startups in the formation of businesses and the filing of compliance paperwork and taxes.
Bizee helped us open an LLC for $0 (plus state fee), and for that price, we got free registered agent services for a year.
Our team tried out their Oregon registered agent packages and found that they have an easy-to-use and fast platform. We had instant access to every document.
Whenever we had questions or needed guidance, their team was always on standby, ready to provide practical advice and answers.
This level of support, combined with their fast and efficient platform, made our experience with Bizee exceptionally positive.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($119/year): Oregon registered agent service is free for the first year if made with an LLC formation package, and after the first year, the renewal will be $119 per year.
- Silver Package ($0 + $100 State Fee): Oregon Silver Package includes unlimited name searches, a year of free registered agent services once you form an LLC with them, creation and filing of the articles of organization, and unlimited phone and email support.
- Gold Package ($199 + $100 State Fee): Oregon Gold Package includes everything Silver Package features plus EIN Business Tax Number, IRS Form 2553, operating agreement, and banking resolution. Lifetime company alerts are included to inform clients of upcoming filing requirements. Golde Package also includes an online access dashboard, business banking account, and business tax consultation.
- Platinum Package ($299 + $100 State Fee): Oregon Platinum Package includes everything from the Gold Package, plus business contract templates, free next day filing, and domain name + business email.
- Free LLC formation package available.
- One year of free registered agent services included.
- Free 1-hour consultation with a professional.
- Difficult refund and cancellation process reported by some customers.
- Customer support has been criticized for being less responsive.
4 - LegalZoom (Best Premium)
LegalZoom, a leading Oregon registered agent service, boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their trustworthiness and prompt resolution of customer complaints.
I decided to give them a try, and was not disappointed. LegalZoom registered agent services is one of the industry's top highly experienced formation service providers in Oregon.
LegalZoom provided me with solid customer support and many resources.
The downside is the price, as it may not be the most affordable solution to opening an LLC in Oregon if you're on a tight budget.
Strong reliability will make up for slower turnaround times, which may demand more patience.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($299): The initial year fees cost $249 if you want to form your LLC with them. The subsequent renewal fee of the following year will cost $299. This package comes with a Compliance Calendar, important email alerts, and a 1 M dollars identity theft cover.
- Basic LLC Formation Package ($0 + $100 State Fee): Basic package includes name search and business entity filing. To help with tax-related questions this package contains tax savings consultation and seven days a week of lifetime customer support. A digital tracker is also included in this package, next to a customizable website powered by Wix, and an entrepreneur’s business newsletter.
- Pro LLC Formation Package ($249 + $100 State Fee): It encompasses all the services featured in the Basic package along with additional benefits like tax and insurance advisory services, and a comprehensive business licensing manual. Further, you'll also get an EIN and an operating agreement.
- Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $100 State Fee): It includes all features on the Pro plan plus a tailored guide from a skilled Oregon corporate attorney. Additionally, you'll get 30 minutes of unrestricted consultations regarding current legal issues and any alterations to your formation documents made within three months of your initial subscription.
- Affordable services for individuals and small businesses.
- Wide range of customizable legal documents.
- Convenient online and phone support.
- 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.
5 - Swyft Filings Registered Agent
Swyft Filings offers comprehensive services to initiate, manage, and conclude your business.
They offer a premium registered agent service, complete with a registered office address, ensuring prompt and efficient handling of your legal documents.
Their expertise extends to various basic services, tailored to support your business needs effectively.
From our experience, Swyft Filings demonstrates a commitment to client convenience and support. They accept legal documents on your behalf, providing peace of mind and freeing you to focus on your business growth.
While some services may require a few days for completion, their thorough approach ensures accuracy and compliance.
Swyft Filings provided a free template to help me with a business plan and incorporation documents.
Uncover valuable information about this company by referring to Swyft Filings' evaluation.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($99): Oregon registered agent service costs $99 per three months, and this will be an ongoing quarterly subscription, according to a sales representative.
- Basic Package ($0 + $100 State Fee): Basic Oregon Package gets your business approved by the states, free 30 business tax consultation, and a free domain name.
- Standard Package ($199 + $100 State Fee): Standard Oregon Package includes everything in the basic package and you also get an additional Federal Tax ID (EIN) and most legal documents needed to start your business (operating agreement, banking resolution, and organizational minutes).
- Premium Package ($299 + $100 State Fee): Premium Oregon Package includes all basic and standard services and additional ones, including free eDelivery of state documents (docs uploaded to account for ease of access), customized digital LLC kit, and free business website and web hosting.
- One of the lowest base prices on the market.
- Offers installment payments for ease of budgeting.
- Fast processing times for quick business formation.
- Registered agent services not offered in base price.
- Employer identification number application not included in base price.
6 - Harbor Compliance Registered Agent
Harbor Compliance is a distinguished provider in the realm of LLC development, formation, and corporate compliance.
According to Harbor Compliance's website, more than 40,000 clients choose their compliance solutions, highlighting their expertise and trustworthiness in the industry.
Their services are particularly tailored to meet the needs of small businesses and charities, offering an affordable yet robust solution for registered agent requirements in Oregon.
Harbor Compliance is adept at navigating the complexities of LLC formation and ensuring adherence to corporate compliance standards.
They also offer cost-effective solutions, making them an ideal choice for small businesses and non-profit organizations.
From my experience, Harbor Compliance stands out for its commitment to client privacy and transparency in billing practices.
They are meticulous in not auto-billing or storing payment card information, which speaks volumes about their respect for client confidentiality and security.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($89-$99): This Oregon registered agent service costs from $89 to $99 annually per state with no additional charges, and you get a 5-10% discount if you pay ahead for registered agent services for +2 years.
- Formation Package ($99 + $100 State Fee): Oregon Formation Package includes checking name availability, preparing and filing your articles of organization with the state.
- LLC formation can take as little as two business days.
- Specialized licensing services for regulated industries.
- Simplifies licensing and entity management.
- No free option for cash-strapped startups.
- Charges for registered agent service, unlike some competitors.
7 - Oregon Registered Agent Service
While not as expansive as some national competitors, Oregon Registered Agent LLC offers quality services at competitive prices.
They offer a well-organized and easy-to-follow price structure, ensuring transparency and ease of understanding for their clients.
While using their services, I was provided with an Oregon registered office address, which was a smooth and efficient process.
Based on my experience, the standout features include same-day document scans and instant access to registered agents without worrying about hidden fees.
Oregon Registered Agent LLC also demonstrates their capability to handle legal warnings effectively, ensuring quick and reliable paperwork processing.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services (starting at $35): Upon hiring them to operate as your registered agent in Oregon, you can be reassured of receiving no surprises on your credit card balance. Charged annually. They handle the process of serving their customers. Whenever mail from the Oregon Secretary of State or other authorities is withheld, or they cannot call you, they can notify your registered agent.
- Protect Your Online Account - This takes care of privacy concerns you may have.
- Reminders for Annual Reports - The state sends a notice about 45 days before the reporting is scheduled. They offer their customers a secured online account to allow them to monitor their yearly report deadlines. They can provide several email reminders to submit your Oregon yearly report promptly.
- Obtain Instant Access to State of Oregon Forms for Filing - When you subscribe to the registered agent service, you are automatically connected to your internet account, where you can discover many of the documents you might need to submit to the State of Oregon, pre-filled with their Oregon registered agent information for you to file right away.
- Excellent Customer Service - They can be reached by phone or email.
- Affordable service at $35 per year.
- Local Oregon office in Salem for immediate service.
- Instant online business presence with various tools.
- Potential lack of nationwide service coverage for businesses operating in multiple states.
- Additional tools and services may not meet all business needs.
Why You Should Trust Us
When it comes to selecting the right registered agent service for your Oregon-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 Oregon.
Therefore, when I recommend Northwest Registered Agent as the premier choice for your registered agent needs in Oregon, 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 Oregon?
When selecting a registered agent in Oregon, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure seamless business operations.
Venture Smarter team of experts has thoroughly evaluated numerous registered agent services in Oregon, focusing on aspects such as pricing, customer service, and features.
This comprehensive approach helps in identifying the best-registered agent services tailored to the specific needs of businesses, from startups to established enterprises.
To determine the top registered agent services in Oregon, we reviewed 7 leading providers.
Our methodology involved anonymous interactions with their business formation and services, leveraging insights from an independent review team for unbiased, evidence-based suggestions.
This process included a detailed assessment of each service provider's offerings, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation.
1. Pricing
The cost of a registered agent service is a critical factor, particularly for startups or small businesses that often face budget limitations.
These services' expenses can greatly affect a company's operational costs. Hence, it's essential to balance cost-effectiveness and high-quality service.
We compared the annual fees and additional costs of various registered agent services in Oregon.
Bizee emerged as a highly cost-effective option, offering its registered agent service at an annual fee of $119. Harbor Compliance also offers an affordable option, with their registered agent service priced between $89 to $99 annually.
In contrast, some services like LegalZoom, which charges $299 annually for its registered agent service, may be less appealing to those on a tighter budget.
2. Features
The effectiveness of a registered agent service hinges on the features it provides.
Service features in registered agent services are crucial because they directly impact the efficiency and ease with which a business can manage its legal obligations.
I prioritized services that surpassed basic requirements, offering extra tools and resources to support business growth.
We examined the specific features provided by each registered agent service, such as availability of online document access, compliance alerts, and additional business services.
Top performers like Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness provide comprehensive features that cater to the diverse needs of businesses, ensuring efficient management of legal and compliance-related tasks.
On the other hand, services like Swyft Filings, while offering basic functionalities, may not provide the same level of comprehensive features, potentially impacting their overall value proposition.
3. Customer Service
In the business world, time equates to money. Customer support is a critical aspect of registered agent services, especially in legal and compliance matters.
Prompt and knowledgeable support can significantly reduce the stress and uncertainty often associated with legal processes.
We conducted multiple secret shopper tests, contacting each service's customer support with a set of pre-determined questions at different times. We evaluated each service based on response time, the accuracy of the information provided, and overall helpfulness.
Northwest Registered Agent came on top for its excellent customer service, providing swift and knowledgeable responses through various channels.
ZenBusiness also stood out for its extended chat support and positive client feedback, strongly emphasizing customer satisfaction.
Despite its reputation, some LegalZoom users have reported slower response times and higher costs, which might affect overall customer support satisfaction.
4. Confidentiality
Selecting a registered agent service requires utmost confidentiality due to the sensitive nature of the business information they handle. This information encompasses legal documents, personal contact information, and, occasionally, financial details.
From the list of registered agent services in Oregon, Northwest RA stood out for their strong stance on privacy protection. Their service includes privacy by default, ensuring client information is not unnecessarily shared or exposed.
Harbor Compliance service is highlighted for its serious approach to customer privacy. They have policies against auto-billing and storing payment card information, reflecting their commitment to data security.
5. Turnaround Time
Efficient turnaround time is essential for maintaining legal compliance and ensuring timely responses to legal inquiries or obligations.
Northwest Registered Agent stands out for its swift LLC formation and prompt response to queries via email or phone. ZenBusiness offers expedited filing (1 to 2 business days) in their Pro Package, which indicates a quick turnaround time.
On the other hand, LegalZoom and Swyft Filings might have comparatively slower turnaround times.
6. Transition Process
Switching to a new registered agent service is a pivotal step for any business, as it plays a key role in maintaining continuity and adhering to legal obligations.
Ensuring a smooth transition is essential to prevent any gaps in the management of legal documents. Such gaps could result in missed deadlines, issues of non-compliance, or potential legal consequences.
Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness were the top performers in offering a smooth transition.
7. Third-Party Reviews
Third-party reviews are crucial in evaluating registered agent services as they offer unbiased insights into the quality and reliability of these services.
Reviews from platforms like TrustPilot and user testimonials provide real-world experiences, helping potential customers make informed decisions.
From our analysis, Northwest stands out with positive feedback for its privacy protection, great customer service, and 20 years of industry experience.
ZenBusiness is praised for its reasonable pricing model and extended chat support. It has received positive client feedback and offers a 60-day money-back assurance.
While offering comprehensive services, services like LegalZoom and Swyft Filings may not be the best in terms of affordability and additional benefits.
8. Ease of Use
The simplicity of operation is a key consideration in selecting a registered agent service, particularly for business owners who might not have a deep understanding of legal and compliance intricacies.
A service that is easy to use streamlines the management of legal documents ensures adherence to state regulations, and assists in various administrative duties.
Bizee and Swyft Filings stand out for their emphasis on user-friendly interfaces. Bizee offers an easy-to-use online dashboard, and Swyft Filings has a user-friendly website.
How Much Does a Registered Agent Service Cost in Oregon?
Registered agent service providers in Oregon cost between $35 to $299 annually, depending on the service package and provider. Acting as your own registered agent or appointing a friend or family member for this role is a cost-free option.
What Are the Requirements for an Oregon Registered Agent?
As per Oregon law (ORS 60.111), an Oregon registered agent must have the required qualifications:
- An Oregon registered agent must be a legal resident or a corporation that offers agent services.
- Oregon registered agents need a registered office (an address in Oregon).
- Throughout regular business hours, the registered agent must handle necessary paperwork (service of process).
"By employing a registered agent, businesses can delegate their legal document acceptance process, granting them increased flexibility in the workplace, while ensuring that sensitive legal papers are not delivered in front of clients or customers."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
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FAQs
Can I Be My Own Registered Agent in Oregon?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent as long as you have an address located in Oregon and can handle necessary paperwork (service of process, lawsuits, legal claims, court orders, and so on) on behalf of the company.
How to Find a Registered Agent in Oregon?
To find a registered agent in Oregon, ask for suggestions from the Secretary of State. You may also search reviews and recommendations on the internet to help you decide what registered agent suits your business.
Venture Smarter Verdict on the Best Oregon Registered Agent
After delving into Oregon's registered agent services, I must say that selecting the right one can significantly impact your business.
My top choice is Northwest Registered Agent, regarding reliability, confidentiality, and peace of mind.
Northwest Registered Agent not only ensures compliance with state regulations but also goes the extra mile to safeguard your information and privacy.
Throughout my journey, they consistently answered my questions and expertly guided me through the legal process.
Venture Smarter #1 Recommendation
Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
- Keeps your address off public records.
- Great customer support for any queries.
- Very reasonable prices with special discounts.
- Over 20 years of business experience.
- They don’t sell your customer data.
- Free Registered Agent service for the 1st year.
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of April
- Not the cheapest option available.
- Limited physical presence for in-person service.
