7 Best Registered Agents in Rhode Island (2025) To Work With
If you own an LLC in Rhode Island, it's essential to have a registered agent to handle state legal documents.
To find the best registered agent service, we teamed up with legal experts and evaluated various services in the state and, with expert insights, identified the top choices for your business.
| 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 |
| Harbor Compliance (Most Affordable) | $149 | Same-Day document access, email notifications, annual report notifications to stay compliant. | No | Yes | No |
| 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) |
| Rocket Lawyer | $249.99 with Rocket Legal / $124.99 with Rocket Legal+ | Receive important legal and tax communications, scanned official documents to your email, keep your personal business address private. | 30 days | Yes | Legal: Ask-a-lawyer via email & 30-minute monthly phone consultation per new matter (with subscription) |
| Bizee (formerly Incfile) | $99/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 |
| Swyft Filings | $199/year | Get notified of all incoming mail and upcoming government deadlines for tax filing and annual reports. | 60 days | No | No |
NorthwestTop 7 Best Registered Agents in Rhode Island (September 2025)
1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Safeguards your privacy by concealing your address on public records.
- Tailors services to your needs, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
- Highly-rated customer support provides expert guidance.
- Exclusive discount for Venture Smarter readers enhances affordability.
- Proven reliability with 25+ years in the industry.
- Commitment to data privacy by not selling customer information.
- Limited refund process, only available through phone communication.
- While initial services are affordable, additional add-ons can become costly.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses needing nationwide agent services with local scanning.
Who is it not for?
- Companies looking for the cheapest option.
The Verdict
Provides robust compliance services with a personal touch and privacy-focused approach. Ideal for businesses that prioritize detailed support and maintaining privacy.
Northwest Registered Agent is renowned for its high-quality services and customer relations, with a vast client base of over 3 million businesses nationwide according to the information on the company's website. This extensive reach underscores their reputation and the trust businesses place in their services.
Our team of legal experts found their commitment to data privacy particularly impressive.
They never sell data to a third party, which brings that sense of security. Their online portal is also well-secured and has access to some services.
If you come across any issues, on their platform, their knowledgeable agents will assist you.
They may be expensive if you are on a tight budget, but their features, such as data safety and great customer support, and worth the investment.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($125/year): Includes registered agent representation, business address for service of process, mail scanning & digital forwarding, and privacy protection. Free for the first year when forming an LLC.
- LLC Formation ($39 + $156 state fees): This plan includes business address & free digital mail forwarding, LLC operating agreement, and instant domain, website, email & phone number.
2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Demonstrates social responsibility, fosters community ties.
- Backs small businesses via services and grants.
- Streamlined, swift purchase procedures.
- Supports annual report filing and compliance.
- Lacks Registered Agent in formation plans.
- Extra cost for annual report service.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs needing a reliable RA service with added features.
Who is it not for?
- Those who do not require additional business services.
The Verdict
Offers comprehensive registered agent services with useful business tools, making it suitable for entrepreneurs looking for more than just compliance.
ZenBusiness offers tailored professional formation services in Rhode Island with a customizable dashboard. Their tailored services and customizable dashboards made the process seamless for me.
We liked that ZenBusiness is committed to assisting small business entity owners in starting, running, and growing a successful firm.
Their user-friendly website was full of resourceful information that helped us understand the legal side of running and managing our business.
They offer 24/7 access to their offices via phone or email, which is handy when there is a burning question about their registered agent services.
We recommend their Starter Plan for those with a fixed budget, which offers an operating agreement draft.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($99 for the first year + state fees): This package includes online document access, mail scanning, compliance alerts, privacy protection, and digital forwarding. It renews at $199/year after the first year.
- LLC Formation (Starting at $0 + $156 state fees): With this plan, you get standard filing service, operating agreement, EIN, and Worry-Free Compliance (first year free). Processing time varies depending on the package.
3 - Harbor Compliance (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Personal consultation with experts.
- Wide range of services offered.
- Responsive customer support.
- Higher cost than competitors.
- Occasional poor follow-up and service.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Multi-state businesses seeking efficient and streamlined compliance solutions.
Who is it not for?
- Single-state small businesses.
The Verdict
Great for larger or multi-state businesses due to its efficient, software-driven approach, offering simplicity and reliability in handling compliance.
I once switched to Harbor Compliance for a brief period. Their quality of service was impeccable, and I felt I got a good return on my investment.
They have experts ready to assist with any issues. From our experience, they will do their best to solve problems without your personal assistance.
We were impressed with their commitment to finding affordable services that will suit us the best.
They also offer first-time clients discounts for registered agent services and they will only invoice you annually.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($99 for the first year, $149/year renewal): Includes service of process, same-day delivery of scanned documents, and annual report reminders.
- LLC Formation ($99 + $156 state fees): This includes name availability check, preparing & filing Articles of Organization, and standard or expedited state filing options.
4 - LegalZoom (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- User-friendly website ensures easy navigation.
- Consistently positive feedback on customer support.
- Expedites business and legal setup.
- Higher LLC service fees may deter some.
- Tops the list in registered agent service pricing.
- Persistent attempts to upsell additional services.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses needing comprehensive legal and compliance services.
Who is it not for?
- Smaller businesses or those on a tight budget.
The Verdict
Higher priced but includes extensive legal and compliance aids. Best for businesses that need more than just a registered agent.
I remember using LegalZoom for some legal consultations a few years back. They're a dominant force in the legal and registered agent sector, and my experience with them was quite positive.
While it is not the cheapest choice in the registered agent industry, LegalZoom provided us, as their clients, with verified dependability, product variety, and excellent customer service.
With everything in view, LegalZoom may be the ideal registered agent choice for people seeking dependability and expertise from an industry leader for entrepreneurship development and online legal services.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($249/year): This service offers registered agent representation, privacy protection, and mail handling.
- LLC Formation (Starting at $0 + $156 state fees): You’ll receive Articles of Organization filing, name check service, tax consult, operating agreement, EIN, and unlimited attorney consultations (30-day subscription).
5 - Bizee
Pros and Cons
- Established for over 25 years, underscoring their proven reliability.
- Affordable Registered Agent Service, priced at only $119.
- User-Friendly Dashboard: Easy navigation and access to all services.
- Automated legal document forwarding.
- Document scanning isn't always swift.
- Customer support only available Monday-Friday.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- New businesses starting as LLCs, corporations, or nonprofits.
Who is it not for?
- Those operating solely in one state may find it excessive.
The Verdict
Affordable and straightforward, good for new businesses needing basic registered agent services across multiple states.
Bizee (formerly IncFile) provides online registered agent services, helping small businesses with formation, compliance, and tax filings tailored to each state's requirements.
Their best registered agent service is designed for the contracting state in which your business entity runs.
From our experience, they are one of the top registered agent services in Rhode Island, but their customer support is a bit limited.
They are available only during the week, and extended support would be beneficial for moments of crisis.
They gave us great free LLC creation help, which we highly suggest for clients seeking to form an LLC.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($249/year): This service offers registered agent representation, privacy protection, and mail handling.
- LLC Formation (Starting at $0 + $156 state fees): You’ll receive Articles of Organization filing, name check service, tax consult, operating agreement, EIN, and unlimited attorney consultations (30-day subscription).
6 - Rocket Lawyer
Pros and Cons
- Simplifies the process of creating legal documents.
- Access to free consultations with legal professionals.
- Efficient handling of legal contracts.
- Reports of unexpected fees.
- Confusion surrounding free trial and billing.
- Customer support accessibility challenges.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses looking for full legal services along with registered agent services.
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for a simple, basic RA service.
The Verdict
A bit more expensive but comes with a comprehensive suite of services and legal support, making it great for businesses anticipating complex needs.
Rocket Lawyer offers affordable legal documents and registered agent services, ensuring comprehensive legal support for Rhode Island businesses.
The organization takes pride in providing its Rhode Island customers with almost any legal support they require, whether it is business creation, generator legal assistance, or LLC registered agent.
As your Rhode Island registered agent, Rocket Lawyer will not only organize your documents and remind you of deadlines, but it will also serve as your physical address.
Rocket Lawyer is also a fantastic option if you need continuous legal services after opening an LLC in Rhode Island.
We hired them to form an LLC and we were guided through every step. In our experience, you will get ongoing support, as they have representatives assigned to each client account.
Their professional support answered every one of our questions during normal business hours.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($124.99/year with Rocket Legal+ membership, $249.99/year without): Offers handling of legal documents, privacy protection, and compliance reminders.
- LLC Formation (Free with Rocket Legal+ membership; excludes state fees): Includes free LLC filing for first-time customers, plus discounts on additional filings. Additional services like EIN, tax filing, and trademark filing are available at discounted rates with membership.
7 - Swyft Filings
Pros and Cons
- User-friendly, intuitive website interface.
- Exceptional customer service with fast responses.
- Consistently high ratings on Trustpilot and Sitejabber.
- Separate purchase needed for registered agent.
- Registered agent costs rise after the first year.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small businesses and startups that need fast and efficient services.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses that prefer to manage compliance internally.
The Verdict
Very supportive for small businesses with fast processing and a focus on privacy and compliance, but might be overkill for very small or less active businesses.
When I was on a tight budget, Swyft Filings was was my go-to for entrepreneurship services. Their quick response times were a game-changer for me, which is reflected in their impressive 4.8 average star rating from 6,609 reviews on their website.
Although your documents and information are published on their online dashboard, you can rest assured that your privacy is protected.
Aside from your registered agent, you are the only one who has access to them. No third party may use the information they collect through their First Party Cookies.
They will submit the necessary paperwork to state authorities on your behalf as your registered agent.
We liked their organization because we received swift responses to all of our questions.
Excessive upselling was the largest drawback, but reasonable turnaround times and flexible pricing made that irrelevant.
Service Features
- Registered Agent Service ($199/year): Legal requirement in most states; includes service of process, legal notices, and tax form forwarding.
- LLC Formation (Starting at $0 + $156 state fees): Features state filing service, name check, lifetime support, and secure online portal access. Higher-tier plans provide EIN filing, custom minutes, and a legal suite.
Why Should You Trust Us
You should trust the Venture Smarter team for your Rhode Island registered agent needs because we have meticulously evaluated various services to ensure they meet the specific legal and operational requirements of businesses in the state. Our selection process, led by legal experts, is both thorough and impartial, ensuring that our recommendations are solely based on the services' merit and relevance to Rhode Island LLCs.
The Venture Smarter team is committed to the success and compliance of your business. We understand the crucial role a registered agent plays in maintaining your company's standing with Rhode Island's regulations. That's why we've partnered with legal professionals and conducted anonymous interactions with service providers, leveraging the expertise of an independent review team to offer unbiased, evidence-based suggestions tailored to the needs of Venture Smarter readers.
Our goal is to provide Venture Smarter readers with peace of mind, knowing that their registered agent will handle state legal documents efficiently and with the utmost confidentiality. We aim to empower you, our readers, with all the necessary information to make an informed decision, ensuring that your business remains in good standing with Rhode Island laws and regulations.
By choosing the recommendations of the Venture Smarter team, you're not just selecting a registered agent service; you're opting for a partner dedicated to the protection and growth of your business in Rhode Island. Trust the Venture Smarter team to guide you to the best-registered agent service that meets the unique needs and legal requirements of your business.
How We Picked And Tested The Best Registered Agent Services In Rhode Island
To identify the top registered agent services in Rhode Island, we meticulously reviewed a range of providers.
Our approach involved anonymous interactions with their services, ensuring an unbiased perspective. We also sought the expertise of legal professionals familiar with Rhode Island's business environment.
Our evaluation focused on various aspects, including pricing, service features, customer support, turnaround time, third-party reviews, confidentiality, and ease of use.
1. Pricing
Basic registered agent services suffice for some companies. It's crucial to understand pricing to avoid paying extra for unnecessary features.
We analyzed the cost versus value of different services, focusing on their suitability for startups and small businesses. We evaluated if the package prices, like Northwest's at $125 for its privacy and customer support, were justified.
Northwest offers a balanced package at $125. Bizee is more affordable at $119/year. LegalZoom, targeting a premium market, charges $299.
2. Service Features
Basic registered agent services are often enough, and understanding their pricing can prevent overspending on unnecessary features.
We assessed each service's features, focusing on those relevant to Rhode Island businesses, like compliance alerts.
Northwest and ZenBusiness stand out for their privacy and management tools, while Rocket Lawyer is more expensive but comprehensive.
3. Customer Support
Our review of customer support involved direct interactions with each service's support team to evaluate their efficiency, knowledge, and problem-solving capabilities.
We particularly noted the availability and responsiveness of ZenBusiness's 24/7 support and compared it with the more limited hours offered by Bizee, assessing how these factors influence overall service satisfaction.
4. Turnaround Time
We measured the actual turnaround times for each service, from the submission of documents to the state to the notification of completion.
Bizee is noted for its rapid same-day processing, while Swyft Filings also offers quick response times.
Some services like LegalZoom may have longer turnaround times, impacting urgent business needs.
5. Third-Party Reviews
Choosing a registered agent service involves a certain level of risk, especially regarding handling sensitive legal documents. Positive reviews can help reduce this perceived risk by assuring potential clients of the service's reliability and effectiveness.
Based on our observations, Northwest and ZenBusiness generally receive positive feedback on platforms like TrustPilot, indicating strong customer satisfaction.
Other services like LegalZoom have mixed reviews, highlighting areas for improvement, particularly in pricing structure and turnaround time.
6. Confidentiality
Registered agents handle a variety of sensitive documents, including legal notices, government correspondence, and potentially confidential business information.
"Ensuring confidentiality means that sensitive information is protected from unauthorized access, which could otherwise lead to data breaches or information leaks."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
Based on this analysis, Northwest was particularly noted for its commitment to data privacy, not selling client data to third parties.
7. Transition Process
We reviewed the transition services offered by each registered agent, noting the procedures and safeguards in place to protect sensitive business information during the transfer.
We specifically looked at how Northwest and ZenBusiness manage this process, evaluating their effectiveness in ensuring a seamless and secure transition for businesses changing their registered agent services.
8. Ease of Use
We navigated each service's online platform, assessing the user-friendliness and accessibility of their tools and resources.
We highlighted ZenBusiness's platform for its ease of use and compared it with the more complex interfaces of services like Harbor Compliance, considering how these factors impact a business owner's ability to maintain compliance and manage their legal obligations effectively.
How Much Do Registered Agent Service Providers Cost in Rhode Island?
A statutory agent service in Rhode Island costs between $89 and $299.This amount varies depending on the statutory agent service you choose and the plans they offer.
If you want to cut the costs, you can act as your own registered agent service for free or designate a friend or a close family member for the position.
Related Articles:
- Rhode Island LLC Check
- How to Close an LLC in Rhode Island
- How Much Does an LLC Cost in Rhode Island
Requirements for a Rhode Island Registered Agent
The requirements for a Rhode Island registered agent include the following:
- Keep a registered physical office in Rhode Island
- Keep a Rhode Island physical address
- Maintain year-round normal business hours
- Acknowledge process service on clients' behalf
- Timely delivery of process and business documents to clients
FAQs
Can I Be My Own Registered Agent in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Rhode Island and many other states.
What Does a Rhode Island Registered Agent Do?
A Rhode Island registered agent receives papers on behalf of the firm and forwards them to the relevant party inside the company.
How Do I Change My Rhode Island Registered Agent?
To change your Rhode Island registered agent, you must submit a Statement of Change with the Rhode Island Secretary of State.
Our Verdict on the Best Registered Agent in Rhode Island
After diving deep into the realm of registered agent services in Rhode Island, I've come to some personal insights, and Northwest Registered Agent truly resonated with me.
Their commitment to data privacy was a breath of fresh air, ensuring my company's sensitive details were in safe hands. I also found their in-house support team to be a lifesaver, always ready to tackle any hiccups.
While there are many noteworthy services out there, the blend of swift formation, easy EIN acquisition, and top-notch account management make Northwest Registered Agent my top pick for Rhode Island.
Our #1 Recommendation
Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
- Safeguards your privacy by concealing your address on public records.
- Tailors services to your needs, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
- Highly-rated customer support provides expert guidance.
- Exclusive discount for Venture Smarter readers enhances affordability.
- Proven reliability with 25+ years in the industry.
- Commitment to data privacy by not selling customer information.
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of September
- Limited refund process, only available through phone communication.
- While initial services are affordable, additional add-ons can become costly.
