7 Best Registered Agent Services in South Dakota (2024)

Finding the ideal registered agent for your company in South Dakota may take time and energy as the market is flooded.

Drawing from my extensive experience in LLC formation and management, I understand the complexities and nuances of this choice.

Partnering with seasoned legal experts, we have conducted thorough research to identify the most efficient and reliable registered agent services in South Dakota.

Our rigorous evaluation process, grounded in practical insights and legal expertise, has led us to curate a list of the top seven registered agent services for 2023.

Top 7 Best Registered Agents in South Dakota (December 2024)

1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)

Would you recommend Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)?

Northwest offers a budget-friendly LLC registered agent service. From scanning documents, forwarding the papers, and reminding you of other deadlines and filings, especially paying taxes.

We tested Northwest Registered Agent service packages and can confirm they have provided us with exceptional quality and dedication.

Although it's not the cheapest registered agent service, Northwest is worth the price, as evidenced by numerous good reviews about them online.

Their customer service team is competent, friendly, and knowledgeable, with solid confidentiality and privacy.

If you're looking for a smooth ride in starting and running your business, Northwest Registered Agent is your go-to in South Dakota.

Service Features:

• Premium South Dakota Registered Agent Service ($125): This registered agent service package includes 60 days of free phone service, physical address for business, forwarding of mail, privacy by design, and reminders to annual reports. The first year of this service is free if you choose Northwest to form your LLC.
• Basic Package ($39+ $150 State Fee): With this plan, you will get all the necessary documentation to form your LLC, including expedited processing speed.
• Full Service LLC Formation Package - ($225 + $150 State Fee): Full Service includes same business day filing, free limited mail forwarding, and a space for the additional business upgrade. Next to operating agreement, this package brings a client account packed with forms and tools that are free.

2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)

Would you recommend ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)?

ZenBusiness focuses on business entity formation services In South Dakota with low-cost plans and high-quality customer support.

We analyzed ZenBusiness's legal filing fees against other market players and found them to be pretty affordable for small business owners.

With $199 per year, they'll handle your docs, remind you of deadlines, and be your business assistant.

We gave them a try, and they didn't disappoint. They're efficient, budget-friendly, and have a buffet of packages to cater to your needs.

ZenBusiness is one of the most efficient LLC services for any company. Even though there are no free offers, their pricing range can work for anyone on a budget.

Service Features:

• Basic Registered Agent Service ($199): Provides a registered agent service for $199 billed annually.
• ZenBusiness Starter Package ($0 + $150 State Fee): This plan operates at a standard filing speed, typically taking 7 to 10 days. It includes deduction tracking and comes with 100% accuracy guarantee. Additionally, you have the choice to add worry-free compliance as an option. By choosing this, you can rest assured that you'll meet all deadlines for your state-mandated annual report. The first year of this feature comes at no extra cost, with the option to renew at $199 per year afterward.
• ZenBusiness Pro Package ($199 + $150 State Fee): The Pro Plan guarantees swift filing within 1 business day. It provides a guided operating agreement, ensuring both a solid structure and legal protection. This package also comes with extra benefits such as an EIN, a complimentary trial of banking services including a bank account for the first month, and user-friendly bookkeeping software. This software not only aids in financial management but also facilitates quicker payment processing through invoice generation.
• ZenBusiness Premium Package ($299 + $150 State Fee): Building upon the Pro plan, this option includes all its features while introducing business document templates to streamline paperwork. Additionally, you'll gain access to a free one-month trial of our website builder, followed by a monthly fee of $15. In addition to the 1-day filing speed, you will also get a business domain and a professional email address.

3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)

Would you recommend Bizee (Most Affordable)?

Bizee (formerly IncFile) is known for its wallet-friendly services. They start you off with a free basic package (minus state fees) to set up LLCs, corporations, and nonprofits.

Forming an LLC with Bizee is free and comes with a year of South Dakota Registered Agent Service.

But if you've already got an LLC and need the registered agent service, it's $199 a year.

We had a chance to try their service and got a nifty dashboard with commercial agents and a compliance calendar. Plus, they checked and scanned our docs before sending them over.

Bizee, a registered agent in South Dakota, has been in operation for almost twenty years, and its key selling point is its inexpensive costs of various services.

They provide extras like a free year of Registered Agent service and complimentary LLC compliance updates.

Service Features:

• Registered Agent Service ($119): Standard registered agent service, charged annually. This is the standard price for every renewal.
• Silver Package ($0 + $150 State Fee): Starting an LLC in South Dakota with them can give you a year of free registered agent services with all the features on offer.
• Gold Package ($199 + $150 State Fee): Gold Package builds on the Silver Package offer and brings more features. This package includes an EIN, IRS Form, and operating agreement to make business processes straightforward. With lifetime company alerts, you will be up to date on any changes.
• Premium Package ($299+ $150 State Fee): Premium Package includes Gold Package features and business contract templates, free next day filing, and digital online support. With this package, you will get a domain name and a business email to start building your brand from day one.

4 - Harbor Compliance (Best Premium)

Would you recommend Harbor Compliance (Best Premium)?

Harbor Compliance is well-known in the U.S. for LLC setups, having assisted in over 22,000 filings across the country as per the company's website. They assist business entities and NGOs in their LLC development, showcasing their extensive experience and reliability in the field.

What sets it apart from other competitors is its premium services.

We teamed up with them, and we were impressed with their performance. They were at pace with the official chats between us and the government, quickly ticking off all legal boxes.

Their attention to detail and drive to keep clients happy instilled in us a sense of trust in their capabilities to manage our business's compliance requirements proficiently.

We compared Harbor Compliance's fees and services with other companies and found it to be one of the cheapest, best-registered agent services. For just $99, they'll be your legal mailman. Plus, they throw in custom alerts, yearly reports, and sweet deals for bulk orders.

If you want to get the most return on investment, Harbor Compliance is your go-to. They tailor their services to fit all customers.

But heads up, small businesses might find Harbor Compliance a tad pricey.

5 - LegalZoom Registered Agent

Would you recommend LegalZoom Registered Agent?

LegalZoom is one of the industry's most established registered agent options, given its wide variety of services.

It provides clients with various services with a proven track record of dependability, many products, and top-notch customer service.

Their South Dakota agents provide you with compliance calendars and scan and forward essential documents. In addition, they refund unsatisfied customers. So, giving them a shot is a win-win.

Drawing from our experience, their Compliance Calendar is a real lifesaver for keeping tabs on those pesky compliance dates.

LegalZoom meticulously examines and duplicates relevant documents, and as registered agents, they swiftly contacted us via phone when we were given a court date.

Their keen attention to detail and rock-solid commitment to client satisfaction have been remarkable.

Overall, LegalZoom is a reliable service provider with industry know-how and the tools to do the job right for your business. Their extensive experience, evidenced by the over 4 million businesses that use their services, makes them a standout choice in the industry.

Service Features:

• Registered Agent Services ($299): If you go for LegalZoom to form your LLC you will pay $249 for the first year and $299 for subsequent renewal. This registered agent service package includes email alerts, unlimited cloud storage, a Compliance Calendar, and a $1 M worth of identity theft cover.
• Basic LLC Formation Package ($0 + $150 State Fee): The package features a name search, a customizable website powered by Wix, a digital welcome packet, and articles of organization.
• Pro LLC Formation Package ($249+ $150 State Fee): This package contains all the features available in the Basic bundle, as well as added benefits like an EIN, thorough guidance on South Dakota licensing, professional recommendations on insurance and taxes, and an operating agreement.
• Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $150 State Fee): The comprehensive package encompasses all the features of the Pro package alongside customized assistance from an experienced business lawyer. Furthermore, you will receive changes on your LLC formation documentation and infinite 30-minute consultations with an attorney within the initial 90 days of your subscription.

6 - Swyft Filings Registered Agent

Would you recommend Swyft Filings Registered Agent?

Swyft Filings, crafted by savvy attorneys, simplifies the startup game for budding entrepreneurs.

The company makes the whole process of establishing your firm more manageable. In addition, they provide LLC dissolution in South Dakota, corporate kits, LLC kits, and fast processing.

Their slick approach and easy-to-use platform made our formation process a breeze, sparing us precious time and keeping those stress levels at bay.

Swyft Filings offer low-cost services. But a registered agent is an exception. Regardless of that, their service delivers.

Just like LegalZoom, they also give a 100% refund if you're unsatisfied with their service.

Swyft Filings may have some dissatisfied customers since they seem less transparent about payments. However, most of their customers have positive experiences.

7 - South Dakota Registered Agent

Would you recommend South Dakota Registered Agent?

South Dakota also has a local registered agent service that you can use for a very affordable price.

The registered agent service only focuses on businesses in South Dakota, so you can bet that they know your state's requirements, papers, and rules.

They have a physical address to receive the documents on your behalf.

We put them to the test and their registered commercial agents quickly scanned, prepared, and forwarded our documents and even reminded us of the deadlines that we had to comply with.

We'd highly recommend them if you're looking for a solid registered agent service in South Dakota.

Why You Should Trust Us

You should trust the Venture Smarter team for your South Dakota LLC formation needs because we bring unparalleled expertise and dedication to the table.

Our journey in the LLC service industry is backed by rigorous testing and anonymous interactions with service providers, ensuring our recommendations are both unbiased and evidence-based. This meticulous approach guarantees that Venture Smarter readers receive only the most reliable and efficient service options.

The Venture Smarter team stands out for its commitment to transparency and integrity. We've delved deep into the complexities of LLC formation, partnering with legal experts to sift through numerous service providers.

Our detailed reviews are designed to empower Venture Smarter readers with comprehensive insights, from pricing and features to customer support and turnaround times, enabling informed decisions for your business's foundation.

Our dedication to your success extends beyond mere recommendations. The Venture Smarter community benefits from ongoing support, resources, and advice, ensuring your South Dakota LLC not only launches successfully but thrives.

By choosing Venture Smarter, you're not just selecting an LLC service; you're joining a community committed to your long-term business success. Trust us to guide you through the complexities of LLC formation, joining countless satisfied business owners who've realized their entrepreneurial dreams with our help.

How We Picked and Tested Registered Agent Services in South Dakota

Finding the best registered agent in South Dakota was an arduous task. Every business is unique, with companies ranging from fresh startups to big corporations.

Our methodology for selecting the top Registered Agent services in South Dakota involved a thorough review of various companies. We examined over 20 different providers, ensuring our analysis was unbiased and based on firsthand experiences.

Key factors in our evaluation included pricing, customer support, service features, turnaround time, third-party reviews, data confidentiality, ease of use, and the transition process for new clients.

Here are the criteria we used to rank the top-tier registered agent services: 

1. Pricing

Pricing is a crucial factor, particularly for startups or budget-conscious businesses. We emphasized cost-effectiveness in our evaluation.

We gravitated towards those striking the right balance between price and quality. After all, it is worth shelling out more for reliable service.

Bizee is the most affordable option, offering a free basic package to their Registered Agent Service and $119 annually. This makes it an excellent choice for cost-conscious businesses.

With its service at $125, Northwest Registered Agent also offers a competitive price considering the quality of services provided.

In contrast, LegalZoom, with its Registered Agent Services at $299, was on the higher end, potentially less appealing for those on a tight budget.

2. Service Features

The range of features an RA service offers can significantly enhance business management.

While a registered agent's main function is handling crucial state and legal documents, the best bring more.

We gave a thumbs up to those throwing in perks like compliance calendars, document scanning, and even help setting up a business. It's all about more bang for fewer bucks.

Northwest Registered Agent offers a comprehensive online dashboard and compliance alerts. ZenBusiness also provides a range of additional services. However, Swyft Filings, despite its strengths, lacked some advanced features offered by others.

3. Third Party Reviews

Third-party reviews are important when selecting an RA because they offer unbiased perspectives on the quality of RA services.

We didn't just take our word for it. We dived deep into online reviews from actual users.

Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness received high service ratings on platforms like TrustPilot. LegalZoom had mixed reviews, with some customers expressing concerns over service speed and pricing.

4. Confidentiality

When selecting a South Dakota RA the confidentiality of data is paramount.

Protecting this data safeguards a company's private information, ensures compliance with legal standards, and maintains client trust.

Northwest Registered Agent was noted for its strong data security measures. However, there were concerns about data protection with Swyft Filings, as some customers reported issues related to data breaches.

5. Transition Process

The process of transitioning is vital when changing to a different registered agent service. It guarantees continuous legal compliance and the seamless, efficient transfer of all essential documents.

"Ideally, a new registered agent service should ensure a smooth transition without any coverage gaps."

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

Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness excelled in providing a smooth transition for new clients, whereas Swyft Filings had occasional gaps in service coverage during transitions.

6. Turnaround Time

The speed of processing and relaying legal documents is crucial. It ensures timely compliance with legal requirements and can significantly impact the efficiency of business operations.

Northwest Registered Agent showed the quickest turnaround times, efficiently managing document processing. In contrast, LegalZoom, despite its overall reliability, had a slower pace in document processing.

7. Customer Support

Effective customer support is crucial for RA services. It helps resolve issues, maintain compliance, and ensure smooth operations.

We focused on responsiveness, knowledgeability, and availability.

Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness excelled in customer support, offering multiple communication channels and quick response times.

Harbor Compliance, while providing quality service, had some limitations in customer support availability compared to the others.

8. Ease of Use

A user-friendly platform is essential for client satisfaction. A registered agent with an easy-to-use platform makes it easier for business owners to manage their legal documents and compliance requirements.

Northwest Registered Agent offers an intuitive platform, while Bizee and Swyft Filings' platform was found to be less user-friendly, with a steeper learning curve for new users.

How Much Does Your Own Registered Agent Service Cost in South Dakota?

Good registered agent services in South Dakota typically cost between $99 and $349 annually. Some moderately priced registered agent services cost between $49 and $80.

You can also be your own registered agent at a zero cost.

Select the best option that suits your needs. Although your choice may cost you a few extra dollars, it should save you money, time, and energy in the long run.

See more about the full cost of forming an LLC in South Dakota.

What are the Requirements for a South Dakota Registered Agent?

Here are the requirements for a South Dakota registered agent:

• They should be able to receive critical state and legal documentation within regular business hours.
• If the registered agent is an individual, the individual's name and physical address are necessary.
• The registered agent must be above 18 years old.
• The address of the South Dakota registered agent should be an actual street address. PO mailboxes are not permitted.
• A South Dakota registered agent should physically live in the company's state or have a virtual office.
• If the agent is a corporation, it has to be in good standing and registered in the state.

Related Article:

• How to Look Up an LLC in South Dakota
• How to Change a Registered Agent in South Dakota

FAQs

Our Verdict on South Dakota’s Best Registered Agent Services

The list we've compiled constitutes Registered Agents with unmatched services. Our research shows Northwest Registered Agent stands out as the state's leading registered agent service provider.

We tried Northwest Registered Agent and were pleased with their helpful resources that came in handy when managing our business.

They made it easier for us to monitor payment deadlines and secure critical data.

Northwest Registered Agent Service has a team of professionals who will provide personalized assistance and valuable insights to help you with your LLC needs.

Plus, their services will save you time and money so you can focus on growing your business.