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How to Choose a Registered Agent in Ohio
You have an idea and want to start a business. There are several aspects to consider like getting a business name and applying for business licenses. One such important requirement of every new and existing business is that of a registered agent in Ohio. Some state laws have made it essential while in some states, this is an optional requirement. We have created this guide to help you understand Ohio registered agent requirements, the need to hire one, the services offered, and changing your registered agent.
Ohio Registered Agent
A registered agent is responsible for receiving service of process, important communications from the state communications, and legal documents on behalf of your company. They are also referred to as a statutory agent or a resident agent. All registered agents offer service of process but they also provide additional business services. These services may vary, and hence it is always recommended to conduct an Ohio registered agent search before hiring someone. The state of Ohio has, in fact, made it mandatory to hire and maintain an agent in this state.
What is an Ohio registered agent?
When choosing registered agent services in Ohio, you need to understand the functioning of a resident agent. If you are planning to start a new LLC or corporation in Ohio, then you will be required to prepare several documents and even file some of them with the state. When filing such documents, especially formation or incorporation documents, you will see that these applications require information pertaining to your chosen registered agent in Ohio.
So, who is a registered agent in Ohio? They can be an individual as well as a firm. If your company is ever served a lawsuit, then the processing authority will deliver the legal paperwork directly to the RA appointed by you. The duty of the registered agent will be to then forward the paperwork to you securely and quickly.
What are the roles and responsibilities of a registered agent in Ohio?
The Ohio state business laws have defined the roles and responsibilities of a registered agent and it is almost the same in all 50 states in the country. Registered agent services in Ohio are mandatory for both new and existing businesses as well as foreign companies. The responsibilities of a statutory agent include the following:
- Primary point of contact – The role of a registered agent in Ohio is to act as the primary point of contact for your company and the state government. Hence, they will receive all your official mail and legal documents and then forward them to your company’s designated representative.
- Service of Process – This is one of the most important Ohio registered agent requirements. Service of process is a legal procedure by which your vendor or customers can give an appropriate notice of legal action. Your registered agent in Ohio receives this notice.
- Maintaining compliance – When you appoint an RA in Ohio, they will help you or your company remain compliant with all state laws and requirements. For example, one of the most common requirements is an annual report. A resident agent will ensure you are notified in advance regarding the submission and may even assist you with the process.
Who can be a registered agent for your Ohio business?
The laws regarding a registered agent vary from state to state. It is also important to note that each state, including Ohio, has its own rules regarding the qualification criteria for a registered agent. The Ohio registered agent requirements state that an individual or a firm can act as your statutory agent or resident agent if they qualify.
What are the requirements of an Ohio registered agent?
If you are wondering if anyone can be a registered agent, then the answer is that it depends on whether such an individual or firm is compliant with state laws. The Ohio Revised Code Title 17 provides an insight into the Ohio registered agent requirements. If you want to hire an agent then it is recommended to conduct an Ohio registered agent search based on certain parameters. You need to check if your chosen agent fulfills most of the following requirements –
- He/she is a natural person and is a resident of this state
- A statutory agent should have a registered office address and not a P.O.Box
- Your chosen resident agent should have their physical address on the public record
- They should be present at their mentioned address during business hours
Can I be my own registered agent in Ohio?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Ohio. You can opt to be your own statutory agent, especially if you plan to form a sole proprietorship or partnership firm. You can be a registered agent in Ohio if you meet all state requirements as prescribed by the Ohio Revised Code. As an individual, there are specific criteria. You can offer registered agent services in Ohio if:
- You are over 18 years of age
- You have a physical street address, as PO Box addresses are not allowed
- You should be available during working hours throughout the week
How to choose a registered agent in Ohio?
If you are planning to register a new company in Ohio, then appointing a registered agent is crucial. This is because the 2022 Ohio Revised Code, Title 17, states that each domestic and foreign entity planning to transact in this state needs to appoint an RA in Ohio. So, if you want to hire an RA, then there are hundreds of individuals and firms to choose from. This is where you can conduct an Ohio registered agent search based on certain parameters. There are certain aspects that you need to look for while choosing a resident agent. Here are some tips that you may consider:
- One of the top qualities of any RA is availability. They must be physically present at their registered address during normal business hours. This will ensure that hand-delivered and mailed legal and business documents can be received.
- If you are planning to appoint an RA in Ohio, it is recommended that you choose someone with knowledge and expertise. They should have complete knowledge of business laws in the state, including compliance regulations.
- Your Ohio registered agent search should consider state-of-the-art processes. A reputed nationwide registered agent service like IncParadise offers a reliable application system like Entity Management Software. This system provides important alerts and notifications related to your company’s annual compliances.
- Some resident agents also provide mail forwarding services. This can be quite useful, especially if your business requires you to travel a lot. Even when you are not in Ohio, you will not miss any of your business mail.
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Why choose a professional registered agent service in Ohio?
The state of Ohio allows you, as the owner, to be your own agent, but it is recommended that you hire a professional service. This is because handling dual responsibilities may become difficult for you. Let’s look at an example.
For example – Imagine a situation where there is an extremely important meeting in Seattle or Austin. On the same day, you have to receive an important business document from the state. If you cancel your meeting, then it might affect business growth and profits. If you fly out for the meeting, then you will be unable to receive the document sent by the state. But, if you appoint RA in Ohio, a dedicated registered agent service, then you will be able to make the best of both situations.
There are several benefits to hiring a professional registered agent in Ohio, such as IncParadise. Some of the top benefits are:
- A professional RA service will maintain regular business hours. This will ensure they are able to receive all legal notices and important state documents
- An Ohio statutory agent will also forward these documents to you on time
- Professional registered agent services in Ohio will have a physical address, thus fulfilling a requirement of the state business laws.
- Some resident agent services also provide offsite storage facilities for legal and sensitive documents.
- A reputed registered agent in Ohio will send you automated reminders and notifications, such as those for filing annual reports in Ohio.
- Professional RA services help protect your company’s private information
IncParadise can be your chosen RA in Ohio as we are not only a highly professional service but also have several happy clients. We are well-versed with the state laws and requirements for all forms of entities. IncParadise also fulfills the requirement of maintaining business hours.
How to change a registered agent in Ohio?
If you are planning to change your existing statutory agent, then you need first to conduct an Ohio registered agent search. Once you have identified a professional and reliable agent, you will need to notify your former RA regarding the decision to change services. There can be a variety of reasons for changing RA services. These reasons can be personal in nature or purely from the point of view of business. The 2022 Ohio Revised Code governs the Ohio registered agent requirements for changing an RA in this state. The statutes remain the same for both domestic companies and foreign entities.
The process of changing a registered agent can vary from state to state, although some laws and regulations remain the same. Let’s examine the process for appointing an RA in Ohio.
The first step is filling and submitting the Statutory Agent Update (Form 521). The form has to be submitted to the office of the Ohio Secretary of State (SOS). There is a filing fee of $25 and you can submit it online or through postal mail. You will need to submit this form along with a filing form cover letter. You can also opt for regular service or expedited services. You will be required to submit an additional fee for the latter. The appointment of a new registered agent in Ohio will be governed by Ohio Revised Code sections 1701.07, 1702.06, 1703.041, 1782.04, 1706.09, and 1746.04.
Want to change your Ohio registered agent?
Choose IncParadise as Your Ohio registered agent
If you are planning to form a new company in Ohio or move your existing business, you must maintain a registered agent in this state. It is important to conduct an Ohio registered agent search so that you can find a professional service. IncParadise is one of the top and most highly reputed registered agents in this state. We comply with Ohio registered agent requirements as established by the office of the Secretary of State.
IncParadise will accept service of process related to business and legal communications on your behalf. We also provide Entity Management Software to all our clients, which provides access to email notifications for agent renewal and other registered agent services in Ohio.