What’s a Registered Agent (and Why You Can’t Just Use Your Mom’s Address)?

Let’s talk about one of the most overlooked parts of your business setup: the registered agent. Yes, it’s a real role—and no, you can’t just use your home address or ask your mom to do it temporarily.

A registered agent is a person or service responsible for receiving legal and official documents on behalf of your LLC. This includes tax forms, compliance reminders, and potential legal notices.

Most states allow you to list yourself, but here’s what that means:

  • You must be available at a physical address during business hours—every weekday.
  • That address becomes public record, which can affect your privacy.
  • If you move or miss a notice, you risk falling out of compliance.

You didn’t start a business to become your own mail clerk. Let’s be honest.

  • Keeps your personal address private
  • Maintains compliance, even when you’re unavailable
  • Filters the noise and delivers only the essentials

This isn’t just a checkbox—it’s key to staying legally sound. Using a reliable service saves time, stress, and potential penalties.