California Registered Agent Requirements
Complete guide to registered agent requirements, qualifications, and compliance for businesses in CA.
Registered Agent Requirements
Registered Agent Required: Yes
All business entities registered in California must maintain a registered agent.
- Must maintain a physical street address in California (not a P.O. Box)
- Must be available during business hours (8 AM - 5 PM PT) to receive legal documents
- Must accept service of process on behalf of the business entity
- Can be an individual resident of California or a qualified business entity authorized to do business in California
Who Can Serve as Registered Agent
- Individual: Must be at least 18 years old and a resident of California
- Business Entity: Must be registered with the California Secretary of State
- Cannot serve as registered agent for a company in which they are an officer, director, or employee in certain circumstances
Registered Agent Responsibilities
- Receive and forward legal documents, including service of process
- Receive official correspondence from the California Secretary of State
- Receive tax notices and compliance documents
- Maintain availability during standard business hours
- Keep accurate records of all documents received
Costs
- Individual Registered Agent: Free (if using company officer/employee)
- Professional Service: $50 - $300 per year (professional registered agent service)
Compliance Requirements
- Annual Statement of Information due every 2 years (LLC) or annually (Corporation)
- Registered agent information must be kept current with the Secretary of State
- Change of registered agent requires filing with the Secretary of State
- Failure to maintain a registered agent can result in administrative dissolution