Top Rhode Island Registered Agents – Comprehensive Guide (March 2024)


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Rhode Island Registered Agent: If you wish to start a Rhode Island LLC, you have to appoint a registered agent. According to Rhode Island State Law, it is mandatory to have a Rhode Island Registered Agent if you are conducting business in the state. A registered agent receives all the official and legal documents from the State. They also receive the service of process if there’s any lawsuit in concern.

In the following guide, we have shared all the required information regarding hiring a registered agent, why you need a registered agent in Rhode Island, and who can be a registered agent for your LLC. Read this guide carefully before you hire a Rhode Island Registered Agent.

What is a Rhode Island Registered Agent

A registered agent (or a statutory agent or a resident agent) in Rhode Island is an individual or a business that represents your business in receiving official documents. These official papers include formation documents, business renewal documents, tax filing, and any legal document if the LLC gets sued by other companies. All these documents go straight to the registered agent’s official address in the state. While forming an LLC, it is mandatory to appoint a registered agent.

When you file the Rhode Island LLC formation papers with the Secretary of State, LLCs have to mention their registered agent’s name and address. When you choose a registered agent in Rhode Island, you can go for two options, hiring an in-house registered agent or outsourcing the service.

Hiring a Registered Agent in Rhode Island

You may have several options for hiring a registered agent in Rhode Island. To become a registered agent, one has to meet the basic eligibility criteria. If the minimum requirements are fulfilled, anyone residing in Rhode Island can represent your LLC as your registered agent.

Who Can Be a Registered Agent

  • The person must be above 18 years old.
  • The person must have a legal and physical address in the state where the LLC will operate.
  • The person must be physically present during normal working hours.
  • Anyone who fulfills the above requirements can act as a registered agent.
  • Recommended – You should use a professional registered agent in Rhode Island always.

Can I Be My Own Registered Agent

Yes, you can be your own registered agent. In fact, any member of the LLC, managers, and the owner can be a registered agent. Besides, someone from the owners’ family such as a spouse, relatives, or other family members, can also act as a registered agent. As mentioned above, anyone who is representing the business as an agent should fulfill the basic criteria.

Why You Shouldn’t Be Your Own Registered Agent

Many small businesses do not hire a registered agent to save a chunk of money. However, it is not recommended to be your own registered agent. There are a bunch of problems one has to face while being a registered agent of his own LLC. Following are some of the issues you face,

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  • If you are operating your business from home, or you are into web business, then your home address will be shared on the public portal. This address will be used for mailing and other official purposes. This will hamper your privacy.
  • A registered agent has to be physically available at the official address during working hours on working days for 52 weeks. Being your own registered agent might restrict your other work due to this.
  • The registered agent’s address must be up to date in the Secretary of State portal.

It is recommended to outsource the registered agent service to ease your work. As it protects your privacy, especially if you conduct your business from home. It is always wise to outsource the RA service than be your own registered agent.

Recommended: You can get the best registered agent service at a reasonable price with online LLC service providers. We recommend using –

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How to Choose a Registered Agent in Rhode Island

You can choose a Rhode Island Registered Agent in two ways, either you can employ an in-house RA or outsource the service. Another option is to be your own registered agent. However, it is recommended to outsource the service as it is less worrisome and hassle-free.

In-house Registered Agent

As far as the in-house registered agent is concerned, it can be anyone from the LLC, including you, or you can employ an individual for this position. In that case, your office or home address will be the Registered Agent’s office address. Every LLC has to share its principal office address, mailing address, and registered agent’s office address to the state public portal. Hiring a registered agent service will make it easier as you can use the RA’s address as a mailing address.

Outsourcing Registered Agent Service

You may also avail yourself of professional registered agent services. Doing so ensures that you will have the best service provider to represent your business. Following are the best Registered Agent services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries.

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$125 Per Year

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Note that availing of the services of professional registered agents would be your best option since you are guaranteed that whoever is handling your legal affairs knows their stuff well. If you are forming your LLC from scratch, then with LegalZoom Registered Agent, you will get the full formation package.

What to Consider While Choosing a Rhode Island Registered Agent

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a registered agent.

  • Service Fee: Since most states require formal businesses to have registered agents, selecting the best-registered agent is critical. Hiring a registered agent typically costs between $99 and $300 annually. When you consider how much time it will save you, this is a small price to pay.
  • Tenure in Business of Registered Agent: You want the registered agent to have established and time-tested procedures for handling documents. We recommend Registered Agent Services that have been in business for a long time. They are experienced and well capable of handling all your documentation.
  • State Jurisdiction Limitation: If your company expands to another state, you should use the same registered agent in all states to reduce the administrative burden of dealing with multiple registered agent service providers. Check out the best Registered Agent Services to consider for this job.
  • Offer Monitoring and Follow-up Services: You want to receive up-to-date information and alerts from your registered agent as soon as possible so that you are aware of the various statutes, rules, and regulations that apply to your company. Some of the service providers offer this service. Make sure to choose an RA service that includes this service.

How to Appoint a Registered Agent in Rhode Island

At the time of submitting the Rhode Island Articles of Organization, the registered agent can be appointed by the LLC. It can be done online or by mail. No additional fee is charged for appointing a Registered Agent. Only the state filing fee should be paid.

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Appoint Registered Agent Online

To appoint a registered agent online, you have to go to the Rhode Island LLC Online Filing page and provide the information of your Registered Agent accordingly.

Appoint Registered Agent By Mail

To appoint a registered agent in Rhode Island by mail, you need to download the Rhode Island LLC filing form (PDF). Fill up the “Registered Agent” section with appropriate details of the agent and submit it to the SOS office. For more information, read on Rhode Island Articles of Organization.

Cost of a Rhode Island Registered Agent

The cost of having a registered agent can be variable. It depends on whether you are employing an in-house registered agent, being your own agent, or outsourcing the service. The cost of having a registered agent can start from $99 and go up to $300 per year. It will be cost-effective if you outsource the registered agent service in Rhode Island.

Registered Agent services that also provide LLC formation packages can provide the same service at a lower price. For example, LegalZoom Registered Agent offers standalone registered agent service at $299 per year, but if you buy their LLC formation package at $0 + state fees, you might get a registered agent service at a low cost.

How to Change a Registered Agent in Rhode Island

To change the Rhode Island registered agent, you must file a Change of registered agent or office by entity form. This form can be submitted to the Rhode Island Secretary of State via mail or online.

File Online

For online filing, you need to get the online form, which is available on the Rhode Island Secretary of State portal. Fill in all the necessary information of LLC as well as current and old registered agents. This form must be completed and signed by the newly appointed registered agent and any authorized member of the LLC. The signature of the new registered agent acts like the consent to be appointed as one. Submit it online.

Fee: $20

File By Mail

You can also choose to file the form through the mail. You need to download the Change of registered agent or office by entity form from the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s portal. Fill in all the details on your computer. The completed form is to be signed by the newly appointed registered agent. The duly signed form must be sent to the following address,

Mail to: Division of Business Services
148 W. River Street
Providence, RI 02904-2615

How to Pay: The filing amount is payable to the Rhode Island secretary of state through a credit card when filing online/by email. For paper filing, you can choose to pay through money order or check.

Why Do LLCs in Rhode Island Need a Registered Agent Service

There are several reasons why a business should appoint a registered agent in Rhode Island. Some of the most important reasons are listed below,

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  • Confidentiality: Having a registered agent service in Rhode Island ensures the complete privacy of your business and related documentation. Appointing a registered agent company instead of an individual gets you privacy and confidentiality contracts beforehand.
  • Up-to-date Compliance: LLCs and corporates have plenty of paperwork and compliances that are to be updated on time. With a registered agent service, you don’t have to worry about those compliances as your registered agent will maintain a compliance calendar.
  • Privacy: It is mandatory for businesses in Rhode Island to publicly upload their address to the Rhode Island Secretary of State. If you are using the home address for your business, then it would not be safe to make your private address public. On the other side, appointing a registered agent service will cover you up here as they have to provide their address to the Rhode Island SOS and not yours.
  • Availability: Every registered agent has to be available during office hours of work on business days. If you hire a registered agent service, then they can be available at the required time without harming other tasks at the company.
  • Online Safe Backup: Every registered agent in Rhode Island or any other state usually takes an online backup of all the documents and paperwork. This ensures the LLC papers are securely saved in a central system.
  • Lawsuits or Summons: Getting summoned or involved in a lawsuit does not leave a good impression on the employees. With a registered agent, all the related papers will be delivered to the Registered Agent’s official address. Hence, owners do not have to receive any such papers in their office in front of their employees.

Rhode Island Business Laws for Registered Agents to Note

Business isn’t just a section of the magazine you put aside when looking for your favorite article; it’s the economic engine that affects the goods and services we buy. States have regulations controlling business operations because it influences so many aspects of our lives. Rhode Island registered agent needs to be aware of the below-mentioned business laws prevalent in the state:

Rhode Island Antitrust Laws

Antitrust law in Rhode Island is similar to antitrust laws in other states since it also emphasizes the prevention of monopolies and trade restraint conspiracies. In addition to civil litigation, violators may face criminal penalties, including imprisonment.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is responsible for overseeing and regulating publicly traded firms and businesses that operate across state lines. State courts, on the other hand, mostly deal with antitrust issues that take place within state borders.

Rhode Island Civil Statute of Limitations Laws

Anyone considering filing a lawsuit should be aware of the time constraints established by their state. The civil statute of limitations is a collection of statutory deadlines that force potential plaintiffs to file claims within a particular amount of time after the incident.

Personal injury, professional misconduct (including medical malpractice), and product liability cases in Rhode Island are limited to three years. Fraud, defamation, and property damage all have a 10-year statute of limitations.

Rhode Island Deceptive Trade Practices Laws

Advertisers frequently make lofty claims about their products or offerings, but they usually stop short of outright deceit. Exaggerating a product’s benefits is one thing, but state laws ban fraudulent advertising, passing used items off as new, and other deceptive commercial activities. The Deceptive Trade Practices Act in Rhode Island outlaws a long variety of deceptive business practices. Among them include, but are not limited to:

  • Taking another’s goods or services and passing them off as your own
  • Increasing the chances of misunderstanding the origin, sponsor, authorization, or accreditation of goods or services
  • False or misleading depiction of facts to disparage another’s goods, services, or business
Rhode Island Interest Rates Laws

There are legal limits on how much interest a creditor can charge borrowers, but several exceptions and at least one Supreme Court case have effectively eliminated most of these restrictions. Many state laws exempt revolving credit from these restrictions, whereas national banks may impose the maximum rate permitted in their home state, irrespective of the borrower’s location.

Rhode Island Wage and Hour Laws

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) establishes the minimum wage and overtime compensation regulations that must be observed across the country. However, each state has the authority to enact its own wage and hour regulations as long as they do not fall below the federal minimum criteria. In Rhode Island, employers are prohibited from paying staff less than $10.10 per hour.

FAQ

How To Change Registered Agent In Rhode Island?

Changes to the registered agent are possible in Rhode Island. You must download, complete, and submit an application for a RA change to the Secretary of State online, by mail at Division of Business Services, 148 W. River Street, Providence, RI 02904-2615, or by fax, depending on which option is most convenient for you. In Rhode Island, it costs $20 to switch the registered agent.

How To Become A Registered Agent In Rhode Island?

You must fulfill certain conditions in order to be a registered agent in Rhode Island. Being legally an adult (18+) is one of the most crucial requirements. You furthermore need to be a Rhode Island resident. You may register as an agent if you satisfy these requirements.

Who Can Be A Registered Agent In Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, a registered agent might be a spouse, any LLC member, a member of your family or group of friends, or even you. The only requirements are that you be a resident of the state and an adult (18 years or older). Being a registered agent is simple if you can meet the criteria.

How To Change Registered Agent Address In Rhode Island?

It’s simple to update a registered agent’s address in Rhode Island. You must file the RA Change Form, which may be found on the website of the Rhode Island Secretary of State. Please enter the new address in the form. Depending on what option is available to you, submit it online, by mail to the Division of Business Services, 148 W. River Street, Providence, RI 02904-2615, or by fax. To change the address, there can be a cost.

How To Find A Company’s Registered Agent In Rhode Island?

By accessing the Rhode Island SOS website, you may locate a company’s registered agent. When searching, use the company name if you know it. Get the registered agent information from there if you find the firm you are searching for.

What Does A Registered Agent Do In Rhode Island?

It is required by law in Rhode Island for your business to have a registered agent. Any papers, licenses, and notifications will be sent to your registered agent, who will also be in charge of receiving legal actions brought against the business at his registered address. He or she must be accessible at their workplace throughout business hours.

How To Search For Registered Agent Address In Rhode Island?

The official website of the Rhode Island Secretary of State is where you may look up a registered agent’s address in that state. Look for the following actions to look up the registered agent’s address:
1. Visit Rhode Island SOS’s official website.
2. Use the business name to search for information about the firm
3. Find the list of registered agent addresses.
By doing this, it will be simpler to locate the registered agent’s address.

How Do I Look For A Business In Rhode Island By The Registered Agent Name?

You may look for a company in Rhode Island by its registered agent’s name. Visit the official website of the Secretary of State for Rhode Island. Look for “Business Search” under the menu. You may “Search by the registered agent” in the search part of the website. Make your choice, then type the name of the registered agent. The company name will be given to you.

What Is Required Of A Registered Agent In Rhode Island?

The primary requirements for a registered agent in Rhode Island are that they are at least 18 years old and have a physical residence there. A resident of the state who meets the age minimum and is an entity may serve as the registered agent.

How To Look Up The Registered Agent Of A Corporation In Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, you must go to the Rhode Island SOS to check for a registered agent for a company. You must choose Business Search from the main page. If you know the company name, use that to search for businesses. To see more information, choose Registered Agent.

How Do I Resign As A Registered Agent In Rhode Island?

If the company the registered agent was working for requires a formal resignation letter. A resignation notification must be sent by mail, fax, or online to the Rhode Island Secretary of State once the employer accepts the letter. The notification must be delivered within the allotted period.

How To Update Registered Agent In Rhode Island Online?

By login onto the website of the Rhode Island Secretary of State, you may make changes to a registered agent there. Make sure the online method is accessible to you before continuing, however, before moving further. Alternatively, mail the RA Change Form.

How To Get A Free Registered Agent In Rhode Island?

You may get a registered agent for nothing in Rhode Island. You won’t need to pay anything to yourself in person if you act as your own registered agent. You may be able to save the expense if your partner or a friend joins an agency. Finally, you have the option of using a free registered agent service in Rhode Island.

How To Research For Registered Agent Information In Rhode Island?

Visit the Rhode Island Secretary of State if you want to learn more about the registered agent in that state. The “Search Business” option will appear. By using its name, you may search for your company. You will be able to extract the registered agent’s information from the list when you get the results.

Where To Mail Registered Agent Forms In The State Of Rhode Island?

There is no distinct registered agent form in Rhode Island. Businesses must choose a registered agent and provide their information through the formation paperwork while establishing their company. The Division of Business Services, 148 West River Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02904-2615, is the address for mailing the formation paperwork.

If A Company Does Not Have A Registered Agent In Rhode Island, Who Is Served?

Your firm must notify the Rhode Island SOS if it does not have a registered agent in the state. As a registered agent is required for every firm in Rhode Island, there can be a legal problem. If there isn’t one, you could have to act in Rhode Island as the registered agent.

How To Serve A Deceased Registered Agent in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, a registered agent’s rights are completely ended upon death. In Rhode Island, it is required to have a registered agent. The business must thus choose or replace a new registered agent. In the meantime, a manager, an official of the business, or the owner may act as the registered agent.

How To Hide Registered Agent Name From SOS Rhode Island?

For registering your company, there are certain guidelines in Rhode Island. You might find out whether you can keep your registered agent’s name from appearing on public platforms by visiting the Rhode Island Secretary of State. The name of a member may be concealed if you have an Anonymous LLC.

Who To Call To Identify Registered Agent Information In Rhode Island?

In order to learn more about the registered agent in Rhode Island, you must phone (401) 222-2357. This is the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s office phone number. To get to the department you’re looking for, you may need to wait and follow the caller’s instructions.

What Is Registered Agent’s Consent In Rhode Island?

An individual’s agreement to act as a registered agent in Rhode Island constitutes their acceptance of that responsibility. In Rhode Island, the newly appointed individual must provide his or her permission before beginning the process of serving.

What Is The Difference Between Registered Agent And Resident Agent In Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, the terms “registered agent” and “resident agent” are interchangeable. While the word “registered agent” is used in the majority of states, the phrase “resident agent” is used in other states. All states follow the same designation, appointment, and registration procedures.

What Happens If The Registered Agent Does Not Give A Consent In Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, if the registered agent does not give their consent, then the company might have to serve a legal penalty for presenting a false statement. However, the registered agent has the right to refuse any obligation that has been placed upon them.

Can An LLC Be Sued If There Is No Registered Agent In Rhode Island?

The corporation may still be sued even if there isn’t a registered agent in Rhode Island. The only issue is that there isn’t a representative for the business to receive the legal notification. However, the lawsuit will proceed, and the notice will be sent differently.

How To Reject The Registered Agent’s Designation In Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, a registered agent must file an application of rejection if they want to reject the designation. Simply have them sign the declaration of rejection and mail it to the Secretary of State of Rhode Island. It’s comparable to accepting the classification.

How to Remove a Registered Agent for LLC in Rhode Island

A registered agent for LLC in Rhode Island can be removed by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent with the Rhode Island Secretary of State with a filing fee of $20.

The first step in removing a registered agent for an LLC in Rhode Island is to review the state laws and regulations regarding registered agents. Each state has its own set of rules governing the appointment and removal of registered agents, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the requirements specific to Rhode Island. In Rhode Island, the regulations regarding registered agents are outlined in the state’s Limited Liability Company Act.

Once you have reviewed the relevant laws and regulations, the next step is to notify your current registered agent of your intention to remove them. This notification must be in writing and should include a formal request for resignation as the LLC’s registered agent. It is important to give your current registered agent a reasonable amount of time to complete any outstanding responsibilities before officially stepping down from the role.

After notifying your current registered agent, you must then appoint a new registered agent for your LLC. The new agent must meet all the requirements set forth by Rhode Island state law, including being a resident of the state or a registered business entity authorized to do business in Rhode Island. Once you have selected a new registered agent, you will need to file a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form with the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s office.

When submitting the Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form, you will need to include the name and address of the new registered agent, as well as the effective date of the change. It is important to ensure that all information provided on the form is accurate and up to date to avoid any potential delays in processing.

Once the Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent form has been filed and accepted by the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s office, your new registered agent will officially take over the responsibilities of receiving official documents and legal notices on behalf of your LLC. It is crucial to communicate this change to any third parties, such as business partners or legal representatives, to ensure a smooth transition.

In conclusion, removing a registered agent for an LLC in Rhode Island is a straightforward process that requires careful attention to detail and adherence to state laws and regulations. By following the steps outlined in this editorial comment, you can successfully navigate the process of changing your LLC’s registered agent and ensure continued compliance with Rhode Island state requirements.

In Conclusion

Before you choose a registered agent for your Rhode Island LLC, compare their price and services from the table. They will be responsible for all your documentation, filings, and other LLC-related tasks. Hence, choose the best one for your business that provides 100% accurate service at a reasonable price.

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