Starting a business in Michigan requires several essential steps, and one of the most important is choosing a registered agent.
A registered agent serves as your business’s official point of contact with the state, ensuring that you stay compliant with all legal requirements. They handle critical documents, such as tax notices, legal summons, and compliance reminders, which must be received during regular business hours.
For business owners in Michigan, finding the right registered agent is crucial. A reliable agent will ensure that your business receives these documents promptly, helping you avoid costly fines or legal issues.
Not only does a professional registered agent service handle your legal mail, but they also provide privacy by keeping your personal address off public records, a feature that can protect you from unwanted solicitations and potential legal risks.
In Michigan, there are a variety of registered agent services available, each offering different pricing plans, services, and features. Some provide extra benefits like compliance alerts, online document storage, or even legal consultations. Others cater to specific needs, such as business formation, branding, or legal services.
When choosing a registered agent in Michigan, it’s important to consider factors like cost, reputation, customer support, and any additional services that may benefit your business. Whether you’re starting an LLC, a corporation, or another type of business, selecting the right registered agent will ensure that your company remains in good standing with the state, stays organized, and avoids potential legal troubles.
In this guide, we’ll review the top Michigan registered agent services for 2025, including their features, pricing, and what makes them stand out.
Whether you’re looking for a cost-effective solution or a comprehensive service that offers more than just mail forwarding, you’ll find a solution that suits your business needs. Let’s dive into our top picks for Michigan’s best registered agents in 2025.
Our Top Picks for Michigan Registered Agents
Here are our top picks for the best Michigan registered agent services for 2025, based on factors like customer reviews, pricing, ease of use, and additional features.
1. Northwest Registered Agent – Best Overall
2. ZenBusiness – Best Value
3. LegalZoom – Best for Legal Services
4. TailorBrands – Best for Branding and Additional Services
5. BetterLegal – Best for Simplicity
Each of these services has a strong reputation and offers distinct advantages. Let’s explore each one in detail.
Best Registered Agent Services in Michigan
1. Northwest Registered Agent
Price:
$125/year
Why We Like Them:
- Privacy by Default®: One of the key selling points of Northwest Registered Agent is their commitment to privacy. They shield your personal address from public view, which is crucial for business owners who want to keep their home address private.
- Customer Service: The company is known for its excellent customer service. When you reach out for assistance, you’ll be connected with a Corporate Guide® (someone with actual experience) to answer your questions, rather than a call center employee reading from a script.
- Same-Day Document Scanning: All legal documents received by your registered agent are uploaded to your online account on the same day, ensuring you never miss an important document.
- Compliance Alerts: With Northwest, you get timely reminders about compliance deadlines and filing requirements for your business, helping you avoid costly penalties.
How to Get Started:
To get started with Northwest Registered Agent in Michigan, simply visit their website, fill out the registration form, and choose the registered agent service. You’ll be guided through the process of setting up your business in Michigan.
2. ZenBusiness
Price:
$119/year (first year), $199/year (renewal)
Why We Like Them:
- Affordable Pricing: ZenBusiness offers competitive pricing, especially when you’re looking for a great deal without compromising on quality.
- User-Friendly Interface: ZenBusiness offers an intuitive platform that simplifies the business formation process, which includes setting up your registered agent service. This makes it a great choice for first-time entrepreneurs.
- Compliance Tools: In addition to registered agent services, ZenBusiness includes compliance alerts and reminders to help keep your business on track with state requirements.
- Free Registered Agent for the First Year: If you sign up for LLC formation with ZenBusiness, you can get registered agent service for free for the first year. After that, the annual renewal rate is highly competitive.
How to Get Started:
Visit ZenBusiness’s website, select the Michigan location, and choose the registered agent service. The platform will guide you through setting up your LLC, and you can select registered agent services as part of the process.
3. LegalZoom
Price:
$249/year
Why We Like Them:
- Comprehensive Legal Services: LegalZoom is well-known for offering a range of legal services beyond just registered agent services. If you need help with business formation, intellectual property, or ongoing legal guidance, LegalZoom can be a one-stop shop for all your business needs.
- Compliance Calendar: LegalZoom’s services come with a built-in compliance calendar to help you track important filing deadlines and avoid missing critical dates.
- Attorney Consultations: LegalZoom clients have access to consultations with legal professionals, which is a huge benefit for business owners who want personalized advice.
How to Get Started:
Head over to the LegalZoom website and navigate to the registered agent services section. You can choose to add this service to your existing LLC formation package or purchase it separately.
4. TailorBrands
Price:
Varies, typically between $100 and $300/year
Why We Like Them:
- Branding Services: Unlike most registered agent services, TailorBrands offers additional services to help entrepreneurs with business branding. If you’re looking for help creating a logo or setting up your company’s visual identity, this is the service for you.
- Simple and Clear Pricing: TailorBrands offers simple pricing with no hidden fees. They also offer a range of packages to suit different needs, including a bundle that includes registered agent services along with logo design and business formation.
- Customizable Plans: You can pick and choose services based on what you need. Whether you want just a registered agent or a full package with branding and website services, TailorBrands has a solution for you.
How to Get Started:
To use TailorBrands as your Michigan registered agent, visit their website and choose the services you need. You can opt for just registered agent services or bundle it with other business tools they offer.
5. BetterLegal
Price:
$299/year
Why We Like Them:
- No Hidden Fees: BetterLegal is a straightforward service with no hidden fees or complicated packages. What you see is what you get.
- Fast and Efficient: This service is known for processing documents quickly, so you won’t have to worry about delays in receiving important legal notices.
- Easy-to-Use Platform: BetterLegal offers a user-friendly platform where you can easily manage your registered agent services and other business-related tasks.
How to Get Started:
Simply visit the BetterLegal website, sign up for their service, and you’ll be set up as your Michigan registered agent in no time.
Hiring a Registered Agent in Michigan
Who Can Be a Registered Agent?
In Michigan, a registered agent must meet the following criteria:
- Physical Address: A registered agent must have a physical street address in Michigan. P.O. boxes are not allowed.
- Availability: The agent must be available during regular business hours to receive documents on behalf of the business.
- Age Requirement: The agent must be at least 18 years old.
Can I Be My Own Registered Agent?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent in Michigan, as long as you meet the necessary criteria. However, many business owners choose to hire a professional service to ensure compliance and avoid personal privacy issues.
Why You Shouldn’t Be Your Own Registered Agent
While you can act as your own registered agent in Michigan, there are several reasons why it’s often better to hire a professional service:
- Privacy: If you serve as your own agent, your personal address will be listed in public records, which could lead to unwanted solicitations or legal notices being delivered to your home.
- Availability: As your business grows, you may not always be available during business hours to accept legal notices. Missing a critical document could result in serious consequences.
- Compliance Risks: Keeping track of compliance deadlines and managing legal documents can be time-consuming. Hiring a professional ensures that you never miss important notices.
How to Appoint a Registered Agent in Michigan
In Michigan, appointing a registered agent is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:
Appoint a Registered Agent Online
When you file your Articles of Organization (the document that officially forms your LLC in Michigan), you will be asked to designate your registered agent. You can easily appoint a registered agent through the online filing system provided by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Appoint a Registered Agent by Mail
If you prefer to file your Articles of Organization by mail, you can download the necessary form from LARA’s website. On the form, you will need to fill out the “Registered Agent” section, listing the name and address of your appointed agent. Once the form is completed, mail it to the LARA office.
Cost of Michigan Registered Agent Services
The cost of hiring a registered agent in Michigan typically ranges from $49 to $299 per year, depending on the service provider and the level of service you choose. The price often includes additional features, such as compliance reminders, online document storage, and customer support.
Some providers, like ZenBusiness, offer free registered agent services for the first year if you use their business formation services. Others, like LegalZoom, have higher annual fees but offer a range of legal services in addition to registered agent support.
Things to Know About Michigan Before Starting an LLC
Starting an LLC in Michigan comes with a few important things to consider:
- Filing Fees: The state of Michigan charges a $50 filing fee for Articles of Organization when you form an LLC. There may be additional fees depending on the nature of your business.
- Annual Report: LLCs in Michigan are required to file an annual statement with LARA. The fee for this filing is $25.
- Operating Agreement: While Michigan does not require an LLC to have an operating agreement, it’s highly recommended. This document outlines the management structure and operational procedures of your LLC, which can help avoid misunderstandings between members.
FAQ’s
Can I Change My Registered Agent in Michigan?
Yes, you can change your registered agent at any time by filing a “Certificate of Change of Registered Office and/or Registered Agent” form with LARA.
Do I Need a Registered Agent if I Operate My Business from Home?
Yes, Michigan law requires all LLCs to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. You cannot use your home address as a P.O. box.
Can I Use a P.O. Box for My Registered Agent’s Address?
No, Michigan requires a physical street address for your registered agent, not a P.O. box.