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You can be your own registered agent in most states, but only as a person. The state rules look at three things: where you live, the address you give and whether you will be there. If you meet them, you save the cost of a service. You also put your name and address on the public record.
Which states allow it?
The rules in the states we have read in full, from official sources:
| State | Individual owner as agent | The LLC as its own agent |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Texas resident individual | No. An LLC cannot act as its own registered agent |
| Florida | Florida resident | No. An entity cannot be its own agent |
| Georgia | Georgia resident | No. An entity cannot be its own agent |
| California | California resident | No. A business entity cannot be its own agent |
| Delaware | Delaware resident | Yes, if the company is physically in Delaware |
| Colorado | Adult who lives or works in Colorado | Yes, after registering, if in good standing |
"The LLC as its own agent" only matters where the company has a physical office in the state. For the other states, use the registered agent overview to find the page.
What do you need to do it yourself?
- Live in the state. Where the rule says resident, you must live there.
- A street address. Georgia says the address must be a Georgia street address where the agent is located. Colorado says no commercial or P.O. box address. Texas will not accept a mailbox service or answering service.
- Be there in business hours. A process server can come any time during them.
- Agree to serve. Texas requires the person named to have consented.
- Name yourself on the formation filing. Enter your name and address in the agent section.
What are the downsides?
- Privacy. The agent's name and street address show up in state searches. Use our registered agent lookup guide to see what an entry looks like.
- Missed papers. If you travel, you miss service. A missed lawsuit can end in a default judgment.
- You must stay put. Moving out of the state means changing the agent. In Texas the change form is Form 401, with a fee that is on the Texas agent page.
- A second state. If your LLC registers in another state as a foreign LLC, you need an agent there too. See foreign LLC registration.
When is a service the better choice?
If you live outside the state, travel often or want the address kept off the record, read about registered agent services first. Non-US owners should also read LLC for non-residents.
What happens when papers arrive?
The agent must pass them on. Our guide to service of process explains what they look like and what to do on the day. Ready to form? Start your LLC.