What is a Registered Agent in New Jersey?
A registered agent is an individual or business entity designated to receive official state correspondence and legal documents—such as service of process (lawsuits), subpoenas, and tax notices—on behalf of a New Jersey business. According to N.J.S.A. 14A:4-1 (for corporations) and N.J.S.A. 42:2C-14 (for LLCs), every domestic and foreign business authorized to transact business in New Jersey must continuously maintain a registered agent and a registered office in the state.
Who can be a Registered Agent in NJ?
Under New Jersey law, your registered agent must be:
- An individual resident of New Jersey who is at least 18 years old, OR
- A domestic or foreign business entity authorized to transact business in New Jersey.
In both cases, the agent must have a physical street address in New Jersey. P.O. Boxes are expressly prohibited because a process server must be able to physically deliver legal documents during regular business hours.
What is the fee to appoint a Registered Agent?
There is no separate fee just to appoint an initial registered agent. The appointment is made during the filing of your initial formation documents (e.g., the Public Records Filing for a New Business Entity). The standard state filing fee for forming an LLC or for-profit corporation in New Jersey is $125.00.
If you need to change your registered agent later, you must file a Certificate of Change (Form REG-C-EA). The state fee for this change is $25.00.
Can I act as my own Registered Agent?
Yes, New Jersey allows business owners to serve as their own registered agent, provided they meet the statutory requirements: being a state resident and having a physical street address in NJ. However, many business owners choose a professional service to avoid having their personal home address placed on the permanent public record, and to ensure they do not miss critical legal notices if they travel or are unavailable during standard business hours.
What happens if I fail to maintain a Registered Agent?
Failing to maintain a registered agent, or failing to notify the state when your registered agent’s address changes, violates New Jersey statutes. The state may revoke your business’s Certificate of Formation or Certificate of Authority, resulting in a loss of good standing. This “administrative dissolution” strips your business of its limited liability protections, putting your personal assets at risk, and preventing you from legally operating or bringing lawsuits in New Jersey courts.