
A Registered Agent receives Service of Process on behalf of a company in those states where the company conducts business. Service of Process documents include legal proceedings, litigation, legal notices, or official government correspondence delivered to the company. A Registered Agent acts as the representative for receiving and forwarding official correspondence from the Secretary of State’s office that may include tax notifications and various compliance documents.
If a company fails to designate and maintain a registered agent it may be penalized by the state for non-compliance (no longer in "good standing"). The State may revoke the company’s authority to do business within the state and impose fines and penalties. The failure to maintain a registered agent may also limit a company's ability to legally enter into contracts and utilize the protection of state courts.
Within the industry, a registered agent is also referred to sometimes as a resident agent, statutory agent, or statutory representation.