4 Best Registered Agents in Hawaii (2025 Review) We Tried
Starting a company in Hawaii requires choosing a reliable registered agent, a step I've found crucial in my own entrepreneurial journey in the Aloha State.
If you are planning to delegate this role to an expert, there are several registered agents in Hawaii you can work with.
I solicited expert advice from our Venture Smarter team of certified business consultants and together we delved deep into the services of various registered agents in Hawaii, considering customer feedback and legal insights to identify the top options with reasonable rates.
Our research yielded promising results of Hawaii's best registered agent services.
| Company | Registered Agent Price | Service Features | Money-Back Guarantee | BBB Accredited | Advisory Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest (Best Overall) | $125/year. First year free with LLC purchase. | Same-Day Scans, Instant Notifications Privacy by Default® Business Address & Free Mail Forwarding Free Domain, Website, Email & Business Phone. | 90 days | No, A rating | No |
| ZenBusiness (Best Essentials) | $199 | Receiving and forwarding official legal mail, scanning and uploading documents to the customer’s dashboard, and notifying the customer via email. | 60 days | Yes | Accounting Consultation |
| Bizee (formerly Incfile) (Most Affordable) | $119/year. First year free with LLC purchase. | Manages the paperwork for you, avoid missed deadlines, tiresome paperwork, noncompliance and the associated fines or penalties. | Order refundable before state payment (usually 24h), minus $30 fee. | No | Tax: Free 1-hour Consultation |
| Harbor Compliance (Best Premium) | $88-$99 | Same-Day document access, email notifications, annual report notifications to stay compliant. | No | Yes | No |
NorthwestTop 4 Registered Agent Services in Hawaii (February 2025)
1 - Northwest Registered Agent Service (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Northwest safeguards your address from public records.
- Customize services to match your specific needs.
- Exceptional customer support known for expertise and responsiveness.
- Exclusive discount offered to Venture Smarter readers.
- A lon-established presence of over 25 years in business.
- Strong commitment to data privacy, no customer data selling.
- Potential for higher costs with certain add-on services.
- Mandatory agent appointment for LLC formation.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses that value privacy and comprehensive support.
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for the cheapest option.
The Verdict
Northwest provides extensive privacy protections and a local scanning service, ideal for businesses needing reliable and secure handling of sensitive documents. They offer excellent customer support and a personalized approach.
Northwest Registered Agent is one of the most recommended services for setting up a business digitally.
We tested this renowned company to evaluate the process of LLC formation, and based on our trial, you’ll be provided with dedicated help from expert agents assigned to your account.
Northwest features a exclusive LLC creation package for just $39, which comes with a free registered agent service for the initial year. This offer is available when you sign up using our link.
During our experience, their service assisted us in submitting all the necessary LLC setup paperwork, and their team made us feel supported at each step of the procedure.
We felt assured knowing that Northwest Registered Agent respects customer privacy and operates with a secure online platform that doesn’t sell client data to unauthorized organizations.
While Northwest provides a comprehensive range of solutions, their plans at this time don’t include an EIN, which we think might improve their offering even further.
Service Highlights:
- Registered Agent Service ($125/year): The first year of registered agent service is free when Northwest manages your LLC formation. This service provides mail forwarding, expert corporate guides, and privacy-first protections.
- Full-Service LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $51 State Fee): This complete package covers fast filing, a full year of registered agent service, an LLC operating agreement, free extras like a domain, website, email, and business phone, and privacy-protecting practices.
2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Actively participates in social responsibility and community engagement.
- Small businesses benefit from services and grant opportunities.
- Quick and user-friendly purchasing process.
- Optional annual report filing service available.
- Additional charge for annual report filing.
- Limited customer support availability.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small businesses and startups needing affordable compliance solutions.
Who is it not for?
- Large corporations requiring highly tailored services.
The Verdict
ZenBusiness offers cost-effective solutions that simplify the compliance process for small businesses, making it a great choice for startups. They provide excellent customer support and user-friendly online tools.
In my quest for the perfect LLC formation service in Hawaii, I came across ZenBusiness.
Their focus on providing exclusive commercial registered agent services caught my attention. Hawaii is a state where the vast majority of businesses—99.2% (133,993)—are micro-enterprises, according to 2023 US Small Business statistics.
We were pleased with their registered agent and LLC formation packages' quality, comprehensiveness, and affordable price.
Their basic package for LLC services is priced at $0, excluding state fees.
From our firsthand experience with ZenBusiness, we found their customer support for LLC services to be very knowledgeable.
ZenBusiness also provided additional services, including a business operating agreement template and an invoicing tool, which exceeded the scope of basic LLC formation.
Seeking additional information about this organization? Check out our comprehensive review of ZenBusiness.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services Basic Package ($199): It will cost you $199 with or without LLC formation. You also get individualized customer support and intuitive software.
- Starter LLC Formation Package ($0 + $51 State Fee): This package for your business needs offers a standard processing time (around 7 to 10 working days). It includes assistance with filing for your LLC and ensures complete precision. In addition, you have the option to add worry-free compliance coverage for the first year at no extra cost. After that, the coverage can be extended annually for $199.
- Pro LLC Formation Package ($199 + $51 State Fee): The Pro Plan is designed for speedy ''rush'' filing, typically taking only 1 business day. This is a perfect choice when time is of the essence for your business needs. Alongside receiving an EIN, this package grants you access to an Operating Agreement, which assists you in establishing guidelines for operations, organization, and even voting privileges.
- Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $51 State Fee): Opting for the Premium package ensures you have all the essentials for a complete online brand and visibility. This includes a domain name, a professional business email address, and a customizable company website equipped with a wide range of user-friendly templates. Plus, you will get business document templates to save time on repetitive daily tasks that are time-consuming. The filing speed for the Premium plan is also 1 working day.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Free 1-year Registered Agent included with all packages.
- Established for over 25 years, underscoring our proven reliability.
- Affordable Registered Agent Service, priced at only $119.
- Document scanning isn't always prompt.
- Customer support only available Monday-Friday.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs and small businesses looking for budget-friendly registered agent services.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses needing extensive hands-on support and customized services.
The Verdict
IncFile is suited for small businesses that prioritize affordability without extensive additional services. They provide a basic, reliable service that covers standard registered agent needs.
On a tight budget during my early business days, I found Bizee to be a lifesaver with their offer of free LLC service.
However, if you need more than the basic filing, you still have to use their registered agent add-ons like EIN, IRS, Operating Agreement, Business Tax consultation, etc.
The control dashboard was particularly convenient for us during testing, where we could check and download all documents in our name.
Beyond just LLC filing, Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers a range of services to help manage and grow your business. This includes assistance with annual reports, obtaining business licenses, and virtual addresses for businesses.
Bizee consistently notified us about renewal deadlines to ensure our compliance, and they securely stored our formation documents for easy access when needed.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Services ($119): The first year is free if incorporated utilizing an LLC formation package, then, the renewal charge will be $119.
- Free Silver LLC Formation Package ($0 + $51 State Fee): You will receive Articles of Organization preparation and filing, unlimited name searches, and a year of free registered agent service.
- Bizee Gold LLC Formation Package ($199 + $51 State Fee): The silver package is included in this plan. There is an EIN business tax number, IRS Form 2553, banking resolution, an operating agreement, and an online access dashboard.
- Platinum LLC Formation Package ($299 + $51 State Fee): The Gold Package is included in this package. Overall, it provides you with free business websites, domain names, and business contract templates, and you will also get the option to file for free the next day.
4 - Harbor Compliance (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Quick and efficient compliance processing.
- Cost-effective for extended contracts.
- Expert consultation availability.
- Higher price point.
- Occasional customer service lapses.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses seeking detailed compliance assistance and premium features.
Who is it not for?
- Small startups or those with minimal compliance needs looking for the most economical option.
The Verdict
Harbor Compliance offers a comprehensive suite of services designed for businesses that need detailed assistance with compliance and regulatory requirements. They are ideal for larger enterprises or those in heavily regulated industries.
Compared to competitors, Harbor Compliance is a statewide registered agent service that provides a range of features at a lower cost to help you stay compliant with Hawaii's state rules and regulations, giving you peace of mind.
We appreciate that their website offers an easy-to-navigate interface, and their formation package encompasses all the vital components necessary to establish an LLC in Hawaii.
They assisted us with the preparation and filing of our annual reports, which is a critical compliance requirement for most businesses in Hawaii.
Harbor Compliance also offers services to help businesses obtain and manage their general business licenses.
Should you need additional features like publication and annual report services, minutes managers, or tax records managers, an upgrade to their premium compliance package is required.
Service Features:
- Registered Agent Service ($88): Annual charges range from $89 to $99 per state, with no additional fees. If you pay for registered agent services in advance for more than two years, you can save 5-10%. You may immediately obtain the registered agent's address online.
- LLC Formation Package ($99 + $51 State Fee): Preparing and filing your articles of incorporation with the state, as well as investigating name availability, are all part of this package.
Why Should You Trust Us?
Venture Smarter stands as your premier guide in selecting a registered agent in Hawaii, backed by our extensive experience and a deep understanding of the local business environment. Our team, with a rich background in legal, financial, and strategic consultancy, brings a century’s worth of collective expertise to ensure your business complies with Hawaii's legal requirements.
The Venture Smarter team, leveraging our vast experience in business consultancy, has meticulously evaluated various registered agent services in Hawaii. Our approach is rooted in firsthand experiences and legal knowledge, ensuring that our recommendations are not just comprehensive but also tailored to meet the unique challenges and opportunities within the Hawaiian business landscape.
Understanding the intricacies of Hawaii's business regulations, the Venture Smarter team has identified the top registered agent services that cater specifically to the needs of Hawaiian entrepreneurs. Our selection process goes beyond basic features; we consider customer feedback, legal compliance, and the specific nuances of operating a business in Hawaii.
At Venture Smarter, transparency and integrity are at the core of our mission. Our reviews and recommendations are the result of unbiased, evidence-based evaluations. When you choose a registered agent service based on our guidance, you're leveraging the collective expertise of a team dedicated to your business's success and compliance.
How We Picked And Tested The Best Registered Agent Services In Hawaii?
We want to ensure you get the best value for your money without skimping on quality or service.
So we tested, compared, and scored each registered agent service according to some of the highest criteria before we came up with the final list of recommendations.
Working with a Venture Smarter legal team, we based our evaluation on pricing, service features, customer support, turnaround, ease of use, third-party reviews, confidentiality, and transition process.
1. Pricing
Registered agent services are a recurring expense, so it's important to choose a service that fits within your budget without compromising on quality.
We compared the prices and packages of the top registered agent services in Hawaii to ensure we had the best option.
We ranked them according to the price value for the best offers, including their promotions and discount offers, with consultation with our legal experts in this field.
Based on our evaluation, Harbor Compliance is the most affordable option with its registered agent costing $88/year while Northwest offers a pricey option at $125 but with excellent features.
"For cost-conscious businesses in Hawaii, exploring budget-friendly registered agent services can be a smart strategy. However, it's essential to ensure the service covers essential aspects like timely document forwarding and secure storage."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
2. Customer Support
During our tests, we contacted support via email and phone and evaluated their response time, accuracy, and level of support. We also looked into their customer satisfaction levels by checking customer reviews from previous clients.
Northwest Registered Agent was rated 5/5 for providing highly personalized customer support. Each client is assigned a Corporate Guide® who acts as a direct point of contact with someone who is familiar with their business and specific needs.
3. Turnaround Time
Timely handling of state filings and legal notices is essential for maintaining good standing with state authorities.
We analyzed the turnaround time by assessing their order processing.
We also looked at how fast they handled any issues with our documents when we filed them through their system, which aided in our determination of the LLC processing time in Hawaii.
Northwest and ZenBusiness exceeded our expectations with their 1-day document delivery; all our legal documents were processed, scanned, and emailed to us the next day.
4. Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a critical factor to consider when hiring a registered agent service because it protects your sensitive business information, ensures legal compliance, and safeguards your business interests.
Northwest was rated number one for its strict data protection policies that emphasize confidentiality to safeguard your digital documents and information.
5. Service Features
Considering the service features of a registered agent is essential to ensure that the service you choose aligns with your business's compliance requirements while also providing value for money.
We purchased different packages from different services to evaluate their offerings primarily focusing on key features like fast document delivery, compliance calendar, and legal alerts.
Our review proved that Northwest stood out with its comprehensive registered agent package which includes features like online dashboards, electronic document delivery, and timely compliance alerts.
6. Ease of Use
Ease of use often means that important documents and information are easily accessible.
This can be particularly important for time-sensitive legal documents, compliance deadlines, and when you need to quickly respond to legal matters.
Bizee offers a platform that is easy to use and navigate; we were able to quickly find the information we need, submit documents, and manage our accounts without unnecessary delays or a steep learning curve.
7. Transition Process
A smooth transition is crucial to ensure that there is no disruption in the handling of legal documents and compliance-related matters.
Based on our testing Northwest offered the smoothest transition process without any gaps or mismanagement of legal notices or government correspondence.
8. Third-Party Reviews
Reviews can shed light on the quality and reliability of the service, including factors like responsiveness, efficiency, and accuracy.
Positive reviews can indicate a high level of service, while negative reviews can highlight potential issues.
We reviewed the ratings of different services on platforms like Trustpilot and Google Reviews.
Our evaluation revealed that Northwest and ZenBusiness have received massive positive responses and 5-star ratings from their clients, particularly for their swift turnaround and great customer support.
How Much Do Registered Agent Service Providers Cost in Hawaii?
You can expect to pay between $88 and $125 annually for the services of the best registered agent in Hawaii. When you think about how much time, money, and stress this can save you in the long run, the cost is negligible and well worth it.
Alternatively, you can also act as your own registered agent for free if you meet the Hawaii state requirements.
It is also advisable to prepare ahead because there are a variety of expenses associated with forming an LLC in Hawaii.
Requirements for a Hawaii Registered Agent
All Hawaii registered agent service companies must comply with the following, as per Hawaii Statute 425-19:
- Must be a Hawaii resident or a domestic or foreign company with a Hawaii business registration.
- Must keep a physical street address in Hawaii (also known as a registered office).
- Should be at least 18 years old.
Related Articles:
- How Do You Start an LLC in Hawaii
- How Do You Look Up an LLC in Hawaii
- How to Dissolve an LLC in Hawaii
FAQs
Why Do I Need A Hawaii Registered Agent?
You need a Hawaii registered agent since all businesses in Hawaii must designate one. If you don't, the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs can reject your registration. It ensures that customers and the state of Hawaii have a reliable way to contact your company.
Can I Change My Hawaii Registered Agent?
Yes, you can change your Hawaii Registered Agent. To do this, you should fill out a Change of Agent/Office form and submit it to the State of Hawaii's Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Business Registration Division. The new Registered Agent is then listed on the state filing records.
Our Verdict on the Best Registered Agent Services in Hawaii
In my journey of setting up a business in Hawaii, I've interacted with various registered agents. But, hands down, Northwest Registered Agent stood out.
I personally felt a sense of security with them, knowing my documents were in expert hands.
Their team, brimming with former lawyers and seasoned business owners, truly understands our needs.
If you're looking for a partner who's both reliable and attuned to the nuances of Hawaiian business, Northwest is the way to go.
Our #1 Recommendation
Northwest Registered Agent Service (Best Overall)
- Northwest safeguards your address from public records.
- Customize services to match your specific needs.
- Exceptional customer support known for expertise and responsiveness.
- Exclusive discount offered to Venture Smarter readers.
- A lon-established presence of over 25 years in business.
- Strong commitment to data privacy, no customer data selling.
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of February
- Potential for higher costs with certain add-on services.
- Mandatory agent appointment for LLC formation.
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