7 Best Registered Agents in Rhode Island (2025) To Work With

If you own an LLC in Rhode Island, it's essential to have a registered agent to handle state legal documents.

To find the best registered agent service, we teamed up with legal experts and evaluated various services in the state and, with expert insights, identified the top choices for your business.

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
LegalZoom (Best Premium)	$249/year	Alerts & reminders, documents scanned and uploaded, unlimited cloud storage for business documents.	60 days	Yes, A+ rating	Attorney Consultations (Premium Plan)
Rocket Lawyer	$249.99 with Rocket Legal / $124.99 with Rocket Legal+	Receive important legal and tax communications, scanned official documents to your email, keep your personal business address private.	30 days	Yes	Legal: Ask-a-lawyer via email & 30-minute monthly phone consultation per new matter (with subscription)
Swyft Filings	$149 every 3 months	Get notified of all incoming mail and upcoming government deadlines for tax filing and annual reports.	60 days	No	No
Harbor Compliance	$88-$99	Same-Day document access, email notifications, annual report notifications to stay compliant.	No	Yes	No

Top 7 Best Registered Agents in Rhode Island (February 2025)

1 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)

Would you recommend Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)?

Northwest Registered Agent is one of the top services for forming a business through the internet.

We used this renowned company to experience the process of LLC formation, and based on our trial, you’ll get dedicated assistance from expert agents assigned to your account.

Northwest features a special LLC setup deal for just $39, which includes a free registered agent service for the entire year. This deal is available when you register via our link.

During our experience, their service guided us filing all the necessary legal paperwork, and their team made us feel well-informed at every step of the process.

We felt assured knowing that Northwest Registered Agent prioritizes customer privacy and uses a secure online platform that doesn’t sell client data to external companies.

While Northwest provides a comprehensive range of business services, their plans as of now don’t include an EIN, which we think might improve their value even further.

Service Highlights:

• Registered Agent Service ($125/year): The initial year of registered agent service is free when Northwest handles your LLC formation. This service includes mail forwarding, knowledgeable corporate guides, and privacy-by-default protections.
• Full-Service LLC Formation Plan ($39 + $156 State Fee): This comprehensive package includes quick filing, a full year of registered agent service, an LLC operating agreement, free extras like a domain, website, email, and business phone, and privacy-first practices.

2 - ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)

Would you recommend ZenBusiness (Best Essentials)?

ZenBusiness offers tailored professional formation services in Rhode Island with a customizable dashboard. Their tailored services and customizable dashboards made the process seamless for me.

We liked that ZenBusiness is committed to assisting small business entity owners in starting, running, and growing a successful firm.

Their user-friendly website was full of resourceful information that helped us understand the legal side of running and managing our business.

They offer 24/7 access to their offices via phone or email, which is handy when there is a burning question about their registered agent services.

We recommend their Starter Plan for those with a fixed budget, which offers an operating agreement draft.

Service Features:

• Registered Agent Service ($199): ZenBusiness provides direct access to a variety of online documents, in addition to formation services, professional support, and hands-on registered agent service. ZenBusiness also allows you to act as your own registered agent.
• ZenBusiness Starter Plan ($0 + $156 State Fee): The filing speed in this plan is standard (7 to 10 days). This plan will also cover deduction tracking while offering a 100% accuracy guarantee, and optional worry-free compliance. If you opt for this feature, you will can be sure that you will meet the deadlines for you state-requires annual report. First year this feature is free, after which you can renew it for $199 per year.
• ZenBusiness Pro Plan ($199 + $156 State Fee): Pro Plan offers expedited filing, 1 business day, and guided operating agreement to help you with structure and legal protection. Other perks included in this package are an EIN, free trial of banking and bank account for first month and bookkeeping software that can help you with financial management and even send invoices to make payment faster.
• ZenBusiness Premium Plan ($299 + $156 State Fee): This plan offers everything from the Pro plan and adds business document templates for more simplified paperwork. Also, website builder here will be free one month, then $15 per month. For that investment you can expect to get hundreds of different website templates, advanced SEO tools, and overall customizable site that is mobile-friendly. For more confident digital presence, you will get a business domain and professional email. The plan also has a 1-day processing time.

3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)

Would you recommend Bizee (Most Affordable)?

Bizee (formerly IncFile) provides online registered agent services, helping small businesses with formation, compliance, and tax filings tailored to each state's requirements.

Their best registered agent service is designed for the contracting state in which your business entity runs.

From our experience, they are one of the top registered agent services in Rhode Island, but their customer support is a bit limited.

They are available only during the week, and extended support would be beneficial for moments of crisis.

They gave us great free LLC creation help, which we highly suggest for clients seeking to form an LLC.

 Service Features:

• Registered Agent Service ($119/year): When you sign up for the Rhode Island registered agent service as part of an LLC formation package, the first year of service is provided at no cost to you; however, the renewal fee after the first year is $119 per year.
• Silver Plan ($0 + $156 State Fee): Silver Package consists of drafting and submitting the articles of organization, including unlimited name searches, and providing free registered agent service for a whole year. This package also offers limitless assistance through phone and email.
• Gold Plan ($199 + $156 State Fee): Gold Package includes all of the components found in the Silver Package in addition to the following: an EIN Business Tax Number, and an IRS Form 2553. To keep your financial rules and regulations in order, Gold Package offers an operating agreement and banking resolution. Lifetime company alerts are designed to help you stick to your deadlines, while an online dashboard enables easy access to all your documents.
• Platinum Plan ($299 + $156 State Fee): Platinum Package has all of the components included in the Gold Package in addition to business contract templates, free filing the next business day, and a domain name and business email.

4 - LegalZoom (Best Premium)

Would you recommend LegalZoom (Best Premium)?

I remember using LegalZoom for some legal consultations a few years back. They're a dominant force in the legal and registered agent sector, and my experience with them was quite positive.

While it is not the cheapest choice in the registered agent industry, LegalZoom provided us, as their clients, with verified dependability, product variety, and excellent customer service.

With everything in view, LegalZoom may be the ideal registered agent choice for people seeking dependability and expertise from an industry leader for entrepreneurship development and online legal services.

Service Features:

• Registered Agent Service ($299): Their LLC formation service has an initial cost of $249 for the first year, followed by a renewal fee of $299. The available features include email alerts, a Compliance Calendar, unlimited online storage, and protection worth up to one million dollars against impersonation theft.
• Basic LLC Formation Package ($0 + $156 State Fee): The features include a comprehensive digital welcome packet for your LLC along with the necessary articles of organization. The package also includes an in-depth name search feature and a customizable website that can be tailored to your specific needs.
• Pro LLC Formation Package ($249 + $156 State Fee): The plan encompasses all the elements of the Basic package, along with an operating agreement, an EIN, and significant advisory sessions regarding insurance and taxes. Furthermore, you'll receive a meticulous guide on acquiring a business license.
• Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $156 State Fee): The plan offers all components in the Pro package and a knowledgeable guide from a distinguished business attorney. Furthermore, any revisions to your formation documents will be updated accordingly and you'll receive limitless 30-minute consultations with a legal attorney for the initial 90 days of your subscription.

5 - Rocket Lawyer

Would you recommend Rocket Lawyer?

Rocket Lawyer is a top-notch solution for businesses looking for trusted registered agent services. Their extensive range of business solutions is carefully crafted to meet the unique requirements of business owners, providing seamless LLC creation and legal compliance.

They feature multiple LLC registration and attorney services, taking care of paperwork and filings with ease. Additionally, they include a free trial, so you can test out their services before signing up.

Rocket Lawyer’s attorney services made easy the task of managing our paperwork and filings. The free trial was an excellent way to experience their offerings without risk.

Their easy-to-navigate list of premium services and pricing helped us compare options and choose the most suitable plan for our business.

For more details about this provider, we recommend reading our Rocket Lawyer review.

Service Highlights:

• Registered Agent Service ($249.99 for non-members): For Rocket Legal+ members, this service drops to $124.99/year, with a membership cost of $19.99/month (billed annually at $239.88 after a free 7-day trial).
• LLC Formation Package ($0 + $156 State Fee): Create your first LLC for FREE when you subscribe to Rocket Legal+ ($19.99/month billed annually at $239.88 after a free 7-day trial).

6 - Swyft Filings

Would you recommend Swyft Filings?

When I was pressed for time while establishing my third startup, Swyft Filings became a lifesaver. They took care of all my legal paperwork quickly, freeing me up to concentrate on other key aspects of my operations.

Swyft Filings features 24/7 online mailbox services and provides helpful reminders for important due dates and deadlines. This ensures you stay on top of things and that your business stays in good legal standing.

This is particularly relevant in states where the unemployment rate stood at a notable 3.5% in 2024, according to the Department of Commerce. This highlights the local economic stability and business potential for entrepreneurs.

Although Swyft Filings is relatively new to the registered agent service industry, they’re becoming prominent as one of the best providers, backed by impressive customer reviews.

Service Highlights:

• Registered Agent Service ($149 every 3 months): Swyft Filings charges a quarterly fee for this critical service.
• Basic Plan ($0 + $156 State Fee): Features the preparation of your articles of incorporation and LLC setup.
• Standard Plan ($199 + $156 State Fee): This expanded LLC package builds on the basic plan, adding a Federal Tax ID (EIN) and necessary documents like an operating agreement, banking resolution, and organizational minutes.
• Premium Package ($299 + $156 State Fee): Features all foundational services plus premium features such as free domain registration, hosting for your business website, a personalized digital corporate kit, and FedEx delivery with a tracking number for your authorized articles.

7 - Harbor Compliance

Would you recommend Harbor Compliance?

I once switched to Harbor Compliance for a brief period. Their quality of service was impeccable, and I felt I got a good return on my investment.

They have experts ready to assist with any issues. From our experience, they will do their best to solve problems without your personal assistance.

We were impressed with their commitment to finding affordable services that will suit us the best.

They also offer first-time clients discounts for registered agent services and they will only invoice you annually.

Service Features:

• Registered Agent Service ($89-$99): This registered agent service will cost between $89 and $99 yearly and does not include any extra fees. Nevertheless, if you prepay for registered agent services for more than two years, you may get a discount of between 5 and 10 percent.
• Formation Plan ($99 + $156 State Fee): Formation Plan provides you with the opportunity to check on the availability of a company name, as well as to prepare and file your articles of organization with the state.

Why Should You Trust Us

You should trust the Venture Smarter team for your Rhode Island registered agent needs because we have meticulously evaluated various services to ensure they meet the specific legal and operational requirements of businesses in the state. Our selection process, led by legal experts, is both thorough and impartial, ensuring that our recommendations are solely based on the services' merit and relevance to Rhode Island LLCs.

The Venture Smarter team is committed to the success and compliance of your business. We understand the crucial role a registered agent plays in maintaining your company's standing with Rhode Island's regulations. That's why we've partnered with legal professionals and conducted anonymous interactions with service providers, leveraging the expertise of an independent review team to offer unbiased, evidence-based suggestions tailored to the needs of Venture Smarter readers.

Our goal is to provide Venture Smarter readers with peace of mind, knowing that their registered agent will handle state legal documents efficiently and with the utmost confidentiality. We aim to empower you, our readers, with all the necessary information to make an informed decision, ensuring that your business remains in good standing with Rhode Island laws and regulations.

By choosing the recommendations of the Venture Smarter team, you're not just selecting a registered agent service; you're opting for a partner dedicated to the protection and growth of your business in Rhode Island. Trust the Venture Smarter team to guide you to the best-registered agent service that meets the unique needs and legal requirements of your business.

How We Picked And Tested The Best Registered Agent Services In Rhode Island

To identify the top registered agent services in Rhode Island, we meticulously reviewed a range of providers.

Our approach involved anonymous interactions with their services, ensuring an unbiased perspective. We also sought the expertise of legal professionals familiar with Rhode Island's business environment.

Our evaluation focused on various aspects, including pricing, service features, customer support, turnaround time, third-party reviews, confidentiality, and ease of use.

1. Pricing

Basic registered agent services suffice for some companies. It's crucial to understand pricing to avoid paying extra for unnecessary features.

We analyzed the cost versus value of different services, focusing on their suitability for startups and small businesses. We evaluated if the package prices, like Northwest's at $125 for its privacy and customer support, were justified.

Northwest offers a balanced package at $125. Bizee is more affordable at $119/year. LegalZoom, targeting a premium market, charges $299.

2. Service Features

Basic registered agent services are often enough, and understanding their pricing can prevent overspending on unnecessary features.

3. Customer Support

Our review of customer support involved direct interactions with each service's support team to evaluate their efficiency, knowledge, and problem-solving capabilities.

We particularly noted the availability and responsiveness of ZenBusiness's 24/7 support and compared it with the more limited hours offered by Bizee, assessing how these factors influence overall service satisfaction.

4. Turnaround Time

We measured the actual turnaround times for each service, from the submission of documents to the state to the notification of completion.

Bizee is noted for its rapid same-day processing, while Swyft Filings also offers quick response times.

Some services like LegalZoom may have longer turnaround times, impacting urgent business needs.

5. Third-Party Reviews

Choosing a registered agent service involves a certain level of risk, especially regarding handling sensitive legal documents. Positive reviews can help reduce this perceived risk by assuring potential clients of the service's reliability and effectiveness.

Based on our observations, Northwest and ZenBusiness generally receive positive feedback on platforms like TrustPilot, indicating strong customer satisfaction.

Other services like LegalZoom have mixed reviews, highlighting areas for improvement, particularly in pricing structure and turnaround time.

6. Confidentiality

Registered agents handle a variety of sensitive documents, including legal notices, government correspondence, and potentially confidential business information.

"Ensuring confidentiality means that sensitive information is protected from unauthorized access, which could otherwise lead to data breaches or information leaks."

- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions

Based on this analysis, Northwest was particularly noted for its commitment to data privacy, not selling client data to third parties.

7. Transition Process

We reviewed the transition services offered by each registered agent, noting the procedures and safeguards in place to protect sensitive business information during the transfer.

We specifically looked at how Northwest and ZenBusiness manage this process, evaluating their effectiveness in ensuring a seamless and secure transition for businesses changing their registered agent services.

8. Ease of Use

We navigated each service's online platform, assessing the user-friendliness and accessibility of their tools and resources.

We highlighted ZenBusiness's platform for its ease of use and compared it with the more complex interfaces of services like Harbor Compliance, considering how these factors impact a business owner's ability to maintain compliance and manage their legal obligations effectively.

How Much Do Registered Agent Service Providers Cost in Rhode Island?

A statutory agent service in Rhode Island costs between $89 and $299.This amount varies depending on the statutory agent service you choose and the plans they offer.

If you want to cut the costs, you can act as your own registered agent service for free or designate a friend or a close family member for the position.

Related Articles:

• Rhode Island LLC Check
• How to Close an LLC in Rhode Island
• How Much Does an LLC Cost in Rhode Island

Requirements for a Rhode Island Registered Agent

The requirements for a Rhode Island registered agent include the following:

• Keep a registered physical office in Rhode Island
• Keep a Rhode Island physical address
• Maintain year-round normal business hours
• Acknowledge process service on clients' behalf
• Timely delivery of process and business documents to clients

FAQs

Our Verdict on the Best Registered Agent in Rhode Island

After diving deep into the realm of registered agent services in Rhode Island, I've come to some personal insights, and Northwest Registered Agent truly resonated with me.

Their commitment to data privacy was a breath of fresh air, ensuring my company's sensitive details were in safe hands. I also found their in-house support team to be a lifesaver, always ready to tackle any hiccups.

While there are many noteworthy services out there, the blend of swift formation, easy EIN acquisition, and top-notch account management make Northwest Registered Agent my top pick for Rhode Island.