Oklahoma offers a low cost of living, a strong labor force, low taxes, and incentives for small businesses, making it an attractive choice for business owners. Whether you plan to start an LLC in Oklahoma or move your business to the state, you must have a registered agent or resident agent there. Read on to understand the role and responsibilities of an Oklahoma registered agent for your business.
What Is an Oklahoma Registered Agent?
An Oklahoma registered agent is the trusted point of contact for the government and the general public to reach an Oklahoma business. Registered agents receive and forward all official documents, including legal summons, tax information, and other government correspondence. All business entities registered with the Oklahoma Secretary of State must have a registered agent by law. This includes Oklahoma LLCs, corporations, and partnerships.
An individual or a business entity can function as a registered agent in Oklahoma. The registered agent must have a registered office with someone available to receive process servers and other documents during regular business hours. As a business owner, you can be the registered agent for your Oklahoma business, or you can choose to hire a professional registered agent service for as little as $49 a year.
What Is a Registered Office in Oklahoma?
The registered office in Oklahoma is the official address of the registered agent where the government and the public can reach the company. The registered office is listed as part of the public record with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. The registered office must be open during normal business hours.
What Are the Legal Duties of an Oklahoma Registered Agent?
The legal duties of an Oklahoma registered agent are to receive all official correspondence and pass it on efficiently to the company it represents. The Oklahoma registered agent must receive and forward official correspondence, including state and federal notices. Duties of a registered agent include:
- Maintaining the registered office
- Ensuring someone is available at the office during business hours
- Receiving all official correspondence
- Receiving process servers and legal summons
- Forwarding everything received to the business to ensure compliance
Why Is a Registered Agent Required in Oklahoma?
A registered agent is required in Oklahoma to ensure a smooth legal process and delivery of all official documents. According to Oklahoma Statutes Title 18, all companies must have a registered agent. If a company doesn’t have a registered agent, it may receive service of process at the office of the Secretary of State.
Does Oklahoma Require Registered Agent Consents?
Yes, Oklahoma requires the registered agent’s consent for the role. The registered agent must inform the state immediately of any change of address. Meanwhile, the company has the option to change its registered agent at any time.
When Do You Need an Oklahoma Registered Agent?
You need an Oklahoma registered agent for any Oklahoma-based business, including LLCs, partnerships, C-corporations, S-corporations, or 501(c)3 corporations. Any foreign business operating in Oklahoma also needs a registered agent.
Who Can Be a Registered Agent in Oklahoma?
According to the Oklahoma state statutes (Title 18, Section 1022, and Section 2010), an Oklahoma registered agent:
- Can be a state resident or a company that provides registered agent services.
- State residents who are at least 18 years old.
- Can either be Oklahoma-based or foreign companies with offices in Oklahoma.
- Must maintain a registered office with a physical address in Oklahoma. The registered office cannot be a post office box or virtual address.
How to Choose a Registered Agent Service in Oklahoma?
If you’re ready to hire a professional registered agent service in Oklahoma, there are a few key considerations:
Service Cost
The cost of a registered agent service in Oklahoma ranges from $49 to $150 per year. Carefully weigh the services offered and how the price of the service matches the value offered for your business.
Features
Many Oklahoma registered agent services offer premium features like mail scanning and email forwarding, online account access, and online LLC formation. Consider premium features required for smooth business operations and whether they offer greater value.
Reputation
Check the reputation of an online registered agent service on sites like BBB or Trustpilot. Weigh the company’s reputation for protecting business owners’ privacy and their reliability in forwarding important documents quickly to choose a company with exceptional reliability.
What Happens if You Don’t Have an Oklahoma Registered Agent?
If you don’t have a registered agent when filing formation documents in Oklahoma, your filing will be rejected. If the company fails to maintain a registered agent, in some cases, the Oklahoma Secretary of State will receive legal summons on behalf of the business. However, you could also face fines or penalties if you don’t keep registered agent information up to date.
How to Change Registered Agents in Oklahoma?
You may change registered agents in Oklahoma at any time. For example, if you are a business owner who was serving as a registered agent, you can change to a professional registered agent service. Or you may choose to switch registered agent services to one that offers greater value. It’s essential to inform the Secretary of State of any changes immediately.
To change registered agents in Oklahoma, you will need to fill out the Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office Form and pay a $25 filing fee. You can mail the completed form with a check to:
Oklahoma Secretary of State
421 N.W. 13th, Suite 210
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
73103
You may call them with any questions at (405) 522-2520.
Expanding Business in Oklahoma
As a business owner, finding reliable support to manage various tasks can free up your time to focus on business growth. A registered agent service is a low-cost option to outsource correspondence and ensure you receive all official documents on time. Likewise, Doola Bookkeeping Services offer exceptional accounting services for busy founders like you. Get doola books to save time on accounting and focus on expanding your Oklahoma business with new market opportunities.
FAQs
How long does an Oklahoma Registered Agent’s appointment last?
An Oklahoma registered agent’s appointment lasts until you change registered agents or move the business out of state.
Can you appoint an out-of-state Registered Agent for your Oklahoma business?
An Oklahoma registered agent must have a physical office in Oklahoma. In the case of individuals, the registered agent must be an Oklahoma resident. In the case of businesses, the business must have an office and operations in Oklahoma.
How much does hiring a professional Registered Agent in Oklahoma cost?
Hiring a professional registered agent service in Oklahoma costs $49 to $150 annually. Some companies bundle additional services, such as LLC formation, and charge up to $300.
Are Oklahoma Registered Agents responsible for any fees or taxes?
No, Oklahoma registered agents aren’t responsible for any taxes or fees. Instead, the business owners or LLC members are responsible for all taxes, fees, and annual filings.
Is a Registered Agent’s address public in Oklahoma?
A registered agent’s name and address are on the public record. You can look up a company’s registered agent with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
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