Registered Agent Requirements for Indiana LLCs
Every Indiana LLC must designate a registered agent as part of the formation process. Indiana follows the Model Registered Agents Act, distinguishing between "commercial registered agents" (registered with the SOS as an agent service) and "noncommercial registered agents" (individuals or entities serving for specific companies). For all compliance needs, see our after-formation guide.
What a Registered Agent Does
Your registered agent accepts on your LLC's behalf:
- Service of process — Lawsuits, subpoenas, summons
- Secretary of State notices — Business Entity Report reminders, compliance warnings
- Department of Revenue communications — Tax-related correspondence
- Official government mail — Any formal notice requiring documented delivery
The agent must be available during normal business hours at their Indiana street address.
Indiana Requirements
For individual (noncommercial) agents:
- Must be an Indiana resident
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must maintain a physical street address in Indiana (no PO boxes)
- Must be available during normal business hours
For entity agents:
- Must be authorized to transact business in Indiana
- Must be in good standing with the Indiana Secretary of State
- Must maintain a physical Indiana office address
For commercial registered agents:
- Must file a listing with the Indiana Secretary of State declaring commercial agent status
- Subject to additional SOS requirements
- Listed in INBiz for easy selection during formation
The LLC cannot serve as its own registered agent.
Commercial vs Noncommercial Agents
Ready to get started?
Get StartedIndiana distinguishes between:
- Commercial registered agent: A company that has filed with the SOS specifically to offer registered agent services. These appear in INBiz's agent selection dropdown. Professional services like ours are commercial agents.
- Noncommercial registered agent: An individual or entity serving as agent for a specific LLC without being listed as a general agent service. Can be a friend, family member, or the LLC owner themselves.
Changing Your Registered Agent
File a Statement of Change of Registered Agent through INBiz. Processing is typically quick (1-3 business days). Reasons to change:
- You served as your own agent and want privacy
- You moved out of Indiana
- Your current service is unreliable or expensive
- You need a commercial agent for credibility
FAQ
Can I be my own registered agent?
Yes, if you're an Indiana resident with a physical address and can be available during business hours. Your home address becomes public record in the INBiz database.
How much does a professional service cost?
Typical range: $50-$200/year. Our service is $99/year (billed annually, separate from formation). Includes same-day document forwarding and compliance reminders.
What if my agent resigns?
Appoint a new one immediately through INBiz. Without a valid agent, service can be made on the Secretary of State, and extended absence of an agent can lead to administrative dissolution.
Can I use a PO box?
No. Indiana requires a physical street address where documents can be hand-delivered during business hours.