Formation Requirements

Delaware Registered Agent Requirements: Fees, Filing, and Statute (2026)

Updated 2026-04-30 · Verified against Delaware Division of Corporations

What is a Registered Agent in Delaware?

The registered agent designation in Delaware is governed by 6 Del. C. §18-104, which applies to LLCs, corporations, and most other formal business entities. An acceptable registered agent in Delaware maintains a physical street address within the state and is available during regular business hours; post office boxes do not satisfy the statute. The agent’s name and street address are filed with the Delaware Division of Corporations and become part of the public business record.

In practice, the registered agent designation sits within a wider compliance cycle: a $110 formation filing with the Delaware Division of Corporations, an annual report at $300 annually by June 1 (LLC franchise tax — no report content required), and a $50 Statement of Change whenever the agent changes. Delaware LLCs do not file an information report — only a flat $300 annual franchise tax. The state is widely chosen for Court of Chancery access and well-developed entity law.

Best Registered Agent Services for Delaware (2026)

#ServicePrice/yrBest for
1Northwest Registered Agent$125privacy-focused customers
2ZenBusiness$199new businesses bundling formation
3LegalZoom$249customers wanting brand-name support
4Mainstay Filing$99balanced value

Delaware-specific option: Delaware Registered Agent.ai operates exclusively in Delaware and specializes in same-state filings. Best for businesses that want a state-focused provider with local-only operations.

Delaware Registered Agent Requirements

Physical address requiredYes — must be a street address in Delaware
P.O. box allowedNo
Business hours availabilityRequired during normal business hours
Resident requirementMust be a Delaware resident OR a business entity authorized to do business in Delaware
Listed in public recordYes — name and address are publicly searchable via Delaware Division of Corporations
Statute reference6 Del. C. §18-104

How to Choose a Registered Agent in Delaware: Step-by-Step

  1. Decide between self, friend, or commercial service. Self-serving is free but places your home address in the public record. Commercial services maintain privacy.
  2. Verify the agent's Delaware address is a physical street address. The Delaware Division of Corporations rejects filings that list a P.O. box.
  3. Confirm the agent will be available during business hours. Service of process delivery failure can result in default judgment.
  4. Compare commercial pricing. Typical Delaware commercial registered agent services cost $50–$150 per year.
  5. File the designation with Delaware Division of Corporations. Submit via https://corp.delaware.gov/howtoform or by mail.
  6. Pay the filing fee. Delaware charges $110 for online filings.
  7. Set a reminder for annual maintenance. Delaware requires an annual report at $300, annually by June 1 (LLC franchise tax — no report content required).

Delaware Filing Fees Summary

Filing TypeFeeRenewalRenewal Fee
LLC formation (Articles of Organization)$110annually by June 1 (LLC franchise tax — no report content required)$300
DBA / Fictitious Name$25Every 0 years$25
Registered Agent change$50
Annual Report$300annually by June 1 (LLC franchise tax — no report content required)$300

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be my own registered agent in Delaware?

Yes — if you are a Delaware resident with a physical street address and are available during business hours.

Do I need a registered agent if I form an LLC in Delaware but live elsewhere?

Yes. Delaware law requires every LLC to maintain a Delaware-based registered agent regardless of where the owner lives.

What happens if I don't have a registered agent in Delaware?

The Delaware Division of Corporations can administratively dissolve your business after approximately 60 days of non-compliance.

Can I change my registered agent in Delaware later?

Yes — file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent with the Delaware Division of Corporations for $50.

How much does a Delaware registered agent cost?

$50–$150 per year for commercial services; free if you self-serve.

Is my registered agent's address public in Delaware?

Yes. The agent's name and address are searchable via the Delaware Division of Corporations business records.

How fast can I get a registered agent in Delaware?

Same-day with most commercial services; same-business-day filing if submitted online before the daily cutoff.

This page provides general information about Delaware registered agent requirements, not legal advice. Filing fees and procedures may change; verify current details with the Delaware Division of Corporations before filing. We may receive compensation from services listed in our comparisons; this does not influence our editorial selections.