How to Register as an Agent for a Washington, DC Corporation

For-profit companies in Washington DC are required to maintain a registered agent with a DC address.

The District of Columbia requires businesses to assign a registered agent who officially receives the company's mail. The registered agent is appointed by the company, but the registered agent must sign a form consenting to the role. The address of the registered agent cannot belong to a limited liability company or limited company, and must not be a post office box. The address also must be within the district.

Instructions

1. Visit the website for the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs to download the Registered Agent Combined Form, or RA1. This form can be found by clicking "Corporate Registration -- For Profit Services" and locating the form at the bottom of the page.

2. Fill in corporate information and registered agent information on the form. The previous registered agent for an existing company must resign the position before a new registered agent is appointed, and a change of agent form is required (included in the Combined Form). A new company simply needs to appoint a agent.

3. Mail the form after it is signed by the registered agent. Mail it to:

   Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs

   Corporations Division

   PO Box 92300

   Washington, DC 20090

   There is no fee associated with this form.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep copies of all forms for your files.

• You must have a registered agent sign the form before acquiring a DC Basic Business License.

References

• DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs: Registered Agent Combined Form

Resources

• DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
• District of Columbia Business Resources