registered agent in Texas

[Lisa Foreman]

I need to register my Virginia LLC to do business in Texas. The SoS website requires me to fill in the contact information for my registered agent. I don't have one. I saw one lawyer advertise reigstered agent services for $95 per year. Is this fair? Can I just ask a friend to do it? I don't see what work is involved, other than forwarding mail. Is a registered agent taking on any legal or other risk?

Thanks in advance for any help or advice.

[Linda Hastings]

You can use a friend, but they must have a physical address (not a PO Box) and be available to receive correspondence during normal business hours throughout the year (ie. you need to consider what would happen if they go on vacation). A registered agent in Texas should also sign Form 401-A consenting to serve as your registered agent. More info can be found on the Secretary of State's website (including the consent form):

https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/registeredagents....

I use a service here in Texas that charges $45 a year per entity. PM me if you want the contact info.