I just formed an LLC in SF and I'm trying to keep costs down. My apartment is too cramped for a home office, so I'm thinking about getting a coworking membership instead. Is it legit to use a coworking space as my business address for the LLC? Will the city or state give me trouble? Also, do I need to put that address on my website or can I use a PO box for mail? Any advice would be appreciated.
coworking
Can I operate a San Francisco LLC from a coworking space?
Coworking spaces usually offer a business address service, but you gotta check if they allow it for LLC registration. Some do, some don't. And SF might require a separate business registration with the city if you're uSing a commercial address. Do your homework.
I used a coworking space for my LLC address for two years. No issues. But I also had a virtual mailbox for mail. Just make sure the coworking place gives you a real street address, not a PO box. And they might charge extra for mail handling.
Why not just use your apartment? Nobody cares unless you're doing something shady. Save your money.
A coworking space is fine as long as it's a physical address where you can receive mail. But for the SF business registration, you might need to show a lease or something. I'd call the SF Office of Treasurer & Tax Collector to confirm. Also, if you use a PO box for your website, that's fine but some customers might not like it.
I've seen some coworking spots advertise 'registered agent service' too. Might be worth asking if they handle service of process. Otherwise you need a registered agent in CA anyway.
GoldenGateJumper is right about the lease. I had to provide a copy of my coworking agreement when I registered my business tax certificate. It wasn't a big deal but they did ask.
Oh, and if you're using a coworking space, make sure they don't forward your mail to a different address. Some of them just collect it and you have to pick it up. That could be a pain if you're not there every day.
Just get a UPS mailbox. Cheaper than coworking and you get a street address.
UPS mailbox isn't always accepted for LLC registration though. Some states require a physical address where the business is actually located. CA might be lenient but I wouldn't risk it without checking.