I'm forming a small LLC for a side project and I really don't want my home address showing up in the state's public database. I know a registered agent service helps, but is that enough? Do you also need a virtual address? Has anyone done this without an expensive lawyer?
LLC privacy
How do you keep your address off public LLC records?
Registered agent is the main thing. Some states still list the principal office address though so check your state’s form carefully.
Short answer: yes, RA + a separate mailing address. Long answer: depends on the state and how much you care about the privacy of your business bank statements.
I used a RA service for the formation docs and a UPS mailbox for the business mailing address. Two years later no home address on the state site. Total setup was under $150 but the mailbox is a monthly fee.
@mossy_lantern that’s helpful. Did you have to use the UPS address on the articles of organization, or just the RA’s address?
I put the RA’s address on the articles and the UPS box on the operating agreement and bank stuff.The state only ever published the RA address.
Depends on the state. In some states the secretary of state asks for a principal office address and it doesn’t have to be public, but other states publish everything. Which state are you in?
Colorado. I skimmed the SOS site but couldn’t tell what actually gets displayd.
CO publishes the principal office address and the registered agent address. You can use a commercial RA for both, but double-check the form fields. Also, some RA services charge extra to list their address as principal office.
Not legal advice, but I’d call the SOS and ask what fields go public before filing. I did that and the person on the phone was surprisingly helpful. Saved me from a refile.
Also kep in mind the RA’s address is public by design. So if you want zero connection to your home, you need the RA to be a commercial service, not a friend or family member.
And don’t use your home address on the EIN application if you can avoid it. The IRS doesn’t publish it, but it can show up in other places later.
Good call on the EIN. I was just going to use my SSN andd home address because it seemed simpler.
Simpler isn’t always better. You You can use a business address on the EIN if it’s a real mailing address. Just don’t lie about it.
Also, if you’re the only member, some states let you file anonymously through a formation service. But Colorado still wants a name and address for the organizer, I think.
I’d just pay the RA. It’s like $100 a year and you stop worrying about it. Cheaper than a mistake.