Like the title says, I formed my LLC last year and used my home address for the registered agent and business address. Now I'm getting junk mail, random people showing up, and I just feel exposed. I run an online business so I don't need a storefront. Has anyone dealt with this? Can I just change the address on file or do I need a new registered agent?
LLC Formation
I used my home address when forming my LLC and now regret it
You can definitely change it. I use a virtual office for my business address and a registered agent service. It wasn't that expensive and worth it for peace of mind.
How much are you paying for the virtual office? I've been thinking about this too.
About $50 a month. There are cheaper ones but I wanted a real street address not a PO box.
Changing your registered agent is easy but you have to file the change with your state. Usually a simple form and a small fee. What state are you in?
Ohio. I'll look up the form.
This is a common mistake. People don't realize the the registered agent address is public record. I made the same mistake and switched to a service after a year. The mail alone was insane.
Just to be clear, the registered agent address and the business address can be different. You might only need to change the registered agent if the issue is privacy. But But if you also use your home as the business address on contracts etc you might want a separate mailing address too. A lot of people use a UPS mailbox with a street address for that.
I've heard mixed things about using a UPS store address as a business address. Some banks won't accept it.
That's true, you have to check with your bank. But for general mail it works fine.
I use a registered agent service and a separate virtual mailbox. Total cost is around $30 a month. It's worth it to keep my home address off Google.
Also, if you have an LLC and your home address is listed as the principal office, you might need to update that with the state too. In Ohio I think it's the same form as the agent change.
One thing to watch out foor: changing your address with the state doesn't automatically update your bank, credit card processors, or insurance. You have to do that separately. I learned that the hard way.
Following this. I'm in the same boat, but in Pennsylvania. Any recommendations for registered agent services that don't charge an arm and a leg?
Northwest is popular but I use a local one. Just search for 'registered agent service [your state]' and read reviews.
I've been using my home address for three years and haven't had any issues. Maybe I'm lucky. But this thread is Making me reconsider.