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Before you file, sort out which address goes where. An LLC uses a few kinds of address, and mixing them up leads to missed notices and to home addresses on public records.
The kinds of address
- Registered agent address. Where the state and courts send legal papers. The SBA states that a registered agent "receives official papers and legal documents on behalf of your company" and must be located in the state where you register. Source: SBA, register your business.
- Principal or business address. Where the company operates. Some states ask for it on the formation form or the annual report.
- Mailing address. Where you want mail sent. It can differ from the other two.
Our guide to service of process explains why the agent address matters.
Can it be a home address?
For the business address, many owners use a home. The SBA says you might face fewer zoning restrictions with a home base, but zoning ordinances can still apply even to home-based businesses. The SBA page does not discuss keeping a home address private on state filings, so we do not claim a method. Ask your state's filing office and a business attorney.
Rules for the agent address
State rules for the agent differ. The examples below come from state official sources.
- Texas. A street address, and not only a mailbox or answering service. Source: Texas Secretary of State, Form 205 instructions.
- Alabama. A street address for service, and not only a mailbox or answering service. Source: Code of Alabama 10A-1-5.31.
- Delaware. An agent may not work only through a virtual office or mail forwarding. Source: Delaware Code, Title 6, Chapter 18.
- Wyoming. A street address in Wyoming where the agent is physically present. Source: Wyoming Registered Offices and Agents Act.
Read your own state's rule on its page, such as Texas registered agent, California registered agent or Delaware registered agent.
What becomes public
LLC filings are public records in most states. In California, the state says an individual agent's name and street address are public. See the California Secretary of State FAQ. Search a similar company in your state with the LLC lookup to see which addresses appear.
Choosing your setup
- Decide who will serve as registered agent. You can do it yourself in some states. See be your own registered agent.
- Or hire a service. See registered agent services.
- Pick a mailing address you can check often.
- Keep every address current with the state. A missed notice can cost you.
Out-of-state owners should read LLC for non-residents too.
This is general information, not legal advice. Check with your state before you file.
Start your filing on the LLC formation page.