Privacy for Business
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Overview
This page serves as a resource for members interested in enhancing privacy and managing business registrations through the use of virtual addresses and other strategies. Here, we discuss considerations, solutions, and services that can assist in separating personal information from business entities.
Virtual Addresses for Business Registration
Benefits of Virtual Addresses
- Allows businesses to keep their personal addresses private
- Provides a legitimate mailing address for receiving business correspondence
- Often necessary for registration of businesses where physical addresses are required
Popular Virtual Address Services
| Service | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UPS Store | Mail handling and forwarding services | May have limitations on use for business registration |
| Anytime Mailbox | Variety of locations with mail scanning and forwarding | Be aware of potential fraud flags when signing up with certain devices or VPNs |
| America's Mailbox | Reliable physical address for RV owners and others | Mail forwarding and scanning, typically ~$300/year |
Incorporating Privacy into Business Structures
LLC and Entity Formation
- Creating an LLC can provide separation between personal assets and business liabilities
- Using services like Anderson Advisors can streamline the process of entity formation and compliance, handling state and federal registrations and renewals
Cost Considerations
- Initial setup costs and ongoing maintenance for virtual address services and LLC formation vary
- Ensure to budget for these expenses ahead of time
Legal Advice
- Consult with an attorney to understand the full implications of using virtual addresses and forming an LLC
- Ensure all legal requirements are met for your jurisdiction
Additional Resources
Tips from Community Members
- Explore all options before settling on a virtual address provider, considering factors like cost, services offered, and specific business needs
- Ensure your business banking and website are set up prior to registration with services like SAM (System for Award Management)
Community Q&A
Q: Is the renewal with Anderson $1500 annually?
A: No, it is not. The cost is around $150 for basic services, but it depends on what services you want. You get access to their lawyers and can ask legal questions. I used them for the first year to set up everything and registered on SAM, and now have won several SBIRs, so I'm in a position to hire some help. You can break away to manage things yourself after the initial setup.