Forming a LLC - physical mailing address vs virtual office

[Travis Schmidt]

I decided to form an LLC for my future plans to both flip houses and build a rental portfolio. I want the asset protection the LLC provides and the EIN so I can easily apply for a business bank account. I quickly jumped on the internet and used the help of LegalZoom to file for my LLC in my home state of Florida. However, I foolishly used my home address as both the mailing address and physical address of my company.

Since filing, I have learned that this information is public record and easily accessible to anyone with internet access. I am required to execute a disclosure statement with the County Building and Zoning Department to conduct bussiness at my home. There are certain restrictions to businesses conducted out of your home. I also realized that I would need to file several business tax applications for my county and city.

Looking for recommendations on how to proceed best to both protect my personal information and eliminate unnecessary government fees and red tape. Thanks!

[Dan Travieso]

I formed an LLC in Florida and did so thru an attorney. They used their address as the physical address. My PO Box is the mailing address. Legal Zoom is great for some things but does not replace getting advice from a real life lawyer... especially the first time you do something. Good new is that it is not too late. You can still get an attorney to modify your Articles of Organization with an updated address and file with the Secretary of State office.