What Locations Can My LLC Use for a Principal Office?

About this Video

• Video Title: What Locations Can My LLC Use for a Principal Office?
• Channel: Legal Tips From The Lawyer for Business Owners
• Speakers: Katherine Taylor
• Duration: 00:04:19

Introduction

This video explains what addresses are acceptable for an LLC's principal office, a requirement for registering an entity in many states, including Maryland. The speaker clarifies the difference between a principal office and a resident agent, focusing on acceptable principal office locations. A future video will detail resident agent requirements.

Key Takeaways

• Principal Office Definition: The principal office is where the company conducts its business; the state wants to know where to find a human contact.
• Brick-and-Mortar Businesses: For businesses with physical locations (retail, restaurant, headquarters), that address should be used. If multiple locations exist, use the address closest to the headquarters or management location.
• Home-Based Businesses: Home addresses are acceptable if the business operates from the home. However, this information is public record in most states.
• Alternatives to Home Addresses: Many business owners avoid using their home addresses due to privacy concerns. Options like virtual office spaces are available. Further details on these options will be covered in a subsequent video.
• Unacceptable Addresses: A PO Box is not acceptable as a principal office location, although it can serve as a mailing address.