Can a Proxy Address Be Used as the Registered Address When Registering a U.S. Company? A Comprehensive Analysis

Can a Proxy Address Be Used as the Registered Address When Incorporating a Company in the U.S.?

When incorporating a company in the United States, many entrepreneurs, small business owners, and even multinational corporations face a key question Can a proxy address be used as the registered address? The short answer is yes - in most states, companies are allowed to use a proxy address for registration. However, the legal basis, scope of application, and potential implications are worth exploring in detail.

The U.S. is a federal country, and corporate registration laws vary from state to state. Whether a proxy address is permitted generally depends on the laws of the state in which the company is registered. For example, in popular jurisdictions such as Delaware, California, and New York, it is common practice to use a Registered Agent service. These agents typically provide a legitimate physical address for receiving legal documents and official notifications - often their office address, rather than the actual business location of the company owner.

In recent years, with the rise of remote work and the digital economy, more and more entrepreneurs choose to incorporate U.S. companies even if they do not reside in the U.S. This is especially true in industries such as technology, e-commerce, and consulting, where many non-U.S. entrepreneurs rely on agent services to complete the incorporation process - including the use of proxy addresses. For instance, in August 2025, Stripe, a leading fintech platform, launched an upgraded version of its international incorporation service, Stripe Atlas, which enables users to register either an LLC or C Corp in the U.S., complete with a Registered Agent and physical address. This demonstrates that the use of proxy addresses is not only legally permissible but also widely accepted in mainstream business practice.

However, the use of proxy addresses is not without limitations. First, the Registered Agent must be authorized to operate in that state and must have a real, physical office address. Under U.S. state laws, the agent must be available during normal business hours to receive legal documents such as subpoenas and lawsuits. This means that the address cannot be a P.O. box or a virtual mailbox - it must be a verifiable, deliverable physical location. Additionally, Registered Agents carry legal responsibilities. If they fail to forward legal documents in a timely manner, causing a company to miss a court deadline, the agent may face legal consequences.

Second, while using a proxy address is legal at the time of registration, it may pose limitations in certain business contexts. For example, if a company wishes to apply for state-specific subsidies, loans, or government procurement contracts, it may be required to provide a local physical address. Similarly, when opening a bank account, applying for a visa, or seeking financing, some institutions may request the company’s actual operational address or conduct additional due diligence to verify the company’s legitimacy and compliance.

From a compliance perspective, using a proxy address itself is not illegal, but businesses must ensure that all operations comply with local regulations. For instance, if a company is incorporated in Delaware but primarily operates in another state, it may need to go through the Foreign Qualification process to legally conduct business in the operational state. Failure to do so may result in fines or other legal penalties.

It is also worth noting that in 2025, the U.S. Congress passed the Corporate Transparency Act CTA, which imposes stricter requirements for disclosing beneficial ownership information. While the CTA does not directly restrict the use of proxy addresses, it strengthens oversight of shell companies and anonymous entities. Companies using proxy addresses should ensure that their operations remain within the legal framework and maintain proper records and documentation.

For international entrepreneurs, using a proxy address is an efficient and convenient option - especially during the early stages when a physical office in the U.S. has not yet been established. It helps reduce setup costs and protects the privacy of the business owner. However, as the business grows, it is advisable to transition gradually to using a real business address to build customer trust, enhance corporate credibility, and support future fundraising or expansion efforts.

In conclusion, using a proxy address during U.S. company registration is a legal and common practice. However, companies should make informed decisions based on their stage of development, business needs, and compliance obligations. As long as the approach remains within the bounds of the law, a proxy address can serve as an effective gateway for businesses entering the U.S. market.