In this article, we’re exploring the most popular anonymous LLC states. But, instead of keeping you waiting, these states include Delaware, Nevada, New Mexico, and Wyoming.
However, there are important nuances to consider before deciding which state best meets your needs. We will discuss these nuances and answer common questions we get asked about anonymous LLCs below.
This article is part of our free series on US LLCs, including the steps for opening a business bank account for an LLC, which you can access here.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
- Anonymous LLC States
- Which States Are Best for Anonymous LLCs?
- How to Form an Anonymous Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Do You Want Help Opening Bank Accounts?
Anonymous LLC States
Anonymous LLC states include Delaware, Nevada, New Mexico, and Wyoming. These states all offer LLC formation via a registered agent or through nominee services. In doing so, they offer corporate anonymity, confidentiality, privacy protection, and enhanced asset protection.Â
Not surprisingly, the states that offer anonymous LLC registration tend to be the most business-friendly jurisdictions. In most cases, business entity formation is a big part of the state’s economic activity, which means state laws are designed to protect the integrity of any legal entity registered within their jurisdiction.
What Are Anonymous LLCs?
The difference between anonymous LLCs and standard Limited Liability Companies is that an anonymous LLC does not have the names of the members entered into public record. In fact, this is the only difference between an anonymous and a standard LLC.
Which States Are Best for Anonymous LLCs?
The states that are best for anonymous LLCs include Delaware, Nevada, New Mexico, and Wyoming. However, depending on the specific level of anonymity you are interested in, one of these states may be better suited to your needs than others.
Additionally, it’s important to note that each of these states also has pros and cons, different fee structures, and different ongoing reporting requirements.
With this in mind, we suggest considering each of the options and comparing them against your specific LLC objectives, to decide which state is best for you.
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How to Form an Anonymous Limited Liability Company (LLC)
To form an anonymous Limited Liability Company (LLC), you will need to complete the standard LLC registration process in the state of your choosing.
To start, you will need to appoint a registered agent, regardless of whether you are resident or non-resident.
Additionally, during the registration process, you will need to ensure that your personal information (name and address) are not entered into the public registry.
Steps to Form an Anonymous LLC
- Appoint a registered agent in the state
- File Articles of Organization for the LLC with the governing body
- Pay the associated filing fee at the time of filing the Articles of Organization
- Obtain an Employment Identification Number for the LLC
- File an annual report and pay an annual fee on an ongoing basis
- Meet any related federal filing requirements from the IRS
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few of the most common questions we receive from people looking into anonymous LLC states. If you have further questions you would like to ask our team, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
How Much Does It Cost to Form Anonymous LLCs?
The average cost to form an anonymous LLC in one of the four anonymous LLC states in the USA is USD 763.00. That said, the cost will vary depending on the state you choose and the process you choose to obtain anonymity. Though, in certain instances, anonymity can be obtained by simply choosing not to submit additional information about the members, which is often not required.
What Type of Business Needs an Anonymous LLC?
The type of business that needs an anonymous LLC is one that values privacy. That is enough of a reason for a business owner to decide they want an anonymous LLC. More specific types of LLCs that need to be anonymous include those that are susceptible to frivolous lawsuits and targeted legal attacks due to status or wealth. Alternatively, businesses that require privacy until sensitive business transactions are complete also benefit from anonymity.
How Do I Hide My Legal Name From My LLC?
To hide your legal name from your LLC, you can register the LLC in an anonymous LLC state like Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada, or New Mexico. During the registration process, you will need to make sure that your name (as the owner of the LLC) is not submitted into public record with the registering body.
What Are the Cons of an Anonymous LLC?
The cons of an anonymous LLC may include the cost to maintain anonymity, additional scrutiny when opening and maintaining bank accounts. Likewise, certain business partners, financial institutions, and other transacting partners may request official state issued documentation with the name of the owner instead of the registered agent.
Does Florida Allow Anonymous LLCs?
No, Florida does not allow anonymous LLCs. However, it is possible to have an anonymous LLC in Florida. To do so, the individual forming the Florida LLC will first need to register an LLC in an anonymous LLC state like Wyoming. Next, they will form the LLC in Florida with the Wyoming LLC as the member.
This approach allows the information of the individual that originally formed the Wyoming LLC to maintain anonymity as owner of the Florida LLC, as the only ownership information that will appear will be the Wyoming LLC. However, there are additional costs associated with this process. This is referred to as a Double LLC.
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