The location of your business matters. Not only does it affect how your investors view you, but it also affects what your clients think about your business. It is thus important to ensure you have a location that can appeal to all your stakeholders. But how can you do this if you run a remote business, operate from your home, or are a freelancer? The key lies in getting a virtual address for business operations, which helps you hit several birds with one stone. This guide takes you through how you can achieve this.
What Is a Virtual Business Address?
When you register your business, you will have to list a business address where your clients and other third parties can find you – this primary location will be available on your public records. You will also choose a registered agent address where you will receive official and legal documents pertaining to your business.
But what happens if you do not have a business location or do not wish to share where you run your business? The answer lies in getting a virtual business address, also referred to as a virtual mailbox – this is a real street address that you can list as your primary business location. Not only does it help you register a business in the state where you have hired the virtual business address, but it also allows you to enjoy the following perks:
- Receiving mail. You can receive your mail in your virtual address for business, allowing you to avoid listing your home address or P.O. Box in public documents.
- Managing mail. You can choose to have your mail forwarded, stored, scanned, or shredded once you get a notification from the mailbox provider.
As such, a virtual business address is not just a way to establish your business location but also an efficient way to manage your mail, which helps you further your business no matter where you are.
How to Get a Virtual Business Address?
A virtual business address service allows you to boost your business image by providing you with a real street address. It also allows you to maintain your privacy such that you do not need to list your home or office address while helping you manage your mail. Here is how to get a virtual business address:
- Get a virtual address that works for you. It is important to choose a provider who matches your business needs.
- Select the plan that matches your business needs. Plans vary based on volume and features; e.g., if you need forwarding services, you should choose a tier that offers this.
- Choose the address that best fits your business image. A core aspect of the virtual address is the location. As you get a virtual address, ensure the location works for your potential investors and clients.
- Complete form 1583. Before you can get a virtual business address and redirect your mail, you will need to inform the authorities of this change. Form 1583 helps you authorize the mailbox provider to manage your mail.
- Change your business records. Once the change has been confirmed, communicate your new address with everyone on your mailing list so they can send mail to this new location. You can do this through your business website and other platforms.
With Passportology, you can get a virtual business address in just four steps. Start by picking a plan, then choose the address that you prefer before paying for the service and completing form 1583. Just like that, you can get a virtual address with a premier location that you can list on all your business records.
Considerations When Choosing a Virtual Address Services
The choice of a virtual address for business affects your professional business image and mail management. It is thus important to consider the following factors when making your selection:
- Where is it? Location is everything when it comes to a business address. You should choose a location that is easy to access and one that appeals to potential investors and clients.
- What services does it offer? Typically, a virtual address for businesswill receive mail on your behalf. However, some providers offer extras, including shredding and forwarding. Find a service that will offer you what you need.
- How reputable is the service? You want to work with a professional service that is highly qualified and has experience with mail management. Also, the business must be registered to offer its services to the public and comply with mail-handling regulations.
It is also important to look at the customer support offered by the business address service. You want to know that you can reach customer service fast if you encounter any issues.
How to Use Your Virtual Business Address Effectively?
Once you know how to get a virtual business addressand find the right option for your business, the next step hinges on figuring out how to make the most out of it. Below are tips you can use:
- Change your business records. Ensure that all your business information is accurate, whether this is on your business website or public business records – this will allow you to receive your mail securely and promptly through the virtual address.
- Keep tabs on your alerts. Your mailbox provider will alert you whenever you get mail. Keeping up with the alerts will enable you to act on time, informing the provider how to handle your mail, be it scanning, forwarding, shredding, or storage.
Also, take advantage of any premium services that the virtual address offers so you can get more value for your money.
Getting a virtual address for business is a great way to enhance your business image by listing a premier location. It also helps you maintain your privacy as you will not need to list your personal address on public records. At Passportology, we help you enjoy these and more perks while keeping your business compliant so you can focus on growing your business no matter where you are.