LLC Setup - Legal Protection

[Becky Watkins]

We're working on setting up our LLC and need an address and agent for service of process.

Our CPA suggested we looked into virtual offices. We did and they are about $80-100 a month. That seems like a lot just to protect our privacy (although that's pretty important). What do you guys do?

Also, our CPA suggested we use a friend or family member or professional service for the agent for service of process. I hadn't thought of using a friend before. My husband suggests we use his parents, but I'm not so sure that's a good idea. I was reading all these requirements of a service agent, and don't trust it's a good idea to go with anyone besides a professional.

We are still looking for an attorney, so we'll ask those we interview about this, but in your experience, do many attorneys offer this? I've read that most don't want to, but to me, it makes sense for the attorney to be the service agent.

Let me know your thoughts and thanks for any help!

[Matt R.]

Hi Becky,
although I live in California, I have property in Texas.
So, I set up an LLC in Texas and that requires a 'local' agent (ie in Texas).
The lawyer that I worked with for general advice and for setting up my LCC agreed to be my named agent. That would usually cost me a little extra per year for that, but since I also pay him for advice through the year I haven't seen a bill for the 'being an agent' job.
All that provides is a Texas address for official notification of paperwork etc. and what he does is just forward it to me at my 'real' address. So it's not a major task, even for friends and family to do.