Cementon, PA asked in Business Formation and Business Law for Pennsylvania

Q: Do I use my virtual office address or my home address to get a business license in Pennsylvania?

I am starting an online business in PA and have a virtual office address for the business along with a registered agent that I used to file the corporation with the state. Can I use that address to get a local business license or do I need to use my home address? I am unsure if I should use the local address or the registered virtual address as they are both in different cities. However, both the virtual office address and home address are in Northampton County, PA.

2 Lawyer Answers
Michael Cherewka
Michael Cherewka
Answered
  • Wormleysburg, PA
  • Licensed in Pennsylvania

A: Not sure what you mean by a "business license" in Pennsylvania? if you are looking to form a corporation or an LLC to conduct a business in PA you will need a street address. We usually don't recommend that you use your home address, but since you do not have a business office or storefront you could use something like a UPS store or your home address if you prefer. Depending on your type of business you may need a PA Sales Tax license, and also depending on your type of business you may have some form of local business license or business tax in your area.

1 user found this answer helpful

Nellie T Schulz
Nellie T Schulz
Answered
  • Philadlephia, PA
  • Licensed in Pennsylvania

A: I agree with Mr Cherewka. If you are filing a Certificate of Organization or Articles of Incorporation with the Department of State to form a new LLC or corporation, you need to use an actual street address where you receive mail. You cannot use a Post Office Box. You can also hire a Commercial Registered Office Provider (such as CT) if you don’t have a street address.

If, however, are asking about a local municipal business license, you should use the address of where the actual business is conducted - probably where your computer equipment and other office equipment is located.

1 user found this answer helpful

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