Anonymous LLC: How to Keep Your Name Off Public Records

When you form an LLC, your name typically becomes part of the public record. Anyone can search state business databases and find your name, your address, and your connection to the company. For many business owners — especially those dealing with online harassment, competitive industries, or personal safety concerns — this is unacceptable.

How Anonymous LLCs Work

An anonymous LLC is formed in a state that does not require member or manager names on formation documents or annual reports. Instead, only the registered agent's information appears in public records.

The key states for anonymous LLCs:

• New Mexico — Best privacy. No member names, no annual reports, no annual fees. $50 filing fee.
• Wyoming — No member names on formation documents. Annual report required ($60) but does not require member names.
• Delaware — No member names on formation documents. Annual tax of $300/year.

Building Layers of Privacy

Layer 1: Choose the Right State

Form in New Mexico, Wyoming, or Delaware — states that do not list member names publicly.

Layer 2: Use a Registered Agent Service

Your registered agent's address appears on public records instead of yours. Use a professional registered agent service rather than your home address.

Layer 3: Nominee Manager/Organizer

Some states list the organizer or manager on formation documents. A nominee service provides a person to serve as the organizer of record, adding another layer between you and public records.

Layer 4: Separate Mailing Address

Use a virtual office or PO box for all business correspondence. Never use your home address on any business documents.

What Anonymity Does NOT Cover

• The IRS always knows. Your EIN application requires your SSN and personal information.
• Your bank knows. Banking regulations (KYC/AML) require identification of beneficial owners.
• Courts can compel disclosure. If you are sued, a court can order you to reveal your identity as the LLC owner.
• BOI reporting. The Corporate Transparency Act requires most LLCs to file Beneficial Ownership Information reports with FinCEN, disclosing the real owners. This information is not publicly searchable but is accessible to law enforcement and certain government agencies.

Is It Legal?

Yes. Using privacy-friendly states and nominee services to keep your name off public records is completely legal. The key distinction: you are shielding yourself from public searches, not hiding from the government. You still file taxes, report to FinCEN, and comply with all laws.

Set Up Your Anonymous LLC

Sedes offers privacy-first LLC formation with nominee services, registered agent, and guidance on the best state for your privacy needs. Our AI advisor assesses your privacy requirements and recommends the right approach.