During the Relay account application process, business owners may have the option to use a Registered Agent address, but there are specific requirements to be aware of. This article outlines when and how a Registered Agent and Operating addresses can be used, and what’s required for your application to be approved.
Can I use a Registered Agent address for my business?
Yes! You can use a Registered Agent address as your business address, including for non-U.S. residents operating a U.S.-based business.
However, a Registered Agent address cannot be used as your operating address or personal address.
What is an Operating address?
Your operating address is the location where your business actually operates. It must be a real, physical place of business, and you’ll be required to provide it if you choose to use a Registered Agent address as your business address during the registration process.
Operating addresses can include:
- Your home address (domestic or international)
- A physical office or workspace
Your operating address cannot be:
- A Registered Agent address
- A PO Box
- A virtual mailbox or mailbox rental service
Why do I need to provide an operating address if I’m using a Registered Agent?
Even if you use a Registered Agent address, Relay still requires an operating address because it reflects where your business actually operates—not just where it’s legally registered. A Registered Agent address is only a legal mailing address and does not show day-to-day business activity.
Regulatory requirements (KYC / AML)
Relay (like all fintechs/banks) has to comply with “Know Your Customer” (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) laws. While a registered agent address is considered a legal mailing address, it does not prove where the business activity actually happens
Regulators expect us to collect the principal place of business/operating address to understand the real-world footprint of the business
What if my operating address is different from my personal address?
If your operating address is different from your personal address, you may be asked to provide a Proof of Address (POA) document to verify the business location.
Do I still need to provide a personal address?
Yes. All business owners must provide a verifiable personal (residential) address, even if a Registered Agent address is used for the business. This is required to meet U.S. banking regulations and verify the identity of each business owner.
A valid personal address:
Must be a real residential address
May require supporting documentation (e.g., utility bill or bank statement)
You cannot use:
A Registered Agent address
A PO Box
A virtual mailbox or mailbox rental service
For more information, please see: Accepted documents and requirements
Why does Relay require this information?
Relay is required to verify the identity and business operations of all account holders to comply with U.S. banking regulations. Providing accurate and verifiable address information helps ensure a smooth application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Registered Agent address as my operating address?
No. A Registered Agent address cannot be used as your operating address. Your operating address must be a real, physical location where your business operates.
Can I use my home address as my operating address?
Yes. Your operating address can be your home address, whether it is located in the U.S. or internationally, as long as it is a valid physical address.
Do I need to provide an operating address if I use a Registered Agent address?
Yes. If you choose to use a Registered Agent address for your business, you will be required to provide a valid operating address.
Will I need to verify my operating address?
Yes! If your operating address is different from your personal address, you may be asked to provide a Proof of Address (POA) document to confirm the location.
Can I use a PO Box or virtual mailbox as my operating address?
No. PO Boxes, virtual mailboxes, and mailbox rental services (such as The UPS Store) are not accepted as operating addresses.
Can I use the same address for everything?
No. You cannot use a Registered Agent address as your personal address or operating address. Each address must meet its specific requirements.