Delaware Mailboxes
Why are Delaware mailboxes so important?
The one and only physical request needed for Delaware incorporation is at least a rental contract with registered agent within the State. Of course, if you have a property this is no longer needed, but as most people that own companies live outside the state, renting a mailbox is the best choice. This is usually provided by your incorporator at an affordable yearly fee.
Now, sticking to the question, the State Department requires a mailbox so that you can be supplied with official papers issued by state authorities. Why that? One simple law rule is that you cannot be responsible for an action if you have not been notified about it. This is the way the state will send you tax papers and confirmations and the incorporating documents.
What happens with my mail?
Most likely, the initial documents that will arrive in your mailbox will be forwarded for free to you. In short, these are the incorporating papers arrived for the Division of Corporations (some of them are faxed now, though). This is a MUST for any Delaware incorporator.
Other mail than that will be stay there unless you do not request a mail forwarding service from your Delaware mailbox to your actual location in US or in the world.
Do I need Delaware mail forwarding services?
This highly depends on your business model. If you own a holding corporation or LLC, most likely you don't need them. If you run a profit company it depends on your contacts within the State authorities and with business partners.
If your services are outstanding, so your marketing should be. A forwarded mailbox and an US phone number (eventually toll free) will definitely help. Many people and businessmen that are doing "safe shopping" are checking possible partners' credibility and reliability through regular communication ways, and not by email or instant messaging. This is also true for classic online-only businesses such as web hosting or web design.
Why State authorities might contact me after incorporation?
Naturally NO State authority will contact you if you do not request yo. If you plan to do business in the State or if you need certain official papers from the Division of Corporations you will need forwarding. Before establishing your business, some of you might need various certificates of good stating or licenses from State departments which will not be mailed to your actual mailing address, outside Delaware.
Conclusions. While the registered agent mailbox is a must, being required by the incorporating law, the need for mailbox forwarding services depends in the way you run and operate your business. If you have any doubts about it, the best advice we can give is to consult a financial and/or law expert.
