Can a registered agent help keep my name out of public records?

You can usually avoid being the organizer. In many states you can have the registered agent file the articles on your behalf. But the operating agreement is private. Public filings vary.

Not a complete fix. Some states require a member or manager's name on the annual report, and that becomes public. Check the annual report requirements, not just the articles.

What pralinesyntax said. I used a registered agent in New Mexico for a holding company and my name never appeared in the initial filing because the agent signed as organizer. But I still had to list members on the annual report. In NM, though, the member list isn't public. So it depends entirely on the state.

Short answer: it helps with the address and sometimes with the organizer line, but it doesn't magically erase you from every public record. Beneficial ownership reporting is separate too. FinCEN BOI is not public, but it's still a filing you have to do.

If you're in a state like Wyoming, the registered agent gets listed, and the member name is not required on the articles. That's why people use WY. But your name will still be on the BOI report and any bank records.

Right. And if you use a nominee organizer, make sure you understand the liability. Some registered agent services offer formation packages where they they sign as organizer. That's not the same as being a nominee member. Ask specifically what role they play.

Following. I've been curious if using a registered agent in a different state than where I operate creates nexus issues. Not trying to hijack, but it seems related.

It can create nexus if you're not careful. If you form in WY but live and work in CA, you'll likely need to foreign qualify in CA, and then your name might show up there anyway. The registered agent only handles service of process and state mail. It doesn't shield you from foreign qualification requirements.

Also, some states list the registered agent's name and address but not the members. Others list everything. You really have to read the state's business entity search results for a sample LLC. Look at what fields are populated before you decide.

Appreciate the point about annual reports and foreign qualification. I hadn't considered that a registered agent in one state could trigger a filing in another. I'm in Texas, by the way, if that changes anything. I'll check the Texas SOS form to see if organizer is required and whether member names are public.

Texas requires a registered agent with a physical address in the state. The formation form asks for the organizer, but you can use a third party. The public search shows the registered agent and the organizer, not necessarily the members. But the franchise tax report may list members. Its messy. Hire a CPA who knows Texas.