Using a virtual mailing address for your business
Check if an Address is a Virtual Office Using the USPS ZIP Code Lookup Tool If you use a virtual office, UPS store, or mailbox service for your business address, lenders can automatically deny your application. These addresses are often flagged as CMRA — Commercial Mail Receiving Agency — and this shows up when you look them up on USPS. You want to avoid any address that gets flagged. STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS 1. Go to the USPS ZIP Code Lookup ToolLink: https://tools.usps.com/zip-code-lookup.htmClickon “Find by Address” 2. Enter the full business address 3. Click "Find" Look for the line that says:Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA): Y or N WHAT THE RESULTS MEAN - If it shows CMRA: Y → This is a flagged virtual address, mailbox center, or executive suite. DO NOT USE this address for forming your business or applying for credit. - If it shows CMRA: N → This is a valid, physical address. You can use this address safely on business applications. PRO TIPS - Even well-known virtual office providers like Regus, Opus, or Davinci have some addresses that return CMRA: Y. Always check EACH location manually. - If you’ve already used a CMRA: Y address on your LLC, you can update it with the Secretary of State and IRS (use IRS Form 8822-B). - You should also update your address with Dun & Bradstreet, banks, business credit bureaus, and vendors to match. SUMMARY: - Use USPS ZIP Code Lookup to verify any business address. - If CMRA = Y → it's flagged and may get you denied. - If CMRA = N → it's clean and safe to use. - Avoid PO Boxes, UPS Stores, and most virtual mailbox services. - Use a real commercial space or your home address if allowed.