If you’re running a US LLC and rely on Wise (formerly TransferWise) for international payments or receiving client funds, you may have recently hit a roadblock: Wise has updated its address requirements. In 2024, Wise began enforcing stricter rules around the types of addresses accepted for business accounts—especially those registered as US LLCs.
In this post, we’ll break down what kind of address Wise now requires, how to stay compliant, and what to do if your account was flagged or rejected. We’ll also offer guidance on the best address options to keep your Wise account active and running smoothly.
Why Did Wise Update Address Requirements for US LLCs?
To remain compliant with global banking regulations and financial security standards, Wise is tightening its Know Your Customer (KYC) and Know Your Business (KYB) protocols. One major change introduced in 2024? Addresses now need to be verifiable physical addresses—virtual mailboxes and registered agent addresses may no longer be accepted as physical locations.
Wise is doing this to ensure they can properly identify account holders and meet regulatory requirements across jurisdictions. You can read more on Wise’s support page.
What Kind of Address Does Wise Require for a US LLC?
Wise now requires three types of addresses to maintain a business account:
- Legal Address – Your registered agent address (required for LLC formation and still accepted by Wise).
- Physical Address – A real, verifiable physical address where you or your business operates.
- Mailing Address (US-only) – For correspondence like statements or debit card deliveries, Wise requires a valid US mailing address.
Accepted Physical Addresses:
- Home address (US or non-US, as long as it’s verifiable and in a Wise-supported country)
- Co-working spaces with unique suite numbers
- Office leases or subleases
Not Accepted as Physical Address:
- PO Boxes
- Registered agent addresses (only used for legal address field)
- Virtual mailboxes (e.g., iPostal1, Anytime Mailbox, PostScanMail)
Can I Use a Virtual Mailbox With Wise?
Yes, but only as a US mailing address. Wise requires a US mailing address for sending bank cards or physical statements, and this is where a virtual mailbox like BusinessAnywhere is ideal.
However, virtual mailboxes do not fulfill the requirement for a physical address. While they often market themselves as offering “real street addresses,” Wise’s verification system can distinguish between virtual and actual physical premises.
Important: No virtual mailbox provider can offer a true physical address that meets Wise’s verification requirements.
What Happens if Wise Rejects My LLC Address?
If your address is flagged or rejected, Wise will usually send you a notice asking for:
- An updated, valid physical address
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.)
Failing to respond or resolve the issue can lead to account suspension or closure. This can disrupt business operations—especially if you’re relying on Wise to receive payments or pay contractors.
How to Update Your Wise Address for a US LLC
- Log in to your Wise Business account.
- Go to Settings > Business Profile.
- Click on Edit Address.
- Enter your updated legal, physical, and mailing addresses.
- Upload any required proof (utility bill, lease, etc.).
Ensure the address matches your supporting documents and reflects where your business has some form of physical presence.
Best Address Options for Wise LLC Compliance
If you don’t have a traditional office, consider these alternatives:
1. Home Address (US or non-US)
Using your home address is often the simplest and most effective option. As long as it’s in a country where Wise supports users and can be verified with a utility bill or similar document, it’s acceptable. This information is private, not shared with government agencies, and not part of the public record.
2. Coworking Space with Unique Suite Number
Providers like WeWork or Regus may offer dedicated suite numbers and mail handling, which Wise is more likely to accept.
3. Office Lease or Sublease
A traditional commercial lease or sublease can provide the necessary proof of a physical address.
4. Virtual Mailbox for Mailing Address Only
If you need a US address for receiving correspondence from Wise—such as bank cards or letters—BusinessAnywhere’s virtual mailbox is a perfect solution.
How to Keep Your Wise Account Active for a US LLC
- Update your address promptly if Wise requests verification.
- Ensure you have all three address types: legal, physical, and mailing.
- Avoid using virtual mailbox providers and registered agent addresses for your physical address.
- Ensure your documents match the addresses on file.
- Stay on top of Wise’s compliance emails.
Wise is continuously improving its compliance processes, and you should expect more frequent account checks. Proactive address management is key to avoiding disruptions.
Wise Account Suspended Due to Address: What To Do
If your account was suspended due to an address issue:
- Contact Wise support immediately.
- Provide a compliant physical address.
- Submit proof of address (ideally a utility bill, lease, or official document).
- Follow up until the issue is resolved.
Most users can restore access within 5–10 business days after submitting valid information.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of Wise Compliance for US LLCs
Wise remains one of the best tools for entrepreneurs and global businesses. However, their requirement for a physical and mailing address is strict and essential for compliance.
If you’re using a virtual mailbox or registered agent address only, you’ll need to add a valid physical address to avoid disruption. For receiving mail in the U.S., BusinessAnywhere’s virtual mailbox works seamlessly.
To learn more about KYC/KYB requirements, visit the U.S. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) or review Wise’s compliance guidelines.
FAQs
Is a physical address required for Wise business accounts?
Yes. Wise requires a physical, verifiable address for US LLCs and other business types.
Can I still use a registered agent address with Wise?
Yes, but only for the legal business address. You must also provide a separate physical and mailing address.
What’s the best address to use for Wise account approval?
A home address (US or non-US), coworking space, or leased office that is verifiable and located in a supported country.
Can I use a virtual mailbox with Wise?
Yes, but only for your US mailing address. It cannot be used as your physical address.
How do I fix a rejected Wise account?
Update your address to a compliant one and provide proof through your Wise dashboard.
For more help with forming and managing your US LLC, explore more resources on the BusinessAnywhere Blog.
