I am still searching a place to setup a LLC in US. I noticed that quite a few company that do the LLC paper work will offer you "Mail forwarding service". Does any one know what is the purpose of using such service. Since I live in Australia. If I do get a "Mail Forwarding Service". Am I technically operating a businesses based in the United States since my business contact address will be in the US.

I am trying to get a full merchant account in the US from Australia. If anyone know the basic procedures. Please feel free to acknowledge.

You will need US mailling address (physical no P.o.BOX), incorporate in US (get company Tax ID number), get your own tax number (ITIN), get bank account over Internet (bankone.com free net checking), and there you go ;=)

ps. tax numbers can be easily obtained from www.irs.gov