Best LLC Formation Services

If you need help starting an LLC, using a formation service can be your best bet. Discover the 9 best LLC services and their offers in this article.

Starting an LLC can seem daunting.

You might not be familiar with the laws AND the fact that they differ in every state.

What if you do business in multiple states? Imagine the headache.

But that's where LLC formation services come in.

They can help you start an LLC without going through the painstaking process yourself.

Let's talk about the best ones to help you choose. Read on.

Top 9 LLC Services

An LLC formation service is undoubtedly a more convenient option if you want to start an LLC. But which one should you choose for your business?

Here are the 9 best LLC services you can check out:

1. ZenBusiness: Best for Small Businesses

ZenBusiness is one of the more popular LLC services available. And they have helped more than 400,000 businesses with their needs since launching in 2015. They're great for small businesses because they offer reliable formation services at a reasonable price.

All of their plans come with the following standard features:

• Business name availability search
  
• Preparation and filing of your LLC paperwork
  
• Access to your documents via an online dashboard
  
• Free accounting consultation
  
• Customer support via phone or email

Their more expensive plans include extra features, like a free year of Worry-Free Compliance Services, expedited processing, and guided operating agreements.

Pricing:^[1]

• Starter: $0 + state fees (one-time fee only)
  
• Pro: $199 + state fees (renews annually)
  
• Premium: $349 + state fees (renews annually)

Processing Time:

• 2 to 3 weeks with Starter

Why We Like It:
ZenBusiness is the best LLC service for business owners who want a free basic package with the option to customize. And their prices are straightforward. You'll know exactly how much you have to pay. There's no need to worry about hidden fees or surprise charges.

They also allow you to build your own plan if none of their ready-made packages have what you need. This is great if you only want to pay for the features you use. Or if you prefer more personalized services.

They offer a good selection of other business services, from registered agent services to annual compliance filing. So it's a great option if you only want one platform for everything.

Forming an LLC means going public with your business. This next option can help you have some privacy back.

2. Northwest Registered Agent: Best for Privacy Protection

Northwest Registered Agent is an LLC service great for privacy protection. It doesn't sell your customer's data to third-party companies.

The public won't know your company's sensitive information. And you won't get any unwanted adverts.

There's only 1 paid plan, which comes with the following features:

• Business name availability search
  
• Preparation and filing of LLC formation documents
  
• 1-year registered agent service (renews annually)
  
• Dedicated business address
  
• Annual compliance reminders and filing
  
• Access to online resources and tools about LLC formation

Like ZenBusiness, you can get other services at an extra cost. These include EIN applications, virtual office access, trademark registrations, business phone services, etc.

Pricing:^[3]

• Free account: $0 + state fees
  
• Paid LLC formation service: $225 + state fees

Processing Time:

• Usually within the same business day

Why We Like It:
If protecting your privacy is your top priority, Northwest is the best LLC formation company for that They're also great if you want excellent customer support from US-based business experts.

They started with registered agent services as their main offer. But they have since expanded their list to accommodate different business needs. This includes LLC formation in all 50 states.

The company also prides itself on being a family-owned business. And their main goal is to help entrepreneurs establish their businesses with no problem. They're a good choice if you're looking for a service with a more personable approach toward their clients.

Also, there are lots of positive reviews for the company. You can count on their customer support. They deliver high-quality services, even after years in the industry.

If you're on a tight schedule and budget, this next option's perfect.

3. Incfile: Best for Quick Processing

Incfile is another popular online LLC service. They're well-known for their affordable, straightforward formation packages and other business services. They're a great choice if you need to form your LLC as quickly as possible without paying extra for expedited processing.

The standard features for all their formation packages include:

• Unlimited business name availability searches
  
• Preparation and filing of LLC documents
  
• Free registered agent service for 1 year
  
• Lifetime company alerts
  
• Unlimited customer support

If you choose the Gold or Platinum plan, you also get features like EIN applications, business bank accounts, tax consultations, and more. But you can get these as add-ons for an extra cost.

Pricing:^[4]

• Silver: $0 + state fees
  
• Gold: $199 + state fees
  
• Platinum: $299 + state fees

Processing Time:

• 1 business day

Why We Like It:
Incfile is the best LLC formation company for feature-rich services at competitive prices and with fast turnaround times.

You get a free year of registered agent services and one-day processing in all their packages, including their basic plan (Silver). This is something you have to pay extra for with other service providers.

Their selection of other business services is comprehensive enough to cover different needs. For example, they have bookkeeping and accounting services that can keep your company's finances well-organized. Which, in turn, can help solidify your LLC's liability protection.

They also have transparent pricing for their offers. And there are no auto-renewals without your permission. You don't have to worry about being charged for services you no longer use.

Now, we know that forming a limited liability company involves the law. But consultations can get expensive, right? Not with LegalZoom.

4. LegalZoom: Best for Low-cost Legal Services

LegalZoom is a good choice if you need basic LLC formation services with the option for legal assistance (personal or business).

They provide low-cost legal services catering to different needs. This includes handling personal matters like estate planning, name changes, and deed transfers.

All their LLC packages have the following features:

• Business name availability search
  
• Preparation and filing of LLC formation documents
  
• Digital welcome packet
  
• Online dashboard access
  
• Ongoing customer support via chat and email (+ phone for Pro and Premium)
  
• Free customizable business website (powered by Wix)

Higher-tiered plans will give you more features like EIN applications, operating agreements, copyright registrations, etc. There's also a library of customizable legal forms.

You can get other services as add-ons for an extra fee. These include registered agent service, annual compliance assistance, DBA applications, etc.

Pricing:^[5]

• Basic: $0 + state fees
  
• Pro: $249 + state fees
  
• Premium: $299 + state fees

Processing Time:

• usually within 1 to 2 weeks

Why We Like It:
LegalZoom is designed to be a one-stop shop for anyone who needs online legal assistance. They handle legal matters for businesses, individuals, and families.

It's one of the more reputable services for business formation. They have helped 1M+ companies establish different business entities, including LLCs.

Also, their easy-to-use services allow you to form an LLC in a different state without needing to go to the area yourself. This is convenient if you want to start a foreign LLC but have a hectic schedule.

Speaking of customer support, Swyft Filings is better if you're particular about it.

5. Swyft Filings: Best for Hands-on Support

If you need dedicated, hands-on support from experts, Swyft Filings is your best choice. They'll assign you your own Business Specialist who will familiarize themselves with your business and its unique needs.

For any plan, you'll get:

• Business name availability search
  
• Preparation and filing of formation documents
  
• Dedicated Business Specialist
  
• ComplianceGuard company alerts
  
• Online access to your paperwork
  
• Document delivery

The Standard and Premium plans give you access to advanced features like an EIN application, operating agreement, banking resolution, and a dedicated business website.

But you can also get these features as add-ons.

Pricing:^[6]

• Basic: $0 + state fees
  
• Standard: $199 + state fees
  
• Premium: $299 + state fees

Processing Time:

• 10 business days

Why We Like It:
Swyft Filings is one of the best LLC services to try if you value hands-on guidance from business experts. Your assigned Business Specialist can give you detailed insights into your company's operations. This will help you streamline everything, especially after your LLC is formed.

Aside from that, Swyft is affordable even for those on a tight budget. You can even divide the total amount into 2 installments, thanks to their 2-Easy Payment Plan. No need to break the bank just to form your LLC.

If you need long-term, comprehensive legal advice, this next option is the best option for that.

6. Rocket Lawyer: Best for Legal Assistance

Rocket Lawyer is another online service that focuses on providing ongoing legal assistance to business owners, like LegalZoom. They cover different business needs, including forming an LLC in your preferred state.

With a Rocket Lawyer premium membership, you get the following features:

• Access to their library of customizable legal forms
  
• Document Defense® with their legal forms
  
• 30-minute consultations with a lawyer
  
• Up to 40% off for on-call Rocket Lawyer attorney services
  
• 50% off trademark registration assistance (excludes USPTO fees)
  
• Business formation filing (excludes state fees, only free for the 1st company)
  
• 25% off their registered agent service

There's the option to get each service individually. But this can become pricey if you need to use their services regularly or need two or more services.

Pricing:

• Premium membership:$39.99/mo (or $239.99/yr)^[7]
  
• LLC formation (standalone service): $99.99 + state fees^[8]

You can enjoy additional discounts if you pay annually instead of monthly. These lower your overall costs for ongoing legal and business assistance.

You'll get 50% off their tax assistance services (Rocket Tax™), 25% off for their registered agent services, and up to 40% off for on-call attorneys.

Processing Time:

• 2 to 3 weeks

Why We Like It:
Rocket Lawyer is great for business owners who need long-term or ongoing legal advice but don't want to break the bank.

They're also one of the best LLC formation companies to hire if you're planning to start multiple LLCs in different states. Since they'll give you discounted rates after your first one.

They also have multiple channels for customer support - phone, email, and live chat. It's easier to reach them if you have concerns or questions about their services.

If you also need help with building your company's brand, this next pick is the best LLC service for that.

7. Tailor Brands: Best for Company Branding

Tailor Brands is the best LLC filing service if you need help with branding and marketing, both online and offline.

Starting from their base LLC package, you'll get the following:

• Business name search
  
• Preparing and filing of formation documents
  
• Electronic access to your documents

You can also get features like EIN, registered agent services, business branding, etc. as paid add-ons. So you can customize your LLC package to your liking.

Pricing:

• starts at $0 + state fees^[9]

Processing Time:

• 14 business days^[10]

Why We Like It:
Tailor Brands offers affordable LLC formation by only charging you the state fees when you hire them. And although the free plan has limited features, you can always enhance it by getting add-ons for an additional cost.

Besides LLC services, Tailor Brands can also help with company branding. From distinct logos to digital business cards, they have a wide variety of tools that will help your business build its unique brand identity and create a solid online presence.

They can even help with your marketing campaigns by creating branded merchandise with your company logo. So you can easily get your new LLC's name out there.

But if you're still new to the business world, this next company might be more useful.

8. MyCompanyWorks: Best for New Businesses

If you're looking for an LLC service focusing on startups and new businesses, MyCompanyWorks is your best bet. They help new business owners understand the ins and outs of running a business, not just forming an LLC. They're the best LLC service if you want to learn more about being an entrepreneur.

Their packages include:

• Unlimited business name availability search
  
• Same business day processing
  
• Preparation and filing of formation documents
  
• Personalized operating agreement and organizational minutes
  
• Lifetime access to online documents
  
• Free business guides and handbooks
  
• Startup wizard access

If you go for their more expensive plans, you also get features like registered agent service, EIN application, and access to tax forms and guides. Or you could get them as separate services for a fee.

Pricing:^[11]

• Basic: Starts from $59 + state fees
  
• Entrepreneur: Starts from $179 + state fees
  
• Complete: Starts from $259 + state fees

Processing Time:

• Within the same business day (3 PM EST cutoff)

Why We Like It:
While they're not the cheapest, their prices are still relatively affordable considering the features they include. The company also has an intuitive startup wizard that walks you through every step of the process.

They even give you access to several guides and handbooks that can help you understand what your company needs.

They detail all the compliance requirements in your formation state. Ultimately, you decide which services to get and avoid hidden fees or surprise charges.

Next, let's talk about free stuff.

9. Inc Authority: Best for Free Services

Inc Authority is another LLC formation company that doesn't charge for its services. You only have to pay the state fees. It's the best LLC service for business owners who want comprehensive features with their LLC package without having to pay more.

Their basic LLC formation package comes with the following features:

• Business name availability search
  
• Preparation and filing of formation documents
  
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
  
• 1 year of registered agent service
  
• S-Corp election form preparation and filing
  
• Online document storage and delivery
  
• Tax planning consultation
  
• Business credit and funding analysis

Getting a business bundle will give you more features such as operating agreement creation, annual compliance notifications, ownership certificates, etc. But you can also choose to get individual services.

Pricing:
The Basic plan costs $0 + state fees.^[12] Choose from the Starter or Fast-Track Business Bundle if you need advanced features. But you must contact them for the price.^[13]

Processing Time:

• 2 to 3 weeks

Why We Like It:
The free year-long registered agent service and tax consultations can help you set up your business more efficiently. No need to pay extra.

Also, additional perks such as bonuses and discounts from some of their partner brands will lower your business costs even more. Their intuitive online platform makes placing an order easy and convenient.

And if you have any inquiries, easily contact them through phone or email. With their help, you can get your LLC up and running with minimal fuss.

What are LLC services and how do they work?

LLC services are companies that help business owners form their LLCs. They usually charge a fee in addition to state fees.

They know the business formation process in different states. And they can handle every step for you. This includes verifying your business name's availability to filing your formation documents.

Just give them the necessary information about your business and pay the fees. They'll handle the rest.

Now that you know what they are, let's talk features.

What features do LLC services offer?

LLC services include different features in their plans. So you might not get the same ones every time.

That said, here's what you usually get with basic LLC formation services:

• Business name search

  Unique business names are a prerequisite for registering a limited liability company. An LLC formation service can check if the name you want is still available before filing the paperwork with the state.

• Preparation and filing of LLC documents

  LLC companies will fill up and file the required forms for your LLC with the state. Then, they'll deliver them to you electronically or physically after your LLC is approved. You just need to give them the necessary info.

• Registered agent services

  Registered agents are a must-have for business entities like LLCs and corporations. Without one, the state will just reject your application. These companies will also usually act as your registered agent for an annual fee. Some even include free registered agent services as part of their formation packages.

• Operating agreement

  Operating agreements for LLCs aren't required in all states. But it's still a good idea to have one. Most of these LLC filing services can help you draft an operating agreement for your company. Or give you a template you can follow instead.

• Employer identification number (EIN)

  Like registered agents, business entities like LLCs need an EIN. Especially for multi-member LLCs. An LLC service can apply for one on your behalf, so you have fewer things to worry about. These usually cost extra or only part of more expensive LLC packages.

• Annual report/compliance filing

  Business entities like LLCs and corporations have to comply with annual requirements. For LLCs, this usually means filing an annual report with the state. Many business formation services, like ZenBusiness and Incfile, will also handle this for an extra cost.

• Other business services

  Many of these LLC filing services also handle the formation process for other business entity types. Like corporations and non-profits. Some of them also offer additional business services like bookkeeping, accounting, and even legal assistance.

Next, let's talk about choosing the best LLC service for you.

How to Choose the Best LLC Service

There are a lot of LLC formation services out there. So choosing the best one for your needs can be tough, especially if this is your first time using one.

Here are a few tips that can help you decide:

• Compare the included features
  LLC formation services don't include the same features in their packages. So make sure you double-check and compare each one.

  It's generally a good idea to go for an LLC service that offers a good balance between features and price. Just make sure that what they include are the ones you actually need.

• Consider the quality of their support
  You'll want to go for an LLC service that provides high-quality customer support, even after placing your order.

  You can check previous customers' reviews to see how well they handle concerns and inquiries.

• Check if they have other services
  If you need additional services besides LLC formation, it can be a good idea to choose a company that can provide them. It's generally easier to just have one platform for everything.

  Just make sure you consider their specialty. For example, LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer are better choices if you need legal assistance.

  But Incfile and ZenBusiness are better if you need more business-oriented services, like registered agent services or annual compliance assistance.

What if you don't really have the budget to hire an LLC service? You can always DIY but take note of the pros and cons.

DIY vs. Hire LLC Services

If you want to form an LLC, you generally have 2 options: to do it yourself or hire an LLC filing service.

Let's compare.

Doing it yourself

If you have a limited budget or don't mind doing everything yourself, this can be your best option.

Pros

• Inexpensive (only worry about the necessary fees)
  
• More control over the process and your information

Cons

• Can be tedious and time-consuming
  
• Requires you to be familiar with the different laws and requirements
  
• You're responsible for ensuring everything's correct and accurate

Hire an LLC service

Hiring an LLC filing service is your best option if you don't know how to start an LLC. It can also help you out if you need additional assistance beyond LLC formation.

Pros

• More convenient (let the service handle everything)
  
• Already familiar with the state laws and requirements
  
• Ensures everything is correct and accurate before filing
  
• Access to other related services (e.g., EINs, registered agents, DBAs, etc.)
  
• Less costly than working with a lawyer

Cons

• Pricier than DIY
  
• Often charges you for services that are otherwise free (e.g., EINs)

Got all that? Lastly, let's talk about how we came up with this list.

Our Methodology

We understand that running a business can be tough. And LLC formation services should ease the burden, not add to it.

That's why we only included services that meet the following criteria:

• Good balance between features and price
  
• Responsive and helpful customer support
  
• Wide selection of other related services
  
• Generally reliable and trustworthy services
  
• Mainly positive reviews from previous customers

There are many LLC formation companies out there. Yet not all of them deliver high-quality services. Make sure you evaluate each one carefully before deciding.

What the Experts Say

CreditDonkey asked a panel of industry experts to answer readers' most pressing questions. Here's what they said:

Bottom Line

Hiring an LLC formation service can be more expensive than doing it yourself. But they can make starting your LLC so much easier and more convenient.

Just make sure you do your research first and choose a service provider that best meets your company's needs.

That way, you get the best possible value for your money and enjoy a smoother LLC formation process.

References