Northwest Registered Agent Review

Northwest is one of the biggest names in LLC formation. But are they truly as impressive as everyone claims? Find out below.

	Business Formation Service - $39 + State Fees Get Discount
	Overall Score	4.3
	Price	4.0
	Customer Service	4.5
	Ease of Use	4.0
	Order Processing Time	4.5
	Quality	4.5

5-point scale (the higher, the better)

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Pros and Cons

• Great support
• Clear pricing
• Privacy protection

• Fewer services
• Higher prices

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Bottom Line

A trusted and reliable company for LLC formation

Northwest Registered Agent continues to win over business owners, thanks to their top-notch customer service and an unwavering commitment to data privacy.

But here's the kicker: every business is unique. And Northwest's lineup of services might not be a perfect match for yours.

Which begs the question: Is bringing them on board the right move for your business? Or should you set your sights elsewhere?

Keep reading to get the scoop.

What Is Northwest Registered Agent?

Northwest Registered Agent is a family-owned and run business formation service that was established in 1998.

They initially offered registered agent services only to businesses in Spokane, Washington. But has since expanded their coverage to accommodate clients in other areas.

They also added more services to their list over the years, like:

• Business entity formation
  
• Trademark applications
  
• Virtual offices

Later sections will cover Northwest's services in more detail. So keep reading if you want to learn more.

Why Choose Northwest Registered Agent

In the last 20+ years, Northwest has built a solid reputation as one of the country's best LLC services.

And there are several good reasons why. Here are some of them:

• Responsive and expert customer support
  Northwest is widely recognized for its high-quality customer service, with many praising how responsive their team is.

  They have 200+ business experts ("Corporate Guides") who are all familiar with the ins and outs of business formation in every state. Because of this, they can give in-depth answers and solutions to clients.

  They're also an in-house team. Which means someone's always available to answer calls and emails. And you get to talk to an actual person immediately.

  No automated responses, phone trees, or being put on hold.

  Northwest prides itself on giving their clients a more personalized and user-friendly experience. In fact, their slogan, "We're Just Not Annoying®," is meant to emphasize this.
  

  But that's not all Northwest has to offer. In fact, the next reason is one of Northwest's best-selling points.

• Top-notch privacy protection
  Northwest is also well-known for prioritizing its clients' privacy. The company keeps its clients' information as private as possible.^[2]

  They do this in several ways.
  

  1. Northwest gives its own business address on all public forms when filing on behalf of your company. That way, you don't have to disclose yours.

  2. The company limits who can access your data. They also limit the type of information requested from you. This lowers the chances of your private data falling into the wrong hands.

  3. They don't sell the data they do get from you to third parties. So you don't have to worry about receiving junk mail and promotional materials you didn't sign up for.

  Besides protecting your privacy, they also promote trust among their customers in other ways. Like the next point.

• Transparent pricing
  With Northwest, what you see is what you get. You'll see everything you need to pay for (and how) before you check out.

  So you only pay for the services you order. No hidden fees or surprise charges to worry about.

• Easy ordering process
  Speaking of checking out, they also have an intuitive platform that makes it easy to get their services.

  You can do everything yourself using their website. You can also contact them directly if you have questions or concerns.

  Northwest explains every feature and add-on clearly before you check out. So you know exactly what you're getting from them before finalizing your order.

• Country-wide coverage
  Northwest's services are available in all 50 states. Meaning you can hire them to form a business entity in whichever state you want.

  Not only does it make starting an LLC or corporation in multiple states easier. But it also makes managing multiple businesses more convenient.

  Northwest understands that starting and running a business is tough. That's why they have this next feature.

• Free online resources
  Northwest Registered Agent has an extensive online library for business owners. It contains helpful guides on business formation.

  It also has different legal forms and templates for operating agreements, company bylaws, meeting minutes, etc. And you can access all of these resources even if you don't create an account or hire them.

Business Formation Service - $39 + State Fees

• Form Your LLC, Corporation, or Nonprofit Today
• A Fully-Formed Business
• Registered Agent Service
• Business Address
• Mail Forwarding
• Privacy by Default

Click Here to Get Discount

Why Look Elsewhere

But as great as Northwest is, there are still some downsides you should consider.

Here are the most notable ones:

• More expensive
  Northwest only has one plan for each service. And it's generally more expensive than other companies.

  For example, hiring them for LLC formation will cost you $225 + state fees^[3]. While some of their counterparts only charge you for the state fees if you're just getting the base plan.

  They also charge extra for services like EIN applications. Which is actually free if you apply directly with the IRS.

• Limited selection of services
  Besides the higher price, Northwest also has fewer services than their competitors, like Bizee (formerly Incfile) and ZenBusiness.

  Thus, Northwest might not be a good choice if you want something more affordable or versatile.

Form Your LLC at $0 + State Filing Fees

Form your business at $0, just pay the state filing fees, with the Basic package. The Basic package includes:

• Articles of organization
• Name check service
• Digital welcome packet
• Customizable website

Get Deal

Starter - $0 + State Filing Fees

• Includes 1 optional free year of Worry-Free Compliance that renews at $199/year
• Standard filing speed
• 100% accuracy guaranteed
• Other services are available with additional costs

Learn More

Read Review

Northwest Registered Agent's Core Services

Although it's not as extensive as others, Northwest Registered Agent still has a good range of services that make them worth checking out.

In fact, they have the essential offers most would need for their company, such as:

1. Registered agent services: $125/yr^[4]
   Hiring them as your registered agent means they will accept and handle any important documents for your business. This includes scanning them, uploading digital copies, and forwarding them to your preferred address.

   They'll also remind you about upcoming requirements for your LLC or corporation, like your annual report's filing deadline.

   Northwest's business formation packages already come with a year of registered agent services. They also give volume discounts if you hire them as your registered agent in 5 states or more.^[5]

2. Business entity formation: $225 + state fees^[6][7]
   Northwest simplifies the process of creating a business entity, whether it's an LLC, corporation, or non-profit. They'll handle everything from start to finish. That way, you can just focus on running your business.

   But keep in mind that they only have one paid plan for each type. Which has the following features:
   

   • Business name search
     
   • Formation paperwork filing
     
   • Annual compliance reminders
     
   • Use of their business address in all public forms
     
   • Customer account to access your documents
   Corporate Guide Service
   Northwest Registered Agent offers an invite-only premium service called "Corporate Guide Service" to select clients. With this, they pay the state fees upfront for you. And you pay them back in monthly installments. It also includes EIN applications at no extra cost.

   You also get mail forwarding services, an operating agreement template, and access to their online business tools and forms library. If you're starting a corporation, they also give you free templates for company bylaws and meeting minutes.

   Besides these, you can also ask their Corporate Guides for more hands-on support when you need it. They can also help you start an LLC or corporation in another state/s.

Northwest Registered Agent's Other Services

Beyond the necessities, Northwest also makes it easier for business owners to run their companies by offering the following add-ons:

1. Annual report filing: $100 + state fees^[8]
   Northwest Registered Agent doesn't just remind your business about your annual report's upcoming deadline. They can also file it for you. (For an extra fee, of course.)

   With their help, your LLC or corporation can avoid the negative consequences of non-compliance. Like losing its good standing, or worse, being dissolved by the state.

2. EIN applications: starts at $50^[9]
   Northwest can also handle your company's EIN application. Which is a must-have for business entities like LLCs and corporations.

   They file it with the IRS within two business days of receiving your information. But it'll take approximately four days to receive yours (30 days if you don't have an SSN or are a non-US resident).

3. Virtual office services: $29/mo^[10]
   Northwest also offers physical street addresses you can use as your company's business address. It comes with complete secretarial services, including mail forwarding, business phone services, and an official lease.

   Of course, you can still get their mail forwarding and VoIP phone services individually if you don't really need or want a street address for your business.

   

   Virtual Office Service

   • Mail Forwarding for Individual or Business
   • Receive Your Mail in California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Montana, New York, Texas, Utah, Washington, or Wyoming
   • Physical Forward or Digital Scan Delivery Method

   Click Here to Find Out More
   Northwest only offers these services in the following states: California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Idaho, Montana, New York, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
   

4. Trademark registration: $249 + USPTO fees^[11]
   If you'd like to register a trademark, Northwest can also help with that. Like with their business formation services, they'll handle every step of the process.

   All you need to do is provide the necessary information about your trademark. And their legal team will do the rest. That includes reviewing the application, conducting a clearance check, and filing it with the USPTO.

   Even if you're not a US resident, Northwest can still help your business, thanks to the next service.

5. Assistance for non-US residents: starts at $925^[12]
   Northwest Registered Agent also has packages designed to help foreign business owners start a business entity in the US.

   This includes getting a tax ID/EIN, filing their formation documents, and serving as their registered agent.

6. Other business services
   Northwest Registered Agent has other business services that may be useful for your newly formed company, like:
   • Law on Call - $9/mo^[13]
     
   • Corporate kits - $45 to $80^[14]

   Northwest offers legal assistance to business owners through their Law on Call service. With this, you can access their team of licensed lawyers for any business-related legal concerns. They can also provide corporate kits like corporate books and seals to make your business look more official.

Who Should Use Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a good choice if you want quick and efficient business formation without worrying about hidden fees or pushy upsells.

You should also go with Northwest if you want to keep your information private. Or if you want responsive and professional customer service from your business formation company.

On the other hand, Northwest might not be the best option for you if you want cheaper prices or a broader range of services.

Northwest Registered Agent's Pricing & Plans

Northwest gives you three options when it comes to their services. You just have to choose one of the following:

1. Do it yourself
   Opting to do it yourself just gives you access to their online resource library. You can download the forms for LLC formation from their site.

   Just keep in mind that, with this option, you'll still be the one to fill them out and file them with the state.

2. Open a free account
   Opening a free account means you get a secure account on their platform and get access to their online library. You also get free annual report reminders with this option.

   But you don't get any hands-on guidance or assistance. Just a centralized location to manage your business.

3. Hire Northwest
   Starting at $225 + state fees, Northwest Registered Agent will handle everything for you. You just have to give them the necessary details about your business (which they'll request during checkout).

How to get started with Northwest

To hire Northwest, you just need to go to their website and click the "hire us" option. After that, you simply choose the services you need and give them their requested info.

Some of the details they'll ask about are your business name, its purpose, management structure, etc.

During checkout, you also get to choose what physical address you want to give the state. This can be:

• Northwest's registered agent address
  
• Your mailing address
  
• Another preferred address

Northwest Registered Agent is a great choice for business formation and registered agent services. But they're not the only option. Let's see how they compare against their competition.

How Does Northwest Registered Agent Compare

Northwest's top competitors include Bizee, ZenBusiness, and LegalZoom.

Northwest vs. Bizee

Bizee (formerly Incfile) is another popular business formation service that's been in the industry for years. Like Northwest, they offer no-muss, no-fuss services that make it easier for entrepreneurs to start business entities in their state.

The main difference is that Bizee generally has a lower base price than Northwest. For example, they only charge you the state fees if you're starting an LLC or corporation. Even their registered agent services are priced lower at $119/year.^[15]

Aside from that, they also offer a broader range of services than Northwest. Including DBA applications, banking resolutions, bookkeeping and tax services, etc.

Northwest vs. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a relatively newcomer in the industry since they were only established in 2015. But that hasn't stopped them from rapidly gaining popularity over the years.

Like Northwest, they offer different business services to entrepreneurs. But their selection is overall more extensive because they have services that Northwest doesn't. These services include DBA applications, accounting and bookkeeping services, business websites, etc.

ZenBusiness also has lower base prices than Northwest, similar to Bizee. For example, they'll only charge you the state fees if you get their Starter plan.^[16]

Starter - $0 + State Filing Fees

• Includes 1 optional free year of Worry-Free Compliance that renews at $199/year
• Standard filing speed
• 100% accuracy guaranteed
• Other services are available with additional costs

Click Here to Learn More

Northwest vs. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is another notable name in the business formation industry. Like ZenBusiness and Bizee, they generally offer a broader range of services than Northwest. And at more affordable prices, too, if you're just getting their base plan.

Besides that, they also offer legal assistance for business and personal matters. So you can still hire them for help, even if you're not a business owner.

Form Your LLC at $0 + State Filing Fees

Form your business at $0, just pay the state filing fees, with the Basic package. The Basic package includes:

• Articles of organization
• Name check service
• Digital welcome packet
• Customizable website

Click Here to Get Deal

FAQs

Do I need a registered agent to operate a business?
You need a registered agent if your company is an LLC or a corporation.^[18] You don't need one if it's a sole proprietorship or partnership.

What are the benefits of hiring a registered agent?
Hiring a registered agent service like Northwest offers better flexibility and protects your privacy. They'll receive your important mail, freeing up your schedule. They also use their business address on forms, so you don't have to disclose yours.

Where is Northwest Registered Agent located?
Northwest Registered Agent has offices in all 50 states. You can check their website to see the nearest office in your area.

What is the Northwest customer support phone number and email?
You can reach Northwest's customer support by calling 509-768-2249. Or by emailing support@northwestregisteredagent.com.

Are there any hidden fees?
No, there aren't. Northwest Registered Agent does a good job of breaking down the costs of each order. So you'll see what and how much you're paying for before checking out.

Does Northwest Registered Agent have a worry-free guarantee?
No, Northwest doesn't have a worry-free guarantee. But you can request a full refund (minus state fees) within 90 days if you're not satisfied with their services.

Bottom Line

Northwest Registered Agent boasts years of experience, stellar customer service, and robust data protection policies - all contributing to its undeniable reputation.

So if you're on the hunt for a trustworthy business formation partner with a proven track record, Northwest might just be the right choice.

Business Formation Service - $39 + State Fees

• Form Your LLC, Corporation, or Nonprofit Today
• A Fully-Formed Business
• Registered Agent Service
• Business Address
• Mail Forwarding
• Privacy by Default

Click Here to Get Discount

However, it's wise to conduct your research to ensure their offerings align with your needs. This way, you'll have the info you need to make a more informed decision for your company.

References