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10 Best LLC Formation Services: Profit, Not Paperwork [2025]

The Biggest Comparison of LLC Formation Services Ever Done

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Starting an LLC is a dream for many, whether it’s a simple side hustle or a major enterprise. We’ve taken the hassles out of the process by looking at the best LLC formation services out there, evaluating their features, prices, and more.

Ashleigh Naidoo Reviewed by: Ashleigh Naidoo
Ivana Shteriova Written by: Ivana Shteriova

Starting an LLC on your own might seem simple, but even a small mistake can lead to costly delays, rejected filings, or compliance issues down the line. Navigating state-specific requirements and paperwork can also be confusing and time-consuming.

That’s why many entrepreneurs turn to professional LLC formation services. They save time, reduce risk, and help ensure everything is done right the first time.

I’ve spent hours putting together a list of 10 of the most reliable LLC formation companies to help you choose the best fit for your business. This expert-reviewed list includes services that offer free LLC formation for budget-conscious founders, as well as premium options with extras like a Registered Agent or compliance support.

You’ll find a detailed comparison and tailored recommendations to help you choose based on factors like pricing, features, and customer support. Whether you need a simple, low-cost filing or a full-service solution, read on to explore your options and launch your LLC with confidence.

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    • Free tax savings consultation on every plan
    • 1-day filing for a quick start
    • Prices start at $0 + state fees

    ZenBusiness consistently ranks as one of the best LLC formation services, thanks to its affordable plans, user-friendly platform, and reliable compliance tools. Whether you’re formalizing your freelance gig, launching a side hustle, or starting a full-fledged business, ZenBusiness makes filing your LLC simple with minimal hassle. Its subscription plans also offer great value for ongoing support.

    All plans – including the free ZenBusiness LLC formation package (just pay state fees) – come with a 30-minute tax consultation from 1-800Accountant. This helps new business owners understand tax obligations and identify potential deductions. You also get Worry-Free Compliance, which sends reminders for annual reports, license renewals, and other important filings to help you stay compliant.

    Each plan includes ZenBusiness Money Essential, a financial tool for tracking expenses. An upgraded version that lets you also track income, invoicing, mileage, taxes, and more, called ZenBusiness Money Pro, is available as a paid add-on on all plans. If you’re unsure which features you need, a 30-day free trial lets you test the premium version before committing.

    The signup process is simple. Once registered, you can manage your LLC from a clean dashboard on desktop or mobile. ZenBusiness also offers a dedicated app for iOS and Android to make managing your LLC even more convenient.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Everyone from side hustles to growing businesses and enterprises alike Entrepreneurs looking for a service with one-off fees
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    • Business formation with creative services
    • Graphic design and social media marketing included
    • Prices start at $0 + state fees

    Tailor Brands LLC goes beyond basic LLC formation by offering branding, design, marketing, and website tools, making it an excellent choice for online and brick-and-mortar businesses. If you don’t need those extras, you may prefer a more streamlined service elsewhere on this list. Its free LLC formation plan (plus state fees) covers the essentials and is a great option if you’re just looking to form an LLC.

    However, if you need help building your brand, you can try Tailor Brands’ free logo maker and additional branding tools in its top-tier Elite plan. This can help jump-start your business’s visual presence while your LLC paperwork is being filed.

    Once your logo, business cards, and brand guidelines are taken care of, the Elite plan can get your business online, too. It includes a free domain for one year and a website builder. Additionally, the built-in social media post tool can help you create attractive digital marketing and brand awareness campaigns with ease.

    With the mid-tier Essential plan, Tailor Brands will expedite the filing process, provide you with an Operating Agreement, and send you annual compliance reminders. Keep in mind that Tailor Brands charges extra for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and Registered Agent service, but you can also handle these yourself.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Entrepreneurs who want to form an LLC and establish their brand and online presence at the same time – or those simply looking for a bare-bones, free LLC formation plan Entrepreneurs who need a traditional LLC formation plan that packs all the essentials in one place
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    • Installment payment plans available
    • Year-round legal assistance by subscription
    • Prices start at $0 + state fees

    LegalZoom is one of the longest-standing LLC formation companies, known for its wide range of legal and business services. If your business requires you to stay on top of legal issues like contracts or compliance, LegalZoom could be a good fit.

    Unlike many providers that create bundle services into rigid packages, LegalZoom allows you to build a custom plan with only the features you will need. While pre-made plans are also available, its customizability helps you avoid paying for unnecessary extras.

    One standout option is the Business Advisory Plan, which provides year-round legal assistance for a flat annual fee. This is likely more cost-effective than paying for its one-off legal consultations, especially for businesses that rely heavily on contracts, copyrights, and other legal documents.

    It’s important to note that LegalZoom outsources all of its legal services. However, its attorney network is carefully vetted and includes only lawyers with 5+ years of experience. Lastly, all LegalZoom’s plans and services come with installment payment options, making its services more accessible for businesses on a budget.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Entrepreneurs who want to build a custom bundle, need ongoing legal assistance, or prefer installment payment options Entrepreneurs who need to form their LLC quickly and prioritize speed over customization
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    • Offices in every state and Washington, DC
    • 1-year Registered Agent service included
    • Prices start at $39 + state fees

    Northwest Registered Agent operates real offices in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., providing localized, personalized service and expertise. Unlike many LLC formation companies, Northwest assigns a dedicated Corporate Guide to handle your paperwork right away and provide ongoing support during the workweek.

    You can choose from several options. The free DIY program provides you with the required forms but leaves all the work to you. There’s also a “walkthrough” plan that provides advice and an account dashboard, but again, you’ll need to handle the filing yourself. Lastly, the premium service is customizable, but comes with a handful of add-ons and upsells.

    While Northwest doesn’t offer a free LLC filing, it compensates for it with a full year of free Registered Agent service. Its paid plan includes same-day processing and an Operating Agreement, which other competitors charge extra for.

    One key benefit is its Privacy by Default policy. Northwest uses its business addresses and payment details on filings to keep your personal information off public records. It also hosts its own servers and manages all customer support in-house, reducing reliance on third parties, enhancing data privacy and security. The company also promises to never sell your data.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Businesses that prioritize data privacy and want personalized support from local experts Entrepreneurs looking for free LLC formation service
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    • Free Registered Agent for 1 year on all plans
    • Grant programs to help you get started
    • Prices start at $0 + state fees

    Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers LLC formation and a lot more for a clear, one-time fee, with no hidden costs. There are 3 plans, including an entry-level free plan (excluding state fees), making it one of the most budget-friendly options available.

    All plans are value-packed, including a free Registered Agent for a year, a 30-minute consultation with a tax expert, and lifetime compliance alerts. The Standard and Premium plans add essentials like an Operating Agreement and EIN. The Premium plan also includes expedited filing, business contract templates, and website tools – everything you need to grow your LLC or scale your side hustle.

    Bizee also offers grants for US-based entrepreneurs. The Young Entrepreneur Scholarship Grant supports high-performing students, while the Fresh Start Business Grant helps adults launching or expanding a business. The latter also includes free business formation from Bizee.

    Overall, I can’t fault Bizee for anything except its customer support, which my team and I found to be somewhat inconsistent. Several other LLC services that I tested performed much better in this department, giving them a slight edge over Bizee in our rankings.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Freelancers or sole proprietors looking to expand, especially those who may qualify for a Bizee grant Business owners who prioritize responsive, reliable customer support
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    • Personalized customer support
    • Useful add-ons to help manage your LLC
    • Prices start at $0 + state fees

    Swyft Filings offers a fast and simple LLC formation service with minimal paperwork, making it a great choice for new business owners. The online application process takes just a few minutes and the user-friendly client dashboard makes it easy to manage your filings. It also offers personalized support, with agents who are familiar with your specific account.

    Beyond formation, it can help you keep things running smoothly, too. Swyft Filings’ ComplianceGuard tool is designed to track state requirements, annual reports, and important deadlines. A 14-day free trial is included with the Premium plan, and it’s available as an add-on for other plans. The company also offers a business licensing package that provides the necessary forms and instructions you need to meet local and state regulations.

    One downside is the lack of transparency around pricing for certain add-ons, especially third-party services. Some users have also mentioned auto-renewals without prior notice, so it’s important to keep an eye on billing cycles if you decide to cancel services you no longer need.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Businesses in a rush to form their LLC or those needing licensing support Businesses on a budget looking for a no-frills filing service
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    • Business credit and funding analysis
    • Free Registered Agent service for a year
    • Prices start at $0 + state fees

    Inc Authority isn’t the fanciest nor the most feature-filled option for LLC formation, but if you don’t need much, then it will do the job – and often for just the cost of your state’s filing fees. Inc Authority offers a free plan that’s a pretty good deal, covering state filing paperwork, a business name check, a year of Registered Agent service, and tax planning consultation.

    That said, Inc Authority’s pricing beyond the free plan lacks transparency. You’ll need to go through the checkout process or contact support to see the cost of add-ons. There are quite a few upsells, so costs can quickly add up. Some upsells include an Operating Agreement, a legal document package, expedited filing, and an online business presence package with a site creator and domain. Depending on your selections, the total can exceed $500.

    The Registered Agent service also renews at a relatively high rate after the first year, making it a potentially more expensive choice in the long run. If you need only a basic LLC formation, Inc Authority can be a budget-friendly option. But if you need more, other providers on this list that offer clearer and more affordable pricing might suit you better.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Entrepreneurs looking for basic LLC formation without added services Business owners looking for reliable, long-term support or transparent add-on pricing
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    • Tax consultation and insurance evaluation
    • Free online banking setup
    • $299 + state filing fees

    Most of the companies on this list offer additional services like S- and C-corp and non-profit formation, trademark filings, and expense tracking. BetterLegal goes a step further by offering a package specifically designed for new businesses.

    Its LLC formation package includes an LLC filing, an EIN, an Operating Agreement, and a banking resolution document. However, a Registered Agent service isn’t included by default and requires a separate subscription unless you decide to handle the responsibility yourself.

    BetterLegal offers many add-ons, like adding or removing members, and changing your LLC name, making it a great option for inexperienced or overscheduled entrepreneurs. It also supports getting your business online, bundling a free website, social media marketing tools, and e-commerce features like order fulfillment and inventory management.

    Unlike many competitors, BetterLegal doesn’t offer a free plan. As one of the pricier options available, BetterLegal is probably best for partnerships, where the expenses can be shared, rather than solopreneurs trying to bear it all alone.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    First-time business owners and those wanting to establish their online presence Individuals looking for free or budget-friendly LLC formation services
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    • Easy remote registration & management
    • Notarize documents from anywhere in the world
    • Prices start at $0 + state fees

    BusinessAnywhere allows expats, non-citizens, digital nomads, and online-only businesses to register and run a business while staying location-independent. The wide range of services coupled with the simple, easy-to-use dashboard simplifies business formation and management without the need for a home base.

    BusinessAnywhere offers a free LLC registration service – you only need to pay your state fees. On top of that, you get a free Registered Agent service for a year. You can fully personalize your plan by adding services like EIN registration, a custom Operating Agreement, a banking resolution, and a virtual mailbox with a physical address.

    The online notary service is another standout. Whether you’re working outside of traditional business hours or from different time zones, BusinessAnywhere’s e-notary service gives you the flexibility to notarize important documents at any time, without worrying about business hours. While it will cost you an extra fee per document, this service is a valuable tool for home-based business owners and anyone with a side hustle.

    The main drawback to BusinessAnywhere is its limited and inconsistent customer support. Also, keep in mind that its formation service is available only on an annual subscription. Even if you opt for its freebies the first year, the cost can increase significantly when it’s time to renew.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Non-citizens, digital nomads, expats, and online-only businesses Entrepreneurs on a budget
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    • 100% satisfaction guarantee
    • 1 hour free tax and trademark consults
    • Startup Wizard feature for beginners

    If you’re just starting your business and budget is not an issue, then MyCompanyWorks could be an LLC formation service to consider. Its plans are feature-filled and geared toward helping inexperienced business owners navigate compliance post-formation.

    One of MyCompanyWorks’ best features is the Startup Wizard, which you’ll find on its fairly standard client dashboard. It’s a checklist of everything you have yet to do to get your business going after filing your LLC formation papers, like obtaining an EIN, setting up a business bank account, and securing local licenses.

    You’ll benefit from the company’s vast online knowledge base, including a library filled with downloadable state-specific guides and resources for non-citizens and expats. Its blog has many insightful articles, and the support team is very helpful and responsive, too.

    That said, MyCompanyWorks is on the pricier side. Its entry plan only comes with same-day filing and an Operating Agreement. Essentials like an EIN and Registered Agent aren’t included and triple the cost if purchased as add-ons to the basic plan. The Entrepreneur plan includes them, but is more than twice the cost of the basic plan. Still, if you’re willing to pay a premium for expert guidance and reliable support, MyCompanyWorks is worth considering.

    Who is it for? Who is it not for?
    Well-financed beginners who want expert guidance in launching their business Entrepreneurs on a budget or those looking for more affordable LLC formation options

The Best LLC Formation Services Compared

Standout Features Filing Time Registered Agent Starting Price
ZenBusiness Free LLC filing, tax savings consultation, and value-packed paid plans 1-10 business days, depending on plan (rush available) Add-on $0
Tailor Brands LLC A suite of creative, legal, tax, and bookkeeping services 14 days (expedited service available on higher-tier plans) Add-on $0
LegalZoom Custom plan options and affordable legal subscription-based support 5-14 business days (one-day + expedited options available) Add-on $0
Northwest Registered Agent Local experts in every state, guaranteed data privacy Same-day (expedited state option add-on) 1-year included $39.00
Bizee (Incfile) Low-priced plans and grant programs to get you started Next-day on all plans (expedited state option available) 1-year included $0
Swyft Filings Free tax support and personalized customer care Same day –10 business days depending on plan Add-on (charged quarterly) $0

How We Evaluate LLC Formation Services

Choosing the right LLC formation service can shape everything from your startup costs to long-term compliance. My evaluation is based on the factors that matter most to business owners: transparency, features, turnaround time, ease of use, support, and overall value. Along the way, I check for service limitations, hidden fees, and upsells – so any recommendation you see here is based on actual value, not marketing hype.

Features & Services

Since it’s entirely possible to file an LLC on your own, I focus on providers that offer more than just the basics. Services that include essentials like Registered Agent coverage, EIN registration, and Operating Agreements stand out in my evaluations.

Bonus points go to companies that deliver added value, such as ZenBusiness with its built-in financial tools or Tailor Brands with design and marketing features tailored to new entrepreneurs.

It’s also a plus when a provider supports alternative entity types, like S-corporations and nonprofits, and whether its services are accessible to non-US citizens and expats.

Turnaround Time

LLC formation speed depends on how quickly the service submits your paperwork and how fast the state processes it. While the latter is outside the provider’s control, some companies file your documents the same day, while others take longer. I give higher ratings to providers that process paperwork quickly by default or offer expedited options, like ZenBusiness, which processes filings in one business day on its Premium plan.

Ease of Use

Even free services lose their value if they’re too complicated. I evaluate how intuitive each platform is by testing the signup process, dashboard navigation, and overall user experience. I also consider which platforms are beginner-friendly, which support multiple languages, and how clearly they guide users through each step.

Plans and Pricing

Value is more than just the listed price. I carefully review pricing structures to understand the actual value you’re getting. This includes whether fees are one-time or subscription-based, what’s included in each package, and whether critical services (like a Registered Agent) cost extra.

I also look closely at upsells, add-ons, and renewal fees. Many services offer a free year of Registered Agent service, only to charge high fees later. I factor that into my recommendation, especially if those fees make the service less cost-effective in the long run.

Customer Support

Support matters, especially when you run into an unexpected issue. I test each company’s support channels – phone, live chat, email, and ticketing – to see how helpful and responsive they really are. I check availability (including whether 24/7 support is truly 24/7), response times, and the clarity of the answers provided. Providers that are fast, knowledgeable, and easy to reach rank highest in this category.

Frequently Asked Questions on LLC Formation Services

What should I look for in an LLC formation service?

This depends on your budget and what you need beyond basic filing. In general, you’d want to check turnaround times, availability of additional services like a Registered Agent, customer support, overall cost, including any renewal fees if you’re signing up for any subscriptions. ZenBusiness is one of the best LLC services that ticks all the boxes, providing all the LLC-related services you might need at an affordable price.

How long does it take to form an LLC?

Timeframes vary depending on both the company and your state. LLC formation companies can take between 1-14 business days to prepare your paperwork. Most providers are willing to speed up the process either for a fee or if you purchase a premium plan. For example, Northwest Registered Agent processes your paperwork the same business day it receives your order.

Once your documents are submitted, it can take from one business day to a month or more for your state to approve your application. Some states offer expedited filing for an additional fee.

What documents are required to form an LLC?

While requirements vary from state to state, the most common documents required to form an LLC are:
  • Articles of Organization – The main form you file with the state
  • Registered Agent – Someone designated to receive legal documents
  • Business licenses and permits – Depending on your industry and location
  • Operating Agreement – Not always required, but strongly recommended
The best LLC providers like ZenBusiness can help you obtain all essential and additional documents. Others like LegalZoom offer year-round legal help for a fraction of the typical cost on top of LLC-related services.

Why should I use an LLC formation service?

Aside from saving you time, LLC formation companies are experts at filing formation paperwork, so you can rest assured that everything will be completed and filed correctly. For example, Northwest assigns you a dedicated local expert to file your paperwork and assist you with compliance.

These services are also very affordable compared to hiring an attorney. Some companies like ZenBusiness will form your LLC for free. And lastly, most providers offer other services beyond formation. For example, Tailor Brands offers creative services to jumpstart your brand and online presence.
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Complete LLC filling starting at $0 + state fees