It is much easier to set up an LLC when you have an online service guiding you through the process. Pick a good LLC service and then enter some basic information on their preselected forms. After that, just wait for approval from your state.
Editor's Choice 2023
Northwest Registered Agent #1 Best Overall
- LLC Formations
- Registered Agent Services
- $125/yr
- 900+ Employees, Trusted by 3 Millions Business
We have listed 16 LLC services. Our top favorite LLC service is Northwest Registered Agent. There are no upselling services that you don’t need and privacy is not an add-on, with Northwest it’s ‘Privacy by Default’. Filing fees are affordable and support goes beyond answering questions in a chat. You get to talk to a real human, based here in the U.S.
Top LLC Services:
Northwest Registered Agent is the perfect tool for entrepreneurs who want exceptional customer service and attention to their business needs. They can help you with everything, from forming an LLC to securing a registered agent in any of the 50 states. To learn more about their services, click here Northwest Registered Agent.
If you want to talk to an attorney or get ongoing legal services, Rocket Attorney or LegalZoom are the LLC services for you. They will help you get legal advice and answer all your questions regarding LLCs. With LegalZoom, you will need to pay a much larger premium for its LLC services and registered agent services. Often 3x the amount paid to others like Northwest or Incfile.
LegalNature is great for DIY business owners. It contains all the legal forms and documents you could ever need.
Out of the 13 LLC services in this article, these are my top 4 choices.
Best LLC Services Review Process
We analyzed more than 1,000 reviews about LLC service providers during our research. The software was then used to analyze and categorize the reviews. This helped us identify key points that customers care about.
We reviewed the 12 brands in this manner, based on six scenarios that might require an LLC service.
- Entrepreneurs form their business
- Ensuring compliance
- Legal assistance
- Quickly file an LLC
- Privacy and Information Protection
- Converting a business from one entity into another
This method makes it easier to find what you are looking for. This allows you to quickly find the right use case for your most pressing need. You can also zoom in on the reviews that matter to you. You can also read the entire post to get an overview of these services and what each provider has to offer beyond setting up your LLC.
We’ve included an section at the end of this post to explain the main criteria we used in evaluating these brands and how they compare to each other.
The Best LLC Services for Entrepreneurs
Now comes the hard part. It’s clear that you want to be your own boss. You know the name of your business, what it will look like, and how it will work. With the help of an LLC service, it’s time to get your business officially up and running. We have listed the top options for you below. Making your LLC official is easy with any of these options.
1. Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest Registered Agent is well-known for its compliance services. They will help you file your compliance report and notify you twice: once 90 days before any important filings are due and again five days before Northwest files them for you.
You also have access to all the legal forms and access to a legal team. For as little as $9 per month, you will have access to the Northwest’s ‘Corporate Guides’, which is an incredible resource that you won’t find from other providers.
These additional services, along with Northwest Registered Agent’s LLC creation services, give you 360-degree coverage. You can rest assured that your compliance with regulatory agencies is maintained, that legal forms and documents are being used in a way that is safe and sound, and that you can seek the advice and assistance of real lawyers if you have questions or concerns.
2. Incfile
Incfile provides new business owners with free business formation (not including state taxes), which will help to keep costs down from the beginning. Register agent services are also included for an entire year at no additional cost. This means that all correspondence and mail is handled automatically without your involvement.
This is a great starting price, but Incfile also offers a business license research package. This package includes all the permits and licenses required at both the local and federal levels to get your business started and in compliance with regulations. With no surprises later, you can easily form an LLC.
Do you have more complex needs? Incfile’s customer service is available by phone Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 pm Central. If you have a new business, it is possible to reach real people whenever you need them.
3. ZenBusiness
The lower-cost ZenBusiness offers solopreneurs, freelancers and entrepreneurs easy formations and compliance guarantee. The registration process can be completed for $0 (at this writing). This does not include registered agent service $119/yr and you are still responsible for filing fees with the state.
Although $0 is a great price for LLC registration, it might not be enough to cover all your needs. ZenBusiness allows you to add services such as an EIN or registered agent. There are many providers out there that will force you to pay extra for services you don’t use. ZenBusiness does not do this, which keeps your precious dollars in your pockets.
ZenBusiness offers a library of support and help materials to enhance your relationship. For extra assistance, you can tap into the live chat or phone support from Sunday to Friday and let their extensive guides reduce your anxiety about starting your LLC.
4. BizFilings
BizFilings is a Wolters Kluwer service that makes it easy to set up an LLC. You will find a variety of tools and a wizard to help you. They can also guide you through the entire process, including licensing, trademarks, compliance, and other details.
BizFiling’s incorporation wizard and entity comparison tool will help you ensure that your company is set up correctly. A startup checklist will be provided to you when you start, so that you are familiar with the steps and the scope of your company. BizFilings has been helping entrepreneurs realize their dreams for more than 25 years.
The best part is that you can get all this and easy access phone support starting at $99. This includes incorporation, a 24/7 compliance monitor tool, three months free registered agent services, tax registration, and tax registration.
5. Swyft Filings
Swyft Files provides a personalized service to each client by assigning them a business specialist. They are the best in customer satisfaction. They won’t leave you hanging with other customers to call your number or ask for your details again.
This is not a casual connection. Their email address and phone number will be provided. They will get to know your business and help you navigate the process of setting up your LLC.
What is the cost of this type of service? This is the shocking part. The pricing is very affordable at $49, plus the state fees. Swyft offers exceptional customer service and quality at a lower price than the average. Swyft Filing fees are covered by a money-back guarantee of 100 percent.
The Best LLC Services to Ensure Worry-Free Compliance
It’s not easy to form an LLC. To keep your LLC in good standing, there are many regulations you need to follow. It’s unfair to be shut down simply because you didn’t know about a new law in your area. This research is not your responsibility. It is up to you, however, to choose the right LLC service provider that will keep you informed, safe, and compliant. Let’s get this part right, so you are in good hands.
ZenBusiness
Your business can be established with one of the most cost-effective and hassle-free business names. ZenBusiness provides a variety of useful add-ons to its main LLC formation service.
You will have access to many official documents that you can use in any business situation, including loan agreements and liability waivers, as well as employment documents and documents relating to your employees. You’ll also receive ZenBusiness’ compliance package. This includes alerts and notifications about upcoming compliance events as well as two free annual amendments.
These features are only available to ZenBusiness Pro and Premium formation plans. These features can be added to your LLC after it has been formed for $199 per annum. These options do not include ZenBusiness’s ability to file your annual reports for you. This option comes with a $100 per-use fee.
Incfile
Incfile allows you to file your LLC free of charge. They also provide compliance assistance through lifetime alerts, access to templates and forms that will help you comply with regulations. These extras are available on Incfile’s Gold and Platinum business packages. Prices start at $199 plus applicable state fees.
This can be a good deal considering that standalone compliance offerings from other providers cost as much or more. Incfile allows you to download, customize and use forms such as privacy policies, NDAs and service agreements.
You won’t find lifetime compliance alerts with every provider. As long as your business is owned, you’ll be able to keep up with the filing deadlines and other important requirements for your state. Incfile can also handle your annual reports for $99 plus any state fees. This is the current rate for this service.
Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest Registered Agent is well-known for its compliance services. They will help you file your compliance report and notify you twice: once 90 days before any important filings are due and again five days before Northwest files them for you.
You also have access to all the legal forms and access to a legal team. For as little as $9 per month, you will have licensed attorneys on-call, which is an incredible resource that you won’t find from other providers.
These additional services, along with Northwest Registered Agent’s LLC creation services, give you 360-degree coverage. You can rest assured that your compliance with regulatory agencies is maintained, that legal forms and documents are being used in a way that is safe and sound, and that you can seek the advice and assistance of real lawyers if you have questions or concerns.
6. Harbor Compliance
Let’s take a look at the strengths and weaknesses of this provider. It’s in the name. Harbor Compliance has tons of resources that will ensure you are always up to date on what your state requires. These services are more costly than other providers but they’re worth it.
Harbor Compliance’s software helps you see exactly where you are at all times. It organizes registrations, licenses, records and more. Filing paperwork and keeping organized are two of the most important aspects of starting a business. Harbor Compliance takes the guesswork out.
Harbor Compliance’s ComplianceAdviser will give you more coverage and certainty. This package can be tailored to cover every aspect of compliance, including registered agent services, compliance audits, updates, etc. Harbor Compliance can also educate you and your team about regulatory requirements if needed.
7. MyCompanyWorks
MyCompanyWorks is the best choice if you want something simple and a guarantee that your LLC will be filed correctly. For 90 days, you get a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This is the longest guarantee of its kind.
MyCompanyWorks is known for speed and accuracy. They offer same-day processing if you file before the deadline of 3 p.m. Eastern on business days. You also get lifetime access to more than 200 business template templates in their Complete and Entrepreneur packages. This allows you to run your business properly.
Plus, if you opt for MyCompanyWorksPremium, you’ll also get their ComplianceLock dashboard. This helps with annual reports, automating resolutions and minutes for annual meetings, custom alerts and much more. At $99, MyCompanyWorksPremium is a steal, as it lets you tap into those compliance features, annual report preparation, access to the legal document library, priority support, and more.
8. MyCorporation
MyCorporation is able to handle LLC formations regardless of the business niche. Over their 25-year history, they have served over a million companies. They are experts in what they do and how to keep your company safe.
MyCorporation offers MaintainMyBiz to help you keep your business in good standing. All your compliance requirements are met and registered agent service is included in one package.
MyCorporation allows you to file your annual reports with all their paid plans. This is a big difference. This is a remarkable distinction. Nearly every company on this list charges $99 to file your annual reports for you. This is in addition to the high-quality customer service MyCorporation has earned, making it easy to see why they’re still around after a quarter century.
Legal Assistance: The Best LLC Services
Many LLC service providers are able to provide legal assistance to help you start your business, whether you are entering a highly regulated industry or need to protect your intellectual property. The following brands provide more than compliance for your peace of mind.
Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest Registered agent makes it easier to access key legal services. They are the first licensed, non-lawyer-owned law firm in the United States. This allows new business owners to have easy access to lawyers.
All legal services will be covered by full guarantees. You can also get immediate answers and assistance as soon as you pick the phone. You’ll pay only $9 per month. If you have any questions, you don’t need to go anywhere else. The Northwest Registered Agent’s team can help with the business, real estate, and even end-of-life planning tasks at an affordable hourly rate.
You can also access Northwest’s trademark services. For $249 plus fees, their lawyers will review your material and help you prepare.
Northwest Registered Agents can do a lot more than what their name suggests.
9. Rocket Lawyer
Rocket Lawyer can provide ongoing legal advice and document access. You will find a wide range of templates to suit your business or personal needs. Rocket Lawyer’s licensed lawyers back the validity of the templates, which is something that other providers cannot do.
This service allows you to ask questions of lawyers. Answers are usually delivered within four to 24 hours. This means you won’t have to wait around for answers.
Both members and non-members can use these services. Non-members pay per service instance at $49.99 for each question and $59.99 for half-hour consultations. You can get these services for free if you sign up for a Rocket Lawyer membership. Also, Rocket Lawyer will save 40% on your lawyer fees. Rocket Lawyer also offers add-ons to help you with trademarks and copyrights.
10. LegalNature
LegalNature can be used by business professionals who don’t have access to a lawyer, but still require templates for legal documents in order to manage their business properly. The ease of creating documents is what users love about it. It can be done directly from their website with a simple, guided step–by–step process.
You can browse their collection of more than 100 documents. They include service agreements, bills, articles of incorporation, and articles of sale. The categories of documents go beyond business, incorporation, and human resources, including estate planning, property, landlord, and personal affairs.
You can pay just $39 for LegalNature+ to get all the legal documentation you need, both for your business and for personal use. You can choose risk-free monthly billing for $39 or an annual subscription for $119 to save tons of money.
11. Legal Zoom
Legal Zoom has become a household name in online legal services. It offers all you need, including legal advice, business formation, tax preparations, and more. Legal Zoom’s Business Advisory Plan allows you to have unlimited 30-minute consultations for as low as $39.08.
Legal Zoom members get a 25% discount on the hourly rate of a consulting attorney if they need one. Legal Zoom makes it easy to find a lawyer. Their website has an attorney directory where you can search for legal help by location or specialty.
There are many legal forms that you can use for your business or personal use. The topics covered are broader than those offered by many providers. They include entertainment, intellectual property, and the internet, as well as other areas. You must pay for a plan to access forms.
For Fast Filings:
No matter what industry, business is always moving quickly. It’s important to get your business and idea up and running quickly. Or maybe you are just trying to save time since you are starting your LLC on your own. There are too many things going at you that you don’t have the time or energy to spend hours filing for incorporation. These are the top providers to help you quickly form and file your LLC.
Northwest Registered Agent
Every customer who starts with Northwest Registered Agent receives same-day filing at no additional cost. This is a rare opportunity. Other providers charge extra for same-day turnaround. Keep in mind that the processing time will vary by the state where you file, but many users reported that their LLC filing was completed within one week.
Northwest Registered Agent’s customer support is very quick. One user reviewed said that they received responses within one day. If you choose to add the $9 per month legal assistance, your legal questions will be answered quickly.
You can file your LLC quicker than most providers. However, you won’t have long to get the answers and counsel you need.
12. Inc Authority
For $49, LLC services with Inc Author may have 24-hour filing. During our research, we discovered an option to add it free of charge when we were filling out the form. Although we cannot confirm that you will receive the same option, please be aware that promotions are sometimes run and you might not need to pay anything for such a fast turnaround.
You’re getting a great deal for quick filing when you consider that Inc Authority will completely free your business formation (plus any state filing fees). Not only can you file in 24 hours but you also get one year of registered agent services.
The provider offers many additional services to help you cover the other aspects of your LLC formation. Inc Authority can help you register trademarks, get a website and domain name for your new business, as well as plan and obtain funding.
MyCompanyWorks
You can file your paperwork with MyCompanyWorks by 3 p.m. Eastern. This will allow you to file the paperwork on the same day. You don’t have to miss the cut-off, your LLC filing will still be processed the next business day.
MyCompanyWorks is great because they offer this speedy service for any plan you choose. You have a 90-day guarantee that you will be 100% satisfied or your money back if you are not completely satisfied. MyCompanyWorks is committed to creating an environment that you can trust and a process you can rely on.
You get complete transparency. You can scan your documents and upload them to your dashboard fast and securely via electronic delivery.
The Best LLC Services for Privacy Protection
It’s not necessary to explain why privacy is so important. If you are starting a business, or if you already have one, your personal address and phone number should not be publicized as a point of contact. These providers offer privacy protection via their registered agent services, which every LLC should have. There are also a few perks that you may enjoy.
Northwest Registered Agent – ‘Privacy by Default’
As the name suggests, compliance and privacy are Northwest Registered Agent’s highest priorities. Although they can assist you with anything from LLC formation to legal advice, “registered agent” is an integral part of their brand identity.
Northwest provides registered agent services in all 50 states in the U.S. No matter where your business is located, Northwest offers registered agent services in every state. Northwest Registered Agent offers premium mail forwarding services and digital scanning.
Northwest’s agents can be extremely helpful. You can rely on them to handle your business and government paperwork, as well as keep you informed about annual filings. This service is also very secure and keeps you safe. They don’t outsource registered agent services like other LLC service providers.
The Northwest Registered Agent also offers VoIP phone service through them, which is a great perk. A separate business number can be purchased at a reasonable price. This allows you to keep your personal and cell numbers private. You can also use their virtual office services, which allow you to meet clients face-to-face. It can also be used to forward mail and provide a phone number.
Northwest Registered Agent
As the name suggests, compliance and privacy are Northwest Registered Agent’s highest priorities. Although they can assist you with anything from LLC formation to legal advice, “registered agent” is an integral part of their brand identity.
Northwest provides registered agent services in all 50 states in the U.S. No matter where your business is located, Northwest offers registered agent services in every state. Northwest Registered Agent offers premium mail forwarding services and digital scanning.
Northwest’s agents can be extremely helpful. You can rely on them to handle your business and government paperwork, as well as keep you informed about annual filings. This service is also very secure and keeps you safe. They don’t outsource registered agent services like other LLC service providers.
The Northwest Registered Agent also offers VoIP phone service through them, which is a great perk. A separate business number can be purchased at a reasonable price. This allows you to keep your personal and cell numbers private. You can also use their virtual office services, which allow you to meet clients face-to-face. It can also be used to forward mail and provide a phone number.
The Best LLC Services for Business Conversion
Your business will likely change from an LLC to a corporation if it achieves its goals. It is important to have a provider who can help you grow your LLC and convert it into a corporation. They will be familiar with your business and can quickly get your entity reclassified. You may also want the option to add additional services to suit your business status.
Legal Zoom
Many people view Legal Zoom primarily as a one-stop solution for all their legal needs. They can help you change your entity from an LLC to a corporation (or vice versa, if it’s a corporation).
There are two options for the conversion. The simple Standard Package includes the creation of the conversion and filing all required forms with your state. It costs $229 plus any state filing fees.
You can expedite this process for $339 plus any state fees if you are in a hurry. After receiving confirmation of your conversion filing, they will handle your request for special handling and file the paperwork. They then send your documentation to your address within two days.
Legal Zoom can help you with the needs of your newly formed business entity. You can get help with IP and trademark issues, tax preparation, annual reporting, amendments, securing DBAs, and much more. They can help you get your new company to the right place to grow.
Swyft Filings
Swyft Filings is the easiest and most cost-effective way to convert an LLC into a corporation after you have outgrown your previous entity status. Swyft can handle everything, plus any state fees, when it comes to changing your classification.
You can start this process by placing a request for conversion on Swyft’s website. You don’t have to do anything. Swyft Filings agents can create the documents and file them. Every bit of documentation you have will be uploaded digitally and made available through your Swyft Account.
Swyft’s service does not stop there. Swyft will notify you via email of any additional filings or periodic updates related to your corporation’s new status. They can help you get an EIN, business permits, and a good-standing certificate.
What is important when reviewing LLC services
This section explains the criteria that we deemed most important for certain use cases. These are the key factors you should focus on if you find yourself in one of these situations. This section will allow you to zoom in and drill down on the key factors that are important when choosing between providers.
Assistance and support
Support is always welcome when you are just starting an LLC or creating something new. Although every LLC service provider offers some level of support, those that shine the most offer multiple contact options and dedicated representatives who will be your one-stop shop for any questions or concerns.
When it Matters Most:
- Entrepreneurs- Whether you are starting your first business, or just setting up a new one, it is difficult enough to choose the right providers. Especially if you have a designated agent assigned to your account at file.
User Experience
Online LLC service providers provide a simplified way to file and form your LLC. Some providers offer an interface that allows you to identify similar needs without slowing down your process or offering upsells.
When it Matters Most:
- Entrepreneurs – It is a great idea to use a service that highlights any extras you might need such as documents for your business or tax-related extras, like an EIN and DBA.
- Quick filing – Getting your LLC incorporated quickly is not just about the promise to file next-day or same-day. You’ll need to ensure that all bases are covered in order to make the quick processing time worthwhile.
Pricing and Packages
Pricing and the information that’s included within it is important to you. As a new owner of a business, it is important to find ways to get the most value out of what you pay. This will help you get your business off to great feet.
When it Matters Most:
- Entrepreneurs – No matter if it’s your first or twelfth business, you want to get the most bang for your buck. This will allow you to keep as much cash in your pocket so that you can spend it on growth.
- Obtaining legal assistance –Large savings can be made by using an LLC service provider that offers access to legal documents and counsel, as opposed to hiring a lawyer on retainer.
Counseling and document management
Each new business must navigate the maze of legal documents and regulatory considerations that could make or break your first year of operation. A good place to start is to have a list of legal forms templates. However, you might also be interested in access to legal counsel and easy consultations with lawyers.
When it Matters Most:
- Obtaining legal assistance – Although there are many legal services that LLCs offer, you should pay particular attention to those that offer consultations or have access to a network to help you form your business.
- You don’t have to worry about compliance – While annual filings are the most important element of compliance, you will likely need other legally valid documents or forms to ensure compliance with regulations specific to your state, area, and industry.
Extra Services
Beyond the ability to create your LLC, what other services does your provider offer? This can make a big difference in the person you choose. Some providers offer extras such as tax handling or business management, and special software to help you make your life easier.
When it Matters Most:
- Legal assistance – A free consultation is a great bonus for an LLC service provider. But it’s even more valuable if you have access to counsel in key areas of law that relate to your business such as IP and real estate.
- Conversion of a business entity to a corporation – When you want to convert your LLC into a corporation, there are new taxation requirements and legal requirements. Look for providers who can help you.
- Ensure worry-free compliance. Accessing legal forms is essential. You may still need a person or software to keep track of key dates and files you need to comply with, whether it’s proactive registered agents or compliance-focused dashboards.
Other services offered by LLCs to consider
13. BetterLegal
BetterLegal is the latest online LLC formation service, founded in 2017. This company specializes in LLC formation. The name says it all. This is a small business based in Texas, so you can still count on Texas hospitality and hardiness.
Their formation package costs $299 and takes two days to complete. This is a good option for anyone who needs to incorporate it quickly. It comes with a bunch of unnecessary services that your company might not need. The registered agent is not included in this price. Another downside to this price is the fact that it does not include a registered agent.
Due to the $299 state fee and the registration agent, the entire formation will run more than $299. Better Legal charges only 90 dollars per year, unlike other companies that charge $99 for registered agent services.
Although it is not the most comfortable service, the fast turnaround of two days is guaranteed. Many reviews back this up. Better Legal has also received a high rating from Trustpilot and The Better Business Bureau. They might be a good fit if you are a native Texan looking to make big money.
14. Active Filings
Pricing is a tricky subject. Sometimes it’s true. You don’t want your favorite barista to be gone for even one day, you don’t want the bartender to pay every customer at your local bar and you aren’t in a rush to incorporate. Active Filings is the right company formation for you. For as low as $0., you can have your company formed. It is true.
But, wait. But wait. Active Filings will request the state filing fee. This varies for every state. This applies to both Zenbusiness as well as Northwest Registered Agent.
Active Filings offers a $0 Starter Pack that includes all the necessary: Articles of Organization or Incorporation and Operating Agreement. It also includes Registered Agent Service, Annual Report Compliance, and Corporate Document Templates. EIN filing is not included.
Active Filings is not a non-profit. After the first year, Active Filings will start charging $99 per annum. If you decide to change your mind or want company formation in less than 14 days, $50 will be added.
A starter package can also suggest other tiers such as the $100 Sprinter, which includes EIN processing and a premium 250 finisher package, whose bonus is a corporate seal or book.
Active Filings made it onto my list because they provide a free 14-day formation service. This means that the service is free for individuals and companies who are willing to spend as little as possible, and most likely those with an EIN. Active Filings is fluent in Spanish thanks to its founder, who hails from Argentina. The service is available to Latin Americans.
Experience is another advantage. They have been in business for over 20 years and, despite their fanciful business model, remain a trusted company formation service. They offer company formation services for foreigners, possibly Spanish speakers.
However, it is still true that people pay what they get. The website is not as simple and clear as Northwest or Zenbusiness. It can also be confusing about pricing. It’s not complete. EIN filing is not included in the Active Filings Starter Package. The other services are also missing.
Active Filings is a small company with limited resources. Therefore, one should not expect great customer service. However, they are very helpful and knowledgeable.
15. Nolo LLC Services
Nolo has been offering legal services longer than any other website. However, this has not resulted in a high-quality LLC formation service. Nolo offers long turnaround times and unnecessarily costly partners to buy services.
These were not things I liked:
Unnecessarily expensive partner services – Nolo, unlike the services I recommend for its formation services, relies heavily upon third parties for many services. To make matters worse, Nolo raises the prices of these services without any reason.
Steve Andrew is EntityFiling's main writer and editor.
Steve is an expert in business development and management with 14 years of business consulting experience. He assisted clients with LLCs and Registered Agent services using his business management degree.
Steve speaks and writes about business growth opportunities worldwide.
Email, steve@entityfiling.com