Starting a business can be an exciting yet daunting task. One of the first major decisions you’ll face is choosing the right legal structure for your company. For many entrepreneurs, forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is an attractive option. But navigating the process can be complex and time-consuming.

At The Law Dictionary, we understand the challenges new business owners face. That’s why we’ve simplified the complex legal jargon into clear, actionable steps to help you set up your LLC. We’ve researched and compared the top LLC formation services to provide you with a comprehensive guide to make an informed decision.

The Best LLC Services of 2024

ZenBusiness Best LLC Service
BBB Rating A+ Founded 2015
ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness has quickly become a popular choice for LLC formation, known for its user-friendly approach and competitive pricing.

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons
Pros Affordable pricing with a free LLC formation option Excellent customer reviews and satisfaction Intuitive online platform Cons Newer company compared to some competitors Some features require higher-tier packages Customer support hours are more limited than some alternatives
ZenBusiness Pricing

ZenBusiness also provides three tiers of service. The Starter plan is available at no cost beyond state fees, while the Pro plan is priced at $199 plus state fees. Their most comprehensive offering, the Premium plan, costs $299 plus state fees. This pricing model caters to a range of business needs and budgets.

LegalZoom Best Legal Support
BBB Rating A+ Founded 2001
LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is a well-established name in online legal services, offering LLC formation alongside a wide range of other legal solutions for businesses and individuals.

LegalZoom Pros and Cons
Pros Extensive legal experience and resources Wide range of additional legal services available Strong customer support Cons Higher pricing compared to some competitors Upselling of additional services can be aggressive Processing times can be slower than some alternatives
LegalZoom Pricing

LegalZoom’s LLC formation services are structured similarly, with three tiers. The Basic plan is offered at no cost beyond state fees, the Pro plan is priced at $249 plus state fees, and the Premium plan costs $299 plus state fees. This structure allows customers to select a service level that aligns with their specific requirements.

Tailor Brands Filings Best for Business Building
BBB Rating Not Accredited Founded 2015
Tailor Brands Overview

Tailor Brands offers a unique approach to LLC formation by combining branding services with legal assistance. They provide a one-stop-shop for entrepreneurs looking to establish their business identity alongside their legal structure.

Tailor Brands Pros and Cons
Pros Comprehensive branding services included User-friendly platform Affordable pricing options Cons Limited legal support compared to specialized services Newer company with less experience May not be ideal for complex business structures
Tailor Brands Pricing

Tailor Brands offers three pricing tiers for LLC formation services. Their Lite plan is free plus state fees, the Essential plan costs $199 plus state fees, and the Elite plan is priced at $249 plus state fees. This tiered structure allows customers to choose a plan that best fits their needs and budget.

Bizee Most Cost Effective
BBB Rating Not Accredited Founded 2004
Bizee Overview

Bizee, formerly known as Incfile, offers budget-friendly LLC formation services with a range of add-on options for growing businesses.

Bizee Pros and Cons
Pros Free LLC formation option (state fees still apply) One year of free registered agent service Lifetime company alerts for important deadlines Cons Some essential features require paid upgrades Reports of slow customer support at peak times Limited personalized guidance compared to some competitors
Bizee Pricing

Bizee provides three service tiers. Their Basic plan is free plus state fees, the Standard plan costs $199 plus state fees, and the Premium plan is priced at $299 plus state fees. This tiered structure allows customers to choose a plan based on the level of support and features they need.

Northwest Registered Agent Best for Registered Agent Services
BBB Rating A+ Founded 1998
Northwest Registered Agent Overview

Northwest Registered Agent specializes in business formation and registered agent services, offering a more personalized approach to LLC creation.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons
Pros Privacy-focused service with excellent data protection Personalized customer support from corporate guides Transparent pricing with no upsells Cons Higher base price than some competitors Limited additional services beyond formation and registered agent No free formation option
Northwest Registered Agent Pricing

Northwest Registered Agent takes a different approach, offering a single tier of service priced at $39 plus state fees. This straightforward pricing model may appeal to those seeking a simple, no-frills LLC formation service.

Swyft Filings Business Specialist Offered
BBB Rating Not Accredited Founded 2015
Swyft Filings Overview

Swyft Filings prides itself on fast processing times and efficient service for LLC formation and other business filings.

Swyft Filings Pros and Cons
Pros Quick turnaround times for LLC formation Straightforward pricing structure Good customer support Cons Some essential features require higher-tier packages Less comprehensive service offerings than some competitors Additional costs for expedited filing
Swyft Filings Pricing

Swyft Filings also offers three tiers of LLC formation services. Their Basic plan is available at no cost beyond state fees, the Standard plan is priced at $199 plus state fees, and the Premium plan costs $299 plus state fees. This pricing structure provides options for businesses with varying needs and budgets.

Our Top Pick
Our Top Pick
Best LLC Service
Starts at $0 + State Fees1-day processing to start fast4.8 Trustpilot and A+ on BBB
Best for Business Building
$0 Option AvailableFree business plan included (no credit card required)Amazon gift card up to $50 included with your purchase
Best Legal Support
$0 Option AvailableOffers attorney consultationsHighly reputable with user base

When Should I Form an LLC?

Timing is crucial when forming an LLC. Generally, it’s best to establish your LLC before you start conducting business operations. This ensures that your personal assets are protected from the outset and that you’re operating within the proper legal framework.

However, if you’ve already started your business as a sole proprietorship or partnership, it’s not too late to form an LLC. Many entrepreneurs choose to convert their existing business structure to an LLC as they grow and require more protection or credibility. Remember, the sooner you form your LLC, the sooner you can enjoy its benefits and protections.

Why Form an LLC?

Forming an LLC offers several key advantages for entrepreneurs. The primary benefit is personal asset protection. An LLC creates a separation between your personal and business assets, shielding your personal property from business debts and liabilities.

LLCs also offer flexibility in management and taxation. You can choose how your LLC is managed and how it’s taxed, allowing you to optimize your business structure for your specific needs. Additionally, an LLC can lend credibility to your business, potentially making it easier to secure contracts, loans, or investments.

How To Form an LLC

Forming an LLC involves several steps, which can vary slightly depending on your state. Generally, the process includes:

  1. Choosing a unique business name that complies with your state’s LLC naming rules.
  2. Appointing a registered agent to receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC.
  3. Filing Articles of Organization with your state’s Secretary of State office.
  4. Creating an operating agreement that outlines how your LLC will be run.
  5. Obtaining necessary business licenses and permits.
  6. Applying for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS.

While you can complete these steps on your own, many entrepreneurs choose to use an LLC formation service to simplify the process and ensure everything is done correctly.

Other Features of LLC Services

LLC formation services often offer additional features that can be valuable for new business owners. These may include:

  • Registered agent services, which provide a professional point of contact for your business’s legal and tax documents. Many services offer this for free for the first year.
  • Compliance management tools help you stay on top of important filing deadlines and annual reports. This can be crucial for maintaining your LLC’s good standing with the state.

Some services also offer business tax consultation, helping you understand your tax obligations and potentially save money. Additionally, many provide customized legal documents, such as operating agreements and contracts, tailored to your specific business needs.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Forming an LLC is a significant step in your entrepreneurial journey. While it’s possible to navigate the process on your own, using a professional LLC formation service can save you time, reduce stress, and help ensure that everything is done correctly. These services offer expertise and support that can be invaluable, especially for first-time business owners.

Consider your specific needs, budget, and long-term business goals when choosing a service. Whether you opt for the branding-focused approach of Tailor Brands, the comprehensive legal services of LegalZoom, or the budget-friendly options from ZenBusiness or Bizee, the right LLC formation service can set your business on the path to success. Remember, investing in proper legal structure now can save you significant headaches and potential legal issues down the road.

LLC Guides by State