Starting an LLC can be a smart move to protect your personal assets and streamline your business operations. However, the process can seem daunting with all the legal requirements and paperwork involved. That’s where online legal services prove valuable, providing a more cost-effective and accessible option compared to traditional law firms.
We at The Law Dictionary understand that legal jargon can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve broken down the complex process of setting up an LLC into clear, actionable steps. Our goal is to help you create your LLC efficiently and confidently, without getting lost in legal terminology.
Online Legal Services Pricing Comparison
When forming an LLC, online legal services provide various pricing options to accommodate different budgets and requirements. We’ve found that most providers offer tiered packages, starting from basic LLC formation services for as low as $0 (plus state fees) to more comprehensive packages that can cost up to $349. The higher-priced options typically include additional features like registered agent services, operating agreement drafting, and EIN registration. Some providers, like Rocket Lawyer and LegalShield, offer subscription-based models that provide ongoing legal support for a monthly fee.
It’s important to consider your long-term needs when choosing a service, as the cheapest option isn’t always the best value in the long run.
Online Legal Services Side-by-Side Comparison
When it comes to online legal services, pricing and offerings can vary significantly. We’ve compiled a comparison of four popular providers to help you understand what each service offers and at what cost.
| Service | Pricing | Cost Range | Primary Offerings |
| LegalZoom | One-time payment for business formation | $0 to $349 | Business formation, estate planning, real estate support, trademark registration |
| ZenBusiness | One-time payment for business formation services with optional packages | $0 to $299 as an annual payment | Business formation and support, business website support, EIN registration, registered agent services |
| Tailor Brands | One-time payments for business formation that you can spread to monthly payments | $0 to $249 for annual cost of business formation | LLC formation, branding support, business banking, documentation creation |
| Bizee | One-time payments for LLC formation | $0 to $349 as a one-time payment for business formation services | Business formation, non-profit formation |
As demonstrated, these services provide a variety of pricing options and features tailored to meet the needs of different businesses. Remember to consider not just the cost, but also the specific services included when choosing the right provider for your LLC formation needs.
What Do Online Legal Services Offer?
Online legal services have revolutionized the way small business owners and individuals access legal assistance. These platforms provide a broad range of services that address various legal needs, including business formation and estate planning. We’ve found that the best providers offer comprehensive solutions that can handle most of your legal requirements without the need to hire a traditional law firm. Let’s dive into some of the key services you can expect from top-notch online legal platforms.
Business Formation
For those looking to start an LLC, online legal services are a game-changer. Providers like LegalZoom, ZenBusiness, and Bizee offer comprehensive business formation packages that cover essential services, including preparing and filing articles of organization, drafting operating agreements, and obtaining an EIN. These services often come with step-by-step guidance, making the process much simpler for first-time entrepreneurs. Some providers even offer additional perks like free registered agent services for the first year, which can save you both time and money.
Contract Creation and Review
Contracts are the backbone of any business, and online legal services excel in this area. Platforms like Rocket Lawyer and LegalZoom provide extensive libraries of customizable contract templates covering a wide range of business needs. We particularly appreciate services that offer document review by licensed attorneys, giving you peace of mind that your contracts are legally sound. Some providers even include e-signature capabilities, allowing you to finalize agreements quickly and securely.
Estate Planning
Estate planning is a critical aspect of personal legal matters, and online services have made it more accessible than ever. We’ve found that providers like LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer offer comprehensive estate planning packages that include creating wills, living trusts, and power of attorney documents. These services often use interactive questionnaires to gather your information and preferences, making the process straightforward and less intimidating. While complex estates may still require personalized legal advice, online services can handle most standard estate planning needs effectively.
Trademark and Copyright Filings
Protecting your intellectual property is crucial for businesses of all sizes, and online legal services have streamlined the trademark and copyright registration process. Platforms like LegalZoom and Tailor Brands offer trademark search services to help you assess whether your desired mark is available. They then guide you through the application process with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). For copyright registration, some services can help you file with the U.S. Copyright Office, protecting your creative works. While these services can’t guarantee approval, they significantly streamline the filing process.
Real Estate Documents
Real estate transactions involve a myriad of legal documents, and online services can be a valuable resource in this area. We’ve seen that providers like Rocket Lawyer and LegalShield offer a wide range of real estate document templates, including lease agreements, property deeds, and eviction notices. These services often include customization options to tailor the documents to your specific needs. Some providers also offer attorney consultations to review your real estate documents, providing an extra layer of security for your property-related transactions.
Family Law Documents
Family law matters can be both emotionally challenging and legally intricate. Online legal services provide a more accessible and affordable way to manage many family law documents. Platforms like LegalShield and Rocket Lawyer offer templates for divorce agreements, child custody arrangements, and prenuptial agreements. These services often include access to legal advice, allowing you to consult with an attorney if you have questions or concerns about your family law documents. While complex cases may still require in-person legal representation, online services can handle many standard family law document needs effectively.
Tax Filings and Audits
Navigating tax laws can be one of the most challenging aspects of running a business. Some online legal services have expanded their offerings to include tax-related assistance. For instance, LegalZoom’s LZ Tax service provides tax advisory services and can even file tax returns on your behalf. Other providers, like ZenBusiness, offer accounting and invoicing services that integrate with popular payment processors. While these services may not replace a dedicated accountant for complex tax situations, they can be incredibly helpful for small businesses and self-employed individuals looking to streamline their tax processes.
Ease of Use
The user experience is a critical factor when choosing an online legal service. We’ve evaluated various platforms based on their ease of use, considering factors like website navigation, document creation process, and available tools. Here’s what we’ve found:
Website Navigation and Search
A well-designed website can be crucial in helping you find the right legal service. We’ve found that Tailor Brands stands out for its intuitive website layout, with clear categories like “Set up,” “Manage,” and “Grow.” This organization makes it easy to find exactly what you need. On the other hand, services like LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer offer a wider range of services, which can sometimes make their websites feel a bit overwhelming. However, they typically have robust search functions that can help you quickly locate specific services or documents.
Interactive Questionnaires vs. Fillable Templates
When it comes to creating legal documents, online services typically offer two approaches: interactive questionnaires or fillable templates. We’ve found that Rocket Lawyer excels in this area by offering both options. Their interactive questionnaires guide you through the document creation process step-by-step, asking relevant questions to populate your document. For those who prefer more control, fillable templates allow you to input information directly. Services like LegalZoom and ZenBusiness primarily use questionnaires for their document creation process, which can be helpful for those unfamiliar with legal terminology.
Online Account Dashboard
An organized and user-friendly account dashboard can greatly enhance your experience with an online legal service. We’ve been impressed with LegalZoom’s dashboard, which provides a clear, step-by-step guide through the process of forming your LLC or creating legal documents. ZenBusiness also offers a solid dashboard, particularly useful if you’re using their additional services like invoicing or business banking. Bizee and Tailor Brands provide straightforward dashboards that make it easy to track the progress of your LLC formation or trademark registration. While LegalShield and Rocket Lawyer’s dashboards are more basic, focusing primarily on listing your requested services and documents, they still provide the essential information you need.
Tech Tools
Many online legal services now offer additional tech tools to support your business beyond just legal document creation. We’ve found that ZenBusiness stands out in this area, offering a suite of useful tools including a business name generator, loan calculator, and QR code creator. Their accounting system and invoicing software can be particularly helpful for new business owners. Tailor Brands also impresses with its creative services, including a logo builder and integration with business card platforms. While LegalZoom’s tech offerings are more limited, they do provide a mobile app for easy access to your legal documents on the go. If mobile access is important to you, LegalShield and Rocket Lawyer’s apps offer the most comprehensive features, allowing you to access templates and legal advice from your smartphone.
Education Resources
Access to educational resources can be invaluable when navigating legal matters. We’ve found that Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers some of the most accessible and comprehensive educational resources, with a wealth of free information available directly from their homepage.For those seeking personalized guidance, Rocket Lawyer and LegalShield provide access to legal professionals who can offer advice tailored to your unique situation. ZenBusiness offers a solid starting point for beginners with their ZenBusiness Academy, though the resources are somewhat limited. While LegalZoom, Tailor Brands, and other providers do offer blog posts and articles, you may need to do some searching to find the specific information you need.
FAQ
How do I set up an LLC?
To set up an LLC, choose a business name, file articles of organization with your state, and create an operating agreement. We recommend using an online legal service to guide you through the process and handle most of the paperwork and filings on your behalf.
Can I trust online legal services?
Reputable online legal services like LegalZoom, ZenBusiness, and Rocket Lawyer have proven track records and are trusted by millions of business owners. However, it’s always wise to research the specific service you’re considering, looking at factors like BBB accreditation and customer feedback.
Do I need to hire a lawyer to register an LLC?
For most simple, single-member LLCs, you don’t need to hire a lawyer to register. Online legal services can handle the registration process efficiently and cost-effectively for straightforward situations.
Are online legal services cheaper than a lawyer?
Yes, online legal services are typically much more affordable than hiring a traditional lawyer. Basic LLC formation packages can start as low as $0 (plus state fees), while hiring a lawyer for LLC formation can cost $1,000 to $3,000 or more.
LLC Guides by State
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