When it comes to starting a business, the legal process can be overwhelming. That’s where Inc Authority steps in, offering a range of services to help entrepreneurs form their LLCs with ease. As a business formation solution, Inc Authority aims to simplify the complex world of legal requirements for new business owners.
At The Law Dictionary, we’ve broken down intricate government regulations into straightforward, actionable insights to help you understand what’s legally necessary for your business. Let’s dive into our comprehensive review of Inc Authority and see if it’s the right fit for your LLC formation needs.
Benefits and Considerations for Inc Authority
Pros
Inc Authority stands out in the LLC formation service market with its free basic package, which is a significant draw for budget-conscious entrepreneurs. This package includes the essentials of LLC formation, such as name availability search, articles of organization preparation and filing, and a free registered agent service for the first year. We appreciate that Inc Authority doesn’t skimp on the basics, even with their free offering.
Another notable advantage is their experienced team. Inc Authority has been in the business formation game since 1989, which gives them a wealth of experience in handling various business scenarios. This longevity in the industry can provide peace of mind to new business owners who want a service provider with a reliable and established track record.
Cons
While the free basic package is attractive, it’s important to note that Inc Authority makes its money through upsells and additional services. Some entrepreneurs might find the constant offers for upgrades and add-ons a bit pushy. Additionally, their pricing structure for premium packages may be more expensive than some competitors.
Another consideration is that while Inc Authority specializes in business formation, they may not offer as comprehensive a suite of ongoing business services as some other providers. This could be a drawback for business owners looking for a one-stop-shop for all their business needs beyond just formation.
How Much Do Legal Services Cost for Inc Authority?
Inc Authority’s pricing structure starts with their standout free LLC formation package, which includes the basics needed to get your business off the ground. This package is genuinely free, with no hidden state fees – you only pay the state filing fees.
For those looking for more comprehensive services, Inc Authority offers three paid packages. The Starter package, priced at $399, includes additional features like an operating agreement and tax planning consultation. The Executive package, at $499, adds an EIN and business credit analysis. The top-tier Tycoon package, priced at $799, includes everything in the lower tiers plus a business website and domain name.
While these prices might seem steep compared to the free option, they do offer value for entrepreneurs who want a more hands-off approach to their LLC formation. However, we recommend carefully considering whether the additional services in each tier are necessary for your specific business needs before upgrading.
Learn more about LLC pricing in our LLC Cost Guide.
Key Features of Inc Authority
Ease of Use
Inc Authority prides itself on offering a user-friendly platform for LLC formation. Their website is user-friendly and well-structured, with clear explanations of their services. The order process is straightforward, guiding you through each step of providing the necessary information for your LLC formation. We found that even those with little to no experience in business formation could comfortably use their services.
Customer Support
Customer support is a strong point for Inc Authority. They offer phone and email support, with representatives available during standard business hours. Our team found their support staff to be knowledgeable and helpful, capable of addressing a wide range of questions about LLC formation and their services. The availability of direct phone support is particularly valuable for those who prefer immediate assistance.
Processing Times
Inc Authority’s processing times are generally competitive within the industry. For their free basic package, you can expect standard processing times that vary by state, typically ranging from a few days to several weeks. They also provide expedited processing for an extra fee, which can significantly reduce wait times in many states.
Registered Agent Services
Inc Authority includes a free registered agent service for the first year with all their packages, including the free basic option. This is a significant value, as many competitors charge for this service from the start. After the first year, the service renews at $99 per year, which is in line with industry standards. Their registered agent service includes important notifications and forwarding of legal documents.
Reputation
With over three decades in the business, Inc Authority has built a solid reputation in the LLC formation industry. They have generally positive customer reviews, with many users praising their free basic package and helpful customer service. However, some customers have noted issues with upselling tactics and occasional delays in processing. Overall, Inc Authority maintains a good standing in the industry, backed by their long-standing experience and mostly satisfied customer base.
How Fast Is Inc Authority?
Inc Authority’s processing speed for LLC formation varies depending on the state where you’re forming your business and the package you choose. For their free basic package, you can expect standard processing times that align with state requirements, which can range from a few business days to several weeks.
If you need your LLC formed more quickly, Inc Authority offers expedited processing for an additional fee. This can significantly reduce the wait time, sometimes getting your LLC formed in just a few days. However, it’s important to note that even with expedited service, the exact timeframe can still vary by state due to different state processing speeds.
Inc Authority vs. ZenBusiness
When comparing Inc Authority to ZenBusiness, both offer solid LLC formation services, but with different strengths. Inc Authority’s standout feature is its free basic package, which can be very attractive for entrepreneurs on a tight budget. They also have a longer history in the industry, which may appeal to those who value experience.
ZenBusiness, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive suite of ongoing business services beyond just formation. Their pricing is generally more competitive for their paid packages, and they have a reputation for user-friendly technology. ZenBusiness might be a better fit for tech-savvy entrepreneurs who want a wider range of services, while Inc Authority could be ideal for those who want a free basic formation with the option to add services as needed.
Inc Authority vs. LegalZoom
Inc Authority and LegalZoom are both well-known names in the LLC formation industry, but they cater to slightly different needs. Inc Authority’s free basic package sets it apart, making it an appealing option for cost-conscious entrepreneurs who are comfortable handling some aspects of their business formation independently.
LegalZoom, while more expensive, offers a broader range of legal services beyond just business formation. They’re a good choice for business owners who anticipate needing ongoing legal assistance in various areas of their business. LegalZoom also has a larger customer base and more name recognition, which some may find reassuring. However, this can sometimes result in slower processing times compared to Inc Authority.
| Feature | Inc Authority | ZenBusiness | LegalZoom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Package Price | Free | $49 | $79 |
| Registered Agent (1st year) | Free | $99 | $299 |
| Processing Time (Standard) | Varies by state | 2-3 weeks | 30 business days |
| Customer Support | Phone & Email | Phone, Email & Chat | Phone & Email |
| Experience | Since 1989 | Since 2015 | Since 2001 |
Who should use Inc Authority? We recommend Inc Authority for budget-conscious entrepreneurs who want a straightforward LLC formation service with the option to add on features as needed. It’s particularly suitable for those who appreciate direct phone support and don’t mind navigating through upsell offers.
The Bottom Line
Inc Authority offers a compelling option in the LLC formation service market, particularly with its free basic package. Their long-standing experience in the industry, coupled with helpful customer support, makes them a solid choice for many entrepreneurs. Although their paid packages can be relatively expensive, the inclusion of a free registered agent service for the first year offers considerable value.
However, it’s important to carefully consider your specific business needs and budget when choosing a formation service. At The Law Dictionary, we always recommend thoroughly reviewing all your options. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best, and the most expensive doesn’t guarantee perfection. Consider factors like ongoing support, additional services you might need, and your comfort level with handling certain aspects of your business formation. Whichever service you choose, we’re here to help you understand the legal landscape of your new business venture.
