Starting a business can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it comes to navigating the legal requirements of forming an LLC. That’s where business formation services like ZenBusiness and Bizee come in handy. These online platforms simplify the process, handling the paperwork and legal filings on your behalf. Here at The Law Dictionary, we’ve simplified complex legal jargon into clear, actionable insights to help you understand what’s legally necessary for your business. Let’s dive into a comparison of ZenBusiness and Bizee to help you choose the right service for your needs.
Comparing ZenBusiness and Bizee
ZenBusiness and Bizee are both popular online LLC formation services that offer a range of features to help entrepreneurs start their businesses. While they share some similarities, there are key differences in their pricing structures, additional services, and overall user experience. Let’s break down the main things to know about each provider:
Main Things to Know
ZenBusiness:
- Offers a $0 starter plan (plus state fees)
- Includes registered agent service for $199/year
- Known for fast processing times and excellent customer support
Bizee:
- Provides a $0 starter plan (plus state fees)
- Includes free registered agent service for the first year
- Offers a user-friendly interface and comprehensive resource library
ZenBusiness Features
Formation Process
ZenBusiness uses an interactive chat feature to guide you through the LLC formation process. This user-friendly approach makes it easy for first-time entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of starting a business.
Registered Agent Services
For $199 per year, ZenBusiness offers registered agent services. They’ll receive important legal documents on your behalf and upload them to your online dashboard for easy access.
Operating Agreement Template
ZenBusiness provides an operating agreement template for an additional fee of $125 with their Starter package. This crucial document outlines your LLC’s ownership and management structure.
EIN Registration
ZenBusiness can obtain your Employer Identification Number (EIN) for $99. This service is included in their Pro and Premium packages but is an add-on for the Starter plan.
Compliance Services
With their Worry-Free Compliance service, ZenBusiness helps you stay on top of state and federal regulations. This service includes compliance reminders and assistance with filing annual reports.
Bizee Features
Formation Process
Bizee offers a straightforward formation process with next-day processing for all packages. Their user-friendly platform guides you through each step of forming your LLC.
Registered Agent Services
Bizee provides free registered agent service for the first year with all formation packages. After that, the price increases to $119 per year.
Operating Agreement
While not included in their base plan, Bizee offers an operating agreement add-on for $40. This is more affordable than ZenBusiness’s offering.
EIN Registration
Bizee can obtain your EIN for $70 with their Silver plan. This service is included in their Gold and Platinum packages.
Lifetime Company Alerts
Bizee offers lifetime company alerts to help you stay compliant with state requirements. This feature sends reminders about important filing deadlines.
Side-by-Side LLC Plan Comparisons
Here’s how these two providers compare to other competitors in general:
ZenBusiness | LegalZoom | Bizee | Swyft Filings | Tailor Brands | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operating Agreement | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* |
Registered Agent Service | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* |
Provides EIN | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* |
License Reports | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* | ✅* | ❌ |
Compliance Assistance | ✅* | ✅* | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Tax Advisory Services | ✅ | ✅* | ✅ | ✅ | ✅* |
Tax Prep Services | ✅* | ✅* | ❌ | ❌ | ✅* |
Expert Help | ✅* | ✅* | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
Customer Service | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Legend | ✅ = Included | ✅* = For a fee | ❌ = Not Available |
But what about their specific plans? Here’s a side-by-side look at the tiered plans for Bizee and ZenBusiness.
Basic Plans:
Feature | ZenBusiness (Starter) | Bizee (Silver) |
---|---|---|
Cost | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees |
Processing Time | 5-7 business days | 3-12 weeks |
Registered Agent | $199/year | Free for 1st year, then $119/year |
Operating Agreement | $125 add-on | $40 add-on |
EIN Registration | $99 add-on | $70 add-on |
Mid-Tier Plans:
Feature | ZenBusiness (Pro) | Bizee (Gold) |
---|---|---|
Cost | $199/year + state fees | $199/year + state fees |
Processing Time | 1-5 business days | 3-12 weeks |
Registered Agent | $199/year | Free for 1st year, then $119/year |
Operating Agreement | Included | Included |
EIN Registration | Included | Included |
Premium Plans:
Feature | ZenBusiness (Premium) | Bizee (Platinum) |
---|---|---|
Cost | $299/year + state fees | $299/year + state fees |
Processing Time | 1-5 business days | 2 days |
Registered Agent | $199/year | Free for 1st year, then $119/year |
Operating Agreement | Included | Included |
EIN Registration | Included | Included |
Business Website | Included | Not included |
Domain Name | Included | Included |
Email Address | Included | Included |
ZenBusiness and Bizee: Our Recommendation
After thoroughly comparing ZenBusiness and Bizee, we recommend ZenBusiness for most entrepreneurs looking to form an LLC. Their user-friendly platform, comprehensive services, and excellent customer support make them stand out in the crowded field of LLC formation services.
We particularly appreciate ZenBusiness’s interactive chat feature, which guides you through the formation process step-by-step. This can be incredibly helpful for first-time business owners who may be unfamiliar with the legal requirements of starting an LLC. Additionally, their faster processing times and included features in higher-tier packages offer great value for your money.
Choosing For Your Business
Choosing between ZenBusiness and Bizee ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. Both services offer solid LLC formation packages, but ZenBusiness edges out with faster processing times and more comprehensive features in their higher-tier plans. On the other hand, Bizee’s free registered agent service for the first year and lower-cost add-ons might appeal to those on a tighter budget.
Remember, here at The Law Dictionary, we’re committed to helping you navigate the legal aspects of starting and running your business. While both ZenBusiness and Bizee can simplify the LLC formation process, it’s always a good idea to consult with a legal professional if you have specific questions about your business structure. Whichever service you choose, we’re here to support you on your entrepreneurial journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of an LLC formation service?
LLC formation services streamline the process of creating your business entity, saving you time and potential headaches. They handle the paperwork, ensure compliance with state regulations, and often provide additional services like registered agent and EIN registration. These services can be particularly valuable for first-time entrepreneurs who may not be familiar with all the legal requirements of starting a business.
What are some other competitors of ZenBusiness and Bizee?
While ZenBusiness and Bizee are popular choices, there are several other reputable LLC formation services in the market. Some notable competitors include LegalZoom, which offers a wide range of legal services beyond business formation, and Northwest Registered Agent, known for their privacy protection features. Swyft Filings is another option, praised for their quick turnaround times and user-friendly interface.
Is ZenBusiness a good way to start an LLC?
Zenbusiness is indeed a solid choice for starting an LLC, especially for those who value user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive support. Their interactive formation process guides you through each step, and their additional services like registered agent and compliance alerts can be very helpful. However, it’s always wise to compare multiple services and consider your specific needs before making a decision.
Does ZenBusiness have a free trial?
ZenBusiness doesn’t offer a traditional free trial, but they do have a $0 Starter plan (plus state fees) which allows you to experience their basic services. This plan includes preparing and filing your formation documents, name availability search, and online document access. Keep in mind that additional services like registered agent or operating agreement templates come at an extra cost.
What’s the relationship between IncFile and Bizee?
Bizee is actually the rebranded version of IncFile, a well-known LLC formation service. In late 2023, IncFile changed its name to Bizee, but the core services and features remained largely the same. This rebranding was likely done to better reflect their focus on comprehensive business solutions beyond just formation services.