Best LLC Services of April 2024
Updated March 29, 2024 at 3:42 pm
Hiring an LLC service is the first step to create an LLC. While you can do it yourself, these businesses can support you through state-specific formation steps and filing compliance—saving you time and money in the long run.
These best LLC services work actively to take the stress out of the process, and often do so by offering add-on services. Popular auxiliary services include bookkeeping, tax management, branding support and marketing, for example.
Wondering how to get an LLC? Below, our experts have listed the best LLC services available to small- and mid-sized business (SMB) owners.
Our Methodology Our research is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance services and products that best suit your needs. To help you in the decision-making process, our expert contributors compare common preferences and potential pain points, such as affordability, accessibility, and credibility.
Our Picks - Best LLC Service Overall: ZenBusiness
- Best LLC Service for Affordability: Bizee (Powered by Incfile)
- Best LLC Service for Compliance: Harbor Compliance
- Best Free LLC Service: Inc Authority
- Best LLC Service for Online Businesses: LegalZoom
- Best LLC Service for Registered Agent Services: Northwest Registered Agent
- Best LLC Service for Legal Support: Rocket Lawyer
- Best LLC Service for Customer Support: Swyft Filings
- Best LLC Service for Branding Services: Tailor Brands
- Best LLC Service for Additional Services: BetterLegal
LLC Service Options
10 Best LLC Services of 2024
Best LLC Service Overall
ZenBusiness
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
ZenBusiness is the jack of all trades when it comes to business filings: it can form your LLC, create your website, assign your team email, obtain an Employer ID Number (EIN) and create your operating agreement. With its all-in-one approach, it is a fantastic fit for SMBs and startups looking to centralize their operating needs.
Key Features
- One-year worry-free compliance available from Starter tier
- Modular, customizable plans
- Business website builder and email support
- 100% Accuracy Guarantee
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Pros
- Free tier available
- Options for faster filing speeds with upgrade
- Registered Agent add-on available
Cons
- Can be expensive for bigger businesses
- Add-ons come with additional fees
- Users report mixed customer service experiences
Best LLC Service for Affordability
Bizee (Formerly Incfile)
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
Wondering how to get an LLC? Bizee offers a free package that covers all of the essential features that an SMB needs, leaving you to pay just the state fee. The Free tier offers prepared Articles of Organization, unlimited name searches, and a free year of registered agent service. You’ll also recieve complimentary compliance reminders and unlimited phone and email support.
Compliance services are available in the form of assistance with Certificates of Good Standing, annual report filings, and business license and trademark name searches. You can even get help with branding, thanks to the Corporate and LLC Kit.
Key Features
- Annual report support
- Scalable packages that grow with your business
- Virtual address and mail scanning support*
- EIN assistance add-on available
- Business banking services
Pros
- Comprehensive free package
- Tax consultations available from Free tier
- Entrepreneur grants available
Cons
- Users report mixed customer service experiences
- Modular pricing can add up quickly
- Some services only available by state
Best LLC Service for Compliance
Harbor Compliance
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
Harbor Compliance leads the industry, providing LLC formation support and scalable compliance services. The LLC process is simple and fast, and it’s backed by Harbor’s exclusive Compliance Gaps program—which automatically recommends regulatory filings you may need in the states in which you operate. Harbor Compliance also offers EIN or registered agent services for an additional fee.
Key Features**
- Harbor Compliance Score offers tailored compliance support
- Business license assistance
- Online dashboard offers real-time compliance insights
- Legal support available
- Same-day document access available
**Pricing varies by state. Discounts available if you sign on for multiple years.
Pros
- Flat-fee base pricing available
- Users report strong customer support experiences
- Discounts available for long-term commitment
Cons
- No free plan
- Limited money-back guarantee
- EIN services cost extra
Best Free LLC Service
Inc Authority
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
Inc Authority skips the pricey memberships and fees and offers its LLC services free to new businesses and startups. Once your LLC is filed and your documents are complete, Inc Authority will keep digital storage of your documents so you can access them at any time. It also will act as your registered agent for the first year, saving you up to $200 or more when compared to other LLC services.
Key Features
- Free LLC filing
- Business name check
- Two-minute formation processes
- State and federal tax planning consultations available
- Business credit and funding analysis available
Pros
- Completely free to use
- Complimentary first-year registered agent service
- Phone and live chat support
Cons
- Limited pricing information online
- No turnaround time estimate
- No mobile app
Best LLC Service for Online Businesses
LegalZoom
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
LegalZoom goes one step further than many of the best LLC services, offering legal services in addition to its LLC services. Beyond these services, LegalZoom keeps your business compliant, offers additional branding services and includes a satisfaction guarantee. You can add on things like registered agent service and operating agreements as your business continues to scale.
Key Features
- Attorney network in all 50 states
- Unlimited 30-minute attorney consultations
- Library of 150+ customizable documents
- Free customizable website (powered by WIX)
- Tax advising available
Pros
- Extremely user-friendly
- 60-day satisfaction guarantee
Cons
- Higher price tiers can be expensive for some
- Registered agent service not included
- Customers report mixed experiences with customer service
Best LLC Service for Registered Agent Services
Northwest Registered Agent
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
Northwest Registered Agent specializes in accessible registered agent services you can trust. They offer a free DIY option for startups and entrepreneurs, which is rare to see in the industry. There are several other scalable services available to add-on as well, including a free domain, business email, mail scanning and forwarding and a business phone with an iOS or Android app. Northwest also prioritizes company privacy, including with its plans its signature Privacy by Default feature that protects your personal data.
Key Features
- Budget-friendly
- Expedited LLC filings
- Free domain and website add-ons available
- Operating agreement support
- Compliance support available
Pros
- Free plan available
- Same-day filing options
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Little legal support
- Not BBB-accredited
- Paid plans can be expensive
Best LLC Service for Legal Support
Rocket Lawyer
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
Like LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer specializes in legally supported LLC formation for businesses that want an extra layer of compliance assurance and protection. They offer extensive legal support, available at any time through Rocket Lawyer’s exclusive network. We do want to note: Rocket Lawyer does require that you sign up for a membership in order to use its services; after that, there is no additional cost to create an LLC. Enjoy a free seven-day trial, then try the RocketLegal plan for $39.99 per month or pay $19.99 for RocketLegal+ per month.
Key Features
- Free LLC with membership
- Inexpensive legal services
- RocketTax services available
- Free seven-day trial
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Pros
- 3+ million customers
- Trademark support for intellectual property protection
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- Membership required for free LLC
- Add-on services quickly get pricey
- Credit card required for trial
Best LLC Service for Customer Support
Swyft Filings
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
With over 300,000 businesses created since 2015, Swyft Filings knows a thing or two about forming an LLC. You can use the tool to launch your site in just nine minutes with its services, launching and refining with the support of the service’s expert business specialists.
Key Features
- Personal business specialists available from launch
- Optional registered agent service with compliance
- EIN add-on available
- Library of 250+ customizable documents
- Lifetime customer support
Pros
- Free package available
- Free domain
- High customer service ratings
Cons
- Registered agent service costs extra
- EIN costs extra
- Customers might work with a third party for some services
Best LLC Service for Branding Services
Tailor Brands
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
In addition to LLC formation, Tailor Brands can provide a logo, business cards, websites, trademarks and even branded company swag—all designed to your liking. You can still add traditional services, too, like an EIN and business license or email. Professionals are available to help with tax and bookkeeping support if you need it, and there is also the option to open a business bank account.
Key Features
- Free LLC formation
- Professional branding and design support available
- Registered agent service available
- Website builder included
- More comprehensive than other options
Pros
- Free package
- Customizable plans
- Branding services
Cons
- No support for articles of organization creation
- EIN costs extra
- Poor price transparency
Best LLC Service for Additional Services
BetterLegal
Vault Verified
Why we chose it
BetterLegal helps your business become official in just two business days, with set-up taking less than ten minutes on average. In addition to your LLC, you’ll receive an EIN, an operating agreement, a banking resolution and other business documents. That’s not all, however. BetterLegal comes with many extra features, including a complimentary tax consultation and insurance evaluation.
Key Features
- Extensive legal support
- Payroll and HR support available
- Registered agent service available
- AI legal translator tool
- Tax and bookkeeping support
Pros
- Comprehensive, limits future costs
- Quick processing times
- User-friendly interface
Cons
- No free plan
- Limited customer support
- Learning curve for some users
Vault’s Viewpoint: Compare the Best LLC Services of 2024
| Price | Free Plan | EIN Included | Registered Agent Service | |
| Zen Business | $0-$349 per year, plus state filing fees | ✔ | Pro plan only | ✔ |
| Bizee | $0-$299 per year, plus state filing fees | ✔ | Gold and Platinum packages only | Platinum plan only |
| Harbor Compliance | $88-$99+ per year** | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Inc Authority | $0, plus state fees and postage costs | ✔ | ✔ | First year free |
| LegalZoom | $0-$299+ per year | ✔ | Pro and Premium plans only | $249 per year |
| Northwest Registered Agent | Discounted offer to form your LLC, corporation or nonprofit today: $39 plus state fee | ✔ | Available for $50 | LLC Formation Service package |
| Rocket Lawyer | $19.99-$39.99 per month, if billed annually | Rocket Legal: $249.99 per year. Rocket Legal+: $124.99 per year. | ||
| Swyft Filings | $0-$299 per year, plus state filing fees | ✔ | $79 | $199 per year |
| Tailor Brands | Pricing offered after sign-up | ✔ | Pricing offered after sign-up | Pricing offered after sign-up |
| BetterLegal | $299 plus state filing fee | ✔ | $90 per year |
Learn More About LLC Services
Before you can choose the best LLC service, it’s important to know what an LLC is and how it works.
What Is An LLC?
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a type of business formation that protects the owners from personal liability regarding company debts and liabilities. Many view it as a cross between a partnership and a corporation, allowing multiple owners to benefit from liability protection.
LLCs are subject to state statutes, so it’s important to ensure that you are up-to-date on current state legislature around LLCs.
Certain businesses, such as banks and insurance companies, may not be registered as LLCs.
How Do LLC Services Work?
To open a new LLC, you will need to obtain an employer identification number and file certain paperwork with the state—including a document called the Articles of Organization. You can do this yourself, or you can choose to work with one of the best LLC services on this list. Either way, you will need to report the owner of the LLC, who is known as a member.
Members may be restricted by your state, but most allow individuals, corporations, other LLCs and foreign entities to serve as members of an LLC. These members enjoy personal protections as part of an LLC. For example: Should the company fail, members do not share personal liability in the debts. Additionally, should the company experience bankruptcy or experience legal issues, members’ own personal assets are still deemed separate and safe from collection.
LLCs change how businesses handle taxes. Instead of filing profits on direct business taxes, those profits are instead reported and taxed on each owner’s tax return. It’s usually a more advantageous arrangement than organizing your business as a corporation, which might lead to your income being taxed twice—once on the business and again on individual tax returns once they become income. LLCs, on the other hand, are only taxed once.
Who Are LLC Services Best For?
First-time business owners are sure to appreciate the ease and expertise that comes with using an LLC service. The best LLC services offer quick and efficient services that compile, file and monitor necessary paperwork—ensuring your business is in full compliance with both state and federal law.
These services can handle operating agreements, help you get an EIN and answer any compliance questions you may have.
An LLC service is perfect for busy business owners who find themselves short on time. By hiring these tasks out, you can focus on other operational tasks; while the LLC service takes care of the paperwork.
Types of LLCs
- Domestic LLC: A domestic LLC is both created and operational within a single home state. It is the most common of LLC types.
- Foreign LLC: A foreign LLC is created in one state but operates in another. It may also do business in multiple states.
- Series LLC: A series LLC is a parent LLC to other LLCs that operate underneath it. It is currently available in Alabama, Arkansas, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Utah, Wyoming and Puerto Rico.
- Nonprofit LLC: A nonprofit LLC is not designed to make a profit. Instead, it is often charitable, social or educational in nature, and is only recognized in four states: Kentucky, Minnesota, North Dakota and Tennessee.
How To Choose an LLC Service
In order to find the best LLC service, you need to know what to look for in an LLC provider. Here are a few features our experts recommend checking for as you search:
Type of Services Offered
An LLC service will show you how to start an LLC, but not all of them are designed to be full-service options. Some services specialize in quick filings, while others offer compliance and other support throughout the year. As you search, consider what type of LLC service you need, as well as the company’s expertise and track record.
Features
Every LLC service offers different options. Features to watch for include assistance with operating agreements, EIN applications, registered agent service, tax advice and legal support.
Customer Service
You may need help at some point throughout your set-up, so it’s important that you choose the best LLC service that includes excellent customer support as part of its service offerings.
You’ll want to first establish what customer service options you have from a service, if any. Then, you’ll also want to consider customer service hours of each option, and what types of contact methods are available.
Price
Price can vary considerably, even among the best LLC services. While some LLC services are free, others may require a one-time fee or ongoing membership in order for business owners to benefit from their services.
Our experts do warn against choosing companies with no price transparency, or too many pricey add-ons; as a la carte services can add up quickly at a time when most budding business owners are already financially strapped.
Other LLC Service Alternatives
Active Filings
Active Filings offers a free Starter plan that includes registered agent services and annual report compliance. It also includes corporate document templates with complimentary business checklists to keep you on track.
The Sprinter is the service’s mid-tier plan that costs $100, and it includes expedited service with a business address, EIN and privacy protection. Corporate seals and a corporate book are available with the Finisher tier, which costs $250. International packages are also available, as are dedicated Spanish-speaking staff—making Active Filings one of the best LLC services for international business owners.
MyCompanyWorks
MyCompanyWorks has been helping business owners form their LLCs since 2001. Its signature Startup Wizard guides you through set-up, simplifying the process and helping you form your LLC quickly. Same-day processing is available for those looking for extra speed. Our experts appreciate the service’s proprietary 24/7 LLC tracking tool, giving you complete visibility through every step of the process.
Its basic package starts at $49, and includes next-business-day processing for your LLC. This tier also allows owners to perform a name search, prepare Articles of Organization and an operating agreement. The service also offers lifetime company alerts to help keep you on track, so you never miss an important filing deadline. Packages are customizable, and EIN or registered agent services are available upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Company Is Best For LLC Services?
Zen Business is the best LLC service overall, thanks to its outstanding value and valuable features. It is also one of the most comprehensive free LLC services on this list, offering included compliance services. After you leverage services from their base tier, you can choose to upgrade your plan based on the additional services you require.
Can I Set Up An LLC for Free?
Not all LLCs come at a cost. Some companies, such as Zen Business, Bizee, Inc Authority, LegalZoom and Northwest Registered Agent, offer a free package for your business setup needs.
Do I Need A Registered Agent To Start An LLC?
A registered agent is generally required to start an LLC. You can serve as this agent in many states, or you can hire an LLC service to act as one for you. Be sure to review state laws before you create an LLC to ensure that you’re as compliant as possible.
How Long Does It Take To Get an LLC?
The processing time can vary by state. It can also depend on the LLC serviceyou use, with some taking longer than others. Many of the best LLC services offer expedited processing that you choose if you are in a hurry—but be prepared to pay more for the convenience.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
