Our Top Recommended Services
These LLC formation services consistently deliver excellent value, features, and customer support. Choose any of these with confidence.
ZenBusiness
Entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and compliance tools at an affordable price
ZenBusiness stands out as our top pick for LLC formation services thanks to its unbeatable combination of value, features, and support. With formation starting at $0 plus state fees, you can rest easy with their worry-free compliance service, award-winning customer support, and 100% accuracy guarantee. The Pro and Premium packages add even more value with 1-day processing, an employer ID number, operating agreement, and services to get your business online like domain name registration, AI business website builder, and more.
Pros:
- ✓ Starter package is $0 plus state fees
- ✓ Registered agent and compliance services
- ✓ Free worry-free compliance for 1 year
- ✓ Fast 1-day processing time available
- ✓ 100% accuracy guarantee
- ✓ Award-winning customer support
Cons:
- ✗ Some features require upgraded plans
- ✗ More expensive Registered Agent service
Bizee
Budget-conscious startups needing fast formation
Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast LLC formation with their $0 package. They're perfect for entrepreneurs who need to form their LLC quickly and affordably. With same-day processing in many states and a year of free registered agent service, Bizee provides exceptional value for basic LLC formation needs.
Pros:
- ✓ $0 basic formation package
- ✓ Same-day processing available
- ✓ Free registered agent for first year
- ✓ Compliance alerts included
- ✓ Dashboard for document management
- ✓ Free business tools and templates
Cons:
- ✗ Operating agreement not included in basic package
- ✗ Limited customer support hours
Tailor Brands
Creative businesses wanting formation plus branding
Tailor Brands combines LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Their unique approach includes AI-powered logo design, website creation, and marketing materials. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs who want to establish their brand identity alongside their legal structure.
Pros:
- ✓ Includes logo design and branding
- ✓ Website builder included
- ✓ Business card designs
- ✓ Mobile app available
- ✓ Operating agreement included
- ✓ EIN service included
Cons:
- ✗ No rush processing available
- ✗ Monthly subscription required
- ✗ Customer service via chat/email only
Inc Authority
Budget-conscious entrepreneurs comfortable with DIY approach
Inc Authority offers genuinely free LLC formation with free registered agent service for the first year. While their basic package is unbeatable for price, be prepared for upselling attempts and note that the registered agent service renews at $119/year. They're perfect for entrepreneurs who want the absolute lowest cost and don't mind a more hands-off approach.
Pros:
- ✓ Truly free basic formation
- ✓ Free registered agent for first year
- ✓ Free tax planning consultation
- ✓ No hidden fees on basic package
- ✓ Phone and chat support available
- ✓ Basic compliance tools included
Cons:
- ✗ Aggressive upselling tactics
- ✗ Processing can be slow (7-10 days)
- ✗ Registered agent renews at $119/year
LegalZoom
Businesses that need ongoing legal support and established credibility
LegalZoom brings decades of experience and attorney-backed support to LLC formation. While some add-ons are pricey, their comprehensive legal services, extensive forms library, and ability to connect with attorneys make them ideal for businesses with complex legal needs or those who value the security of working with an established industry leader.
Pros:
- ✓ Attorney support available
- ✓ Comprehensive legal forms library
- ✓ Rush processing available (1 day +$99)
- ✓ Phone and chat support
- ✓ 30+ years in business
- ✓ Peace of mind guarantee
Cons:
- ✗ Registered agent costs $249/year
- ✗ Operating agreement costs extra (+$99)
- ✗ EIN service expensive (+$159)
Quick Comparison Chart
| Service | Base Price | Speed | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZenBusiness | $0 + state fees | 7-10 days | ★ 4.9/5 | Best Overall Value |
| Bizee | $0 + state fees | 3 weeks | ★ 4.6/5 | Fastest Formation |
| Inc Authority | $0 + state fees | 7-10 days | ★ 4.4/5 | Free Formation |
| Tailor Brands | $0 + state fees | 3 weeks | ★ 4.3/5 | Best for Branding |
| LegalZoom | $0 + state fees | 5-14 days | ★ 4.2/5 | Best for Legal Support |
| Rocket Lawyer | $99.99 + state fees | 5-7 days | ★ 4/5 | Legal Documents |
| BetterLegal | $299 all-inclusive | 2 days | ★ 3.9/5 | Speed & Simplicity |
| Active Filings | $199 + state fees | 5-10 days | ★ 3.8/5 | Traditional Service |
| Filenow | $99 + state fees | 7-10 days | ★ 3.6/5 | Budget Option |
| Northwest | $39 + state fees | 7-10 days | ★ 3.4/5 | Basic Formation |
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation | Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees |
| Processing Time | 7-10 days Expedited: 1 day | 3 weeks Expedited: 1 day | 7-10 days Expedited: 2 days | 3 weeks Expedited: Not available | 5-14 days Expedited: 1 day |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | $249/yr |
| EIN Service | $99 | $70 | $70 | ✓ Free | $159 |
| Operating Agreement | $99 | $99 | $50 | ✓ Free | $99 |
| Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Chat, Email | Phone, Chat |
Why Use an LLC Formation Service?
Save Time & Avoid Mistakes
- ✓ Professional handling of all state paperwork and filing requirements
- ✓ Avoid costly errors that could delay your formation or cause legal issues
- ✓ Get your LLC formed in days instead of weeks
- ✓ Focus on building your business while experts handle the paperwork
Ongoing Support & Compliance
- ✓ Registered agent service to receive important legal documents
- ✓ Compliance alerts for annual reports and state requirements
- ✓ Access to business tools and resources for growth
- ✓ Customer support when you have questions
Formation services typically save entrepreneurs 20-40 hours of research and paperwork, plus help avoid an average of $500-1,500 in potential filing errors and penalties.
Choose Your Formation ServiceHow to Choose the Right Service
Consider Your Budget
While $0 packages are attractive, consider the total value including free features like registered agent service and compliance tools.
💡 Pro Tip:
Free registered agent for the first year can save you $99-199
Evaluate Features
Look for essential features like EIN obtainment, operating agreement templates, and business banking assistance in the package.
💡 Pro Tip:
Compliance monitoring can save you from costly state penalties
Check Processing Speed
If you need to start operating quickly, look for services offering expedited processing in your state (usually 1-2 business days).
💡 Pro Tip:
Standard processing is usually sufficient for most businesses
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in the $0 formation packages?
Most $0 packages include preparation and filing of your Articles of Organization, lifetime company alerts, and access to business tools. You'll still need to pay state filing fees (typically $50-500) and may want to add services like registered agent or EIN filing.
Do I need a registered agent service?
Yes, all LLCs are required by law to have a registered agent in their state of formation. This can be you (if you have a physical address in the state), but most businesses use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Many formation services include this free for the first year.
How long does LLC formation take?
Standard processing typically takes 5-10 business days, though this varies by state. Most services offer expedited processing (1-2 business days) for an additional fee. Some states like Wyoming and Nevada naturally process faster than others like California or New York.
Can I form an LLC in a different state?
Yes, you can form an LLC in any state, but you'll need to register as a "foreign LLC" in your home state if you're doing business there. Popular states for LLC formation include Delaware, Wyoming, and Nevada due to their business-friendly laws and tax structures.
What happens after my LLC is formed?
After formation, you'll need to obtain an EIN from the IRS, open a business bank account, get necessary licenses and permits, and maintain compliance with annual reports and fees. Most formation services offer ongoing support and compliance monitoring to help with these requirements.
Ready to Form Your LLC?
Choose from our top-rated formation services and get your business started with confidence. All services offer professional support and satisfaction guarantees.