Forming an LLC doesn’t have to be complicated. The right service can handle the paperwork and help keep the process organized while you focus on your business.
We compared eight LLC formation services based on pricing, included features, customer support, and transparency. Northwest Registered Agent is our top pick overall, but the best choice depends on the kind of help you want. You can also form an LLC yourself if you don’t need additional support.
Our Pick: Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest offers LLC formation for $29 plus state filing fees, with personal support and a strong focus on privacy.
Visit NorthwestUnsure if Northwest is right for you? Continue reading our comprehensive review below to learn more and explore your options.
Prices checked July 20, 2026. State filing fees are additional. How we review LLC services
In this guide
Top-Rated LLC Formation Services for 2026
Northwest 4.8/5
| Most Affordable Best for 1st Time Business Owners
|
ZenBusiness 4.5/5 ![]() | Fastest Filing Speed
|
LegalZoom 4.3/5 ![]() VISIT SITE | Expert Legal Advice
|
Tailor Brands 4/5 | Best Business-Building Package
|
Inc Authority 3.9/5 |
|
Bizee 3.8/5 |
|
| Swyft Filings 3.7/5 |
|
| Rocket Lawyer 3.6/5 VISIT SITE |
|
Why We Recommend Northwest
Northwest stands out for its straightforward pricing, one-on-one support, and privacy-focused service.
Visit NorthwestLLC filing services each have their own unique sets of features, so it’s important to explore your options carefully before making a decision. Fortunately, we’ve taken care of the research to save you some time.
Note: Consult our pricing table to compare the essential features and costs of each service’s basic LLC formation plans. Keep in mind that add-ons are available for further customization.
Our 8 LLC Service Picks
- Northwest: Best for personal support and privacy
- ZenBusiness: Best for bundled filing and compliance tools
- LegalZoom: Best for access to ongoing legal help
- Tailor Brands: Best for combining formation with branding tools
- Inc Authority: Best for founders comparing $0 formation-service offers
- Bizee (formerly Incfile): Best for a straightforward online dashboard
- Swyft Filings: Best for guided filing support
- Rocket Lawyer: Best for legal documents and ongoing legal services
Based on its superior customer support team and simple, transparent pricing, Northwest Registered Agent is our top-rated business formation service for starting an LLC online.
Continue reading our full review of the best LLC services below. You’ll find additional information about each platform, including cost, accessibility, and more. By the end of our comparison, you’ll be able to choose which formation service is right for your venture.
1. Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest is our top choice for the best LLC service. Renowned for their knowledgeable customer service, their dedicated team of Corporate Guides® offer one-on-one assistance throughout the LLC formation process. This platform is particularly suited for entrepreneurs who value personalized, expert support and affordable pricing.
Pricing & Features
Our reader discount: Save 25% on Northwest’s service fee, so you’ll pay $29 plus your state’s filing fee.
Northwest’s formation package includes:
- One year of free registered agent services
- Privacy by default — your personal data stays off public records
- Customizable operating agreement
- Domain name, website with hosting, and business email address included while you keep Northwest as your registered agent
- Free phone service
- Free annual report reminders
- Business address
- Mail forwarding and free regular mail scanning (five documents)
- Accessible online dashboard to access important documents
Pros
- Exceptional customer service
- Quick and user-friendly ordering process
- No hidden fees
- Fast processing and filing time
Cons
- Doesn’t include an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Northwest Registered Agent offers an unbeatable balance between affordability and high-quality service, thanks to their seasoned corporate guides and a focus on customer privacy. While they may lack some extra features like EIN registration and advanced legal services, the affordability and the breadth of their core offerings make them a strong contender in the realm of LLC formation services.
Who Northwest Is Best For
Northwest may be a good fit for founders who value personal support and privacy more than bundled legal or branding tools.
Visit Northwest2. ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness is one of the most reliable LLC formation services for new founders who want a quick, affordable, and accurate filing process. Plans start at $0 plus state fees, and higher tiers include a 100% accuracy guarantee, rush filing options, and Worry-Free Compliance to help keep your LLC in good standing.
Pricing & Features
ZenBusiness provides three plans to fit different business needs: Starter, Pro, and Premium. Each plan comes with its own set of features designed to support you at different stages of your business journey.
Starter ($0 + state fees)
- Filing of LLC
- 100% accuracy guarantee
- Secure online dashboard to track documents
- Worry-free compliance free first year (Auto-renewal price: $199/yr)
Pro ($199 + state fees)
- All Starter features
- Operating agreement
- Rush processing speed (Processes in 1 business day*)
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Business logo maker
Premium ($399 + state fees)
TRUiC Exclusive Offer: Use code REALLY100 to save $100 on the ZenBusiness Premium plan (pay $299 + state fees).
- All Pro features
- Business email address
- Business website and domain name
- Business Document Templates
- Registered agent service
- Advanced compliance coverage (24/7 monitoring, fee guarantee for missed deadlines, unlimited amendments)
- Business advisor consultation
Pros
- Fast filing speeds with a 100% accuracy guarantee
- User-friendly dashboard and responsive customer support
- Worry-Free Compliance helps maintain good standing
- Premium plan includes registered agent protection and expert consultation
Cons
- Registered agent service is only included in the Premium plan
- Higher prices for additional features such as an EIN
ZenBusiness combines professionalism, reliability, and flexible plan options, making it a strong choice for founders who want speed, accuracy, and scalable compliance support as their business grows.
*Processing times are based on receiving complete information. ZenBusiness processing times do not include Secretary of State processing times, which can vary.
Save $100 on ZenBusiness Premium
Form your LLC with ZenBusiness and get registered agent protection, expert guidance, and worry-free compliance — plus $100 off with code REALLY100.
Start Now3. LegalZoom
LegalZoom remains one of the most established business formation providers, known for accurate filings and access to professional legal resources. Its plans start at $0 plus state fees, and higher tiers include operating agreements, EINs, attorney consultations, bookkeeping tools, and a 20% discount on Pro and Premium plans.
Pricing & Features
LegalZoom offers three pricing plans: Basic, Pro, and Premium. Each plan is designed to accommodate different levels of business needs.
Basic ($0 + state fee)
- Articles of Organization
- Business name search
- Digital welcome packet
- Customizable business website
Pro ($249 + state fee)
Includes everything in Basic, plus:
- Operating agreement
- EIN
- Business license guide
- Phone consultations with business formation experts
Premium ($299 + state fee)
Includes everything in Pro, plus:
- Experienced business attorney
- Unlimited attorney consultations
- Changes to formation documents within the first 30 days
Pros
- Comprehensive suite of legal services
- Access to business attorneys
- Trusted, well-established brand
- Occasional 20% discounts on higher-tier plans
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to competitors
LegalZoom offers dependable formation backed by legal expertise, accurate filing, and periodic discounts for new users. While not the cheapest option, it’s ideal for founders who value professional guidance and long-term legal support.
Simplify Your Business Launch with Legal Pros
Get expert legal guidance and comprehensive LLC formation services with LegalZoom.
Start Now4. Tailor Brands
Tailor Brands helps entrepreneurs form an LLC and build their brand identity through an all-in-one platform that includes logo design and website tools. Its standout Elite Plan goes beyond basic LLC setup by offering features like domain registration, social media graphics, and ongoing compliance support, making it ideal for founders who want to launch their business and establish a cohesive, professional brand from day one. One small transparency win: when we asked about its $99 operating agreement in chat, Tailor Brands gave us the price without asking for contact information.
Pricing & Features
Tailor Brands offers three packages:
- Lite ($0 + state fee) for basic filing services
- Essential ($199 + state fee) for a few more features such as annual compliance and operating agreements
- Elite ($249 + state fee) for LLC formation and brand-building tools.
The Elite package, which we highly recommend, provides a comprehensive suite of marketing tools that will set your business apart.
Let’s take a closer look at what the Elite Plan has to offer:
- Company formation
- Annual compliance
- Expedited processing
- LLC operating agreement template
It also includes some vital business-building features that will help maximize your online presence:
- Five logos to create through Tailor Brands logo maker
- Domain name
- Website builder
- Digital business card
- Graphic design tools for social media
Pros
- Easy to use – get started in just a few clicks
- One-stop shop for LLC formation, logo, and website
- Free LLC formation option (minus state fees)
- Powerful graphic design and social media marketing resources
- Free business plan included
- Personalized coaching program
- Enjoy an Amazon gift card up to $50 with your order
Cons
- Branding focus may not suit all businesses
- Not as budget-friendly for those who just need LLC basics
Tailor Brands is ideal for entrepreneurs focused on building a strong brand identity, while other providers may offer more robust compliance or legal features.
Your LLC, Tailored for Success
Form your LLC and build your brand seamlessly with Tailor Brands’ comprehensive formation services.
Start Now5. Inc Authority
Inc Authority is one of the most affordable ways to start an LLC — completely free aside from state filing fees. It includes several features that competitors typically charge for, such as one year of registered agent service, an EIN (Tax ID), 24-hour processing, and a custom-built business website. Founded in 1989, Inc Authority has helped form hundreds of thousands of LLCs and continues to earn strong customer satisfaction for making business formation accessible to everyone.
Pricing & Features
Inc Authority’s basic LLC formation package is completely free — you only pay state filing fees. Here’s what’s included at no cost:
- LLC registration
- Registered agent service for one year
- EIN (Tax ID)
- 24-hour processing
- Business name check
- Custom-built website
- Tax planning consultation
- Digital document storage
- Business credit and funding analysis
The company also offers optional upgrades for ongoing compliance, business credit building, and professional tax support through partnerships with services like 1-800Accountant and Bank of America.
Pros
- 100% free LLC formation (state fees only)
- Free registered agent service for one year
- Fast processing and strong customer satisfaction
- Trusted provider with decades of experience
Cons
- Frequent upsells for premium add-ons
- Limited built-in compliance and legal tools compared to higher-tier providers
Inc Authority is best for entrepreneurs who want to form their business quickly and affordably without compromising on essential features. It’s a strong choice for budget-conscious founders looking for a trusted and straightforward start.
6. Bizee (Formerly Incfile)
Bizee serves as a robust solution for entrepreneurs who need an efficient way to set up an LLC, but also value ongoing company compliance support. Bizee has helped form over 500,000 small businesses and offers a host of features that streamlines the LLC formation process. Entrepreneurs who are looking for straightforward, quick services along with continuous compliance reminders will find Bizee to be a perfect fit. Pricing was harder to verify with Bizee because its chat required contact information before answering our question about the $99 operating agreement.
Pricing & Features
Bizee presents three pricing tiers: Basic, Standard, and Premium. Each offers a set of features designed to meet varying business needs.
Basic ($0 + state fees)
- Articles of organization filing
- Free registered agent for a year
- Unlimited phone & email support
- Unlimited name searches
Standard ($199 + state fees)
Includes everything in Basic, plus:
- EIN
- Operating agreement
- Banking resolution
- Lifetime company alerts
- Online dashboard
- Business banking account
- Business tax consultation
Premium ($299 + state fees)
Includes everything in Standard, plus:
- Business email and domain name
- Expedited filing
- Business contract templates
Pros
- Quick order turnaround
- Real-time order status tracking
- Free registered agent service for one year
Cons
- Additional costs for features like EIN and expedited filing
With Bizee, entrepreneurs gain a reliable partner that takes care of the initial business formation, and then continues to provide support throughout the company’s lifespan with compliance reminders.
7. Swyft Filings
Swyft Filings is a reputable LLC service, known for its swift and streamlined process. Through its intuitive online platform, it provides a range of services including business formation, name availability checks, and compliance solutions.
Pricing & Features
Swyft Filings offers three main pricing packages: Basic, Standard, and Premium.
Basic ($0 + state fees)
- Formation essentials (e.g., document preparation and filing)
- Name check
- Lifetime customer support
Standard ($199 + state fees)
Includes everything in Basic, plus:
- EIN
- Custom corporate bylaws
- Banking resolution
- Organizational minutes,
- Electronic delivery of state documents
- Expedited shipping
Premium ($299 + state fees)
Includes everything in Standard, plus:
- Personalized founders kit
- ComplianceGuard
- Legal and business templates
- Free business website and domain
- Online dashboard
- Free statement of the incorporator
- FedEx Shipping with tracking # (1-2 business days)
Pros
- Swift processing times
- Lifetime customer support
Cons
- Registered agent service not included in Basic plan
Overall, while Swyft Filings is a decent choice, considering the market landscape, other options might offer a better balance of services, support, and affordability.
8. Rocket Lawyer
If you’re a small business owner interested in online legal services and advice beyond company formation, Rocket Lawyer is a great option.
Pricing & Features
Rocket Lawyer now structures its business services around annual memberships.
- Standard ($149/year): Includes the first business registration, unlimited personalized legal documents, e-signatures, and access to three premium legal services.
- Plus ($249/year): Adds broader legal support and is the lowest membership that lists EIN service for $70 and registered agent service for $125 per year.
- Pro ($349/year): Adds unlimited attorney questions and live consultations, plus access to more premium legal services.
For a first-year LLC formation with an EIN, registered agent service, and an operating agreement, the total is $444 plus state fees using the Plus membership. The operating agreement is available through Rocket Lawyer’s personalized legal-document library.
Pros
- Access to ongoing legal advice and documents
- Easy-to-use online platform and excellent customer service
Cons
- More expensive than other LLC service providers on the market
If you only need basic LLC formation, Rocket Lawyer may not be the most cost-effective choice. Its annual memberships make more sense for founders who also expect to use legal documents, attorney support, or other ongoing legal services.
LLC Essentials: First-Year Cost Comparison
Customize the pricing table
Add or remove companies to compare first-year totals for these LLC essentials.
8 of 8 companies shown.
| Provider | First-year total | Base formation | Registered agent | EIN | Operating agreement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NorthwestVisit site | $79LLC formation + $50 EIN | LLC formation$29 | Free for 1 year | $50 | Free |
| ZenBusinessVisit site | $397Starter + three add-ons | Starter$0 | $199/year | $99 | $99 |
| LegalZoomVisit site | $427Basic + three add-ons | Basic$0 | $249/year | $79 | $99 |
| Tailor BrandsVisit site | $397Lite + three add-ons | Lite$0 | $199/year | $99 | $99 |
| Inc AuthorityVisit site | $89LLC formation + $89 operating agreement | LLC formation$0 | Free for 1 year | Included | $89 |
| BizeeVisit site | $169Basic + EIN + operating agreement | Basic$0 | Free for 1 year | $70 | $99 |
| Swyft FilingsVisit site | $765Basic + three add-ons | Basic$0 | $596/year | $70 | $99 |
| Rocket LawyerVisit site | $444Plus membership + EIN + registered agent | Plus membership$249/year | $125/year | $70 | Included |
NorthwestFirst-year total$79LLC formation + $50 EIN
- Base formation
- LLC formation$29
- Registered agent
- Free for 1 year
- EIN
- $50
- Operating agreement
- Free
ZenBusinessFirst-year total$397Starter + three add-ons
- Base formation
- Starter$0
- Registered agent
- $199/year
- EIN
- $99
- Operating agreement
- $99
LegalZoomFirst-year total$427Basic + three add-ons
- Base formation
- Basic$0
- Registered agent
- $249/year
- EIN
- $79
- Operating agreement
- $99
Tailor BrandsFirst-year total$397Lite + three add-ons
- Base formation
- Lite$0
- Registered agent
- $199/year
- EIN
- $99
- Operating agreement
- $99
Inc AuthorityFirst-year total$89LLC formation + $89 operating agreement
- Base formation
- LLC formation$0
- Registered agent
- Free for 1 year
- EIN
- Included
- Operating agreement
- $89
BizeeFirst-year total$169Basic + EIN + operating agreement
- Base formation
- Basic$0
- Registered agent
- Free for 1 year
- EIN
- $70
- Operating agreement
- $99
Swyft FilingsFirst-year total$765Basic + three add-ons
- Base formation
- Basic$0
- Registered agent
- $596/year
- EIN
- $70
- Operating agreement
- $99
Rocket LawyerFirst-year total$444Plus membership + EIN + registered agent
- Base formation
- Plus membership$249/year
- Registered agent
- $125/year
- EIN
- $70
- Operating agreement
- Included
Why these costs: We compare the LLC basics most founders are likely to need: formation, registered agent service, an EIN, and an operating agreement. Each total uses the lowest-priced formation option that can provide all four, with no separate charge for services already included. State fees and later renewals are not included. Prices checked July 20, 2026.
These totals show what the same set of LLC essentials costs across providers, even when some services are included and others must be purchased as add-ons.
ZenBusiness’s $397 first-year total starts with its $0 Starter plan and adds the $199 registered agent service, $99 EIN service, and $99 operating agreement shown in the table.
Premium separately bundles those services and is not part of the $397 calculation. ZenBusiness lists Premium at $399 per year plus state fees; TRUiC readers can use code REALLY100 to save $100, bringing it to $299 plus state fees.
It’s also worth noting that you can obtain an EIN directly from the IRS for free. However, if you prefer the convenience of having your chosen LLC formation service handle the EIN registration, you can still add this service to your package.
The Bottom Line
Northwest is our strongest all-around choice for founders who prioritize personal support, privacy, and a lower upfront formation price. It may not be the right choice if you want a broader legal-services membership or an all-in-one branding package.
ZenBusiness may suit founders who want filing and compliance tools in one workflow, while LegalZoom or Rocket Lawyer may make more sense when ongoing legal help matters more than the lowest formation price. If you’re comfortable filing directly with your state, you may not need a formation service at all.
Pros & Cons of Forming an LLC
Forming an LLC offers many advantages, but it’s important to understand the potential drawbacks as well.
Pros
- Limited personal liability protection: LLCs provide a barrier between your personal assets and business debts and lawsuits.
- Pass-through taxation: LLC profits are taxed only once, at the individual level, avoiding the double taxation that corporations face.
- Flexible management structure: LLCs can be managed by the owners or by appointed managers, allowing for greater flexibility.
- Less paperwork and fewer formalities compared to corporations: LLCs have fewer recordkeeping and reporting requirements than corporations.
Cons
- Self-employment taxes: LLC members are considered self-employed and must pay self-employment taxes on their share of the profits.
- Limited life: In some states, LLCs may be dissolved when a member leaves the company, unless otherwise specified in the operating agreement.
- Difficulty raising capital: LLCs may face challenges when seeking outside funding, as investors often prefer the structure and potential liquidity of a corporation.
How to Start an LLC
Starting an LLC involves several key steps, which can vary slightly depending on your state’s requirements.
Select Your State
Where you form your LLC matters, as each state has its own rules, regulations, and filing fees. In most cases, it’s best to form your LLC in the state where you plan to do business.
Name Your LLC
Choose a unique, distinguishable name for your LLC that follows your state’s naming guidelines. Conduct a thorough name search to ensure your desired name isn’t already in use.
Choose a Registered Agent
A registered agent is a person or company that agrees to accept legal papers and official mail on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent, but hiring a professional service offers privacy and convenience.
File Formation Documents
To officially create your LLC, you’ll need to file Articles of Organization (or a similar document) with your state’s Secretary of State office. An online LLC formation service can handle this step for you.
Create an Operating Agreement
While not always required, an operating agreement is a vital document that outlines the ownership structure, management roles, and operational procedures of your LLC. It helps prevent disputes and ensures your LLC is run according to your wishes.
Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is like a Social Security number for your business. It’s required for opening business bank accounts, hiring employees, and filing taxes. You can obtain an EIN for free from the IRS website.
LLC State Guides
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Why Use an LLC Formation Service?
Forming an LLC can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for first-time business owners. Using an LLC filing service can help simplify the process and provide you with peace of mind. Here are some key benefits of using an LLC service:
- You don’t need to know anything about the legal aspects of registering a company. Your LLC formation service handles all paperwork on your behalf.
- Any good online incorporation service will keep you notified in the future of any legal requirements you need to take care of with the state. This removes any surprises!
- No need for you to get directly involved. An LLC formation service saves you time researching and filing your business with the state so you can focus your energy on getting your startup off the ground.
- Every incorporation service above offers phone, email, and online support for any questions you have about the status of your business formation.
By leveraging the expertise and resources of an LLC formation service, you can ensure that your business is set up correctly and in compliance with all necessary regulations. This allows you to focus on what matters most – growing your business and achieving your entrepreneurial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are LLC formation services?
LLC services take care of the confusing business formation paperwork by completing and submitting incorporation documents to the appropriate government agencies.
A lot of LLC filing service packages can also provide features such as annual report filing, searches for business licenses, an included year of registered agent service, and so on.
Many LLC services will often save you both time and money, provide you with peace of mind, reduce the chance of errors, and offer helpful customer support and tools throughout the complex business formation process.
What is the best formation service?
Our pick for best incorporation service is Northwest Registered Agent because of its affordability and knowledgeable customer support.
Is forming an LLC worth it?
Most small business owners will benefit from forming a limited liability company. This business entity offers:
- Protection of personal assets
- Simplicity
- Credibility
- Tax options
Learn more about LLCs by reading our guide.
Can I file for an LLC on my own?
Yes, you can save money and start a limited liability company on your own by following this free, step-by-step guide.
How much does it cost to start an LLC?
LLC cost varies by state filing fees and depends on if you complete the formation process yourself or hire a professional service. Limited liability companies can cost anywhere from $50 to $500.
A third-party formation company handles the filings for you and provides additional LLC services (e.g., registered agent service, operating agreements, legal services, business bank account, etc.) which could add another fee between $40 and $350 if you choose that route.
Be careful of any company advertising a completely free LLC service. No service is actually free, since you still need to pay state fees.
Is an LLC easy to form?
Yes, LLCs are very easy to form. Every state, except for Maine, allows you to create an LLC online by completing a series of questions.
Review Methodology
Startup Savant compares LLC formation services using provider pricing and package details, renewal terms, support options, customer feedback, and the clarity of each ordering process. Our rankings are editorial judgments intended to help readers compare tradeoffs; affiliate relationships do not determine which providers we include or how they rank.
Pricing
We compare the advertised formation price, required state fees, common add-ons, and renewal costs. We favor providers that make recurring charges and package limits easy to understand.
Features
We review what each package actually includes, such as formation filing, registered agent service, operating agreements, compliance tools, and access to legal support.
User Reviews
We consider recurring themes in customer feedback, including complaints, support experiences, and how companies respond to problems. Reviews are one input, not the sole basis for a ranking.
Customer Support
We assess the available support channels and whether founders can get clear, useful answers before and after filing.
Accessibility and Transparency
We review how easy it is to compare plans, understand upsells, complete an order, and find cancellation or renewal terms.



