Best LLC Services: 2023 Reviews and Rankings
Dozens of tasks await you when starting a small business, so setting up your limited liability company (LLC) might be one place where you’d like some help. LLC formation services file the necessary paperwork with state authorities so your new business is in compliance. The best LLC services offer expert guidance and additional services needed to run a successful operation.
Let’s be clear — an LLC formation service isn’t required to register your business with state agencies; business owners may represent themselves, fill out the paperwork and pay the appropriate fees. An LLC formation service takes one big to-do off your plate, saving you precious time.
We at the Quartz Advisor Reviews team will help you find the registration service and add-ons you want in the timeframe and price range you need.
What Are the Best LLC Services in 2023?
Your small business fills a particular need in your community, so the best LLC services depend on your unique situation.
For example, maybe you already applied for your employer identification number (EIN) and don’t need an LLC registration service to do that for you. On the other hand, you do need a registered agent for your business — a registered agent receives documents on behalf of your company — so you’re on the hunt for an LLC service that provides the most reliable assistance for the least cost.
The companies we chose each have different strengths and weaknesses. We’ll walk you through their pros and cons, standout features and best uses.
- Best for Beginners: ZenBusiness
- Best for Expert Help: LegalZoom
- Best on a Budget: Incfile
- Most Flexible: Swyft Filings
- Best for Experienced Business Owners: Northwest Registered Agent
ZenBusiness is a well-rounded LLC service, meaning it checks nearly all of the boxes we use when testing the best companies. It has a mobile app when several competitors don’t, offers the fastest turnaround times on this list and scores highly in customer support. ZenBusiness was also one of the most expensive providers on this list when we compared how much it would cost across all LLC services surveyed for basics such as articles of organization, operating agreement, a registered agent and EIN.
The breadth of ZenBusiness services, including providing a business email address, domain name and website, might reassure new business owners starting from scratch. If you’re looking for the lowest price, a service like Incfile might be a better fit.
ZenBusiness Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of registering your LLC with ZenBusiness:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Files applications within an average of five business days or earlier | ❌Limited expert review — tax consultation but no attorney or licensed insurance agent available |
| ✅ Multiple add-ons available: business bank account, email address and web hosting | ❌ Registered agent fee is separate, raising the overall price above some rivals |
| ✅ App for iPhone and Android |
Some customers have complained about problems with the company’s business email service and problems with recurrent or extraneous charges. However, the company quickly replies to customer concerns we reviewed on platforms like Trustpilot.
ZenBusiness Pricing
ZenBusiness offers three pricing tiers, including a free Starter plan. Starter is bare bones — ZenBusiness files with the appropriate state agency within an average of two to three weeks, a significantly wider window than its paid plans. Like all LLC formation services, formation package prices do not include any fees charged by your state.
| ZenBusiness Pro — $199 annually | ZenBusiness Premium — $349 annually |
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Pro features plus:
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Neither paid plan includes a registered agent, which you may add for $199 per year. An optional compliance plan is an additional $199 annually.
LegalZoom: Best for Expert Help
The advantage of LegalZoom is in the name: It’s the only company on this list to provide access to independent lawyers who review your documents. If your new venture is complex — maybe you have multiple investors or partners — it may be worth consulting with an attorney as well as an accountant. Such consulting doesn’t come cheap. You’ll first need to sign up for the highest-paid plan. If your small business needs a registered agent, that will be an additional fee.
LegalZoom is expensive, but it may be cheaper and faster than hiring your own attorney. LegalZoom has lawyers in all 50 states as well as insurance experts.
LegalZoom Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of registering your LLC with LegalZoom:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Access to legal, insurance and tax advisory services (for a fee) | ❌Registered agent service is a separate fee, which increases the overall price |
| ✅ Free plan includes a basic website | ❌ No mobile app for Android users |
| ✅ Customer service available seven days a week | ❌Phone support not available with the free plan |
While reviews are generally positive for LegalZoom, several customers said it was difficult to cancel the service.
LegalZoom Pricing
Even though LegalZoom can get expensive for its full range of services, its free plan is quite generous. You’ll get a checklist of steps to follow once your LLC is registered and a free WIX website with the Basic plan.
| Pro — $249 | Premium — $299 |
Basic features plus:
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Pro features plus:
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Like ZenBusiness, neither paid plan includes a registered agent, which you may add for $249 annually.
Incfile: Best on a Budget
While LegalZoom and ZenBusiness charge for a registered agent on top of their paid plans, Incfile throws in the service for free — at least for the first year, after which you’ll have to pay an annual fee or look for a new registered agent. At $119, Incfile’s registered agent fee is still cheaper than LegalZoom and ZenBusiness. It’s also possible to shop around for a lower price.
The trade-off for the lower price is longer wait times, as long as a month. In a rush to file? You’re better off with another provider on this list. ZenBusiness offers the fastest turnaround time, between one and five business days. Some providers, including Incfile, offer expedited filing for a fee.
Incfile Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of registering your LLC with Incfile:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Free registered agent service for one year, even with a free subscription | ❌Long processing times unless you pay for the most expensive plan |
| ✅ Consistent positive reviews from customers | ❌ No mobile app |
| ✅ Grant program for entrepreneurs | ❌ Cancellation fee |
Some reviews say that Incfile does not offer live chat support. A customer service representative told us that live chat was an option, but the bot declined to connect us with a live agent when we tried to use it.
Incfile Pricing
The free year of registered agent service applies to all of Incfile’s pricing tiers, including its free Silver plan, which also includes your articles of organization. Paid plans add EIN, operating agreement, tax consultation and more.
| Gold — $199 | Platinum — $299 |
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Gold features plus:
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Swyft Filings: Most Flexible
If you want to pick and choose features from your LLC registration service, you might like the a la carte pricing of Swyft Filings. Swyft files basic LLC paperwork for free, and then it’s up to you to add on: operating agreement for $35, EIN registration, $79; and registered agent, $199 annually.
The flip side is that you might pay more with this piecemeal approach than a paid tier, especially if you need most or all of the standard services provided by an LLC formation company.
Swyft Filings Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of registering your LLC with Swyft Filings:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅Free ComplianceGuard with every order | ❌Registered agent is a separate fee |
| ✅Generous money-back guarantee | ❌ No mobile app |
| ✅ Same-day filing (with Premium plan) | ❌Less robust expert help than rivals |
Like other providers on this list, some customers complained about the difficulties of canceling the service, but Swyft Filings is also responsive on customer feedback forums like Trustpilot.
Swyft Filings Pricing
Swyft Filings may be the best fit for small business owners who need a service or two and could benefit from the a la carte pricing or those planning to purchase the highest-paid tier. The introductory paid plan offers little bang for the buck, especially compared to competitors.
| Standard — $199 | Premium — $299 |
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Standard features plus:
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The turnaround time for Swyft Filings is between five and 10 days or same-day filing for those who spring for the Premium plan.
Northwest Registered Agent: Best for Experienced Business Owners
Unlike other providers on this list, Northwest Registered Agent has a single pricing tier: For $275, the company will register your LLC and EIN and provide registered agent services. Some competitors charge that much for their premium plans and throw in a few bells and whistles like a business email address or website.
Northwest’s free account is where things get interesting, especially for savvy or experienced business owners. You could download forms from its site and fill in the blanks on the appropriate state templates for your articles of organization, operating agreement and more. The downside is that you’ll have to file the forms yourselves, which may defeat the purpose of seeking out an LLC formation service in the first place.
Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of registering your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Transparent pricing | ❌ No filing assistance with free plan |
| ✅ Privacy features | ❌ No business license research report |
| ✅ Simple checkout | ❌ Less robust expert help than rivals |
Northwest Registered Agent uses its own address instead of a small business owner’s address when possible, but the downside of such privacy features is that some customers complained of difficulty obtaining their mail or changing their address.
Northwest Registered Agent Pricing
Pricing, as mentioned earlier, is streamlined. The company charges a $100 filing fee, $125 for its registered agent service and $50 for an EIN. You’ll also pay $9 a month if you decide to keep Northwest’s identity services following a 90-day free trial. Add-ons such as mail forwarding (available in certain states), virtual office or a business phone number come with additional fees.
What Are the Benefits of Using an LLC Service?
Some companies charge fees for services that business owners can do for themselves — EIN registration is free through the IRS, for example — so you’ll have to weigh costs versus convenience. It also might be comforting to have someone else share the load so you don’t have to fill out every form. An LLC service is a way to keep important information in one place. If you misplace your EIN, you’ll either have to go searching or call the IRS to retrieve it.
If paying for free services concerns you, consider a free account through an LLC service. Many companies will file your registration paperwork without a fee, and you may add services as needed or pursue them on your own. The Small Business Administration (SBA) helps entrepreneurs get started. You may also find help closer to home through your secretary of state’s office or local college campus that hosts a Small Business Development Center.
Top LLC Service Features
To better understand the steps you’ll need to take as a new small business owner, we’ll break down some of the common terminology so you can decide if you need specific services, can pursue them for yourself or would like assistance from an LLC formation service.
Business Name Search
Deciding on a name for your new entity takes creativity and research. If you selected an LLC as the best business structure for your company, you’ll need to include the word “LLC” in your name and follow the rules of your state. For example, your state might prohibit you from using certain words. You’ll also want to make sure the name you choose isn’t protected by a trademark. Your secretary of state or other agency can help you, but most LLC services provide a business name search as part of their basic or free plans.
Formation Document Preparation and Filing
LLCs, corporations, partnerships and nonprofit corporations are typically required to register in the state where you plan to conduct business activities. Registration may occur within the secretary of state’s office, a business bureau or a business agency. Look up your state with the SBA. States are typically looking for an LLC’s articles of organization. If you file your articles of organization with an LLC service, it may charge a fee on top of any fees levied by your state. Northwest Registered Agent publishes a list of state LLC filing fees.
Registered Agent Service
Because your state might ask for the name of your registered agent on your LLC paperwork, it’s a good idea to decide on your registered agent as a first step. As mentioned earlier, you may serve as your own registered agent or pay for a registered agent service. The advantage of a service is that it receives documents for you instead of those documents arriving at your place of work or home.
Operating Agreement Template
Some states, including California and New York, require an operating agreement for your LLC, but even if yours doesn’t, it’s a good idea for a few reasons. It helps you define your company’s financial and functional decisions and lays out each member’s duties, powers and responsibilities. An LLC service can draft an operating agreement for you or provide a template that you fill out for yourself.
EIN Application
An employee identification number (EIN) is like a Social Security number for your business. You’ll most likely need one for opening a business bank account, applying for business licenses and filing your tax returns. It’s free to obtain one from the IRS, but an LLC service can do the paperwork for you, usually for a fee.
LLC Formation Service Comparison
The best LLC service for your small business depends on your company’s particular needs. If you’re still struggling to find the best fit, we break down some of the main differences below.
ZenBusiness vs. LegalZoom
ZenBusiness and LegalZoom are two of the most inclusive services on this list. The main difference is the access to legal advice through LegalZoom, which connects Premium subscribers to lawyers in their area. LegalZoom Premium is $299, while ZenBusiness Premium is $349, but it adds a business email address, website domain and hosting.
ZenBusiness vs. Swyft Filings
Swyft Filings is a better fit for small business owners who want to pick and choose the services they want compared to the “everything and the kitchen sink” approach of ZenBusiness. If you like all-inclusive, you’ll get perks and fast filing — for a price.
LegalZoom vs. Swyft Filings
LegalZoom offers more expert advice than Swyft — you’ll get access to legal assistance as well as consultations with specialists about business insurance and taxes at LegalZoom. If that’s more help than you need, you may appreciate the a la carte pricing of Swyft.
Pros and Cons of an LLC
A limited liability corporation is a popular choice for many small business owners because it protects you from personal liability in most instances.
Pros of an LLC
- Personal protection: Personal assets such as your car, home and savings account won’t be at risk if your LLC faces bankruptcy or lawsuits.
- Tax benefits: Depending on how you structure your LLC’s taxes, profits and losses may get passed through to your personal income without facing corporate taxes.
- Greater control: Some businesses are governed by a board of directors, but LLCs may be managed by members, owners who oversee daily business operations.
- Limited compliance: LLCs face fewer requirements from their states — you most likely will have to file an annual report — than other business structures.
Cons of an LLC
- Fees: As you can see above, most states levy fees for registering your business. Sole proprietors, on the other hand, typically don’t have to pay such fees or even file much paperwork.
- Limited life: When a member joins or leaves an LLC, your state might require the LLC to be dissolved and re-formed with new membership.
How To Start an LLC
Forming any new business can seem like a tall order, but there are many resources to help you start an LLC. Here are the steps you’ll need to take.
- Research your state’s requirements — the SBA can help.
- Prepare the necessary documents, such as articles of organization or operating agreements
- Select a name that doesn’t already exist or conflicts with an existing trademark
- Designate a registered agent, either yourself or a registered agent service
- Obtain an EIN through the IRS
- Register your business with state authorities and pay the necessary fees
While it’s possible to follow each of these steps on your own, weigh the time you might spend versus the cost of enlisting the help of an LLC service. The best LLC service might take a burden or two off your shoulders, freeing you up for other tasks.
How Much Does an LLC Service Cost?
All LLC services on this list provide a free plan or do-it-yourself option. If you want more help, look at each company’s pricing tiers.
| Service | Award | Overall Rating | Monthly Cost |
| ZenBusiness | Best for Beginners | 4.6 stars | $0 Starter plan |
| LegalZoom | Best for Expert Help | 4.5 stars | $0 Basic plan |
| Incfile | Best on a Budget | 3.6 | $0 Silver plan |
| Swyft Filings | Most Flexible | 3.9 | $0 Basic plan |
| Northwest Registered Agent | Best for Experienced Business Owners | 3.5 | $0 DIY |
Our Final Thoughts
Small business owners are accustomed to bootstrapping many aspects of their business, from brilliant ideas to hiring stellar employees, but there are times when you may want help. An LLC formation service can register your company with the proper state authorities, obtain your EIN, represent you as a registered agent and much more. Before buying, compare prices for each service you consider, understand when paperwork will be filed and read reviews to see what other business owners have to say.
Frequently Asked Questions About LLC Formation
What does LLC stand for?
LLC stands for limited liability company. LLCs protect you from personal liability in most circumstances.
What does an LLC do?
An LLC is one of many possible business structures you can choose from when starting a business. Other types include: sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation. The right one for you depends on how you want to run your company’s day-to-day operations, file taxes and more.
Why do I need an LLC formation service?
You technically don’t need an LLC formation service to start your business, but an LLC service might make it easier to form your new company.
What does an LLC service do?
An LLC service files the paperwork necessary to register your business with state authorities. Others offer add-on services or maintain your company’s good standing year after year.
Which LLC formation service is the best?
The best LLC formation service for you depends on your company’s needs, but ZenBusiness scored highest when we tested LLC services with LegalZoom close behind.
What is a registered agent for an LLC?
A registered agent receives documents on behalf of your company. You’ll have to designate one before registering your business with your state.
How much does an LLC cost?
Each state sets its own fee structure for filing the necessary paperwork to register your company in that state, but the one-time fee ranges from as low as $35 to $300. Your state might charge an additional fee when you file your annual report.
How long does it take to get an LLC?
Some companies on this list offer filing as early as the same day or the next day. From there, each state has its own time frame for processing those applications.
Our Methodology
To create our list of best LLC services, we gathered information on all providers on a variety of ranking factors and gave ratings from 0.0 to 5.0, with 5.0 being the best, for experiences in the following areas:
- Reputation and credibility: We looked at customer reviews across reputable review sites and rated our own satisfaction with the process.
- Features: We look at what essential features the company offers for starting an LLC, including registered agent service, operating agreement template, EIN application, license help, expert advice, tax advisory services, compliance help and a generous refund or money-back policy.
- Value: We considered an LLC formation service to have strong value if it provides all of the essential features small business owners need for a comparable price. We rated the value of every formation company’s basic, middle and premium formation packages.
- Customer service: Was our customer service experience good, fair or poor? Did the company offer extended support hours and multiple ways to contact it? We reviewed each company’s customer service offerings over email, phone and chat, depending on timeliness and accuracy of responses.
- Usability: We looked at whether we could navigate the website successfully and where the roadblocks, if any, came up. Did we have trouble adding features or signing into our account? We compared our experiences before and after account setup.
The result gave us an overall rating for each provider.
