In addition to incorporation services, ZenBusiness offers registered agent services, compliance assistance, operating agreements, and annual report services.
When considering the best incorporation service provider for your needs, it's valuable to analyze the pros and cons of providers like ZenBusiness to inform your decision.
ZenBusiness incorporation services: cost and features
To officially become either a C corp or S corp, you must first file Articles of Incorporation with your state. (In some states, this document is referred to as a Certificate of Incorporation). But corporations have other requirements that must be met to be legally compliant. Some of these requirements include -
- Appointing a registered agent at the time of formation
- Obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS
- Registering with the state’s department of revenue
- Meeting state-specific requirements, such as initial filing requirements
- Preparing corporate bylaws
- Holding the first board meeting
- Filing Form 2553 with the IRS (S corporations only)
ZenBusiness provides incorporation services through three tiers: Starter, Pro, and Premium. Each are designed to meet varying business needs.
- Starter Package
- Covers the required incorporation filings with the state.
- Cost: $0 plus state filing fees.
- Pro Package
- Adds compliance features, such as corporate bylaws template, obtaining an EIN, and submitting an annual report.
- Cost: $199/year plus state fees.
- Premium Package
- Builds on the Pro package with branding tools, including a website builder, domain name, business email, and document templates (e.g., contracts, employment agreements).
- Offers personalized guidance from ZenBusiness’ premium support team.
- Cost: $299/year plus state fees.
Registered agent service is not included in any package but can be added for $199/year.
Also, ZenBusiness does not currently offer services to help corporations elect an S corp designation with the IRS. (“S corp” and “C corp” are tax designations.) However, they do provide services to help LLCs elect an S corp tax designation.
How does ZenBusiness’ incorporation process work
Before you begin, it’s helpful to understand the basic requirements for forming a corporation. This will help ensure you provide the correct information during the formation process and can properly evaluate any additional services you might need. Check out this resource to learn more: Guide to starting a corporation.
To start the process with ZenBusiness of forming a standard corporation, follow these steps:
- Select one of the three package options (Starter, Pro, or Premium)
- Complete the series of questions: Provide key details, including your business name, state of formation, business experience, expected launch period, and industry. ZenBusiness uses this information to recommend relevant services.
- Select additional services, such as registered agent service, EIN registration, and accounting software. During the process, ZenBusiness may prompt you to choose a package that includes registered agent service, even if you initially declined it, you must confirm your package choice to continue.
- Provide payment and shipping information.
Processing times vary. The Starter package can take 7-10 days to prepare and submit a filing. Pro and Premium packages take one business day to prepare your filing before submitting it to the state.