LegalZoom LLC review

When evaluating options to find the best LLC service provider for your business, examining the pros and cons of well-known companies like LegalZoom can guide your decision.

LegalZoom LLC formation services review

To officially form an LLC, you must file Articles of Organization with your state. But filing these documents is only the first step to legal compliance, most states also require:

• 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 publication notices.

LegalZoom provides LLC services to small business owners through a set of tiered packages:

• Basic ($0 + state filing fees): Includes business name availability check and filing of Articles of Organization.
• Pro ($249 + state filing fees): Adds EIN registration, operating agreement, and access to legal documents for one year.
• Premium ($299 + state filing fees): Includes everything in the Pro package plus bookkeeping for six months and income- and expense-tracking tools.

Other important details about LegalZoom’s LLC formation services:

• Processing times: 5–14 business days (not including state processing times). Expedited service is available for $99.
• Registered agent services: Not included in any formation package; available separately for $249/year.
• Publication service: Some states require newly formed or registered LLCs to publish a formation notice in certain newspapers. LegalZoom does not currently offer this service.

BizFilings is more formation and compliance focused, while LegalZoom is a more of a legal platform.

LegalZoom LLC formation process:

Before reviewing the details of LegalZoom's formation service, it's useful to understand the basic requirements for forming an LLC. This context can also help in evaluating the additional services offered during the process. Check out this resource to learn more: Guide to forming an LLC

LegalZoom employs a multi-screen online checkout process:

• Choose a package: Basic, Pro, or Premium.
• Provide business details: Name, state of formation, industry type, and other essentials. During this stage, you’ll be offered additional upsell services such as annual report filings, operating agreements, or EIN services.
• Submit payment and address details.

LegalZoom pros and cons

When it comes to LegalZoom’s LLC offerings, here are some key pros and cons to consider.

How does LegalZoom compare to other LLC service providers?

BizFilings specializes in business formation and ongoing compliance, providing in-depth expertise in these areas and tools to help you stay compliant with state regulations.

For businesses with complex filing needs, especially if you are operating in multiple states, BizFilings may be the better option.

LegalZoom vs. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a business services company with a focus on LLC formation, registered agent services, and privacy protection.

Northwest Registered Agent markets its services as privacy-oriented and provides one formation package. LegalZoom offers business and legal services through a single platform, including options for ongoing legal support beyond initial formation.

LegalZoom vs. ZenBusiness

With business formation, LegalZoom and ZenBusiness differ most in their mid- and top-tier offerings. LegalZoom includes attorney consults (30 days) and one year of legal documents and eSignatures. ZenBusiness includes registered agent service in their top-tier offering.

LegalZoom LLC formation services FAQs

Is LegalZoom legitimate for LLC formation?

LegalZoom is a legitimate provider of LLC formation and legal services.

It's important to note that while LegalZoom provides access to independent attorneys and self-service tools, it does not function as a law firm and does not provide legal advice, except through its subsidiary law firm, LZ Legal Services, LLC, where permitted.

What are the reasons for using an LLC service?

LLC service providers present a budget-friendly option compared to hiring costly attorneys, ensuring that your business formation documents are filled out correctly and adhere to state regulations. Utilizing many of these services can help you save time and money, give you confidence in the process, lower the likelihood of mistakes, and provide useful customer support and resources during the intricate process of business formation.

Find the best LLC service for your business

Choosing the right LLC formation service depends on your priorities – whether it’s cost, speed, legal support, or ongoing compliance. Each provider has strengths and trade-offs, so it’s worth comparing your options carefully before making a decision.

For a deeper dive into the top providers, check out our guide to finding the best LLC service for your business.