Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, knowing what to expect when you start a limited liability company (LLC) online is crucial. Choosing the right service provider can help ensure that your LLC is set up correctly by handling state filings and providing support for ongoing compliance needs.
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Comparison of LLC service providers
| Service provider | Starting price (plus state fees) | Registered agent price | Money-back guarantee | Best for |
| BizFilings | $99 + state fees | 3 months free, then $220/year | Warranty for filing defects | Consistency, speed, and trustworthiness |
| LegalZoom | $0 + state fees | $249/year | Yes (within 60 days) | Legal support |
| Northwest Registered Agent | $39 + state fees | $125/year | Not currently listed | Privacy over compliance breadth |
| ZenBusiness | $0 + state fees | $199/year | Yes (within 60 days) | The start, not the scale |
| Bizee | $0 + state fees | Free for 1 year, then $119/year | Not currently listed | Low entry price |
| Inc Authority | $0 + state fees | Free for 1 year, then $249/year | Yes (within 60 days) | Small startups with minimal compliance needs |
BizFilings
BizFilings is a strong option for small businesses and entrepreneurs who want a guided, reliable way to form an LLC and keep up with state requirements. The platform walks you through the steps in plain language, and you can reach a U.S.-based support representative at no cost if questions come up along the way. If you’re ready to move quickly, the order process can be completed in as little as 10 minutes. Pricing and state fees are shown clearly up front to help you understand your total cost before you check out. And if your state requires extra steps (such as an initial report or publication requirement), BizFilings can help you take care of those formalities.
Backed by Wolters Kluwer, a global leader in legal and information services, BizFilings offers the credibility and dependable support that helps you move forward with confidence.
Pros:
- LLC’s formed in 10 minutes
- $99 to start with no subscriptions
- No auto-renewals
- Business Structure Comparison Chart to guide new businesses
- Strong free customer support from real people
Cons:
- No free formation plan
- Limited add-on depth beyond core formation and ongoing compliance services
LegalZoom
Founded in 2001, LegalZoom offers online LLC formation and a range of related legal and compliance services. While its advertised starting price may be low, many commonly expected items are routed into paid add-ons and higher-tier plans, so the final checkout total can increase quickly. It also sells templates and subscriptions that may be useful if you plan to handle multiple legal tasks in one place. Before choosing it, be sure to review exactly what each tier includes (and excludes), plus any ongoing fees, turnaround times, and support access.
Pros:
- Offers legal advice and services
- Well-known brand
- Multiple service tiers available
Cons:
- Expensive registered agent service
- No phone support with the basic plan
- Slower turnaround times for some services
To learn more, visit our LegalZoom review
Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest Registered Agent provides registered agent service and offers LLC formation as an additional service. Its positioning tends to emphasize straightforward support and fewer bundled extras compared with some low-entry-price competitors. Even so, your total cost will depend on whether you purchase formation, registered agent service, or both, and on any optional items you add during checkout. Before making a decision, confirm the current formation price, what is included in the package, expected filing turnaround, and the terms for ongoing registered agent renewal.
Pros:
- Data privacy is a stated priority
- Positive customer service reviews
Cons:
- No free formation plan
- Only one LLC package
- Fewer add-on services compared to competitors
To learn more, visit our Northwest Registered Agent review
ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness provides online LLC formation through tiered packages, with optional extras such as a website builder, domain, logo tools, and business email. Similar to other “$0 + state fees” offerings, the base package can be limited, and the overall price often depends on which add-ons or higher tiers you choose. Some services may renew automatically or be bundled in ways that make side-by-side comparisons harder without reviewing the checkout details. It may work for owners who want a bundled set of startup tools, but it’s worth clarifying what’s included in your plan versus what costs extra (including registered agent service and any ongoing subscriptions) to ensure you’re not incurring unnecessary costs.
Pros:
- Affordable starting price
- Positive customer service reviews
- Multiple package tiers
Cons:
- Registered agent service is not included in the free plan
- Business templates are included with the Premium plan only
- Confusing packages and auto-renewing services.
To learn more, visit our ZenBusiness review
Bizee
Bizee offers online LLC formation with a low advertised entry price and a menu of add-on services that can be selected during checkout. The core filing can be straightforward, but the purchasing flow tends to present many optional upgrades, which can make it harder to tell what you are paying for unless you review each item carefully. Depending on what you add, the final cost and ongoing charges (such as renewals for registered agent service) may differ significantly from the starting price. It may suit price-sensitive founders who are comfortable managing a more sales-driven checkout experience and confirming exactly what is included versus what is optional.
Pros:
- Affordable basic package
- Easy for beginners
Cons:
- Customer support can be inconsistent
- Frequent checkout add-ons can make it harder to know the true total cost until you reach the final steps
To learn more, visit our Bizee review
Inc Authority
Inc Authority offers LLC formation that is marketed as free plus state fees, with the filing handled through an online order flow. Like many “free formation” providers, the base offer can be narrow, and the overall cost often depends on which packages or add-on services you choose during checkout. Some extras may be presented as recommended or time-sensitive, and certain services can involve ongoing fees after introductory periods. Before making a decision, review what is included in the base filing versus paid upgrades (including registered agent pricing after the first year) and confirm any renewal terms.
Pros:
- Free LLC formation base cost with one year of registered agent service
- Covers basic business needs
Cons:
- Aggressive upselling
- Limited transparency on pricing for add-ons
To learn more, visit our Inc Authority review
The business formation experts
BizFilings
Form an LLC today for as little as $99. Includes 3 months FREE Registered Agent.
Why small businesses choose LLCs
The LLC is a popular choice for small businesses because it offers personal asset protection, different tax treatment options, and flexibility in management structure and day-to-day operations. Plus, having an LLC can make your business look more professional and trustworthy to customers and partners.
Forming and running an LLC comes with a few legal must-dos. You’ll need to appoint a registered agent, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number), and keep up with state filings, like your annual report. Staying on top of these requirements helps keep your business compliant and running smoothly.
How to choose an LLC service
LLC services aren’t one-size-fits-all. Each provider offers different features and pricing, so it’s worth taking a moment to figure out what your business really needs, then choose a company that delivers those essentials without stretching your budget.
Look closely at what’s included in each LLC package — especially the ones labeled “free”. Some services may leave out essentials or tack on extra fees later. Make sure you know what you’re getting, so there are no surprises.
Go with a provider that knows what they’re doing. Choose a company with a solid track record for accurate, on-time filings and one that’s ready to walk you through your options. Bonus points if they back their work with a guarantee against filing mistakes.
What to look for in an LLC service provider
- Clear, upfront pricing (service fee vs. state fees) and a simple list of what’s included vs. add-ons
- State-specific accuracy and guidance, plus support that’s easy to reach if the filing is delayed or rejected
- Registered agent options with transparent renewal pricing and terms
- Ongoing compliance help (annual report reminders/filings and easy access to your documents)
- Realistic timelines and order tracking so you can see what’s happening at each step
- A clear guarantee or policy for fixing filing errors, plus straightforward refund terms
Start your LLC with BizFilings
Start your LLC with confidence using BizFilings, a trusted provider backed by deep compliance expertise and decades of experience. From filing your formation documents to helping you stay compliant as your business grows, BizFilings offers clear guidance, reliable support, and a focus on getting it right the first time so you can move forward knowing your business is built on a solid legal foundation.
Frequently asked questions
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What is an LLC?
An LLC (limited liability company) is a type of entity structure that separates your personal assets from your business. So if your company runs into financial trouble, your personal savings and property are usually off-limits. You also get the benefit of pass-through taxation, meaning profits and losses go straight to your personal tax return. This keeps things simple and often more affordable. In short, an LLC is a smart way for small business owners to help protect themselves.
Resource: What is an LLC?
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Do I need an LLC for my business?
It’s possible to launch and run a business without forming an LLC or corporation. Choosing a formal structure like an LLC or corporation can offer value, including personal liability protection and potential tax advantages. That said, it’s important to weigh the costs and responsibilities. Forming an LLC or corporation comes with setup fees and ongoing requirements like annual filings and other compliance tasks. Make sure the benefits align with your business goals before making the leap.
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What do you need to do to maintain an LLC?
Filing your LLC with the state is just the beginning. There’s more to keeping your business in good standing. Depending on where your business is located, you may need to take care of a few key tasks like naming a registered agent, filing annual reports, getting the right licenses or permits, and registering for sales or payroll taxes. Services like BizFilings can help you handle these requirements in every state where your business operates, so you can stay focused on growing your company.
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How much does it cost to set up an LLC?
Setting up an LLC comes with costs that vary by state. Filing fees range from $35 in Montana to $500 in Massachusetts, with most states falling between $50 and $200. Beyond the initial paperwork, you’ll also need to budget for ongoing compliance tasks (like annual reports and business licenses) that can affect your total expenses.
Resource: How much does it cost to start an LLC?
Start your LLC today
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Includes 3 months FREE Registered Agent Service
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