Cheapest LLC Filing Service
Starting an LLC in your state doesn't have to be expensive. Check out this list for the 12 cheapest but most reliable LLC filing services.
PRO TIP: Right now, one of the best LLC formation deals can be found with Tailor Brands:
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Here are the 12 cheapest LLC services:
Contrary to popular belief, getting an LLC filing service does not have to break the bank. Many services will start your LLC at a low cost without sacrificing reliability or quality.
All that's left is to choose the best one for you.
Read on for the 12 cheapest LLC filing services and their offers.
Set Up Your LLC - $0 + State Fees
- Free business plan included (no credit card required)
- Lifetime compliance alerts
- Comprehensive name check
- Lifetime customer support via email and phone
Business Formation Service - $39 + State Fees
- Form Your LLC, Corporation, or Nonprofit Today
- A Fully-Formed Business
- Registered Agent Service
- Business Address
- Mail Forwarding
- Privacy by Default
Economy Package at $149 + State Filing Fees
- Name check service
- Business consultation
- Digital welcome packet
- Customizable WIX website
Starter - $0 + State Filing Fees
- Includes 1 optional free year of Worry-Free Compliance that renews at $199/year
- Standard filing speed
- 100% accuracy guaranteed
- Other services are available with additional costs
Top 12 Cheapest LLC Filing Services
Expensive doesn't necessarily mean high quality (and vice versa), and this is true for LLC filing services.
Here are the top 12 providers to check out for affordable yet reliable LLC formation:
| Setup Fee | Registered Agent | |
|---|---|---|
| ZenBusiness | Starts at $0 + state fees (Starter) | $199/year |
| Northwest Registered Agent | $39 + state fees | $125/year |
| LegalZoom | Starts at $0 + state fees (Basic) | $249/year |
| Rocket Lawyer | $99.99 + state fees ($0 + state fees with Rocket Legal+) | $249.99/year ($124.99 with Rocket Legal+) |
| Swyft Filings | Starts at $0 + state fees (Basic) | $149/quarterly |
| Inc Authority | $0 + state fees | Free for the 1st year then renews at $179/year |
| Bizee | Starts at $0 + state fees (Silver) | Free for the 1st year then renews at $119/year |
| MyCompanyWorks | Starts at $79 + state fees (Basic) | $99/year |
| BizFilings | Starts at $99 + state fees (Basic) | Free for 3 months then renews at $220/year |
| Tailor Brands | Starts at $0 + state fees (Lite) | $199/year |
Filing the paperwork yourself is the cheapest way to get an LLC. However, this is more time-consuming and stressful because you have to do everything. An LLC service will handle the entire process for a small fee or sometimes even for free.
ZenBusiness: from $0 + state fees
ZenBusiness is one of the best LLC services for new entrepreneurs who want efficient and affordable business formation. With the Starter plan, you can start an LLC for free. Just pay the state fees.[1]
If you need more features, you can upgrade to a paid plan. Alternatively, you can customize with add-ons like registered agent service and EIN for an extra fee.
Why we like ZenBusiness
If you're not satisfied with ZenBusiness, their 60-day money-back guarantee lets you request a full refund within 60 days.
They also have a comprehensive resource library that helps new or aspiring entrepreneurs navigate the business world. It offers plenty of how-to guides, tips and tricks, informative articles, and more.
Downsides
The main drawback with ZenBusiness is that their registered agent service always costs extra. Even when you upgrade to a paid plan.
Starter - $0 + State Filing Fees
- Includes 1 optional free year of Worry-Free Compliance that renews at $199/year
- Standard filing speed
- 100% accuracy guaranteed
- Other services are available with additional costs
Northwest Registered Agent: from $0 + state fees
Northwest Registered Agent has two types of LLC services. The cheapest offer lets you sign up for a free account, but you'll have to file the forms yourself. Alternatively, pay $39 + state fees to let them handle it.[2]
The paid option gives you excellent value for money with the features it offers. It already includes registered agent services, an operating agreement template, annual report reminders, and banking resolutions. These usually cost extra with other providers.
Why we like Northwest
Northwest's Privacy by Default® keeps your information private. They use their business address on all public forms instead of yours and never sell your information to third parties.
Northwest Registered Agent also has excellent customer service. They have business specialists stationed across the country who can provide expert assistance anytime you encounter issues or have concerns about their services.
Downsides
Northwest has several other services you can get as paid add-ons, like virtual offices and trademark applications. However, compared to the competition, their scope is more limited.
Business Formation Service - $39 + State Fees
- Form Your LLC, Corporation, or Nonprofit Today
- A Fully-Formed Business
- Registered Agent Service
- Business Address
- Mail Forwarding
- Privacy by Default
LegalZoom: from $0 + state fees
LegalZoom makes it easier for business owners on a budget to form an LLC with their free LLC formation package.[3]
You can also pay in installments if the total bill reaches a minimum of $200.[4] That makes it easier to get all the services you need without paying everything in one go.
Why we like LegalZoom
LegalZoom is a great option if you need affordable legal services or want to start a different business entity type in your state. They're one of the few formation companies that can help you start a limited partnership (LP) or limited liability partnership (LLP).
LegalZoom offers additional LLC-related services, like registered agents, annual report filing, and EIN applications. These are available as paid add-ons, so you won't have to pay for services you don't need.
Downsides
LegalZoom's turnaround isn't the fastest. It can take them 1 to 2 weeks to process orders unless you opt for rush filing.
Another drawback is that their free plan only has email and chat support. To enjoy phone support, you need to upgrade.
Economy Package at $149 + State Filing Fees
- Name check service
- Business consultation
- Digital welcome packet
- Customizable WIX website
Rocket Lawyer: $99.99 + state fees ($0 + state fees with Rocket Legal+)
Rocket Lawyer is great for business owners who need affordable legal assistance from a licensed attorney. They're also a great option if you want to start multiple LLCs.
When you sign up for a Rocket Legal+ membership, they'll help you start your first LLC for free (excluding state fees).[5] After that, you still get discounted rates if you want to start additional LLCs.
No worries! Rocket Lawyer usually has a 7-day free trial you can use to evaluate their services. You won't be charged as long as you cancel before the week is up.
Why we like Rocket Lawyer
A Rocket Lawyer membership lets you enjoy discounted rates for their registered agent services and access to their extensive library of customizable legal documents.
Additionally, Rocket Lawyer's in-house attorneys can help you with legal issues at no extra cost when you use their legal documents.[6]
Downsides
Without the Rocket Legal+ membership, you have to pay $99.99 + state fees to start an LLC with Rocket Lawyer.[7]
Swyft Filings: from $0 + state fees
Swyft Filings offers topnotch customer service with their LLC formation services. They assign each client a dedicated business specialist who will learn all the ins and outs of your business.
If you encounter issues or have any concerns about the formation process, your assigned specialist can give you personalized solutions. The best part is you don't need to pay extra for this. It's included in every plan.
Why we like Swyft Filings
Swyft Filings only charges for the state fees when starting an LLC.[8] If the free plan isn't enough, you can upgrade to their paid plans that have more features, like banking resolutions and organizational minutes.
They also have other business services you can get as paid add-ons. This includes registered agent services, annual reports, and operating agreements. These can make managing your LLC easier and more convenient.
Downsides
You have to pay an extra $149/quarterly for registered agent services, even when you upgrade to a higher plan.[9] Their free plan also has fewer features compared to others on this list.
If you want more freebies with your LLC plan, this next pick is great for that.
Inc Authority: $0 + state fees
Inc Authority is one of the best LLC services for business owners on a budget. With their free plan, you only need to pay for the state fees and nothing else.[10]
The best part is it already comes with a year of registered agent services and an employer identification number (EIN) at no additional cost.
Why we like Inc Authority
Besides registered agent services and an EIN, you also get the following features free of charge with Inc Authority:
- Tax planning and consultation
- Business credit and funding analysis
- S-Corp election form preparation and filing
Their live support is always available to help if you encounter problems with their services. Contact them by phone or email, and their team will gladly assist you.
Downsides
Inc Authority doesn't give refunds and considers all sales final.[11] If you're not satisfied with their services, you can't ask for your money back.
ZenBusiness, Swyft Filings, Bizee, Inc Authority, and Tailor Brands are some of the best websites to start an LLC for free.
Bizee (formerly Incfile): from $0 + state fees
Bizee offers quick and affordable LLC formation to its clients. Their Silver plan only charges you for the state fees, even if it already comes with a year of free registered agent service.[12]
More importantly, Bizee files all LLC applications within one business day at no additional cost. You can form your LLC as quickly as possible without paying for expedited services.
Why we like Bizee
Bizee has a broad range of other business services, like accounting and bookkeeping, business license searches, and tax consultations. They're a great choice if you want an all-in-one platform for your company's needs.
And if you want to learn more about being an entrepreneur, their online resource library can be a great starting point.
Downsides
Bizee's customer support isn't the best. Customer reviews suggest that Bizee's customer service takes a long time to resolve concerns.
MyCompanyWorks: from $59 + state fees
MyCompanyWorks charges a minimum of $59 + state fees for LLC formation, but the features you get make the price worthwhile.[13]
Your LLC application is processed on the same day as long as it's submitted by 3 PM EST. This is regardless of which plan you get — no need to pay extra for rush filing.
You also get features like a personalized operating agreement, company alerts, and banking resolutions at no additional cost, unlike with other providers.
Why we like MyCompanyWorks
MyCompanyWorks makes it easier for new entrepreneurs to start and run their LLCs. Their checkout process is easy to understand, with transparent pricing that details every cost.
Additionally, they have setup assistance to help you during the signup process. You even get a handbook that explains everything you need to know about limited liability companies.
Downsides
While MyCompanyWorks has a quick turnaround time for orders they receive, the same can't be said for their delivery.
Many customers have said that it took a long time to receive their physical documents after their LLCs were approved.
BizFilings: from $99 + state fees
BizFilings is another business formation service that's been around since the late 90s. Their years of experience give them the industry expertise to help you form your LLC as smoothly as possible.
Why we like BizFilings
BizFilings offers free registered agent service for the first 3 months. You'll also get access to their 24/7 monitoring tool with every plan. So, even with a starting price of $99 + state fees, they're still a solid choice for budget-conscious business owners starting an LLC.[14]
Additionally, BizFilings makes it easy to form an LLC because of their website's 3-step process. Just fill in the required info, pay the bill, and then they'll handle the rest.
Downsides
Unfortunately, while the ordering process is quick, you might have to wait a while for your LLC to be approved. You can pay extra for expedited processing, but only if your state offers it.
Tailor Brands: from $0 + state fees
Tailor Brands makes starting an LLC more accessible to business owners on a budget by doing it for free.[15]
They also have reasonably priced business branding services, like company websites, custom logos, and personalized business cards.
With their help, you can start an LLC and build its online presence without breaking the bank.
Why we like Tailor Brands
Tailor Brands is a one-stop shop for business services. If you need additional features, you can add them to your order and pay extra. Or you can upgrade to their higher packages.
Finding what you need is easy, thanks to their intuitive online platform. Checking out only takes a few minutes, so you can get your new LLC as soon as possible.
Downsides
To maximize their benefits, you'll have to go for their highest plan. And even then, you still have to pay extra for a registered agent.
Incorporate Fast: from $99 + state fees
Incorporate Fast, aka "IncFast," is one of the first LLC services to offer same-day processing at no additional cost. They still do to this day.
Other helpful features you get are a free year of registered agent services, an operating agreement, and access to different business forms. All of these only cost $99 + state fees.[16]
Why we like IncFast
IncFast has a generous 90-day refund policy that lets you request a full refund within 90 days. After that, your purchase is considered final, unless you have a written agreement with them.
They don't charge cancellation fees, although you still have to pay any remaining or past-due balances before they cancel anything.
Downsides
The main drawback with IncFast is that they don't really have other services besides business entity formation. Better to go for other providers if you need more than basic LLC formation.
BetterLegal: $299 + state fees
At $299 (+ state fees), BetterLegal's prices are higher than their competitors.[17] However, they're still a good choice for those on a budget because of the number of features you get.
Their only available LLC package already comes with an EIN, operating agreement, and a banking resolution. Additionally, you get a company website, a business checking account, an insurance evaluation, and tax consultations.
Why we like BetterLegal
BetterLegal speeds up the formation process by filing all LLC applications they receive within two business days. While it's not as fast as IncFast or MyCompanyWorks, it's still quick enough that it shortens the waiting time considerably.
And although they don't include registered agents in their plan, their price is lower than many of their competitors. You get a monthly plan if you want to try it out first, but an annual plan is cheaper.
Downsides
One major drawback is that BetterLegal considers all online sales final. You can't request a refund if you're not satisfied with their services.
How to choose the best cheap LLC service
Each LLC service offers something different. And not all of them will be right for your company.
That's why it's best to think about several important factors before deciding. That way, you don't experience buyer's remorse and can enjoy a smoother formation process.
But aside from the price, what else should you consider?
- Features
Cheap LLC services are usually cheap because they have fewer features than a full-priced plan. Make sure you check that the one you chose has everything you need before getting it.In some cases, you might end up paying more if you need to add extra services to get what you need.
- Reliability
Research the company's reputation before hiring them. They should be able to help you form an LLC smoothly. That way, you don't have to go through the process and pay the state fees repeatedly.Online reviews from previous customers are a great way to check a company's reputation. Read both positive and negative to gauge how reliable the LLC service is. - Guarantees
If you're getting a paid plan or add-on services, double-check the company's policy regarding refunds and cancellations. Figure out what happens if you cancel or make changes to your order. - Ease of use and transparency
When choosing a cheap LLC service, consider how user-friendly their platform is. The ordering or checkout process should be easy to understand and accomplish. - Customer service
Choose a service provider that has a reputation for offering excellent after-sales support. This is especially important in case you encounter time-sensitive issues or concernsIdeally, your LLC service should be easy to contact via multiple platforms, have a quick response time, and promptly address your concerns. Your inquiry should be constantly transferred from one operator to another.
Northwest Registered Agent and BetterLegal have the easiest ordering process and transparent pricing. They explain every charge during checkout so you know what you're paying for and how much.
DIY Formation: Cheapest Way to Start an LLC
Filing the paperwork yourself is the cheapest way to start an LLC since you only have to worry about the state filing fees. While every state has its own set of rules, some steps are the same everywhere.
Here's how the LLC formation process usually goes:
- Name your LLC.
While you have more flexibility when choosing a business name for LLCs, you still need to comply with the state's naming guidelines. The most common ones to look out for are:- Must contain an indicator (LLC, Limited Liability Company, L.L.C., etc.)
- Should not be similar to other business names
- Can't use restricted terms or words (Olympic, trust, bureau, etc.)
Most importantly, it should be available. Meaning no other registered company in the state is already using that name.
LLC formation services will typically look up your preferred name before filing your formation documents. But you can also do it yourself by checking the state's official database.
- Must contain an indicator (LLC, Limited Liability Company, L.L.C., etc.)
- Assign a registered agent.
Registered agents are a requirement for LLCs in most states. You can be your own, assign someone you trust, or hire a professional registered agent service.Hiring a registered agent service can cost anywhere from $99 to $300 per year. Some LLC formation companies, like Bizee and Inc Authority, include a year of free registered agent service in their packages.
In some states, assigning a registered agent is optional because the state serves as the default registered agent for businesses within their jurisdiction. One example is Colorado. - File the Articles of Organization.
To officially form an LLC, you need to fill out and file your Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. This includes paying the state filing fee, although this could be waived in some cases.Formation companies take care of this on your behalf, including correcting mistakes and refiling the documents if needed. The turnaround time will vary per state.
If you're hiring an LLC formation service, make sure to consider how long it takes for them to file the paperwork. Their turnaround times sometimes don't include the state's processing time. - Create an operating agreement.
Having a written LLC operating agreement is optional in most areas. It's only mandatory in California, Maine, Delaware, New York, and Missouri.That said, it's still considered good practice to have one for your business. An operating agreement defines the ground rules for running and managing your LLC, which can strengthen your personal liability protection.
LLC formation services typically offer operating agreements as a paid add-on or as part of their higher-tier packages.
- Apply for an EIN.
Since it's a separate legal entity, an LLC needs to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). This will act as its social security number (SSN). You'll also need it when paying business taxes, opening a business bank account, and applying for additional funding.Most formation companies can get yours for an extra fee. Or when you upgrade to their more expensive plans. However, it's free if you apply directly with the IRS.
The cheapest state to start an LLC will always be your home state since you don't have to pay the filing fees twice. However, the areas with the cheapest state fees are Montana ($35), Kentucky ($40), and Arkansas ($45).[20][21][22]
Our Methodology
When choosing the cheapest LLC filing services on this list, price wasn't the only factor we considered.
We also considered the following:
- Value for money
- Flexibility of payments
- Availability of other services
- Possibility of long-term savings
All these companies offer a good balance between features and cost in their LLC packages, as well as reasonably priced add-on services. You can get everything you need to start an LLC without worrying about going over budget.
We also picked LLC formation companies that can offer long-term savings through discounted rates or flexible payment terms.
ZenBusiness is best for free LLC formation, helpful resources, and annual compliance assistance. For legal advice, Rocket Lawyer and LegalZoom are better, while Tailor Brands is the best for building company branding.
What the Experts Say
CreditDonkey asked a panel of industry experts to answer readers' most pressing questions. Here's what they said:
The Bottom Line
When you hire an LLC service, you usually have to pay a small fee (or, at the very least, shoulder the state fees). Still, it's a small price to pay for the peace of mind and expertise these companies offer.
Do your research first and pick the company that best fits your budget and needs. This way, you don't end up wasting your time and money.
References
- ^ ZenBusiness. Pricing, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Northwest Registered Agent. Start an LLC, Retrieved 05/14/2024
- ^ LegalZoom. LLC, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ LegalZoom.Terms of Service, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Rocket Lawyer. Pricing, Retrieved 05/07/2024
- ^ Rocket Lawyer. Document Defense, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Rocket Lawyer. Start an LLC, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Swyft Filings. LLC, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Swyft Filings. Registered Agent Service, Retrieved 05/13/2024
- ^ Inc Authority. Free LLC, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Inc Authority. Terms of Service, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Bizee. Free LLC, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ MyCompanyWorks. LLC, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ BizFilings. Limited Liability Company, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Tailor Brands. LLC Formation, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ Incorporate Fast. Hire Us, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ BetterLegal. Services, Retrieved 10/16/2023
- ^ TrustPilot, BetterLegal, Retrieved 12/17/2023
- ^ Better Business Bureau. BetterLegal, Retrieved 12/17/2023
- ^ Montana Secretary of State. Business Services Filing Fees, Retrieved 05/10/2024
- ^ Kentucky Secretary of State. Fees, Retrieved 05/10/2024
- ^ Arkansas Secretary of State. LLC Forms/Fees/Record Requests, Retrieved 05/10/2024
Write to Alyssa Supetran at feedback@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.
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