Compare LLC formation services to set up an LLC in 2026

Compare LLC formation services at a glance

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your business.

Pricing, features, and turnaround times were reviewed as of May 27, 2026 and subject to change.

Here’s what matters most in an LLC formation service:

• True first-year total: Several companies offer affordable or even $0 LLC formation, but the cost increases if you need any additional services, such as a registered agent. Look for the total cost with all the services you need.
• Renewal fees: Some services get more expensive after a free trial period. Read the fine print to see how much each service will cost at renewal.
• Cancellation and auto-renewal options: Auto-renewal is standard, but it’s good to double-check to ensure your LLC remains in good standing. Check the cancellation policy, too, as companies often require 30 or 45 days advance notice.
• Customer support: The types of support options (phone, live chat, email) and the quality of the customer support are both important. Read customer reviews to see what past and current clients say about a provider’s support.
• Privacy protection: If you want to keep your address private, make sure to use a registered agent service with its own address. Most LLC formation services offer a registered agent, or you can get one from a separate company.
• Compliance tools: Every state has its own compliance requirements for LLCs. A formation service with compliance tools can keep track of deadlines and handle the paperwork for you.

Inc Authority

• Best for: Free LLC formation and free registered agent service for one year.
• What’s included in the base plan: LLC formation, one year of free registered agent service, one free gift (choice of EIN or 24-hour express processing).
• Key add-ons: EIN, 24-hour express processing, custom operating agreement, minutes and resolution, web address and website creator, custom website and logo, annual compliance filing, S-Corp filing, registered agent service.
• Typical turnaround: Standard processing time or within 24 business hours with rush service.
• Support channels: Phone, email.
• Biggest tradeoff: Lengthy application process loaded with upsells.
• Good fit if: You want affordable LLC formation with free registered agent service the first year.
• Not ideal if: You’re looking for a pre-built, comprehensive formation package.

Inc Authority lets you pick the add-ons you want instead of offering prebuilt packages. Depending on how many extras you need, this could end up more or less expensive than other formation services. If you only need the basics, Inc Authority will likely be one of the most affordable options in year one, although registered agent service is somewhat expensive after the first year.

Tailor Brands

• Best for: Easy-to-use platform with business coaching included.
• What’s included in the base plan: LLC formation, business coaching program.
• Key add-ons: EIN, annual compliance filing, online business and branding tools, expedited processing, operating agreement.
• Typical turnaround: 1 business day (expedited), 14 business days (standard).
• Support channels: Phone, email.
• Biggest tradeoff: Registered agent service is a separate add-on.
• Good fit if: You want branding assistance with a logo design, website builder, and business coaching.
• Not ideal if: You only need a cheap LLC formation and registered agent service.

Tailor Brands offer a $0 Lite plan, a $199/year Essential plan, and a $249/year Elite plan. The Lite plan includes LLC formation and a business and coaching program. The Essential plan adds annual compliance, an operating agreement, and a funding search, while the Elite plan also adds online business and branding tools.

LegalZoom

• Best for: Brand recognition and access to a legal document ecosystem.
• What’s included in the base plan: LLC formation, tax consult from 1-800Accountant
• Key add-ons: EIN, operating agreement, guidance from business attorneys, access to customizable legal documents, bookkeeping tools, customizable proposals and invoices, customizable website.
• Typical turnaround: 1 business day (expedited), 5-14 business days (standard).
• Support channels: Phone, live chat.
• Biggest tradeoff: Registered agent service is a separate add-on and attorney guidance is only available with Pro and Premium plans.
• Good fit if: You have a complex business and need legal guidance.
• Not ideal if: You only need a basic LLC formation and registered agent service.

LegalZoom offers a $0 Basic plan, a $249/year Pro plan, and a $299/year Premium plan. The Pro and Premium plans offer legal assistance, including access to customizable legal documents for one year and hands-on guidance from a business attorney.

Swyft Filings

• Best for: Legal support and business tax consultation.
• What’s included in the base plan: LLC formation.
• Key add-ons: EIN, custom organizational minutes, operating agreement, custom digital kit, attorney consultations, compliance monitoring.
• Typical turnaround: Same day (expedited), 7-10 business days (standard).
• Support channels: Phone, email.
• Biggest tradeoff: Expensive registered agent service at $149 per quarter.
• Good fit if: You want a comprehensive plan with fast processing.
• Not ideal if: You’d like a plan that includes registered agent service.

Swyft Filings offers a $0 Basic plan, a $199/year Standard plan, and a $299/year Premium plan. The Basic plan only offers LLC formation, with the Standard plan adding custom organizational minutes, custom banking resolution, an EIN, and an operating agreement. The Premium plan provides several additional features, including same-day processing and attorney consultations.

Doola

• Best for: Comprehensive packages that include registered agent service.
• What’s included in the base plan: LLC formation, EIN, U.S. business address, registered agent service.
• Key add-ons: Federal and state tax filing, one-on-one tax consultation, bookkeeping and invoicing software, dedicated bookkeeper, monthly financial statements, estimated quarterly taxes.
• Typical turnaround: 1-2 weeks, expedited service available.
• Support channels: Chat, email.
• Biggest tradeoff: There’s no budget-friendly tier, as plans start at $297 per year.
• Good fit if: You want a full-service plan with formation, registered agent service, an operating agreement, and an EIN all included.
• Not ideal if: You only need a basic LLC formation and registered agent service.

Doola offers higher-end formation packages. The Starter plan costs $297 per year, but it includes an EIN, a U.S. business address, and a registered agent service. The $1,999/year Tax and Compliance plan and the $2,999/year Business-in-a-Box^TM plan both provide a wide range of features and are designed for owners with more comprehensive LLC management needs.

FileForms

• Best for: Compliance reporting.
• What’s included in the base plan: LLC formation.
• Key add-ons: EIN, registered agent service, operating agreement, compliance monitoring.
• Typical turnaround: 10 business days or less (Smart Launch and Expert Launch), 2-3 weeks (Simple Launch).
• Support channels: Phone, email, chat.
• Biggest tradeoff: Slower processing times than competitors and not as user-friendly because the platform is designed for compliance filing.
• Good fit if: You need to manage annual reports and state filings across multiple states.
• Not ideal if: You’re a first-time LLC founder looking for a user-friendly platform.

FileForms is an annual report filing company that also handles LLC formations. It offers a $99 Simple Launch plan, a $299 Smart Launch plan, and a $399 Expert Launch plan. Processing times are on the slower side, and the Simple Launch plan is expensive at $99 for a basic LLC formation and no extras.

Northwest Registered Agent

• Best for: Privacy-first filings, responsive support, and avoiding surprise subscriptions.
• What’s included in the base plan: LLC formation, registered agent service.
• Key add-ons: EIN, S-Corp filing, DBA trade name filing, trademark filing.
• Typical turnaround: Varies by state, expedited service available in some states.
• Support channels: Phone, email.
• Biggest tradeoff: Doesn’t offer $0 LLC formation and has a less polished platform than competitors.
• Good fit if: You want an affordable registered agent service and a straightforward LLC formation that isn’t packed with upsells.
• Not ideal if: You’re looking for a premium package with branding and business development tools.

Northwest Registered Agent got its start as a registered agent service, and that’s where it shines. It’s one of the most affordable providers, with free registered agent service the first year and a reasonable yearly rate of $125 thereafter. The service includes a free business address, ideal for home-based LLC owners who want to keep their address private.

ZenBusiness

• Best for: Guided platform and compliance tools for owners who want reminders and a dashboard.
• What’s included in the base plan: LLC formation.
• Key add-ons: EIN, operating agreement template, compliance filing, business logo builder, registered agent service, business advisor consultation.
• Typical turnaround: 1 business day (expedited service), 7-10 business days (standard).
• Support channels: Phone, chat.
• Biggest tradeoff: Expensive if you need anything beyond the bare-bones Starter plan and registered agent service is a $199-per-year add-on.
• Good fit if: You’re interested in a formation package with compliance reminders, an operating agreement, and a business logo builder.
• Not ideal if: You’re looking for a budget-friendly service.

ZenBusiness has a $0 Starter plan, a $199-per-year Pro plan, and a $399-per-year Premium plan. The Pro plan includes ongoing filing compliance, an EIN, an operating agreement template, and a logo builder. The Premium plan offers those features as well as a business documents library and a business advisor consultation. All three plans have a 30-day special offer with a domain, email, and website, but it auto-renews at $15 per month.

How and why we chose these LLC formation services

Our ranking criteria for LLC formation services starts with the true cost of each company, including in year one and year two, as many services offer lower introductory rates in the first year. We looked at registered agent cost and terms, compliance tools, customer support quality, and the range of services available. Filing speed options were also an important factor, and we gave precedence to formation companies that offered expedited service.

Since features and packages vary, we compared the core inclusions available across providers. We included a range of provider options and focused on highlighting the tradeoffs between them, since business owners have different needs and there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution.

How you should choose an LLC formation service

Every LLC formation service can register an LLC for you, but other than that, features vary quite a bit. Follow these steps to narrow down your options and choose a provider.

Consider the complexity of your LLC. If you have a single-member, single-state LLC, you may only need a basic online LLC formation service. Multi-member LLCs, as well as those that operate in multiple states or in heavily regulated industries, typically need a premium service, and potentially one with access to legal guidance.

Figure out which features you want. At a minimum, consider adding registered agent service and annual compliance. These keep your LLC in good standing, and while you can do them on your own, you’ll save time by outsourcing. If you also need legal support or branding assistance, it makes sense to choose a provider that offers those services.

Check the true cost in year one. Some providers offer LLC formation packages, while others offer a basic service with other features available as upsells. The most accurate way to find the true LLC formation cost of each provider is going through the checkout process to see how much your total would be with the features you want.

Do the same for year two and beyond. Introductory offers are common with LLC formation services. For example, some include free registered agent service for the first year or a free compliance package. Providers usually mark introductory offers with an asterisk and list the normal price in the fine print. Find out what everything costs after the first year ends to see which is the best LLC formation service over the long haul.

Evaluate customer support. Formation services may offer phone, chat, and/or email support. If you have a preference, make sure the service you choose offers the type of support you want. Also, read customer reviews on places like Trustpilot to see how they rate a provider’s support and if there are any common complaints.

What does an LLC formation service do?

An LLC formation service provides information and assistance with the steps required to set up an LLC or corporation. They can guide you through the process and handle the paperwork and other administrative details for you. LLC formation services may also offer a variety of additional related services business owners need, such as choosing a business name, getting an EIN from the IRS, and ongoing compliance support. 

If you are going to set up a new company, here are some of the tasks you’ll either need to undertake yourself, or hire a service to do for you: 

1. Research business name availability.
2. Register a fictitious name (“Doing Business As” or DBA) if needed.
3. Appoint a registered agent to accept legal notices for the LLC.
4. Create an LLC operating agreement (not required in all states, but generally recommended).
5. File Articles of Organization (or similar formation documents) in the state in which you register the LLC.
6. File as a foreign LLC in other states (if applicable).
7. Publish a notice of formation (only in states where required).
8. Get business licenses and/or professional licenses as required by the state.
9. Get an employer identification number (EIN).
10. Register with your state taxing authority as needed for sales tax or other required taxes.
11. Create an LLC Banking Resolution.
12. Open a business bank account for the LLC.
13. Get an office address or PO Box to keep your personal information (like your home address) out of public record.
14. Register a trademark for your business (optional).

There’s a lot to get done! And it’s why new businesses often turn to services that can guide them through the formation process.

How much does it cost to start an LLC?

The minimum cost to start an LLC is between $35 and $500 for filing fees, which vary by state. The total cost will depend on where you form your LLC and if you need any additional services, such as a registered agent service or business permits.

Why $0 LLC formation is not always free

Several companies offer $0 LLC formation, and while technically true, this service isn’t entirely free. At a minimum, you need to pay the state filing fees. A company that offers $0 LLC formation will prepare and file your Articles of Organization without a fee, but it will pass on the filing costs to you.

These $0 business formation services also typically include upsells during the checkout process. Optional add-ons may include EIN registration, expedited filing, and operating agreement templates. Some of these services can be worthwhile, but others you can handle yourself for free. For example, you can obtain an EIN from the IRS online in minutes if eligible.

What is a registered agent service and do you need one?

A registered agent is the official point of contact for a business. In most states an LLC is legally required to appoint a registered agent, which can be a person or company, to receive legal documents, government correspondence, and other notices on its behalf.

You have a few options when setting up a registered agent for your LLC:

• Be your own. A business owner can be their LLC’s registered agent, but this has downsides. If you use your home address, it becomes public record. You also need to be available at the address during business hours to accept documents.
• Hire a registered agent service. A registered agent service provides an address for your LLC where it accepts documents and forwards them to you digitally. Popular options include Northwest Registered Agent, Incorp, and Bizee.
• Use your LLC formation service. Most LLC formation services provide registered agent service, and many even offer it for free during the first year. After that, you’ll typically pay an annual fee ranging from about $100 to $300.
• Appoint an authorized agent. You can appoint someone else to be your LLC’s registered agent. They must be available during business hours to accept documents.

Doing it yourself saves money, but you sacrifice privacy and convenience. Your address will be attached to your business in the public record, where anyone can look it up. As a registered agent, you also have to handle the administrative tasks for your LLC, including receiving documents and acting on official filings.

A registered agent service or LLC formation service keeps your own address private, saves you time, and means you don’t need to worry about being available during business hours. Although you’ll pay a yearly fee, outsourcing this task makes your life easier.

If you expand your business into multiple states, then a registered agent service or LLC formation service is the better choice. Multi-state LLCs need registered agents in every state where they operate. Professional services typically have national coverage and can serve as your registered agent in multiple states.

Registered agent options

DIY vs. using a formation service

When you form an LLC yourself, you’re guaranteed the lowest cost and the most control over the process. You only pay state filing fees, without any upsells, bundles, or subscriptions with recurring costs. You also get full control over every decision during the formation process.

The main advantages of a formation service are speed and error reduction. While you can start an LLC online quickly by yourself, company formation services tend to be the fastest and most reliable option, since they do it all the time. They can provide ongoing compliance support and reminders. You can also get a bundled registered agent service with its own address when you use a formation company.

Business owners with any sort of complex needs are better off using a formation service. If you have a multi-member LLC, multi-state LLC, you’re in a regulated industry, or you need legal guidance, a formation service can help get everything set up correctly. If you have a simple, single-member LLC in your own state, you’ll probably be fine going the DIY route, but you could still use a formation company if you’d rather have someone else handle it.

Step by step: How to form an LLC

If you prefer the DIY method, here’s how to form an LLC by yourself:

1. Choose a state. In most cases, you should form your LLC in your home state. If you choose another state, you’ll still need to register in your home state if you do business there, so you’ll pay more in fees and have more to manage.
2. Search for your business name. You can’t pick a name that’s already registered to an existing business in your state. Use the Secretary of State database in your state to make sure your business name isn’t taken.
3. Choose a registered agent. The most convenient option is a registered agent service. Alternatively, you can be your own registered agent or appoint someone you know. Whichever option you choose, your registered agent must be available at your business address during business hours.
4. File the Articles of Organization. This is a straightforward document with basic information on your LLC. Most states let you fill out and submit Articles of Organization online. You pay the filing fee, which varies by state, when you submit this document.
5. Create an operating agreement. An operating agreement establishes the rules and regulations that govern your LLC. Not all states require one, but it’s good to have regardless.
6. Get an EIN. You can apply for an EIN online directly with the IRS. It takes minutes and doesn’t cost anything. A single-member LLC doesn’t need an EIN, as the owner could use their Social Security number, but it still makes sense to get one to help establish legal separation between yourself and your business.
7. Open a business bank account. A separate account for your business is essential to organize business finances and avoid commingling personal and business funds. Review business bank account options and pick one you like.
8. Apply for any required licenses or permits. Some businesses need professional licenses or specific types of permits to legally operate. Look up the requirements in your state to ensure your business is in compliance.
9. Complete tax registrations. These may include sales tax registrations if selling physical products, state employer taxes if hiring employees, and a business income tax registration. Visit your state’s Department of Revenue website to learn about the taxes that apply to your LLC.
10. Set up a compliance calendar. LLCs have ongoing reporting obligations, and missing one could lead to fees or other serious consequences. A compliance calendar with all the important deadlines marked helps you avoid any costly mistakes.

The timeline to form an LLC primarily depends on the state. You could complete your end of the LLC formation process, including choosing a name and filing Articles of Organization, within about a day. Once you’ve filed, it comes down to your state’s processing time.

State processing times range from one business day to a few weeks. In general, you can expect processing to take about a week or two. Most states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, which usually brings the timeline down to between one and three business days.

What to do after your LLC is approved

Once the state approves your LLC, there’s still more work to do to ensure it’s running smoothly. Here’s a checklist of key tasks to complete within the first 30 to 90 days:

• Choose a business accounting system.
• Establish contracts with clients and set up an invoicing system.
• Apply for any insurance coverage your business needs.
• Register for any required taxes.
• Add all reporting deadlines to your compliance calendar.
• Check the renewal date and price for your registered agent service, if you’re using one.
• Establish recordkeeping practices for your LLC, including meeting minutes if it holds formal meetings.

Download a copy of this checklist here.

Compliance alerts and common scams to avoid

As an LLC owner, you’ll likely start receiving official-looking notices by mail and email demanding payment for supposedly required services. They may also include invoices with a payment amount and due date. These are usually paid solicitations from private companies and not actual government correspondence.

The companies that send these notices often sell services that are available cheaper or for free elsewhere. For example, some companies send business owners a labor law compliance notice with an offer to buy a labor law compliance poster. The U.S. Department of Labor provides printable versions of these posters free of charge.

To verify a notice, start with the sender. Legitimate correspondence comes from the Secretary of State office, department of revenue, or other state agencies. If there’s a state agency listed on the notice, go to the agency’s website and check that the information matches, including the sender’s address. You can also call the agency at the number listed on its official government website to ask about the notice. Never pay unknown invoices without validation.

Letters about Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting are another common LLC compliance scam. Business owners in the U.S. previously needed to report BOI to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). As of FinCEN’s March 2025 interim final rule, U.S.-created entities are exempt from BOI reporting, though certain foreign reporting companies may still have reporting obligations. Check FinCEN for current requirements.

Frequently asked questions