8 months ago · Updated 3 days ago
This is the review directory: use it to find individual provider reviews, head-to-head comparisons and registered-agent guidance. For a ranked selection and year-one/renewal cost comparison, see the best LLC formation services guide.
How we research: We compare the public pricing, plan details and terms published on each provider's website. We have not purchased these services, so scores and rankings are our editorial opinion, not customer ratings. Prices change; confirm the current offer with the provider. Some links on this page are affiliate links — see our affiliate disclosure.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you sign up through them — at no extra cost to you. This never affects our ratings or recommendations. Full disclosure →
Choosing the right LLC formation service can save you hundreds of dollars and hours of paperwork. But with dozens of options available, how do you know which one is actually worth your money?
We've compared the public pricing, plans and terms of the most popular LLC services on the market. Below you'll find honest reviews, head-to-head comparisons, and a quick recommendation based on what matters most — whether that's price, speed, privacy, or customer support.
LLC provider overview — choose a detailed review
Here's a side-by-side look at the top LLC formation services available right now. Pricing and features come from the providers' own pages; scores are our editorial scores, not customer ratings. For the full ranking methodology, see our best LLC services guide.
| Service | Formation | Reg. Agent | Speed | Editorial score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest | $39 + state | Free yr 1 | 3–5 days | 4.9/5 | Privacy + Value |
| ZenBusiness | $0 + state | $199/yr add-on | 1–2 weeks | 4.8/5 | Best overall value |
| Bizee | $0 + state | Free yr 1 | 1–3 weeks | 4.5/5 | Budget option |
| Tailor Brands | $0 + state | +$199/yr | 2 days–2 wks | 4.3/5 | LLC + Branding |
| LegalZoom | $0 + state | +$249/yr | 2–3 weeks | 3.9/5 | Legal services |
| Swyft Filings | $0 + state | +$149/yr | 1–2 weeks | 4.3/5 | Fast processing |
| Doola | $297 + state | Included | 1–2 weeks | 4.2/5 | Non-US founders |
For most people, Northwest Registered Agent offers the best combination of price, transparency, and privacy. ZenBusiness is the top pick if you want $0 formation with strong compliance tools. If you need an LLC and a brand identity, Tailor Brands is the only service that bundles both.
Start with the review that matches your needs
Detailed Reviews (All 7 Services)
Each review covers pricing tiers, key features, and who the service fits best. Click any service name to read the full breakdown — or use the quick cards below for an at-a-glance summary.
Pros
- No annual subscription
- Best privacy in the industry
- Operating agreement included
- US-based human support
Cons
- Not the cheapest starting price
- No branding tools
- RA renews at $125/yr after yr 1
Pros
- $0 Starter plan
- Guided compliance dashboard
- Strong compliance tools
- 4.8/5 on Trustpilot
Cons
- EIN costs extra on Starter
- Optional add-ons at checkout
- No branding tools
Pros
- $0 formation + free RA yr 1
- Clean low-pressure checkout
- Strong track record
Cons
- EIN is an add-on on base plan
- Support weaker than Northwest
- No branding tools
Read Full Bizee Review → Start Free with Bizee →
Pros
- Unique LLC + branding bundle
- AI logo maker included
- Website + domain on Elite
- 12-week coaching free
Cons
- Annual subscription required
- EIN costs extra on all plans
- RA must be added at purchase
Pros
- Attorney access available
- Trademark + legal services
- 25+ years in business
- 60-day refund guarantee
Cons
- Most expensive RA ($249/yr)
- Optional add-ons at checkout
- Basic plan is slow (~30 days)
Pros
- Fast 1–2 week processing
- $0 base formation fee
- Simple, clean interface
Cons
- RA not free year one
- Fewer features than competitors
- Limited compliance tools
Pros
- Built for international founders
- Helps with US banking setup
- EIN + RA included
Cons
- Expensive ($297 base)
- Overkill for US residents
- Annual subscription required
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Can't decide between two services? These side-by-side comparisons break down exactly where each service wins and loses — without the marketing fluff.
| Comparison | Quick Verdict |
|---|---|
| ZenBusiness vs Northwest | ZenBusiness = better value at $0. Northwest = better privacy, speed, and no subscription. |
| ZenBusiness vs LegalZoom | ZenBusiness wins on price, features, and customer satisfaction. |
| ZenBusiness vs Bizee | Similar pricing, but ZenBusiness includes more compliance tools on the free tier. |
| Northwest vs LegalZoom | Northwest is cheaper, faster, and more privacy-focused. LegalZoom wins on legal depth. |
| Tailor Brands vs LegalZoom | Tailor Brands wins on branding + lower cost. LegalZoom wins on attorney access. |
| Tailor Brands vs ZenBusiness | ZenBusiness wins for compliance. Tailor Brands wins if you need a logo and website too. |
| Tailor Brands vs Northwest | Northwest wins on price, privacy, and compliance. Tailor Brands wins only on branding tools. |
| Doola vs Northwest | Northwest wins for US residents. Doola wins for non-US founders who need international support. |
Best Registered Agent Services
Every LLC needs a registered agent. Some formation services include one for free; others charge $100–$250 per year. Our dedicated guide compares the best registered agent services by price, features, and reliability.
A registered agent is a person or company designated to receive legal documents, tax notices, and government correspondence on behalf of your LLC. Every state requires one. Read our full Best Registered Agent Services comparison to find the right one for your business.
| Service | Year 1 | Year 2+ | Standalone? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest | Free | $125/yr | ✔ Yes |
| ZenBusiness | Free | $199/yr | ✔ Yes |
| Bizee | Free | $149/yr | ✔ Yes |
| Tailor Brands | +$199/yr | $199/yr | ✘ Formation only |
| LegalZoom | +$249/yr | $249/yr | ✔ Yes |
Which Service Is Right for You?
How We Review
Our reviews are based on real testing, pricing verification, customer feedback analysis, and feature-by-feature comparisons. We do earn commissions when you sign up through our links — this helps us keep our guides free — but it never affects our recommendations. If a service isn't good, we'll tell you.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you sign up through them, at no extra cost to you. This never influences our ratings or recommendations. Read our full affiliate disclosure for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best LLC formation service?
For most people, Northwest Registered Agent delivers the best combination of price, privacy, and transparency at $39 flat with registered agent included free for year one. ZenBusiness is the top pick if you prefer $0 formation with strong compliance tools. See our full best LLC services guide for a complete ranking.
Do I need an LLC formation service?
No. You can file directly with your state. However, a formation service handles the paperwork, reduces errors, and often includes extras like a registered agent and operating agreement that would cost more if sourced separately.
How much do LLC formation services cost?
Most services offer a free base tier where you only pay your state's filing fee ($40–$500 depending on state). Premium tiers with extras like expedited filing, EIN, and compliance alerts typically cost $99–$299 per year. The real cost comparison matters more than the advertised price — always check what's included.
Is LegalZoom worth it?
LegalZoom is the most recognized brand, but not the lowest-cost option for standard LLC formation. Its registered agent costs $249/year — the highest in the industry. The main reason to use LegalZoom is if you need attorney consultations or legal services beyond just the LLC filing. Read our full LegalZoom review for details.
What is the difference between ZenBusiness and Northwest?
ZenBusiness starts at $0 and offers strong compliance tools, while registered agent service is sold separately. Northwest charges $39 but has better privacy protections, no annual subscription, faster processing, and straightforward pricing. Read our full ZenBusiness vs Northwest comparison for a detailed breakdown.
Which LLC service is best for non-US founders?
Doola is built specifically for non-US residents forming a US LLC. It includes formation, registered agent, EIN, and help with US banking setup — which most other services don't support. Read our full Doola review and our Doola vs Northwest comparison for more context.