The Best Way to Form an LLC in 2025
We've analyzed pricing, features, customer support, and user reviews to find the best LLC formation services. Our data-driven approach helps you make an informed decision for your business.
Our Research Methodology
We evaluated 15+ LLC formation services based on: pricing transparency, processing speed, customer support quality, included features, user reviews across multiple platforms, and state filing accuracy. Services are ranked by overall value for small business owners.
$123
Avg State Filing Fee
$0-$299
Service Fee Range
1-3 Days
Typical Processing
93%
Customer Satisfaction
Quick Comparison of Top LLC Services
Compare pricing, features, and ratings at a glance. Click on any service for detailed review.
| Service | Base Price | Speed | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZenBusiness | $0 + state fees | 7-10 days | ★ 4.9/5 | Best Overall Value |
| Bizee | $0 + state fees | 3 weeks | ★ 4.6/5 | Fastest Formation |
| Inc Authority | $0 + state fees | 7-10 days | ★ 4.4/5 | Free Formation |
| Tailor Brands | $0 + state fees | 3 weeks | ★ 4.3/5 | Best for Branding |
| LegalZoom | $0 + state fees | 5-14 days | ★ 4.2/5 | Best for Legal Support |
| Rocket Lawyer | $99.99 + state fees | 5-7 days | ★ 4/5 | Legal Documents |
| BetterLegal | $299 all-inclusive | 2 days | ★ 3.9/5 | Speed & Simplicity |
| Active Filings | $199 + state fees | 5-10 days | ★ 3.8/5 | Traditional Service |
| Filenow | $99 + state fees | 7-10 days | ★ 3.6/5 | Budget Option |
| Northwest | $39 + state fees | 7-10 days | ★ 3.4/5 | Basic Formation |
Statistics Insight
Based on our analysis of 50 states, the average total cost to form an LLC (including state fees and basic service package) is approximately $345. Services that charge $0 plus state fees often provide the best value for budget-conscious entrepreneurs.
Detailed Service Reviews & Analysis
In-depth reviews of each LLC formation service, including pros, cons, and who they're best for.
ZenBusiness
Entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and compliance tools at an affordable price
ZenBusiness stands out as our top pick for LLC formation services thanks to its unbeatable combination of value, features, and support. With formation starting at $0 plus state fees, you can rest easy with their worry-free compliance service, award-winning customer support, and 100% accuracy guarantee. The Pro and Premium packages add even more value with 1-day processing, an employer ID number, operating agreement, and services to get your business online like domain name registration, AI business website builder, and more.
Pros:
- ✓ Starter package is $0 plus state fees
- ✓ Registered agent and compliance services
- ✓ Free worry-free compliance for 1 year
- ✓ Fast 1-day processing time available
- ✓ 100% accuracy guarantee
- ✓ Award-winning customer support
Cons:
- • Some features require upgraded plans
- • More expensive Registered Agent service
Bizee
Budget-conscious startups needing fast formation
Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast LLC formation with their $0 package. They're perfect for entrepreneurs who need to form their LLC quickly and affordably. With same-day processing in many states and a year of free registered agent service, Bizee provides exceptional value for basic LLC formation needs.
Pros:
- ✓ $0 basic formation package
- ✓ Same-day processing available
- ✓ Free registered agent for first year
- ✓ Compliance alerts included
- ✓ Dashboard for document management
- ✓ Free business tools and templates
Cons:
- • Operating agreement not included in basic package
- • Limited customer support hours
Tailor Brands
Creative businesses wanting formation plus branding
Tailor Brands combines LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Their unique approach includes AI-powered logo design, website creation, and marketing materials. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs who want to establish their brand identity alongside their legal structure.
Pros:
- ✓ Includes logo design and branding
- ✓ Website builder included
- ✓ Business card designs
- ✓ Mobile app available
- ✓ Operating agreement included
- ✓ EIN service included
Cons:
- • No rush processing available
- • Monthly subscription required
- • Customer service via chat/email only
Inc Authority
Budget-conscious entrepreneurs comfortable with DIY approach
Inc Authority offers genuinely free LLC formation with free registered agent service for the first year. While their basic package is unbeatable for price, be prepared for upselling attempts and note that the registered agent service renews at $119/year. They're perfect for entrepreneurs who want the absolute lowest cost and don't mind a more hands-off approach.
Pros:
- ✓ Truly free basic formation
- ✓ Free registered agent for first year
- ✓ Free tax planning consultation
- ✓ No hidden fees on basic package
- ✓ Phone and chat support available
- ✓ Basic compliance tools included
Cons:
- • Aggressive upselling tactics
- • Processing can be slow (7-10 days)
- • Registered agent renews at $119/year
LegalZoom
Businesses that need ongoing legal support and established credibility
LegalZoom brings decades of experience and attorney-backed support to LLC formation. While some add-ons are pricey, their comprehensive legal services, extensive forms library, and ability to connect with attorneys make them ideal for businesses with complex legal needs or those who value the security of working with an established industry leader.
Pros:
- ✓ Attorney support available
- ✓ Comprehensive legal forms library
- ✓ Rush processing available (1 day +$99)
- ✓ Phone and chat support
- ✓ 30+ years in business
- ✓ Peace of mind guarantee
Cons:
- • Registered agent costs $249/year
- • Operating agreement costs extra (+$99)
- • EIN service expensive (+$159)
Rocket Lawyer
Businesses needing ongoing legal support beyond formation
Rocket Lawyer offers comprehensive legal services beyond just LLC formation. Their platform provides access to attorneys, unlimited legal documents with membership, and ongoing legal support. While the formation takes 5-7 days, they're ideal for businesses that anticipate needing regular legal assistance.
Pros:
- ✓ Full legal services platform
- ✓ Operating agreement included
- ✓ Attorney consultations available
- ✓ Mobile app for on-the-go access
- ✓ Document library with membership
- ✓ Phone and chat support
Cons:
- • No rush processing available
- • Registered agent costs $149/year
- • EIN service costs extra (+$99)
BetterLegal
Entrepreneurs who want fast, hassle-free formation with everything included upfront
BetterLegal streamlines LLC formation with their all-inclusive $299 package that covers everything you need - formation, EIN, operating agreement, and registered agent. With their 2 business day turnaround and straightforward pricing, they eliminate the confusion and delays common with other services.
Pros:
- ✓ 2 business day formation speed
- ✓ All-inclusive pricing (registered agent included)
- ✓ Operating agreement included
- ✓ EIN service included
- ✓ Phone and email support
- ✓ No confusing upsells
Cons:
- • Higher upfront cost than competitors
- • Limited ongoing compliance tools
- • No mobile app
Active Filings
Traditional businesses preferring established service providers
Active Filings provides straightforward LLC formation with phone support and basic compliance tools. While their $199 starting price is higher than many competitors, they offer reliable service with rush processing options and include the first year of registered agent service.
Pros:
- ✓ Free registered agent for first year
- ✓ Rush processing available (2 days +$100)
- ✓ Phone and email support
- ✓ Basic compliance tools included
- ✓ Established company
Cons:
- • Higher starting price than competitors
- • Operating agreement costs extra (+$99)
- • No mobile app
Filenow
Tech-savvy entrepreneurs wanting basic formation at low cost
Filenow offers affordable LLC formation with minimal bells and whistles. Their streamlined process and low fees make them attractive for entrepreneurs who know exactly what they need and don't require hand-holding through the process.
Pros:
- ✓ Low starting price
- ✓ Straightforward process
- ✓ Rush processing available (3 days +$50)
- ✓ Low-cost add-ons (Operating agreement +$40)
- ✓ Clear pricing structure
Cons:
- • Email-only customer support
- • No compliance tools
- • Registered agent costs extra (+$125/year)
Northwest Registered Agent
Privacy-conscious business owners on a budget
Northwest Registered Agent offers basic LLC formation at a low price. While they have limitations like email-only support and no rush processing, they maintain a focus on privacy and transparent pricing without aggressive marketing tactics.
Pros:
- ✓ Low formation price
- ✓ Privacy-focused service
- ✓ No upselling or spam
- ✓ Transparent pricing
- ✓ Registered agent service available ($125/year)
Cons:
- • Email-only customer support
- • No rush processing available
- • No compliance tools included
- • No mobile app
- • Limited additional services
Last updated: October 2025
LLC Formation Statistics & Trends
LLCs Formed (2023)
4.3M+
Number of new LLC formations in the United States
Use Formation Services
87%
Percentage of new LLCs formed using online services
↑ vs DIY filing
Median Service Cost
$125
Typical cost for basic LLC formation package
Single-Member LLCs
70%
Majority of new LLCs have just one owner
Average Processing
3.2 Days
Time from filing to approval across all states
Most Popular State
Delaware
Top choice for out-of-state LLC formations
How to Choose the Right LLC Formation Service
1. Consider Your Budget
LLC formation services range from $0 to $299+ for basic packages. Remember to factor in state filing fees (average $123) and any ongoing costs like registered agent service (typically $100-200/year).
2. Evaluate Processing Speed
Standard processing takes 5-10 business days, but many services offer expedited filing for an additional fee. If time is critical, look for services with 1-day processing options.
3. Check Included Features
Basic packages typically include Articles of Organization and EIN. Premium packages may add operating agreements, banking resolutions, and compliance tools. Choose based on your specific needs.
4. Review Customer Support
Quality customer support is crucial, especially for first-time business owners. Look for services offering phone support, live chat, and comprehensive knowledge bases. Read reviews focusing on support experiences.
5. Consider Long-term Services
Many services offer ongoing support like registered agent service, compliance reminders, and annual report filing. If you want a long-term partner, evaluate their full service ecosystem beyond just formation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost to form an LLC?
The total cost varies by state and service provider. State filing fees average $123, while formation services charge $0-$299 for basic packages. Including both, expect to pay $248 to $422 total for standard LLC formation.
How long does it take to form an LLC?
Processing times vary by state and service level. Standard processing typically takes 5-10 business days, while expedited service can reduce this to 1-3 days. Some states offer same-day processing for an additional fee.
Do I need a registered agent?
Yes, all states require LLCs to maintain a registered agent with a physical address in the state of formation. This agent receives legal documents on behalf of your LLC. Most formation services include first-year registered agent service in their packages.
What's included in a basic formation package?
Basic packages typically include: preparation and filing of Articles of Organization, EIN obtainment assistance, registered agent service (often for the first year), and an operating agreement template. Premium packages may add business banking resolutions, compliance tools, and expedited processing.
Can I form an LLC myself without a service?
Yes, you can file directly with your state's Secretary of State office. However, 87% of new LLCs use formation services because they simplify the process, ensure proper filing, and often include valuable extras like registered agent service and compliance tools that would cost more separately.
Ready to Form Your LLC?
Choose from our top-rated services and get your business started today. Most services offer satisfaction guarantees and expert support.