Forming an LLC protects your personal assets and builds business credibility. Here are the best formation services ranked by price, speed, and included features.
Best Value
ZenBusiness
$0 + state fee
Best Privacy
Northwest
$225 + state fee
Best Known
LegalZoom
$79 + state fee
Best Free
Incfile
$0 + state fee
1. ZenBusiness — Best for Most New Businesses
ZenBusiness offers free formation (you pay only the state fee) and includes a registered agent for the first year. It's the best balance of cost and features.
- Cost: $0 + state filing fee
- Includes: Formation, registered agent (1 year), operating agreement, worry-free compliance (first year)
- Speed: 2–5 business days
- Best for: First-time business owners who want a complete package
2. Northwest Registered Agent — Best for Privacy
Northwest doesn't sell your data or upsell aggressively. Their registered agent service is top-tier, and they include privacy by default.
- Cost: $225 + state filing fee (includes registered agent)
- Includes: Formation, registered agent, operating agreement, mail forwarding
- Speed: 3–7 business days
- Best for: Privacy-conscious owners, real estate investors
3. LegalZoom — Best Brand Recognition
LegalZoom is the most recognized name in business formation. Their process is polished, but upsells are frequent.
- Cost: $79 + state filing fee (basic); $249+ for premium packages
- Includes: Formation, optional registered agent, legal forms library
- Speed: 5–10 business days (expedited available)
- Best for: Filers who want a familiar brand and don't mind upsells
4. Incfile (now Bizee) — Best Free Option
Incfile offers free Silver package formation (state fee only) with a free registered agent for the first year.
- Cost: $0 + state filing fee
- Includes: Formation, registered agent (1 year), online dashboard
- Speed: 3–5 business days
- Best for: Budget startups who want a free registered agent
| Service | Formation Cost | Registered Agent | Operating Agreement | EIN | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZenBusiness | $0 + state | 1 year free | Yes | +$99 | 2–5 days |
| Northwest | $225 + state | 1 year included | Yes | +$50 | 3–7 days |
| LegalZoom | $79 + state | +$299/yr | +$99 | +$79 | 5–10 days |
| Incfile | $0 + state | 1 year free | Yes | +$70 | 3–5 days |
What About Filing Yourself?
You can file Articles of Organization directly with your state's Secretary of State. Cost: state fee only ($40–$500). Time: 1–2 hours online.
Pros: Cheapest option, full control. Cons: No registered agent (your address is public), no operating agreement template, no compliance reminders.
Form Your LLC Today
Protect your personal assets. Most formations are completed within a week.
Start With ZenBusiness →California charges a $70 filing fee plus an $800 annual franchise tax. Kentucky charges only $40. Your total cost depends heavily on your state. Check our LLC cost guide for state-specific breakdowns.