Best Online LLC Services in 2023
Both seasoned entrepreneurs as well as new business owners need to be aware of what to expect from the help they provide when starting an LLC. Our Guides Legal Services team did the research. We have reviewed the best LLC formation companies and ranked them according to their common features, pros and cons. Keep this guide handy for your business planning. We can help you select the best formation service to start your new company.
Our research revealed that the following five formation companies were the most popular in the market. ZenBusiness was chosen as the best option.
(Honorable Mentions go to reputable businesses like RocketLawyer, Inc Authority, Tailor Brands. These top five LLC services were reliable and affordable options for starting a business. Each company has its own advantages, depending on your specific needs. We've tried our best to identify these unique characteristics for you.
The LLC formation procedure is generally the same throughout the country, but there are key differences for each state. Many LLC formation companies offer similar services. Some are available in multiple package tiers while others are available as add-ons. This chart shows which five top service providers have the most common features, and whether they are included in the cheapest package price. You can read more about each feature.
No matter where you start your LLC, you will need a unique name that isn't easily confused with any other business or government agent. Your name must also include a designation that indicates your business type. This could be " limited responsibility company," "LLC," or "LC", depending on the laws in your state. Many companies offer name availability searches in their business formation process.
Filing your company documents is the most important part of the formation process. The documents you need to form your company are called "articles" by most formation companies. However, they can also be called "articles and incorporation" or "certificate" of formation.
Each LLC must appoint a registered representative. This is a point of contact within the state that can receive legal and tax documents. To minimize the number of websites you have to visit, it may prove more efficient to use one company for both formation and registration.
An operating agreement, which outlines the business practices and policies, is a useful tool. It binds LLC owners ("members") to the terms and conditions set forth in the operating agreement. It's a smart idea to have one, regardless of whether your non-profit is involved. There are many online services that offer operating agreement templates. They can also assist with customizing your agreement.
Nearly all businesses require an employer identification (or EIN), which can be obtained free from the IRS. It is a tax identification number that allows businesses handle employment taxes. Additionally, it can be used as verification of your company's identity to engage in other activities such as opening a bank account. A valid EIN is needed if there are more than one LLC member or employees. But it's good to have one even if the LLC only has one member. This allows you to keep your personal information separate and helps you protect your business.
Many LLC service providers offer calendar alerts that will remind you of the upcoming filing deadlines. These include annual reports which almost all states require or annual tax obligations. One service provider may take over annual report filing responsibility, which reduces the burden of keeping your business in good standing.
Some features are not available in all LLC services. These may be offered for additional fees, or as part of higher-tier service packages.
You may need to apply depending on the state or locality where you are located. There may be different requirements depending on whether you have a physical location or an internet-only business. Some services will conduct a search and tell you which licenses you require. Others may help you to apply for licenses.
A small business expert can be invaluable for LLCs that have big business plans and complex needs. Some services include consultations with small business specialists, online courses taught and other resources.
Depending on the service offered by your LLC, you may be able to access a tax consultation or advisory service. This may not be offered by your LLC service. It might be worth calling your own tax professional to avoid costly mistakes.
Many LLC formation companies do not offer a money back guarantee that your paperwork would be accepted by the state. It is a good idea to choose a service that offers this guarantee. This is because filing errors can result in costly fines if you are required to pay the filing fees again or amend your formation documents later.
All of these service providers have excellent reputations in the field and are highly competent and trustworthy. When choosing the right LLC service for you to launch your business, it all depends on what level of legal help you require, how much you are willing and what services you desire.
Are you expecting to have many questions about the LLC? ZenBusiness is the best online LLC creation service because of its extended customer service hours. This includes weekends. ZenBusiness charges an affordable price for basic LLC formation packages, which include compliance alerts at no additional cost.
ZenBusiness offers interactive formation. This involves using a chat function to fill out paperwork, answer questions and plan for your LLC. This relatively new company offers free resources and courses to help you spark your imagination about the direction and growth of your business. ZenBusiness's "Worry Free Compliance” feature will remind you of the filings that are required to keep your business in good standing. They also offer website design and domain name registration.
You will likely have legal issues that continue because of trademarks and other intellectual-property protections.
LegalZoom is recommended as the best LLC filing service. Its suite of legal services can all be tailored to your business needs. LegalZoom can be a great option for startups and established businesses.