Top 5 Most Affordable LLC Filing Services in 2025

Starting a business doesn’t have to break the bank. Online LLC filing services now let entrepreneurs form their companies much cheaper than before. With so many options out there, it can be hard to choose – but we’ve found five reliable and affordable services to help you get started this year. Here’s a straightforward look at each service’s prices and what you’ll get for your money.

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The Benefits Of Professional Llc Filing Services

When forming an LLC, one of the most important steps is filing the necessary paperwork with the state. While it’s possible to handle this process on your own, there are many benefits to using professional LLC filing services.

First and foremost, using a professional service can help you save money in the long run. Although there is a cost associated with hiring these services, they can often help you avoid costly mistakes that could result in fines or other penalties down the line.

Additionally, they can help ensure that your LLC is properly registered and compliant with all state filing requirements. This can give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on growing your business without worrying about legal compliance issues.

Our Top Picks for the Best Budget-Friendly LLC

Here are the 7 top most affordable LLC services you may want to consider to help you with forming your LLC:

1. LLCBuddy: Best Budget-Friendly Option

LLCBuddy has become a popular choice for people starting businesses on a budget in 2025. The service makes forming an LLC simple and keeps prices low without cutting corners on quality. Their website is also worth noting because it is easy to use, especially for those who are just starting their LLC.

Here’s what they offer:

Basic LLC formation- $0 + State Fee

• All your state filing paperwork is handled
• Name check for your business
• Free tax consultation
• Email and phone support

For other services beyond LLC formation, you may expect to pay up to $299. The services include:

• An operating agreement is written for your business
• Business tax number (EIN)
• Rush filing option
• One year of registered agent service
• Banking resolution document
• Trademark services

What Makes LLCBuddy Stand Out

LLCBuddy keeps things simple with clear pricing and affordable rates while delivering quality service. Their starter package covers all the basic LLC formation requirements, making them a good fit for new businesses working with limited budgets.

2. ZenBusiness: Runner-Up for Affordability

ZenBusiness stands out by offering both affordable prices and useful features. Their basic package costs less than most competitors while including the key services new business owners need. It’s a practical choice that helps you save money as you start your company.

Their affordable services include:

• $0 LLC formation package (plus state fees)
• Worry-free compliance features
• Digital document storage
• Operating agreement template
• Name availability search

Pricing and Plans:

ZenBusiness has three packages for forming an LLC. Their Starter package is free except for state fees – you get standard filing service, a guarantee that everything will be done correctly, and can opt into a free year of their Worry-Free Compliance service (which costs $199 per year after that).

The Pro package steps up to $199 yearly plus state fees and adds faster filing, a template for your operating agreement, and an EIN (which is like a social security number for your business).

If you want the full setup, their Premium package runs $299 yearly plus state fees and throws in a library of business document templates, a domain name with privacy protection, an AI tool to build your website, a business email address, and better customer support.

What Makes ZenBusiness Stand Out

ZenBusiness stands out because of the quality services at lower prices than many competitors. Their basic package includes key features like operating agreements and compliance alerts, which help new business owners save money while getting the services they need.

The website is simple to use, with clear instructions that help you file your LLC paperwork correctly, even if you’ve never done it before. They also offer reliable customer service and helpful tools to keep your business running smoothly after formation, including compliance monitoring and business management tools.

For entrepreneurs starting a business in 2025, ZenBusiness offers a mix of affordable prices, easy-to-use services, and helpful support that makes the LLC formation process simpler and less expensive.

3. Northwest Registered Agent: Transparent Pricing

Northwest Registered Agent has built its reputation on straightforward pricing and personalized service. Their midrange pricing structure offers excellent value for those seeking a balance between cost and service quality.

Highlights include:

• Clear, no-nonsense pricing
• Premium registered agent service
• Same-day local scanning
• Corporate guide service
• Privacy by default

Pricing and Plans:

Northwest Registered Agent forms LLCs for $39 plus state filing fees. You get quite a bit with that – they handle your LLC paperwork, act as your registered agent for a year, forward your mail for free, give you an operating agreement, and set you up with online access to forms and tools.

After the first year, keeping Northwest as your registered agent (they handle your legal mail) costs $125 yearly. So, your starting cost is just the $39 service fee plus your state’s filing fee.

Should You Use a Northwest Registered Agent?

Northwest Registered Agent offers good value at $39 plus state fees. You get all the basics – LLC paperwork filing, 1 year of registered agent service, free mail forwarding, and an operating agreement. Plus, you can access helpful forms and tools through their online portal.

One thing that sets Northwest apart is how they handle customer service. Instead of bouncing you between different reps, they give you one person who knows your business. They’re also big on privacy – they don’t sell your information or stuff their website with ads like some other companies do.

The main trade-off is they stick to the basics. You won’t get extras like tax help or website builders that some other services throw in. But if you just want help forming your LLC without paying for extra features you might not use, Northwest is a great fit.

4. LegalZoom: Established Brand with Competitive Pricing

LegalZoom has changed its pricing in 2025. Though they’re usually seen as a pricier option, they now offer cheaper packages that work well for small business owners. Their basic LLC package includes articles of organization, a name check service to confirm that your preferred business name is available, and accountant consultation for tax savings services.

Notable features:

• Straightforward pricing structure
• Peace-of-mind review
• Quick filing options
• Access to legal forms library
• Business advisory services

Pricing and Plans:

LegalZoom has three LLC packages to pick from. Their basic package costs $0 plus state fees and covers the basics – they’ll prepare and file your organization articles, check if your business name is available, and give you a tax consultation from 1-800Accountant.

If you want more features, the Pro package runs $249 plus state fees. Along with the Basic features, you’ll get an operating agreement, EIN number, one year of tools to track expenses and send invoices, access to over 150 legal document templates for a year, unlimited eSignatures, and a business website powered by Wix.

For the most support, there’s the Premium package at $269 plus state fees. This gives you everything in Pro plus direct help from a business attorney, unlimited 30-minute attorney consultations about new legal topics for your first month, and free changes to your LLC paperwork within 30 days. Would you like me to break down any of these features in more detail?

Is LegalZoom Right for You?

LegalZoom works well if you want one place to handle both business and personal legal tasks. Yes, you’ll pay more than with some other services, but many people find the mix of good support and trusted service worth the extra cost.

If you need help starting a business, protecting your ideas, or planning your will, LegalZoom has the tools and know-how to help you out.

5. Rocket Lawyer: Subscription-Based Savings

Rocket Lawyer rounds out our list with their innovative subscription-based model, which can provide significant savings for businesses needing ongoing legal services alongside LLC formation.

Key benefits include:

• Discounted formation services for members
• Access to legal document library
• Attorney consultations
• Ongoing compliance support
• Digital signature service

Pricing:

Rocket Lawyer offers a membership called Rocket Legal+™. You start with a 7-day free trial, then pay $19.99 monthly if you sign up for a year ($239.88 total) or $39.99 if you want to go month-by-month.

Members can make all the legal documents they need, sign them online, and ask lawyers their legal questions. If someone disputes your contracts, lawyers will review them and help defend them. You’ll also save up to half off on services like business registration and tax filing and get quick help from their support team.

Here’s a nice perk – members can set up their first LLC for free (just paying state fees). It’s like having a lawyer in your back pocket without the big bills.

Should You Use Rocket Lawyer?

Forming an LLC with Rocket Lawyer sits right between doing it yourself and hiring a business lawyer. They handle the basics – filling out state forms, filing paperwork, and walking you through each step. You’ll get your operating agreement and articles of organization, as well as help getting your EIN from the IRS.

The cost starts at $99 plus state fees. That’s more than filing directly with your state but less than a lawyer would charge. Their monthly membership ($39.99) cuts the LLC formation cost and lets you use their other legal tools.

But here’s what you should know – while Rocket Lawyer makes the process easier, they won’t give you personalized business advice. They can’t tell you about specific tax structures or liability issues that matter for your industry like a business lawyer would.

What to Look for When Choosing an LLC Service

When picking an LLC service, focus on these key factors that will shape your business formation experience.

1. Formation Package Features

Check what’s in their formation packages. Basic services should handle state documents, name checks, and Articles of Organization. Compare what you get at different price levels – some useful extras might be worth paying more for.

2. Pricing Transparency

Pick services that show all their fees upfront. You should see the base price and any state fees clearly listed. Watch out for subscription services and read about any recurring charges.

3. Registered Agent Services

LLC services often include registered agent services or are offered separately. Some give you the first year free but raise prices later. Think about whether you want this handled by the same company that forms your LLC.

4. Processing Times

Standard processing varies between states, but some services work faster than others. If you’re in a hurry, check both regular and expedited processing fees across different companies.

5. Customer Support

Good support makes forming your LLC much easier. Look at:

• When support staff are available
• How you can reach them (phone, email, chat)
• How quickly do they answer
• Whether you get help from specialists
• Their help guides and resources

6. Compliance Report

After forming your LLC, you’ll need to keep up with state requirements. Some services help by:

• Reminding you about the annual reports
• Tracking compliance deadlines
• Keep you updated on state rules
• Storing your documents
• Providing templates for operating agreements

7. Company History

Check how established the service is:

• How long they’ve been around
• How many LLCs they’ve formed
• What customers say about them
• Their BBB rating
• Any awards or recognition

8. Extra Services

Many services offer helpful add-ons:

• Business banking paperwork
• EIN registration
• Business license research
• Domain names
• Online document storage

9. Guarantees and Refunds

Know what happens if something goes wrong:

• Money-back promises
• What level of service you’re guaranteed
• How they fix mistakes
• How to cancel
• When you can get refunds

10. Website and Ordering

The service should be simple to use:

• Easy website navigation
• Clear ordering steps
• Quick access to your documents
• Simple account management
• Works well on phones

Take your time comparing services based on what matters most for your business. While cheaper options exist, paying more for better service and ongoing support often saves headaches later.

Remember, you’ll be dealing with this company beyond just forming your LLC, so read recent reviews and compare a few options before deciding.

The LLC Filing Process Explained

Filing an LLC takes several basic steps. Here’s what happens from start to finish.

1. Choose Your Business Name

Pick a name that meets your state’s rules. It must include “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company” and be different from other businesses in your state.

2. Pick Your Registered Agent

Your LLC needs a registered agent to receive legal papers. This can be you, another LLC member, or a professional service. The agent needs a real street address (not a P.O. box) in your state and must be available during work hours.

3. File Articles of Organization

This paperwork creates your LLC. Send it to your state’s business filing office, usually the Secretary of State. You’ll list:

• Your LLC’s name
• Business address
• Registered agent info
• Names of LLC members or managers
• What your business does
• How long the LLC will exist (usually forever)

4. Pay Filing Fees

States charge different amounts, from $50 to several hundred dollars. Some states work faster if you pay extra. You’ll pay when you turn in your Articles of Organization.

5. Create an Operating Agreement

Many states don’t require this, but an operating agreement explains how your LLC runs. It covers:

• Who owns how much
• What each member does
• How you split profits
• How you make decisions
• Rules for new members
• What happens when members leave

6. Get an EIN

If you have employees or multiple members, get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This free tax ID helps you:

• Open business bank accounts
• Hire people
• File taxes
• Get business licenses

7. Handle State Requirements

Each state has different rules about:

• Business licenses
• Permits
• Tax paperwork
• Annual reports
• Publishing notices

8. Set Up Your Business Records

Keep these records for your LLC:

• All your income and expenses
• Records of member meetings
• Proof of who owns shares in the LLC
• Any deals or agreements your business makes
• Your tax paperwork
• All your business permits and licenses

9. Opening Your Business Bank Account

Once you have your LLC paperwork and tax ID number, head to a bank to open a business account. Keeping your business money in its own account helps protect your personal savings and property if your business ever runs into trouble. Plus, it makes tracking business expenses much simpler when tax time comes around.

Different states and industries have different rules. Check what your state needs, or ask a filing service to help you meet all requirements.

Making Your Choice

Each LLC formation service has something different to offer. Here’s what stands out about each one:

• LLCBuddy keeps things simple – they’ll form your LLC and only charge you the state fees.
• ZenBusiness gives you good value by including tools to keep your business legal and up-to-date.
• Northwest Registered Agent shows you exactly what you’ll pay and gives great personal service.
• LegalZoom is well-known and offers extra services if you need more than just LLC paperwork.
• Rocket Lawyer lets you pay monthly for ongoing legal help whenever you need it.

The best pick depends on what your business needs most. Think about what matters to you – maybe it’s price, maybe it’s customer service, or maybe you want extra features. Each service does the job differently, so pick the one that fits your situation best.

Starting an LLC is a big step forward for your business. Take a little time to compare what each service offers, and you’ll find one that works well for you.

LLCWire is the go-to source for all things LLC-related, providing valuable insights and resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners. LLCWire simplifies the complexities of forming and managing an LLC, empowering business owners to make informed decisions and achieve success.

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