Best LLC formation services: the $0 plan versus the $39 filing
ZenBusiness advertises a $0 formation plan and Northwest starts at $39. Neither figure includes your state filing fee. The smarter choice depends on the add-ons and annual costs you actually need.
Two strong options, different price shapes
| Service | Strongest fit | Watch the renewal |
|---|---|---|
| ZenBusiness | Its Starter filing service begins at $0 plus the state fee; higher tiers add filing speed and services. | Its Pro and Premium packages list annual renewals. Optional website and other trial services may renew separately. |
| Northwest Registered Agent | Advertises business formation at $39 plus state fees; publishes a separate registered-agent price of $125 a year. | Check whether the registered-agent service is included in your actual order, what continues after year one and the state-specific total. |
Editorial fit based on publicly displayed prices checked September 26, 2026; not a checkout quote, service test or paid placement.
What you will pay the state
An LLC exists under state law, so the filing price depends on the state in which you form it. The SBA says an LLC typically registers with any state where it conducts business and that state requirements vary. Filing through a service does not erase a state fee. Nor does a cheap formation package mean the yearly state report, franchise tax or registered-agent expense disappears.
ZenBusiness displays $0, $199 and $299 package tiers, plus applicable state fees. Its package page says certain add-ons automatically renew after the initial period. Northwest's formation page displays $39 plus state fees, and its standalone registered-agent page displays $125 annually. Compare actual checkout screens and written renewal terms before paying; the advertised service price alone is not the total.
When to file directly instead
Many founders can file an LLC directly through their secretary of state and skip a formation-service charge. A service can still be useful if you want guided filing, reminders or a registered agent. But an LLC filing service cannot decide your tax treatment, licensing or operating agreement for your situation. Ask a qualified tax or legal professional where those choices are consequential.
If you are choosing a business account after forming your company, compare the banking provider separately. An LLC filing package and a business bank account are different products; do not treat a referral to a banking provider as part of formation.
Before you click “form my LLC”
- Check the state's official filing fee and recurring requirements.
- Write down every add-on, its trial period and its first renewal price.
- Confirm whether registered-agent service is included and its later annual price.
- Check filing speed against the state's processing time, not just the service's preparation time.
- Save the final itemized order and calendar any state filing deadlines.
Sources and verification
- ZenBusiness: formation plan pricing
- ZenBusiness: cost of forming an LLC
- Northwest: formation services
- Northwest: registered-agent service
- SBA: register your business
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