Business Formation Services Compared

If you have decided to form an LLC, the next decision is whether to file directly with the state or use a formation service. Filing yourself is cheaper but requires navigating state-specific requirements. Formation services handle the paperwork for $0 to $300 plus state fees, and provide registered agent service, operating agreements, and compliance reminders in one package.

State filing fees are non-negotiable — every service charges the same state fee because it goes directly to the government. What you are paying the formation service for is their processing time, document accuracy, and additional services. Evaluate what is included in the base price versus what costs extra.