registered agent

Full MyCompanyWorks Review: Business Formation & Dissolution

Key Takeaways

MyCompanyWorks’ business formation starts at $79 plus state fees.
DBA filing starts at $119, offering a fast way to register a trade name.
Annual reports and amendments can be handled starting at $49, making updates easier.
Business dissolution services are available from $99 to help avoid penalties.
Virtual office options start at $39/month but are limited to select states.
International entrepreneurs can form a U.S. company remotely for $297 plus state fees.
EntityMachine™ API lets platforms white-label business formation services.
Customer reviews are limited, but BBB ratings and complaint volume suggest solid service.

In the spirit of exploring potentially helpful offers for business owners, MyCompanyWorks recently appeared on our list of best registered agents. But, that’s not all they offer. If you need LLC formation, incorporation services, or even business dissolution, MyCompanyWorks should probably be on your shortlist.

But, before you sign up, you should know what you’re in for. Here, we break down everything you need to know about MyCompany works and how they might be able to help you. Find out if they’re the right fit or if you should look at other offers instead.

This is what’s in store:

What is MyCompanyWorks?
- How Much Does MyCompanyWorks Cost?
- Company Overview
What Does MyCompanyWorks Do?
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: Is MyCompanyWorks Legit?

Now, let’s dive in!

What is MyCompanyWorks?

Screenshot of MyCompanyWorks website home page

MyCompanyWorks is a business services offering that helps owners start and manage their companies. With services from business formation and licensing to annual reports, updates, and dissolution, they offer support in all 50 states.

Since 2001, they have reportedly helped tens of thousands of businesses with:

Entity type selection
Corporation and S-Corp formation
LLC formation
DBA filing
Virtual office hosting
International business registration
More

If you need one or more of the above, then you may want to read on.

You might also like: 8 Best Registered Agent Services for LLCs and Other Businesses

How Much Does MyCompanyWorks Cost?

MyCompanyWorks offers business formation services with pricing that varies based on the type of service and package selected:

LLC and Corporation formation: Starts at $79 plus state fees
DBA (Doing Business As) filing: Starts at $119 plus state fees

While some competitors advertise “free” LLC formation services, these often exclude essential features or add costs for items like EIN acquisition, operating agreements, or compliance tools. MyCompanyWorks includes several of these in its base packages.

For ongoing compliance support, MyCompanyWorks offers a “Premium” service at $139 per year. This includes features like annual report filing (excluding state fees), meeting minutes generation, compliance alerts, and document storage.

You might also like: LegalZoom Review for Business Owners: A No-Fluff Breakdown

Company Overview

MyCompanyWorks, inc in the State of Nevada

MyCompanyWorks, Inc., originally known as MyNewCompany.com, Inc., is a Nevada-based corporation that was originally established in 2001 by Matt Knee. The company is currently active and in good standing (no compliance holds) in their state.

Since the company’s acquisition in 2021, Knee (educated in history and business administration) has stayed on as the Vice President of Entrepreneurial Services. So, leadership has been consistent for over two decades.

When compared to competitors like LegalZoom, Bizee, ZenBusiness, and Northwest Registered Agent, customer reviews for MyCompanyWorks on Trustpilot aren’t awesome.

But (in their defense), their profile is unclaimed and they’ve only got 4 total reviews compared to platforms with hundreds or tens of thousands of reviews. So, this may not be a good metric to analyze.

How do customer reviews compare between MyCompanyWorks and LegalZoom

Not to mention, the second lowest-rated on Trustpilot is Northwest Registered Agent, which, in my experience gets the most incorporation service recommendations on Reddit.

And, if you want to explore the name change to see if you can get a better idea of what previous users have to say, you won’t have better luck. MyNewCompany.com doesn’t have any Trustpilot reviews.

MyCompanyWorks was Previously MyNewCompany.com — What happened to MyNewCompany.com

Still, according to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), they have the lowest number of complaints (only 2 complaints in 3 years) that I’ve ever seen and an A+ BBB rating.

In all, for a company that’s been around for almost 25 years, these trust signals are pretty strong. I might assume that they don’t have a ton of reviews because they simply don’t ask for them. I think people are a lot more likely to take time to write about an offer if they are unhappy than if they’re satisfied.

You might also like: Net 30 for New Business: 13 Vendors +Credit Building Insights

What Does MyCompanyWorks Do?

So you can decide if this might be the offer for you, let’s take a closer look at what MyCompanyWorks actually does—service by service.

1. File DBAs & Form LLCs, S-Corps, and C-Corps

LLC Formation Services from MyCompanyWorks

MyCompanyWorks offers fast and affordable help with setting up a new business. You can form an LLC, S-Corporation, or C-Corporation starting at $79 plus state fees, depending on the business structure you choose. If you need to file a Doing Business As (DBA) or Assumed Name, services start at $119 plus state fees.

Every formation package includes a business name availability search to make sure your name is not already taken—They also prepare all key documents and file them with your state’s corporate division.

LLC packages include an Operating Agreement template while corporation packages include Bylaws and Initial Resolutions. Some competitors split these features into higher-cost tiers, but MyCompanyWorks includes most basics up front. Overall, they can help you get set up legally and quickly, without hidden fees stacked into the base package.

You might also like: Sole Proprietorship VS LLC: How to Choose Your Entity Wisely

2. Obtain Business Licenses

Business Licensing Package from MyCompanyWorks

Figuring out which business licenses and permits you need can feel overwhelming. MyCompanyWorks can simplify this with a Business License Compliance Package for $99. After answering a few questions about your company, location, and industry, you receive a detailed report.

The report will list all required licenses and permits at the federal, state, county, and city levels.

Depending on your industry, licenses can include:

General business licenses
Professional licenses
Tax registrations
Health department permits

While other providers sometimes bundle this service into pricier compliance packages, MyCompanyWorks lets you purchase it separately if you want. This can help avoid missed paperwork and costly penalties later (You can also use this service even if you formed your business elsewhere.).

You might also like: TIN vs. EIN: What’s the Difference and Why Do You Need Them?

3. Update Company Changes & File Annual Reports

Annual Report Filing Services from MyCompanyWorks

Business information sometimes needs to change after formation—Whether you move to a new address, add or remove owners, or update your company’s name, states require you to officially update your records.

MyCompanyWorks offers Amendment Filing Services that start at $49 plus state fees to help you stay compliant. Their team prepares and submits the correct forms to the state on your behalf.

This covers common updates like changes to your:

Business address
Registered agent
Membership structure
Management team

They also offer annual report filing services that start at $99 plus state fees. Many states require businesses to file annual reports to confirm that their information is up to date. MyCompanyWorks can also send reminders about upcoming deadlines.

You might also like: Secretary of State Offices Directory | Where to File a Business License

4. Dissolve Businesses

Sometimes, unfortunately, the best business decision is to close up shop. MyCompanyWorks offers business dissolution services that start at $99 plus state fees to help you officially and properly shut down your company.

Simply stopping operations without filing dissolution paperwork can create headaches later. Your business could still owe state fees, taxes, or even be sued if left open. When you use MyCompanyWorks, they prepare and file Articles of Dissolution or the equivalent paperwork for your state.

They also include simple instructions to help you:

Cancel permits
Close tax accounts
Fully wrap up your business affairs

Dissolution services are available for LLCs, corporations, and even nonprofits.

You might also like: How to Create a Business Credit “Entity”

5. Register International Companies

MyCompanyWorks International Business Set Up

MyCompanyWorks can help make it possible for non-U.S. residents to own and operate a U.S.-based business. Their international formation package starts at $297 plus state fees.

This package includes everything a foreign entrepreneur needs to launch an LLC or corporation legally in the United States.

It comes with:

Business formation services
A free Registered Agent for the first year
Help obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

When opening an international business is one of the few times I recommend you use a service because the process can be tricky to apply for when you’re not U.S.-based.

By offering a one-stop setup solution, MyCompanyWorks helps international clients avoid confusion about U.S. paperwork, meanwhile never stepping foot into the country.

You might also like: What are the Best Business Credit Cards for Travel?

6. Host Virtual Offices

MyCompanyWorks virtual offices in Nevada, California, Delaware, Maryland, New York, Texas, Wyoming

If you need a U.S. business address, but don’t want to rent pricey office space, MyCompanyWorks offers a virtual office service starting at $39 per month. You get a professional-looking address you can use to register your business, receive mail, and show up better on marketing materials.

They collect your mail at that address and forward it to you wherever you are. Some plans also include a U.S. phone number with a live receptionist to answer calls for your business.

This setup works well if you’re running things from home, working remotely, or managing a business from outside the U.S. It can help you look more established without a lot of overhead (and it keeps your personal address off the public record).

That said, the service is only available in:

Nevada
California
Delaware
Maryland
New York
Texas
Wyoming

If you need to register your business in a different state, this won’t check all the boxes. So it can be a smart option, but only if it fits your specific setup.

7. Share Their API With Partners

MyCompanyWorks offers a white-label API called EntityMachine™ that lets you offer business formation services under your own brand.

It’s built for platforms like:

SaaS tools
Banks
Websites
Other business services

Anyone who wants to keep users on their own site while still offering things like LLC or corporation setup might find it useful.

Instead of sending people off to a third-party service, you can plug the formation process right into your own platform. The API handles everything, from taking the order to filing the paperwork and sending updates.

Pricing is custom and depends on how much volume you expect. You’ll also get tools to track documents, monitor compliance, and keep your users in the loop.

You might also like: Credit Repair Cloud Reviews Examined: Is This Offer Legit?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Corpnet and MyCompanyWorks?

MyCompanyWorks has lower starting prices and faster processing. CorpNet offers more tax-related services and is geared toward professionals handling multiple clients.

What is the average time it takes MyCompanyWorks to complete a business dissolution?

MyCompanyWorks can process requests in 1 business day. However, most states finalize dissolutions in 1–3 weeks.

Conclusion: Is MyCompanyWorks Legit?

Yes, MyCompanyWorks appears to be a legitimate business service provider with nearly 25 years in operation, a consistent leadership team, and very few complaints on record. While the company doesn’t have a strong presence on review platforms like Trustpilot, its A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and long track record support its credibility.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, reasonably priced way to start or manage a business, MyCompanyWorks may be worth your consideration. Just make sure their services fit your specific state and needs before signing up.

Do you want to know how to obtain up to $150K in business credit in as few as 30 days? Join Business Credit Workshop today!

Can (and Should) You Be Your Own Registered Agent?

By Joe

Key Takeaways

You can legally be your own registered agent in any U.S. state.
It’s free if you use your own name and address (less the cost of filing fees).
You must have a physical address in the state (no P.O. boxes).
You must be available during normal business hours.
Your address will be public, which can affect your privacy.
Missing legal mail could lead to serious problems.
It may feel unprofessional to receive court papers at home.
A commercial service may offer more privacy and flexibility.

When you start an LLC or any business, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is who will be your registered agent. Lately, we’ve been reviewing business registration and registered agent services, and noticed something about their messaging.

Across the board, most of the services that offer these services say something along the lines of, “most states require that you have a registered agent,” on their websites. This is pretty misleading and almost insinuates that you have to pay for a service to be compliant. That is not exactly the case, so let’s break it down.

Here’s what’s in store:

What is a Registered Agent?
- So, Can You Be Your Own Registered Agent?
- Is it Hard to Be Your Own Registered Agent?
What to Consider When You Appoint a Registered Agent
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: Should You Be Your Own Registered Agent?

Now, let’s dive in!

What is a Registered Agent?

A registered agent is a person or company you choose to receive legal and official documents for your business. This includes things like lawsuit notices (also called service of process), tax forms and state correspondence, and annual report reminders or other compliance mail.

Every LLC or corporation must list a registered agent when they form the business. The agent has to be available during normal business hours at a physical street address in the state where your business is registered. You can be your own registered agent, or you can hire a service to do it for you.

Basically, the registered agent is the state’s way of knowing how to reach your business if it ever needs to. And, the registered agent doesn’t have to be the LLC owner.

You can appoint:

Yourself
Another member of the LLC
Another business or trust
A friend or relative
A commercial registered agent service

You just need someone who meets your state’s requirements and is reliable.

So, Can You Be Your Own Registered Agent?

Yes, you can absolutely be your own registered agent. Every state in the U.S. allows it, as long as you meet the basic requirements. And, you’re not alone; plenty of small business owners choose this route. I do it myself. I register my businesses in my own name, and it works just fine.

It’s a legit option, especially when you’re just getting started and want to keep things simple (and save a few bucks).

To qualify in the U.S., you typically just need to meet a few basic requirements:

Be at least 18 years old
Have a physical address (not a P.O. box) in the state where your LLC is registered
Be available during normal business hours to receive legal mail and government notices

So, you can assign yourself, your friend, your lawyer, or a registered agent company. If someone checks those boxes, they’re good to go.

However, just because it’s allowed doesn’t mean it’s always the best option. In some cases, there can be downsides to being your own agent.

You might also like: Sole Proprietorship VS LLC: How to Choose Your Entity Wisely

Is it Hard to Be Your Own Registered Agent?

Being your own registered agent is not really difficult. The hardest part is staying available during regular business hours and keeping up with your mail.

As your own registered agent, you’ll need to always have someone present at the listed address, make sure legal papers and state notices don’t get missed or lost, and stay up to date with your state’s compliance deadlines.

If you’re organized and work from one spot, it’s manageable. If you travel, move a lot, or work irregular hours, it might be more trouble than it’s worth.

You might also like: Low-Risk NAICS Codes +Best SIC Codes for Business Credit

What to Consider When You Appoint a Registered Agent

Who you appoint should depend on your setup and your comfort level. If you work from a home office and don’t mind listing your address on public records, it can be a good way to save a little cash. But there are trade-offs. Here’s what to consider.

1. Your Privacy

When you serve as your own registered agent, the address you list becomes part of the public record. That means anyone can look it up; this includes marketers, spammers, and anyone else who might want your business or personal info. If you’re working from home, this can feel like an invasion of privacy.

On the flip side, if you already use a business address or don’t mind being public, this might not bother you at all and it can be less expensive.

You might also like: What is a Virtual Address for Business? (+Do You Need One?)

2. Your Availability

You’re generally required to be available at the registered address during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. That’s fine if you work in a fixed location and have a predictable schedule.

But if you travel, work nights, or just don’t want to be tied to one spot all day, it can be a hassle. You risk missing important legal notices or state mail if you step away at the wrong time.

You might also like: Plastiq Review: Can Plastiq Really Simplify Your Finances?

3. Your Business’ Professionalism

If your business ever faces legal trouble, service of process (meaning legal documents like a lawsuit) gets delivered to your registered agent address. When that address is your home, you could end up receiving court papers in front of family, friends, or clients. That can feel awkward and unprofessional.

On the other hand, if you’re comfortable handling that responsibility and don’t mind the risk, it might not be a dealbreaker.

You might also like: Amex Business Checking Review: What You Need to Know…Really

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my accountant be my registered agent?

Yes, if your accountant agrees to it and has a physical address in your LLC’s state. Just remember, this means their name and address will be on public record, and they’ll need to be available during business hours. Some accountants are okay with that while others might prefer to stay out of it.

Can I be my own registered agent if I don’t have an address?

No. You need a physical street address in the state where your LLC is formed. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to use a registered agent service or to get a physical office or mailbox solution that meets the rules (not a typical UPS store box).

Who can be a registered agent for an LLC?

Anyone who is 18 or older, has a physical address in the state, and is available during business hours can be a registered agent for an LLC or any other business.

Is the registered agent of an LLC the owner?

Not always. In fact, the registered agent and the owner can be totally different people. Many businesses hire third-party services to keep the owner’s name and address private.

What’s Northwest Registered Agent?

Northwest Registered Agent is a popular commercial registered agent service. They’re known for flat-rate pricing (around $125/year), strong privacy protections, and good customer support. They also offer LLC formation services, so you can register your business and set up your agent all in one place.

Conclusion: Should You Be Your Own Registered Agent?

You can absolutely be your own registered agent. It’s legal, free, and pretty simple if you’re organized. But if you value your privacy, travel a lot, or don’t want legal documents showing up at home, hiring a professional might be a better choice.

If you have a stable address, you might be just fine doing it yourself (at least while your business is small). You can always switch to a commercial agent later if your needs change.

Do you want to learn how to obtain up to $100K in business credit in as few as 30 days? Join Business Credit Workshop today!

8 Best Registered Agent Services for LLCs and Other Businesses

By Joe

Key Takeaways

Every U.S. state requires a registered agent for LLCs, even if you’re the only owner.
Being your own registered agent saves money but exposes your address and risks missed notices.
Most registered agent services cost $100–$400 per year, depending on features and support.
The right service depends on your priorities—cost, privacy, compliance support, or legal tools.

Choosing the right registered agent service is crucial for your business’s compliance and legal standing. A registered agent handles official documents and legal notices on your behalf, ensuring you don’t miss important information.

Let’s explore some of the best available registered agent services so you can make an informed decision.

Here’s what’s in store:

What is a Registered Agent for an LLC?
- Do You Need a Registered Agent for Your LLC?
What is the Best Registered Agent Service for Your Business?
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: Is a Registered Agent Service Worth it?

Now, let’s get to it!

What is a Registered Agent for an LLC?

A registered agent for an LLC or othee business is a person or service responsible for receiving legal and tax documents on behalf of your business. This includes things like service of process (lawsuits), official government mail, and compliance notices. Every state requires you to have a registered agent when you form an LLC, even if you’re a single-member LLC.

The agent must have a physical address in the state where your LLC is registered and be available during regular business hours. You can be your own registered agent, but that comes with some downsides like public exposure of your address and the risk of missing something important when you’re out of the office.

registered agent for LLC responsibilities

The main responsibilities of a registered agent include:

Accepting legal documents (like lawsuits)
Receiving tax notices and compliance reminders
Forwarding important documents to your business
Keeping your business in good standing with the state

Most registered agent services cost between $100 and $300 per year, depending on the provider and what’s included.

You might also like: Sole Proprietorship VS LLC: How to Choose Your Entity Wisely

Do You Need a Registered Agent for Your LLC?

If you’re asking, ‘Do I need a registered agent for my LLC?’ — yes, you do. States from Oregon to Missouri, Illinois, and New Jersey require it. In fact, every U.S. state does.

⚠️ However, that does not mean that you need to pay for a registered agent service…

…If you’re comfortable filing the paperwork to register your business and staying up-to-date with annual reports, you can be your own registered agent.

You might also like: Low-Risk NAICS Codes +Best SIC Codes for Business Credit in 2025

What is the Best Registered Agent Service for Your Business?

If you’re still thinking that you want a registered agent service, for either privacy or convenience, here are the top services I would recommend. Be sure to check with the brand websites for the most up-to-date pricing and possible promotions.

1. LegalZoom

I use LegalZoom myself, which is why I put it at the top of the list. LegalZoom charges $299/year for their plan that includes registered agent service, one of the higher-priced options on this list.

What you get in return is:

A trusted name with national brand recognition
Alerts for important filing deadlines
Compliance tracking so your business stays in good standing
Online access to legal documents and secure document storage
Access to other legal and business services under one roof

If you’re already using LegalZoom for things like forming your LLC, filing a DBA, trademark registration, or EIN filing, it makes sense to bundle everything with one provider. But the higher price tag may not be ideal if you’re just looking for a standalone registered agent.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or just want basic registered agent services without the extras, this may not be your best fit.

2. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a popular choice, especially for privacy-focused business owners. They charge $125/year for registered agent service—no gimmicks, no upsells.

What you get:

A flat, transparent pricing structure
Free use of their business address to help protect your privacy
Personalized customer service (every customer gets a dedicated rep)
Same-day scanning and document forwarding
Real offices in all 50 states, not just mail drops

They also include registered agent service for free with business formation. This makes them a great fit for anyone setting up a new LLC or changing agents for better support.

But, if you want the lowest possible upfront cost (like a free first year), other providers might offer a better deal short-term.

3. ZenBusiness

What does a ZenBusiness registered agent do?

ZenBusiness charges $199/year for registered agent service, though they often include the first year free with LLC formation. They focus on small business simplicity and user-friendly design.

What you get:

Registered agent service in all 50 states
Compliance alerts and filing deadline reminders
Secure online document storage
Access to business formation and maintenance services

ZenBusiness is also a Public Benefit Corporation, which means they support mission-driven goals alongside their business operations.

Keep in mind, if you’re only looking for a registered agent and don’t need formation help or bundled extras, you may find better pricing elsewhere.

4. Bizee (Previously Incfile)

Best registered agent service for small business

Bizee includes one full year of registered agent service for free when you form your LLC with them. After the first year, the cost is $119/year.

What you get:

Free first year with LLC formation
Automatic alerts for legal documents and deadlines
Access to an intuitive online dashboard
Support for compliance and business maintenance filings

This is one of the most affordable ways to test out a registered agent service without a big upfront cost.

Now, if you don’t plan to form your LLC through Bizee or you’re already established and just looking to switch agents, others may offer better long-term value.

5. Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer charges $149.99/year for registered agent service if purchased separately, but you get a discount if you’re a monthly member ($39.99/month).

What you get:

Registered agent service in all 50 states
Access to legal documents and e-signatures
On-call legal advice from licensed attorneys
Compliance tracking and notifications

Rocket Lawyer is a strong choice if you expect to need contracts, NDAs, or ongoing legal help alongside your registered agent service.

But…If you’re only looking for a registered agent and not the legal extras, you’ll likely find cheaper alternatives with fewer bundled features.

6. Swyft Filings

Swyft Filings charges $199/year for their registered agent service, and they make the signup process quick and easy. They’re known for fast turnarounds and solid customer support.

What you get:

Fast business formation and agent setup
Simple dashboard for compliance reminders
Real-time alerts and document delivery
Access to LLC formation services and upgrades

Swyft Filings is a good fit for new entrepreneurs who want speed and efficiency without giving up support.

If you’re price-sensitive and want long-term savings, other services like Bizee or Northwest may offer better annual value.

7. CT Corporation

How much does CT Corporation charge for registered agent?

CT Corporation is one of the oldest and most established registered agent providers in the U.S. It’s part of Wolters Kluwer, a global compliance and legal services company.

CT Corporation charges $374/year for standalone registered agent services—This includes:

A registered agent address in your state
A team to handle legal notifications and service of process
Access to a compliance portal with 24/7 document tracking
Business name availability check

Other services like incorporation or foreign qualification are available as bundled packages for $884 or more, plus state fees.

CT is trusted by law firms and large enterprises. If your business deals with complex compliance, operates in multiple states, or needs white-glove service, CT is a top-tier option.

Note that small business owners or solopreneurs may find it too expensive or too enterprise-focused for their needs. And, with CT, there’s no free first year or basic-tier pricing.

You might also like: Full MyCompanyWorks Review: Business Formation & Dissolution

8. CSC Global (Corporation Service Company)

CSC is another premium registered agent provider that serves large corporations, financial institutions, and law firms. Like CT, they maintain physical offices in all 50 states.

Their registered agent service typically starts around $381/year, though rates may vary by location and service level.

What you get:

High-end service for complex business structures
Compliance calendar, automated alerts, and secure document delivery
Tools to manage multiple entities, UCC filings, and trademarks
Dedicated customer support with a corporate-level feel
Integration with internal legal and tax systems for enterprise use

CSC is designed for serious compliance at scale. If you’re running a multi-state business or need in-depth recordkeeping tools, CSC delivers.

Some people think it’s overbuilt (and overpriced) for most small businesses and startups. And, as with CT, there’s no free trial or budget-friendly entry point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I be my own registered agent for my LLC?

You can be your own registered agent if you have a physical address in the state, are available during business hours. In this case, your address becomes public. It saves money, but you may risk missing legal documents and losing privacy.

Do I have to have an EIN for my LLC?

No, an EIN isn’t required for all LLCs, but you’ll need one if you hire employees or want to open a business bank account. Most registered agent services offer EIN filing as an add-on. I usually recommend filing yourself with the IRS, since it takes less than 10 minutes and is free during business hours.

Can UPS be a registered agent?

No. UPS’s boxes and virtual addresses don’t meet the legal requirement for a physical registered agent address. You need a real street address where someone can receive documents.

How to become a registered agent for LLCs?

To become a registered agent, you must be 18 or older, have a physical address in the state where the business is registered, be available during business hours.

Is a registered agent service worth it?

In many cases, yes. The cost tends to be low compared to the risk of missing legal notices or getting penalties. A registered service can keep your address private and take care of compliance tracking.

Conclusion: Is a Registered Agent Service Worth it?

For many business owners, a registered agent service is worth the cost. While you can act as your own registered agent, doing so comes with added responsibilities and may have potential drawbacks like lack of privacy and the risk of missing important legal notices.

Professional services can help ensure compliance, provide timely document handling, and keep your personal address off public records. For around $100 to $300 per year, many small businesses see this as a practical investment.

If your goal is to stay organized, avoid penalties, and focus on growing your business, using a registered agent service might make sense. The best choice depends on your budget and how much support you want.

Do you want to learn how to obtain up to $100K in business credit in as few as 30 days? Join Business Credit Workshop today!

The Complete Rocket Lawyer Review for Business Owners

By Joe

Key Takeaways

Rocket Lawyer is a popular online legal service for business and personal legal needs.
The subscription model includes unlimited legal documents and attorney advice.
Business formation isn’t completely free, as state fees and some service costs apply.
Registered agent services cost $249.99 per year or $124.99 with a membership.
EIN applications may be included with a membership, but some users report a $59.99 fee.
Trademark registration costs $699.99, with a 50% discount for Rocket Legal+ members.
Reviews are mostly positive, but some customers report billing and cancellation issues.
It’s a good option for ongoing legal support, but one-time users may find better deals.

Rocket Lawyer is one of the most popular tools for convenient, online legal needs. From private contracts to marriage prenups, they offer a quick way to generate a ton of legal documents. But, sometimes they’re outshined by competitors in the business formation and management department.

If you’re considering Rocket Lawyer services to form a new business or manage your existing one, you need to know exactly how they can help (and how theirs compares to similar offers). Here, I’ll break down everything a business owner needs to know about the platform.

This is what’s in store:

What is Rocket Lawyer?
- Rocket Lawyer Pricing
- Company Overview
How Can Rocket Lawyer Help Businesses?
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: Is Rocket Lawyer Legit?

Now, get ready for launch!

What is Rocket Lawyer?

Rocket Lawyer is an online legal services provider that offers affordable access to:

Legal documents
Attorney advice
Business formation services

They provide a range of tools for individuals and businesses, including customizable legal templates, attorney consultations, and help with forming LLCs, corporations, and nonprofits.

Rocket Lawyer’s subscription model offers unlimited document creation and legal support, which might make it a practical option if you need ongoing legal assistance without high hourly fees.

You might also like: Is Bizee Legit? Agent Services, Entrepreneur Grants & More

Rocket Lawyer Pricing

Rocket Lawyer offers two primary membership options:

Rocket Legal+ Membership: $19.99 per month, billed annually at $239.88, this membership includes unlimited access to legal documents, e-signatures, 50% off a ton of products, and the ability to ask legal questions.
Monthly Membership: $39.99 per month, this option provides the same benefits as the annual plan but with the flexibility of month-to-month billing.

Both plans start with a 7-day free trial, so you can explore the services before you commit.

Company Overview

Rocket Lawyer Inc. is a San Francisco-based, for-profit corporation that was founded in 2008 by Charley Moore and Mohd Fairuz Razi bin Sharuddin. The company is actively registered and in good standing in the state of California.

Prior to starting Rocket Lawyer, Moore, the current CEO, was an attorney at Venture Law Group for a few years before he led a company called OnStation Corporation (which seems to have been a digital stationing platform for the highway industry). He then served om EdFund’s Board of Directors and later on the Finance Committee of the Obama for America presidential campaign. Since founding Rocket Lawyer, he’s served on boards for various charities.

Rocket Lawyer has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and is BBB-accredited. 175 complaints have been filed on the consumer protection platform in the past three years, and all of them have been addressed within a reasonable timeframe. Most of these complaints stem from billing issues and difficulties canceling subscriptions.

The company’s TrustScore on TrustPilot is just as encouraging with 4.6 out of 5 stars. More than 82% of reviewers praise Rocket Lawyer for its user-friendly platform, comprehensive legal resources, and efficient customer support. The minority of complaints focus on (again) billing issues like unexpected charges and trouble with canceling subscriptions.

Redditors have mixed opinions about Rocket Lawyer. Some like the easy-to-use platform and find the subscription helpful for ongoing legal needs. Others feel the recurring fees add up quickly, especially if you only need a one-time LLC filing. A few suggest looking into alternatives with flat fees, depending on how often you’ll need legal services.

Rocket Lawyer has built a solid reputation over the years, making legal help more accessible for businesses and individuals. Strong leadership and a well-established presence suggest it’s a reliable option, though its subscription model won’t work for everyone. Based on user reviews, if you need ongoing legal support, it could be a good fit. But, if you’re just looking for a one-time service, you might find better value elsewhere.

You might also like: Comprehensive ZenBusiness Review: Is it Legit for LLCs?

How Can Rocket Lawyer Help Businesses?

Rocket Lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help businesses stay compliant, protect their assets, and streamline legal processes.

From formation to contract creation, they offer some tools that can save you time and effort while you make sure you meet state and federal requirements. Here’s a summary of how they might be able to help you with your business.

1. “Free” Business Formation Services

Rocket Lawyer offers business formation services, including:

DBAs and ABNs
LLCs
Corporations
Nonprofits

Pricing is not entirely free, though, and varies based on membership status.

For Rocket Legal+ members, the first business registration is free, excluding state fees. Then, subsequent registrations are half off the standard $99.99 service fee.

Non-members pay the full service fee of $99.99 plus state fees for each business formation.

This pricing structure applies to LLCs, C-Corps, and Nonprofits. However, filing an S-Corp election incurs an additional fee, starting at $49.99 with a Rocket Legal+ membership.

If you don’t use a service like Rocket Lawyer, you’ll need to file directly through the appropriate state agency (or agencies) or hire a traditional law firm.

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2. Registered Agent Services

Most states require businesses to have a registered agent to receive official government documents, legal notices, and compliance reminders. Rocket Lawyer provides this service to help business owners avoid missing critical filings that could lead to penalties or legal issues.

Rocket Lawyer’s registered agent service costs $249.99 per year for non-members. However, if you subscribe to their Rocket Legal+ membership at $19.99 per month (billed annually at $239.88), you get a 50% discount.

Their registered agent service can help make sure your business stays in good standing and keep your personal address off public records.

However, you don’t have to hire a service—you can act as your own registered agent as long as you’re available during business hours at a physical address in the state where your business is registered.

You might also like: A Complete Northwest Registered Agent Review & Analysis

3. EIN Application Help

Rocket Lawyer can also help you apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You’ll need this for a business bank account, tax filing, and to hire employees. This service is seemingly only available with a Rocket Legal+ membership, and may be included at no cost. But, some reviewers have reported that Rocket Lawyer charges $59.99 if you need an EIN application as a standalone service.

I don’t usually recommend that you use a service to apply for your EIN because most business owners have the option to apply for an EIN directly through the IRS for free. The application only takes a few minutes, but you will need to access the site during business hours on a weekday.

You might want to take advantage of Rocket Lawyer’s offer if:

You’re unfamiliar with the IRS process.
You’re worried about mistakes.
You are a foreign entrepreneur without a U.S. SSN or ITIN, as the online application isn’t available to you.

Using a service like Rocket Lawyer may also help avoid delays and assure accuracy.

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4. Annual Report Filing

An annual report is a mandatory filing that updates the state on your business’s info, like:

Your company’s legal name
Principal office address
Registered agent details
Names and addresses of managers or members

Filing helps make sure your business remains compliant and in good standing with state regulations.

Rocket Lawyer offers an annual report filing service to help businesses maintain compliance with state requirements. This service is available for $99.99 per filing, with a 50% discount for Rocket Legal+ members.

Alternatively, you can file annual reports yourself by following your state’s specific guidelines. The process may involve completing forms and paying state-mandated fees. For example, in New Jersey, the annual report filing fee for most business entities, including LLCs and corporations, is $75. This is higher than California’s $20 annual report fee.

Filing independently can save you money, but you’ll need to stay aware of your state’s specific requirements and deadlines to avoid penalties.

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5. Trademark & Copyright Protection

Securing intellectual property is essential for businesses that need to protect their brand identity.

Rocket Lawyer helps with trademark registration, which potentially helps you safeguard your names, logos, and slogans from competitors. The flat fee for trademark filing is $699.99 or half off with Rocket Legal+.

They also provide copyright documents including cease and desist notices and licensing agreements, which can help make sure that creative works like written content, music, and digital assets are legally protected from unauthorized use.

These offers can be especially valuable for startups and e-commerce brands that rely on branding and original content for growth, and creative businesses that need to make sure their work isn’t duplicated.

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6. Contracts & Non-Disclosure Agreements

Solid contracts are a must-have for any business, whether you’re hiring employees, signing agreements with vendors, or working with independent contractors. Rocket Lawyer offers customizable contract templates that business owners can easily modify to fit their specific needs.

They also provide non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect sensitive business information when dealing with employees, freelancers, or potential business partners. This can be particularly useful for startups and small businesses looking to secure their intellectual property while negotiating deals.

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7. The Rocket Lawyer App

Rocket Lawyer’s mobile app offers users access to:

Legal documents
Attorney consultations
Business formation services

On the Apple App Store, it holds a 4.9 out of 5 rating based on over 12,000 reviews, with users praising its ease of use and comprehensive legal resources. It’s also available on the Google Play Store (4.8 stars), available for Android users, and provides similar functionalities to help with various legal needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, LegalZoom or Rocket Lawyer?

It depends on what you need. Rocket Lawyer is great for ongoing legal support with its subscription model, while LegalZoom is better for one-time legal services with flat fees. If you need frequent legal documents or attorney consultations, Rocket Lawyer might be the better deal.

How much does it cost to make a will on Rocket Lawyer?

You can create a will for free with a 7-day trial, but after that, you’ll need a Rocket Legal+ membership ($19.99/month) or pay $39.99 per document if you don’t subscribe.

Is Rocket Lawyer hard to cancel?

Some users report difficulty canceling, but Rocket Lawyer lets you cancel your subscription online or by calling customer support. Just make sure to do it before your trial or billing period ends to avoid charges.

What is the best online legal service?

It depends on your needs. Rocket Lawyer is great for ongoing access to legal documents and attorney advice, while some competitors offer more pay-as-you-go options. If you only need a one-time legal service, a non-subscription provider might be a better fit.

Conclusion: Is Rocket Lawyer Legit?

Rocket Lawyer is a legitimate legal service that helps businesses and individuals access legal documents, attorney advice, and business formation tools. It has strong reviews, an A+ BBB rating, and a user-friendly platform. However, some customers have complained about billing issues and canceling subscriptions.

If you need ongoing legal support, the membership can be a good value, but if you only need a one-time service, you might find a better deal elsewhere. Whether it’s the right choice for you depends on how often you need legal help and what type of help you need.

Do you want to learn how to obtain up to $100K in business credit in as few as 30 days? Join Business Credit Workshop today!

A Complete Northwest Registered Agent Review & Analysis

By Joe

Northwest Registered Agent is a well-known, national registered agent service that many entrepreneurs leverage to get their businesses off the ground. And, for the most part, their customer reviews are pretty positive.

But, you can’t always believe what you read. And, you should know exactly what you’ll get before you sign up for any paid offer.

I’ve been reviewing competitors’ registered agent services lately – and it can only benefit you to learn as much as you can about all of your options before you decide which one to sign up for (if any). So, I wanted to review Northwest Registered Agent in-depth, and give you my take.

Here’s what’s in store:

What is Northwest Registered Agent?
- How Much Does Northwest Registered Agent Cost?
- Northwest Registered Agent Company Overview
What Does Northwest Registered Agent Do?
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: Is Northwest Registered Agent Legit?

Now, let’s get the show on the road.

What is Northwest Registered Agent?

Northwest Registered Agent is a company that helps businesses with important paperwork. They have lots of employees and help millions of businesses all over the country.

A registered agent is someone who receives legal papers for a business. Northwest Registered Agent does more than just get papers—they also offer a bunch of helpful tools and services like a free business dashboard, business email, and expert advice from their team of Corporate Guides.

First, they assign a special helper called a “Corporate Guide” to each business owner to provide you with personalized support.

Northwest Registered Agent reviews reddit

Northwest Registered Agent started out helping businesses with paperwork. Now, they also assist with starting businesses as well as following rules and regulations. They even offer extra services like mail forwarding and virtual offices to keep your privacy safe (They give you a business address and forward your mail for free).

The company aims to make it easier to follow business filing rules in every state – including D.C. and Puerto Rico. Plus, they provide many resources needed to keep a business running smoothly. Whether you’re just starting out or already running an established business, Northwest Registered Agent might be able to help.

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How Much Does Northwest Registered Agent Cost?

Pricing for Northwest Registered Agent varies based on what you need.

You can create an account for free, which gives you access to an ‘Entity Management System’ where you can populate forms at no cost. And, you won’t be signed up for drip marketing campaigns or newsletters to use the tools.

Now, when you get into your account, you will enter information about your prospective or existing business, and the system will recommend registration or compliance next steps.

This is when you will be offered paid services.

But, you don’t have to take advantage of these services. In fact, the system will offer details and instructions for how or where to file certain forms on your own or take advantage of their agency services – it’s pretty cool.

And, pricing varies from service to service, for example:

Registered Agent Services cost $125 per year plus filing fees
Beneficial Ownership Information Reports (BOIs) cost $9
Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) cost $50
Operating Agreements can be generated for free or cost up to $49
Trademark assistance costs $249 plus USPTO filing fees ($250)
Corporate books & seals have varied costs starting at $10 per item
The Business Identity Bundle (business address, WordPress website, email address, etc.) is $9 plus up to $9 per month per service after free trial expiration

The costs can vary tremendously, depending on which services you leverage.

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Northwest Registered Agent Company Overview

Spokane, Washington-based Northwest Registered Agent – also known as Bonanzitizing LLC — is a for-profit, privately-held company that was founded in 1998. In 2022, the company acquired AAEusocial Interweb Technologies.

Beyond that, it’s not super easy to find out solid information about company ownership or management. However, I found that Dan Keen was previously the President of the company. And, Dan VanGouden (if this is, in fact, a real person) is the “Chief Incompetence Officer.” 🤔

With this type of business, I can understand how it could be helpful to stay anonymous in-part…You don’t want your clients’ complaints to fall back on you. Plus, the staff directory is hilarious.

Northwest Registered Agent Spokane reviews

I haven’t found any major red flags from online reviews, but Trustpilot reviews are mostly indicative of a mid-range experience. Keep in mind, people are way more likely to complain than report satisfactory service. So, take this how you will.

While they’re not accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Northwest Registered Agent maintains an A rating and 4.55 out of 5 stars on the platform – This is despite 35 complaints closed in the past 3 years and 15 in the past 12 months (which are actually low numbers).

In all, the company appears to be legit – they’re actively registered in good standing in Washington state. I see no open class actions against them. But, since I haven’t used them myself, I can’t expressly recommend or vouch for them.

With that said, their offer is interesting and I like what I see.

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What Does Northwest Registered Agent Do?

At Northwest Registered Agent, you’ll find a range of helpful services to support your business journey. The offer is pretty robust. And, it might be helpful before you’ve ever registered and if you’ve already been in business for some time.

Let’s break down everything they might be able to help you with.

1. Business Formation & Maintenance

When you’re ready to kickstart your business, Northwest Registered Agent can assist you with setting up your LLC or corporation. They’ll guide you through the process and help you stay on top of annual filings and other maintenance tasks to keep your business running smoothly.

While the company doesn’t advertise Sole Proprietorship registration, they do mention DBAs. If you need help filing, there’s only one risk in using these services – if you never actively participate in a business that is filed with a business service, you may be charged annually until you close the business yourself.

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2. Registered Agent Services

northwest registered agent customer service

With Northwest Registered Agent as your registered agent, you can rest easy with the idea that your legal correspondence will be handled promptly and confidentially. They’ll accept important documents on behalf of your business, to ideally make sure that you don’t miss critical communications.

You can be your own registered agent, certainly. But there are some instances where you may not want to be or it may be better for someone else to handle important filing deadlines.

A registered agent also enables you to keep your name private from business filings (which can be good or bad). Some consumers will do their due diligence before choosing to purchase from a business, and they may want to know that you’re transparent about your operations – for some businesses, this isn’t a concern.

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3. Federal Filings Assistance

Navigating federal filings can be tricky, but Northwest Registered Agent is here to help. Whether you need to obtain an EIN, elect S Corporation tax status, or file Beneficial Ownership Reports, they can help ensure that you’re on track.

However, many federal filings are free to file. So, you should be sure you actually need help before you pay for someone else to file for you.

For example, Northwest Registered Agent offers BOI filing through the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network for $9 and EIN filing through the Internal Revenue Service for $50. Both of these forms are free to file through their respective agencies.

If you want to file yourself:

File your BOI through the Financial Crimes Enforcement Agency
Apply for an EIN through the Internal Revenue Service (must be during normal business hours)

If you want help, a registered agent service can make the process faster and maybe more convenient.

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4. Online Presence & eCommerce Solutions

In today’s digital world, having a strong online presence is crucial. Northwest Registered Agent offers a range of solutions to help you establish and grow your online presence, including domain registration, website hosting, email services, and SSL certificates for secure transactions.

Northwest Registered Agent doesn’t advertise which tools they use to help companies establish their online presence. But, I did find out that their “open-source websites” are built in WordPress.

Now, I love WordPress, but I never recommend it for business owners without any tech savvy – it is strictly free, but it’s not the easiest platform to navigate…at all. Even if you are proficient in digital technology, WordPress almost undoubtedly comes with the need to hire help to fix and maintain the website.

And, many of the tools needed for a fully-functional WordPress website come with an added monthly cost. Not to mention, WordPress usually isn’t the best platform for eCommerce (online product sales).

Do your research and explore multiple website building solutions before you choose your website platform.

Note: An online presence is also crucial to establish business credit…

5. Expansion & Trademark Services

Northwest Registered Agent Trademark services

When you’re ready to expand your business or protect your brand with trademarks, Northwest Registered Agent can assist you every step of the way. From adding DBA names to securing federal trademark filings, they’ll help you navigate the process with ease.

Trademarks are an especially complex route to navigate, especially if you’ve never been on it before.

In my experience patent & trademark attorneys tend to charge from $500 to $1K for a single filing, not including U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) fees. These fees typically run from $250-350 per filing. The costs – both fiscal and mental – can add up pretty quickly.

Through Northwest Registered Agent, you can get trademark filing assistance for $249. This service is definitely worth looking into if you need a trademark, but don’t know where to start.

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6. Legal Support & Compliance

Northwest Registered Agent Legal Services

Staying compliant with state and federal regulations is crucial for business success. Northwest Registered Agent’s dedicated legal team can provide expert guidance and support to ensure you’re meeting all your legal obligations.

Moreover, when you first sign up, the platform can help you do a quick compliance check to see what you may need to stay above water. It’s super easy to get lost in the sea of business regulations, and smart to have a service that helps keep your business in line.

If nothing else, I see no harm in creating a free account with Northwest Registered Agent, just to see if you’ve filed everything you need to meet federal business regulations.

“Law On-Call” is an added service for active Registered Agent users that costs $9 per month and puts you in touch with a legal expert that can answer your personalized business questions.

Topics might include:

Business employment
Contracts
Entity formation
Nonprofit corporate bylaws

On this matter, I’d say the price is right.

You might also like: Sole Proprietorship VS LLC: How to Choose Your Entity Wisely

7. Payment Processing Solutions

Northwest Registered Agent Payment Processing

Accepting credit cards is super important for businesses looking to increase revenue and reach more customers. Northwest Registered Agent offers a free consultation, which can make it easier for you to accept credit card payments and grow your bottom line.

I didn’t see which card processor(s) Northwest Registered Agent might work with, if any. So, this consultation may be a complimentary service.

The website also has a lot of information that explains how to accept credit cards, including how to sign up with a merchant account.

You might also like: Is it Illegal to Use a Business Credit Card for Personal Use? +More Answers

8. Phone & Mail Services

northwest registered agent virtual office

Maintaining a professional image and ensuring privacy are important for businesses of all sizes. Northwest Registered Agent offers dedicated business phone numbers and addresses, as well as mail forwarding services, to help you stay organized and project a professional image to your customers.

Northwest Registered Agents’ business addresses are advertised as “free,” though you will pay a fee for added services like:

Mail forwarding (not available in all states)
Opening & scanning

Phone service costs an added $9 per month, and is hosted through an app called Corporate Phone® – Its a voice over internet protocol (VOIP) service. The price is competitive as Google Voice charges $10 for a comparable service.

9. Corporate Supplies

Northwest registered agent spokane supplies

Keeping your business documents organized and professional is key.

Northwest Registered Agent offers a variety of corporate supplies, including:

Premium operating agreements
Customized certificates
Embossing seals
Notary stamps
GoBooks (zip-binders)

These products might help you maintain accurate records (and present a polished image to stakeholders). While you can get them anywhere, their prices may be a little high.

For example, Northwest Registered Agent charges $100 for a corporate kit, while you can get them for between $50-70 from various suppliers.

Northwest Registered Agent Google reviews

The trade-off is that getting supplies through a platform that already has all the required information about your business is much simpler and requires fewer steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns Northwest Registered Agent?

Northwest Registered Agent is privately owned and operated. They are not publicly traded and do not have shareholders. The company’s ownership structure is not publicly disclosed.

Where is Northwest Registered Agent located?

Northwest Registered Agent has its headquarters in Spokane, Washington. Additionally, they have offices and registered agent service locations in all 50 states, allowing them to serve businesses nationwide.

How to cancel Northwest Registered Agent?

To cancel your services with Northwest Registered Agent, you typically need to follow the cancellation process outlined in your service agreement or contract. This may involve submitting a formal request to cancel your registered agent services through your online dashboard or your Secretary of State, depending on the services you’re subscribed to – Review the terms of your agreement carefully and follow any specific cancellation instructions to ensure a smooth process.

Conclusion: Is Northwest Registered Agent Legit?

Overall, Northwest Registered Agent is legitimate, yes. Their services are pretty straightforward, comprehensive, and impressively non-gimmicky. I like this offer…a lot.

The main downside that I found is that the site and platform aren’t super easy to navigate, if you want to bounce around. However, you can still have a comprehensive experience if you move through the online onboarding process the way it’s initially laid out.

Now, you can also file all of your forms yourself, which is easier for some people than others. A registered agent and business services can save you a lot of time (and time is money).

Do you want to learn how to obtain up to $100K in business credit in as few as 30 days? Join Business Credit Workshop today!

Comprehensive ZenBusiness Review: Is it Legit for LLCs?

By Joe

ZenBusiness is a platform that’s starting to gain popularity with business owners launching or scaling their company. They offer basic business registration and other services to establish or expand your company’s presence.

Starting at 0$ and endorsed by business celebrities, this probably seems like a good deal. But is it?

Let’s take a deeper look at what ZenBusiness can actually do, and whether or not it’s the best option for you…you’ll even see a side-by-side comparison with one of its top competitors.

Here’s what’s in store:

What is ZenBusiness?
- Is ZenBusiness Really Free?
- ZenBusiness Company Overview
What Exactly Does ZenBusiness Do?
ZenBusiness vs Legal Zoom
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion: Is ZenBusiness Legit?

Now, let’s roll…

What is ZenBusiness?

ZenBusiness Review Business Credit Workshop

ZenBusiness offers a range of services to simplify the process of starting and growing a business. With a variety of packages catering to different needs, ZenBusiness provides options for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

One of the standout features of ZenBusiness is its LLC-formation service, which helps you limit your liability and protect their personal assets when you register a business.

Customer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot consistently rate ZenBusiness highly, citing its efficiency, talent, and responsiveness. However, it’s important to note that some endorsements (like those from affiliate partners and spokesperson Mark Cuban) could be influenced by financial compensation.

ZenBusiness also offers information and guidance on different business entity types, such as LLCs, S-Corps, and C-Corps. The idea is to help you make informed decisions about your business structure(s).

Overall, ZenBusiness presents itself as a reliable and accessible option for new business owners looking to start and grow a company. However, you should carefully consider your specific needs and budget constraints before choosing any business services.

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Is ZenBusiness Really Free?

One of the first offers you’ll notice on the ZenBusiness website is “worry-free support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.” And, yes, the starter package really is 0$.

State fees for business registration products tend to run from $50 to $150, depending on what you need to file, so it’s not completely free.

The ZenBusiness platform offers three packages:

Starter – $0
Pro – $199 per year
Premium – $299 per year

…each with its own set of features.

The starter plan offers standard LLC filing and an accuracy guarantee. For additional services under this plan (compliance, operating agreements, expedited filing, employer identification (EIN) filing, etc.), you’ll need to pay added fees.

Note, EIN filing is free through the IRS (a lot of people overlook this fact).

The Pro and Premium packages include additional features such as 100% accuracy guarantee, operating agreement, and business website builder, catering to those seeking more comprehensive support for their business endeavors.

With the pro plan, you’ll pay out of pocket for business documents and tools to build your web presence, but these are included with the Premium plan.

ZenBusiness Company Overview

When I first landed on the ZenBusiness website – before looking at the fine print – I assumed it was a Mark Cuban project. Come to find out, he’s a spokesperson, but doesn’t own the company.

Texas-based ZenBusiness Inc. (aka ZenBusiness PBC) was co-founded in 2015 by Art Flores, JC Glancy, Rafael Lopez, Ross Buhrdorf, Ryan Pitylak, Shanaz Hemmati. The company was officially registered with the Secretary of State by 2017. According to the state of Texas, Shabana Parvez is the most recently registered President and Director.

The company’s current CEO, Ross Buhrdorf, is a board member at the American National Bank of Texas and member of the Board of Trustees at Santa Fe Institute. He serves on other highly-recognized boards and invests in several entrepreneurial ventures.

Employees seem to like Buhrdorf. According to Glassdoor, 56% of ZenBusiness staff would recommend the company to a friend and 75% approve of the current leadership. In a perfect world, more people would be jazzed to work here, but the majority appear to be pretty pleased.

But, if you dig deeper, you’ll find that at least one employee has alleged discrimination against the company. A civil right employment discrimination lawsuit against ZenBusiness was filed in October, 2023…However, the jury is still out.

Despite 87 complaints closed in the past year, ZenBusiness is accredited with an A+ Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating.

And, according to Trustpilot, ZenBusiness customer service exceeds expectations (they maintain a 4.8-star rating on the platform, which is very high. The few

In all, ZenBusiness appears to be a legitimate, active, and compliant company that tends to do what they say they’re going to do.

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What Exactly Does ZenBusiness Do?

ZenBusiness actually offers a lot – in terms of starting and growing a business, they have various services and resources to help you on your journey. They can help you with filing to get off the ground, and lots of other items you might need along the way.

Let’s take a peek at the full offer.

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1. Formation Services

Business entity registration typically costs from $50 to $150, depending on your state. Traditionally, applications are filed with the Secretary of State. And, while a lot of people would argue that it’s cheaper to do it yourself, not all states make it easy.

ZenBusiness can help you file the following at no cost (besides state filing fees) or with a Pro or Premium package with no extra charge:

Doing Business As (DBA)
Limited Liability Corporation (LLC)
S Corp
C Corporation

What’s nice about this offer is that you’ll have someone to consult with about which type of filing is best for your situation and needs. Keep in mind that the representative that helps you will likely try to upsell you because they could never stay in business if they only offered free services.

2. Operating Agreements

ZenBusiness provides an operating agreement service starting at $125 for free accounts and included with the Pro and Premium packages – This service enables you to draft a personalized operating agreement more easily.

The operating agreement outlines rules and regulations governing your company’s operations, ownership, and succession plans. It helps protect personal assets, clarifies ownership structure, and defines voting rights.

Without an operating agreement, an LLC risks losing its limited liability status, potentially exposing personal assets to business liabilities. Additionally, the absence of clear guidelines can lead to misunderstandings between members.

Overall, ZenBusiness’ operating agreement service offers you a valuable tool to formalize your LLC’s governance structure objectively and safeguard your business interests.

3. Branding & Online Presence

Once your business is established with ZenBusiness, you can also get help with vital aspects of building out your brand presence.

Through your ZenBusiness dashboard, you can get:

Logo design for $60
Domain registration for $25 per year
Website building for $129 per year
A business email address for $25 per year

The alternatives would be to use a free online logo designer or hire a designer ($0-$500+), register your own domain through a host of your choice ($12-20 per year), build your own website or hire a web developer (from $3 per month to $10K+), and set up your own business email address through your domain provider ($5-$10 per month per email address).

I prefer a more customized approach that gives me full control (WordPress, Google Workspace, etc.), but I do see where these resources have huge value for people that don’t want to do the research or don’t know where to start. Plus, it could be extremely helpful to have everything in one dashboard.

4. Business Banking

ZenBusiness offers FDIC-insured business banking for $5 per month – but ZenBusiness is NOT a bank. ZenBusiness banking is offered through Thread Bank.

Thread Bank offers digital-first banking services tailored for small businesses and busy individuals. With a focus on simplicity, speed, and connectivity, you can streamline everyday banking tasks.

Thread Bank’s offerings include:

No minimum balance
No overdraft fees
Easily accessible online account
Simple, secure, and paperless savings solutions

While not offered through a ZenBusiness account, Thread Bank also offers personal checking and savings products including Money Market Accounts (MMAs).

Personally, I prefer credit unions (for many reasons), but I don’t see any glaring red flags with this digital banking offer.

5. Business Credit Cards

Through ZenBusiness, you can apply for a Chase Business Ink card – either Business Unlimited® or Business Cash®.

Judging by the way this landing page is set up, I assume ZenBusiness has some sort of affiliate partnership through Chase. If I’m right, this means that ZenBusiness gets a commission every time someone signs up through their website and is approved for the card.

I’m not aware of any type of relationship ZenBusiness could have with the card issuer that would make their members more likely to be approved – business credit is pretty cut and dry as far as underwriting is concerned.

You don’t need any type of affiliation to apply for a Chase credit card – so, you don’t really need ZenBusiness for this.

6. Business Planning & Education

At no cost, ZenBusiness also offers educational resources for planning on topics like:

Business startup costs
Market research
Business plans
Licenses and permits
Government grants
Expanding to new locations

These resources are set up in a way that makes it appear that these offers may be individual services. Essentially, they’re relevant micro-learning modules.

Some of their more robust modules are 30-minute videos to teach you about

In all, these resources are very well organized and provide a lot of value. If you don’t want to use the offer, at least check out the resources because you’re sure to learn something.

You might also like: Y Combinator: Fast Track to Success or Waste of Time?

7. Tools to Grow Your Business

After you choose to establish your LLC with ZenBusiness, you can take advantage of quite a few offers designed to help you expand operations.

ZenBusiness’ growth tools include:

Compliance services starting at $199 per year
Registered agent starting at $199 per year
Annual report filing for $100
Business license and permit report for $99
Beneficial ownership filing services
Tax services for $49 per month
ZenBusiness Money Pro® bookkeeping and invoicing

While these offers are simple, the package you get with ZenBusiness is pretty comprehensive. It’s much more than a business registration service.

The fact that you can do all of this in one dashboard is pretty cool – the cost for some of it seems a little steep to me – but we all have our areas where we’re willing to pay more for the convenient option. What do you think?

ZenBusiness vs Legal Zoom

LegalZoom provides comprehensive business formation and compliance services with features like accuracy guarantees and access to legal professionals.

ZenBusiness offers affordable LLC formation packages and personalized support, making it ideal for entrepreneurs seeking simplicity and affordability.

	LegalZoom	ZenBusiness
Pricing	Offers various packages starting at $0 plus state fees	Provides LLC formation starting at $0 plus state fees, with additional services available for purchase
Services Offered	Comprehensive range including legal assistance, tax services, & estate planning	Focuses on simple and affordable business-related services & resources
Top Features	100% accuracy guarantee Worry-free complianceAccess to legal professionals	Personalized supportFast filing speedsRange of add-on services

Both LegalZoom and ZenBusiness offer valuable services for business owners who want to establish and manage their businesses. LegalZoom stands out for its comprehensive range of services, including legal assistance and tax planning, while ZenBusiness excels in simplicity and affordability, with personalized support and fast filing speeds.

Ultimately, the choice between the two platforms depends on factors such as the specific needs of your business, budget considerations, and preference for additional services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is ZenBusiness a year?

ZenBusiness offers yearly pricing plans starting at $0 plus state fees for the Starter package and going up to $349 per year plus state fees for the Premium package.

Do I have to pay ZenBusiness every year?

Yes, you’ll need to pay ZenBusiness annually if you choose ongoing service packages like Pro or Premium.

Is ZenBusiness better than LegalZoom?

It depends on your needs. ZenBusiness is often praised for affordability and service, but LegalZoom may have features better suited for certain businesses.

Can I cancel my LLC with ZenBusiness?

Yes, you can cancel your LLC with ZenBusiness. Contact their customer support for guidance – you may need to change the registered agent on your business filing with your Secretary of State to complete account cancellation.

Conclusion: Is ZenBusiness Legit?

ZenBusiness is a legit service to help you register your new company as a legal entity. If you want help with this, then I say they’re definitely worth considering. However, keep in mind there are tons of competitors out there and always do your research.

If you opt for do-it-yourself business registration, at least check out ZenBusiness’ educational resources – they have a pretty robust knowledge base for people who are new to business.

In all, this is a pretty cool offer, and I don’t see any major red flags that would make me want to tell you to steer clear.

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