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Incorporation is the process of legally creating a corporate entity, which can be a separate legal entity from its owners, with its own rights and responsibilities. As a business owner, incorporation can offer you a range of benefits, including limited liability protection, tax advantages, and increased credibility. However, there are also various considerations and requirements that you need to be aware of when incorporating your business.
The first step for business owners is to decide what type of corporation to form. In general, there are two main types of corporations: C corporations and S corporations. C corporations are subject to corporate income tax, while S corporations are not taxed at the corporate level, but rather have their income and losses passed through to their shareholders to report on their personal income tax returns.
Thursday, March 20th
The business formation services offered by Bizee (formerly Incfile) have been utilized by more than a million entrepreneurs throughout all 50 states to incorporate their companies. The company's founders have firsthand experience in starting a thriving business, having accomplished this feat without any assistance from big-money investors. Therefore, when Bizee promises "Zero dollars, zero hassle, zero catch," you can rest assured that they are true to their word.
Three options to choose from - starting at $0 fees
Bizee has three incorporation packages to choose from, and we're pleased to announce that this company now offers a no-fee service (aside from the state filing fee). Here is a breakdown of what you will receive with Bizee's three service tiers:
You get a lot at no cost
All incorporation services at Bizee come with a complimentary year of registered agent service, followed by an annual fee of $119. You'll also receive a free tax consultation and filing date reminders for life. Bizee offers excellent value to all its clients by providing complimentary perks, regardless of the package selected. You can choose the services you require either through a package or by selecting from Bizee's a la carte options.
BBB updating their score
At the time of this review, Bizee's listing with the Better Business Bureau was "Not Rated" as the BBB was in the process of updating its information. Although we are unsure if this represents a positive or negative development, Bizee maintained an average customer rating of 4.77/5 across 2,100+ entries with the BBB. This, despite having approximately three dozen complaints filed over the three-year period leading up to this review.
Hard to beat nearly 40,000 five-star reviews
Still, we believe that Bizee's reputation is trustworthy, even while the BBB updates its listing. Additionally, with over 38,000 five-star reviews found elsewhere, it's safe to conclude that Bizee is a reliable choice for incorporating your business. Clients have reported that utilizing Bizee was the best decision they could have made, describing the process as seamless, easy, hassle-free, and uncomplicated. This level of customer satisfaction is hard to beat.
Best pick for incorporating your company
While there are numerous options available for incorporating your business, Bizee stands out as the best choice for providing the most comprehensive services at an affordable price, and for having the largest number of satisfied clients among all the providers we evaluated. One of the things that we appreciate most about Bizee is its transparent pricing and the inclusion of complimentary features such as one year of registered agent service, which is often an additional expense with other providers. Above all, the company's commitment to customer satisfaction has resulted in tens of thousands of five-star reviews from happy customers. When it comes to company incorporation, Bizee should be your go-to choice.
Is incorporating your company on a budget important to you? Look no further than Inc Authority. With over 30 years of experience and thousands of satisfied clients, this service offers a $0 fee incorporation package, which includes features that other providers often charge for. Keep in mind that state filing fees still apply, but that doesn't stop Inc Authority from being a budget-friendly and reliable option to incorporate your business.
Amazing perks - included for free
You should be impressed with what Inc Authority offers in every company incorporation package, no fees required. That list includes:
And, during our most recent visit, this provider was also giving all services free 24-hour processing. However, that was designated as a limited-time offer, so it might not be in place at the time you choose to incorporate your company.
You'll have to call for package costs
As you work your way through the process of setting up your incorporation, you'll be offered several a la carte services. This includes designating Inc Authority as your registered agent (though it's free for your first year and then $179/year thereafter), obtaining an EIN (also free at the time of this review), custom bylaws ($89), and so on. If you're interested in additional features beyond the free incorporation service, Inc Authority offers Starter or Fast Track Business Bundles that group multiple services together. However, pricing for these packages is not available online and requires a phone call to speak with one of their Business Startup Experts. While this may be inconvenient for some, it allows for personalized guidance in selecting the right package for your specific needs.
Stunning number of five-star reviews
Inc Authority was among the pioneers in offering free incorporation services, and it's easy to see why it has become such a hit with entrepreneurs. With over 20,000 clients giving it a perfect five-star rating, this service is widely recognized for being reliable, transparent, and, most importantly, affordable. Customers have raved about how Inc Authority has made the process of starting a business hassle-free and one even referred to it as "taking the pain out of starting a new business." We were particularly impressed with the number of clients who reported using Inc Authority for years for various business needs, with consistently excellent service and pricing.
Excellent for company incorporation
If you're looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option for company incorporation, Inc Authority is a great choice. With their no-fee service, exceptional support, and thousands of positive reviews, it's clear that this service has earned its reputation as a top provider in the industry. While other providers may offer more features at a lower cost, Inc Authority stands out for its simplicity, ease of use, and overall value. We highly recommend Inc Authority as one of the best options for incorporating your business.
My Company Works, previously identified as My New Company, has been offering incorporation and LLC formation services for over two decades. They have supported more than 50,000 companies in expanding their enterprises. Although they do not have as many clients as some of our top-ranked services, they are widely regarded as a reliable and experienced partner for entrepreneurs seeking to establish their business as a corporation.
Use the Startup Wizard for preliminary advice
We strongly recommend utilizing My Company Works' Startup Wizard, an exceptional online tool that guides you through the essential steps required to keep your business compliant with legal requirements. This valuable resource provides weekly email reminders, downloadable PDFs, and progress tracking, ensuring you stay on track and fulfill all necessary obligations. The Startup Wizard is a unique feature that sets My Company Works apart from other incorporation services we evaluated, making it a great value-added service for small business owners.
Pricing has improved
My Company Works decreased its prices since our previous assessment, which can be beneficial for those looking to start a business. The Basic package is now priced at $59, Entrepreneur at $179, and Complete at $259. Each of these tiers offers a variety of features and services for incorporation.
Getting more for your money
When you compare the features of My Company Works to some rival packages, you'll soon see that you get more for your money here - especially when compared with options that are "free” but you wind up paying for all of the extras you need to add for a complete incorporation experience.
Clients love the incorporation service here
Rest assured, My Company Works has an outstanding reputation. It has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has received an "A+" rating from them. Moreover, over 3500 satisfied clients have left glowing five-star reviews, commending the service for its ease and simplicity in company incorporation. Customers have also praised the knowledgeable and patient support representatives who have helped them through the process. This is a great feature for anyone feeling apprehensive about the incorporation process.
Satisfaction guaranteed in the first 90 days
Uncertain if My Company Works is the right fit for you? Don't worry: they offer an impressive satisfaction guarantee. You have up to 90 days from the date of purchase to request a full refund if you are not satisfied with their incorporation services. Alternatively, they are willing to work with you to resolve any issues and ensure that you are happy with their services. It is important to note that any fees paid to the government or third-party vendors are non-refundable. Overall, My Company Works' commitment to customer satisfaction is praiseworthy.
Strong choice for incorporation
My Company Works receives a strong recommendation from us. Not only have they lowered their prices, but they have also maintained their high level of service. The Startup Wizard alone is worth a visit, as it provides exceptional value to small business owners. Additionally, with their BBB accreditation and 90-day satisfaction guarantee, you can feel confident in your decision to use their incorporation services.
FileNow is committed to providing a hassle-free and simple incorporation process. Their expert team reviews everything, ensuring an error-free experience; if not, they offer a money-back guarantee. While being less experienced than some of the companies we've evaluated, FileNow has an excellent reputation for being transparent about fees and features. Don't let its newness deter you.
Look for pop-up discount
Recently, when we visited the FileNow website, a pop-up appeared offering a 10% discount if we provided our name and email address. Although we weren't too fond of the "offer expires in 15 minutes" countdown timer, we would certainly deal with it to save some money, especially on the higher-priced incorporation services.
Big features, small fees
However, you may not need a significant discount to incorporate affordably with FileNow. Compared to its competitors, FileNow offers one of the best prices while providing many features that other companies may charge for separately or require a more expensive plan. FileNow has two plans available: Starter ($49 or $74 + state fees) and Premium ($199 or $224 + state fees). Those prices vary based on whether you're choosing to incorporate as a C-Corp or S-Corp. Both plans include these features:
At the Premium level, your service will also include a year of free registered agent service (priced at $119 annually after that), EIN/tax ID, corporation bylaws, banking resolution, business contract templates, and 24-hour order processing.
Impressive client feedback
FileNow has an impeccable reputation with an "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. Over 95% of its clients rate the service with 4 or 5 stars. Clients have praised the service for being easy to use and affordable. Additionally, customer support is readily accessible through various channels, including live chat, email, and phone. It's difficult to find any significant complaints about FileNow's incorporation service.
A surefire way to incorporate your company
If you're looking for an affordable and hassle-free way to incorporate, FileNow is the perfect solution. You'll get the same or even more features than other providers at a more reasonable price, and with a great reputation to back it up. Why pay almost twice as much with another provider? FileNow should definitely be on your list of options when incorporating your company.
CorpNet is an ideal choice for small business owners who want an incorporation partner that has a firsthand understanding of what it takes to start a business from scratch. This company was established in 1997 by an entrepreneurial couple who still maintain a client-centric approach to customer service. If you have any questions before getting started, you can even schedule a free initial consultation directly through the CorpNet website.
3 package options for incorporation of all types
Whether you're trying to incorporate as a C-Corp, S-Corp, Non-Profit or Professional corporation, you've got three packages to choose from at CorpNet. Take a look at what's included:
Extra fees could catch you by surprise
It's important to note that CorpNet's registered agent service comes with a yearly fee of $149 once the free trial period ends. Additionally, we observed that CorpNet's filing fees for our state were higher than what we were quoted by other providers. It's worth mentioning that there's also a shipping and handling fee of $29 included in every business formation package with CorpNet. You can also choose a la carte services at checkout, like filing your annual report with the state for $89, a business license research package for $349, and expedited processing.
Top-notch reputation and refund policy
CorpNet is a real crowd-pleaser: with over 750 ratings and 98% of them being 4- or 5-stars, it's clear that CorpNet is doing something right. Customers have nothing but nice things to say about the reps, who are helpful, patient, and knowledgeable. They even go so far as to call the entire company a "lifesaver" (not the kind that freshens your breath, unfortunately). And, if for some reason you're not 100% satisfied with your company incorporation experience, CorpNet has your back with a 60-day refund policy (minus any third-party fees, of course).
You might not mind spending a little more here
CorpNet may not have the lowest prices, but it certainly has a loyal customer base who rave about its top-notch customer service. While their pricing may be a bit higher than some competitors, it's worth the extra expense to have the peace of mind of knowing you'll be well taken care of. That's why we still consider CorpNet to be a great option for incorporation despite the higher cost.
Swyft Filings has been facilitating the paperwork for entrepreneurs and small business owners since 2015, helping more than 300,000 businesses start their journey doing what they love. Whether it's forming non-profits, S- and C-Corporations, or LLCs, Swyft Filings has got you covered.
Pricing details not revealed until the end
Swyft Filings offers a range of additional services that you can choose to include when incorporating your company, but the pricing for these services isn't disclosed until the end of the process. While they do a decent job of explaining each service, we prefer the approach taken by some competitors who offer package pricing upfront. Among Swyft Filings' add-on services are registered agent services and a Business Licenses and Compliance Package, which costs $99.
Just $49 for basic incorporation service
Once you complete the Q&A process with Swyft Filings, you'll be presented with their three package options. All packages include name availability verification, preparation of articles of incorporation, filing of your documents with the Secretary of State, Statement of the Organizer, lifetime customer support via phone and email, and a free domain name. The Basic package is an outstanding value at only $49 plus state filing fees, especially when compared to other incorporation services.
Enhanced services for $149 (Standard) or $299 (Premium)
Upgrade to Swyft Filings' Standard plan for $149 and you'll receive additional services, such as obtaining an EIN, a customized banking resolution, corporation meeting minutes, and custom corporation bylaws. But if you want all the bells and whistles, the Premium plan at $299 includes everything in the Basic and Standard plans, as well as a customized digital corporate kit, expedited filing time, and FedEx delivery.
Clients are happy with the incorporation service here
Swyft Filings boasts an almost flawless reputation in the incorporation service industry. With nearly 6000 reviews on Trustpilot, the company scores an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Even the latest feedback, particularly regarding incorporation, was overwhelmingly positive. Clients raved about the fast and responsive service, the representatives' knowledge and problem-solving skills, and the easy-to-use and efficient process to incorporate their company.
The BBB gives this company an "F”?!
So far, so good. However, upon examining Swyft Filings' profile on the Better Business Bureau, we were taken aback by the "F" rating, which was not in line with the thousands of positive client reviews found elsewhere. The BBB listed 165 complaints filed, 4 of which had gone unresolved and 7 that had received no response. If you're considering using Swyft Filings for your incorporation, we recommend reading through the complaints on the BBB website and determining if they raise any concerns in your specific situation. We found that Swyft Filings had provided detailed responses to most complaints, and that some issues arose due to clients misunderstanding the service, what they signed up for, and what the emails from Swyft Filing indicated would take place in their future billing.
You could wind up spending a lot more for related services
Swyft Filings' $99 quarterly subscription for registered agent service is quite pricey compared to other incorporation providers in our review that charge the same amount for an annual plan. If you choose to use Swyft Filings and want to avoid overspending on this aspect of your business, you may want to consider appointing someone else to handle it. Additionally, be aware that you will be automatically subscribed to their ComplianceGuard service with a 14-day free trial, but it will renew at $149/year unless you opt out during the checkout process.
Good overall - but watch out for billing specifics
After considering the numerous five-star ratings from happy customers, we are giving Swyft Filings our four-star review for their company incorporation services. The platform offers great value for money, and many clients report a positive experience. However, it's important to keep in mind the potential for auto-renewal charges and carefully uncheck them during sign-up if necessary, making it more likely that you'll be completely satisfied with the incorporation process at Swyft Filings.
Business Rocket is a company that specializes in assisting entrepreneurs and businesses with the incorporation process. Their services include legal aid, business registration, and tax compliance, with the goal of streamlining the process and helping businesses get up and running quickly and effectively. Business Rocket also offers ongoing support to their clients to ensure they remain compliant with legal and regulatory obligations as their business expands.
Incorporation packages priced from $49 to $254
Business Rocket provides a variety of incorporation packages that include preparation of organizational documents, filing and activation with the state, and lifetime compliance guard to alert you of any state or federal renewal requirements. Plus, all packages come with the first year of registered agent services, which costs $149 per year thereafter. Here are the company incorporation options available from Business Rocket:
5-star reviews despite no BBB rating
When we looked into Business Rocket, we were surprised to find that the Better Business Bureau did not have enough information to provide a rating. However, on Trustpilot, we found over 900 reviews that dated back at least 3 years, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. More than 95% of clients recommended the service and praised the efficiency of the process and the helpfulness of the customer service team. While there were some negative experiences, most of the complaints seemed to come from overseas clients who had trouble connecting during business hours in their own time zone.
Could do better providing company background
What's missing from Business Rocket? Besides a BBB rating, the company's refund policy or satisfaction guarantee is unclear. Despite high client ratings, having these policies in writing would be reassuring. Additionally, more information about the company's team, such as the CEO and other members, would be helpful for business owners looking to trust the incorporation service. Though the website features testimonials dating back to the early 2010s, the lack of recent feedback raises questions about the company's current performance.
Might not be a bad way to incorporate your business
We have awarded Business Rocket a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, with some caution due to the lack of information about the company. While we would feel more comfortable with more background details and a satisfaction guarantee, the nearly flawless ratings on Trustpilot are encouraging. If you don't find a suitable option among the better-documented and higher-ranked incorporation services in our evaluation, it may be worth considering Business Rocket as a viable choice.
For over two decades, MyCorporation has been helping small businesses get off the ground. This California-based incorporation service focuses on meeting the needs of new and growing companies, as reflected in its tagline: "Entrepreneurs welcome."
A little more expensive now
MyCorporation offers four incorporation packages with prices that have increased over the past few years. Here is an overview of their fees at the time of this review:
Pay attention to services with auto-renewing fees
Optional services like rush filing ($100), EIN ($79), and customized corporate minutes and bylaws ($59) can be added at checkout. However, MyCorporation's use of annual fees that auto-renew can be a bit tricky as the company does not clearly disclose the costs of these fees on its pricing page or during checkout. Despite trying to inquire about the recurring fees through live chat during regular business hours, we were not able to get a response. It was only in the Payment and Billing FAQs that we discovered the requirement to cancel in writing at least 30 days prior to the next renewal term.
Clients are typically satisfied
The ratings and reviews for MyCorporation varied depending on the source we consulted. On their incorporation package pricing page, it received a perfect 5/5 rating based on 61 reviews, while on their homepage, it linked to an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 150 reviews (though it only showed 135 ratings when clicked on). Third-party site Trustpilot also gave MyCorporation a solid 4-star average rating out of five across 245 client ratings, and most of the feedback regarding incorporation was positive. The BBB also gave MyCorporation an "A+” rating.
Good enough for most incorporation needs
In general, MyCorporation is a satisfactory choice for incorporating your company. However, we advise you to be cautious of the auto-renewal functions, particularly if you choose a plan that includes them, and to keep track not only of the renewal fees but also of the 30-day cancellation deadline if you opt to terminate the service. While the majority of its customers consistently praise the service, MyCorporation is still placed in the middle of our rankings as a recommended incorporation company.
BizFilings is a pioneer in the online incorporation space, having been founded in 1996 and later becoming a part of Wolters Kluwer's CT Corporation. With over 500,000 filings under its belt, this business formation service has helped entrepreneurs and business owners of all company sizes.
Take advantage of free tools
On BizFilings' homepage, you can find several useful tools that can assist you before and after you incorporate your company. One of our top recommendations is the Incorporation Wizard, which can help you determine whether forming an LLC or a corporation is the best option for your business. Additionally, you can utilize the License Wizard to check whether your specific business will require any licenses or permits, or compare various business types.
Helpful and direct
It's commendable that BizFilings is transparent with its pricing, and customers won't encounter any surprise fees during checkout. What's more, the incorporation service offers lifetime protection against any filing defects. This means that if there's a mistake on BizFilings' part, the company will take care of any necessary fees or costs to rectify the error quickly. To ensure compliance and keep track of important filing deadlines, customers can use the web-based platform, BizComply, and gain access to a library of resources on company incorporation for further guidance.
Incorporation costs more here
BizFilings' incorporation services are notably more expensive than its competitors. For instance, the Basic package costs $99, while many competitors offer the same service for less than $50, such as business name verification, preparation, and filing of all documents. The Standard package, priced at $229, offers a customizable library of incorporation forms, such as sample bylaws, a Compliance Kit & Seal, and expedited processing. The BizFilings Complete package, which includes EIN obtainment, a compliance DVD, expedited processing, and overnight shipping, costs $359. Other services can be chosen as a la carte options, such as Payroll Tax Registration or rush filing in your state. Keep in mind that BizFilings' fees may vary by state, with slight differences bringing the Basic package up to $174 and the Complete package up to $434. You'll also pay a little more at the Complete level if you're going for an S-Corp instead of a C-Corp or non-profit.
Registered agent services are free - but only for three months
Although BizFilings claims to have "no hidden fees,” some customers have complained about an included service that they found sneaky. The service in question is the three months of free Registered Agent Service that comes with every business formation package. While the free service may sound like a good deal, customers are unable to opt out of it even if they would rather use a different registered agent. After the three months are up, the annual fee for this service is $220. Although this information is not exactly hidden, it is not immediately visible either, and customers must click on the plus sign to expand the details of this component of their incorporation package. No wonder so many clients miss it.
More feedback from clients would be helpful
When it comes to reputation, BizFilings leaves us somewhat puzzled. With over 500,000 filings, we anticipated that there would be a plethora of customer reviews. However, we struggled to locate more than a few. Even on the Better Business Bureau listing, where the firm has an "A+" rating and accreditation, there were no reviews and just two complaints filed in the last three years. Trustpilot, Google, and other sites where we usually find customer feedback for incorporation services were all devoid of reviews.
Room for improvement
While BizFilings is a reputable incorporation service, it falls short when compared to its competitors due to its higher fees and mandatory registered agent services. The lack of substantial client feedback on various review platforms is also a reason for our "just average” rating. Though this isn't exactly a bad choice for company incorporation, there are better options available. If BizFilings can address these issues, it has the potential to climb up in our rankings.
Rocket Lawyer is an online platform that provides affordable legal services to individuals and small businesses. Their services include creating legal documents like wills, contracts, and business formation documents. In addition, Rocket Lawyer offers legal plans that provide users with discounted legal services and access to attorney consultations. The company was established in 2008 and is based in San Francisco, California.
Pricing info upfront, please?
It would be more convenient if Rocket Lawyer made its pricing clear instead of requiring business owners to go through the entire incorporation question-and-answer process to discover it. During the process, you'll need to specify whether you want any add-ons, such as obtaining a federal tax ID for $59.99, a personalized corporate kit and seal for $104.99, or designating Rocket Lawyer as your registered agent for $149 per year (or $111.99 if you're a Rocket Lawyer subscriber).
Rush processing might not actually be an option
The pricing options for Rocket Lawyer's rush and standard filing services were confusing as both were priced at $70 (excluding state fees) and estimated to take 15-20 business days for processing. This made it appear that there was no option for expedited processing in the state, even though competitors offered such services. It remains unclear what the situation is with Rocket Lawyer's supposed-but-not-really rush filing service.
It takes a membership to get best pricing
Upon completing the sign-up process, you'll have the option to become a member of Rocket Lawyer's services. The membership comes with a 7-day free trial and will renew at $39.99 per month. This might be worthwhile if you plan on using Rocket Lawyer for other legal documents, want access to a network of attorneys for legal advice, or want those discounted registered agent services we mentioned. Alternatively, you can choose to proceed with company incorporation without the membership.
Sorely lacking in details
Rocket Lawyer charges non-subscribers $99.99 for their incorporation service, but they don't provide a detailed list of what is included. Additionally, they don't offer any service tiers to choose from. This lack of transparency puts them at a disadvantage compared to other company incorporation options that clearly outline their packages and pricing.
Hard to find feedback about incorporation service
Although Rocket Lawyer has a solid reputation with an "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, it is difficult to find specific feedback from clients who have used the service to incorporate their business. This information isn't available on Rocket Lawyer's website or on any of the third-party sites we surveyed. Despite the positive overall rating, the lack of specific feedback makes it challenging to evaluate Rocket Lawyer's incorporation features.
Not a top pick for most clients
Ultimately, Rocket Lawyer's incorporation services fall short when compared to its competitors in terms of clarity and comprehensiveness. While the company can be a good choice for those seeking a one-stop-shop for legal documents and advice for both personal and business needs, there are better options available for incorporating a company.
Harbor Compliance was founded in 2012 by a team of experts in government licensing and technology. Since then, the company has become a leading provider of compliance solutions for businesses of all sizes and industries. With over 35,000 clients served, Harbor Compliance has helped companies obtain, protect, and manage licenses.
Incorporation service starts at $99
Harbor Compliance advertises a starting fee of $99, but the actual cost of their services will only be revealed after you answer a series of questions. For our business location, we were quoted $99 for checking name availability and preparing and filing articles of incorporation. Harbor Compliance also offers registered agent services for an annual fee of $99, which is more affordable compared to some competitors. Other services include obtaining an EIN for $99 and bylaws for $99.
Improved pricing
While it is possible to get your incorporation done for under $100 with Harbor Compliance, compared to other companies they may seem expensive, especially for additional services that are often included in a package elsewhere. However, they have significantly reduced their pricing from their previous packages priced at $399 and $799, which makes them more comparable to their rivals.
Comes with support after you incorporate
Once your company is incorporated, Harbor Compliance will review your compliance status and recommend any regulatory filings that may be necessary in your state for companies similar to yours. However, the company doesn't provide a lot of information on its incorporation page about what those services might entail. In the past, these services were included in the comprehensive packages that the company offered, but now clients have the option to pay for only the services they need. While we appreciate the flexibility this new pricing structure offers, it's important to note that the details of Harbor Compliance's post-formation support are not clearly outlined.
Client feedback is declining
During our research, we noticed that Harbor Compliance's client feedback has declined since our last review. Although there are still satisfied clients who commend the customer service and attention to detail, there are also an equal number of clients who report that their Harbor reps were unreliable, and processes that were supposed to take weeks took months to complete. We suggest checking out the Google ratings link that is conveniently provided on Harbor Compliance's incorporation homepage, and focus on the most recent reviews at that time. During this review, Harbor Compliance maintained an "A+" rating and accreditation from BBB, so any of those issues we found mentioned outside of the BBB may not be widespread enough to significantly affect their reputation there.
Not our favorite choice for company incorporation
Despite Harbor Compliance's efforts to become more affordable, their reliability has suffered, leading us to drop them in our rankings. While some clients have had positive experiences with the company's attention to detail and customer service, others have had negative experiences, including long delays and dropped communication. One reviewer even suggested that Harbor Compliance focuses on pleasing a select few clients while neglecting others. While Harbor Compliance still holds an "A+" rating and BBB accreditation, we cannot overlook the mixed customer feedback to be able to recommend them as highly as other incorporation services.
LegalZoom has been providing affordable self-guided services for legal documents since 1999, serving over four million customers. Their extensive range of forms covers a wide variety of topics, including LLC formation and incorporation for businesses, as well as personal documents like wills and estate plans.
No free incorporation services here, sorry
We were surprised to see how drastically LegalZoom's pricing differs when comparing LLC formation and incorporation services: most of the platforms we evaluated offered the same fees regardless of the business formation type. Not here. Unlike many rivals, LegalZoom has zero no-cost options for incorporating your company. You'll pay at least $149 plus state fees if you opt to use this service.
3 packages on offer
So, what will you pay with LegalZoom's incorporation packages? Every plan comes with comprehensive name search and business entity filing, LZ's professional Peace of Mind Review to double-check your paperwork, a tax savings consultation (30 minutes), digital welcome packet with your Articles of Incorporation and detailed instructions post-formation, 7-days-a-week customer support for the lifetime of your corporation, and a customizable website powered by Wix. That's all you'll get when you choose the economy package at $149.
Upgrades are spendy
Upgrading to Standard ($329) means you'll also get a deluxe founder's kit and a personalized notebook. For what it's worth, we're not sure that's worth paying almost double. Or, go all the way with LegalZoom's Express Gold ($349), but the only benefit is expedited processing and shipping.
60 days to request a refund
LegalZoom provides a 60-day satisfaction guarantee for their services to ensure customer satisfaction. However, there are exceptions to this guarantee, such as third-party fees that have already been paid on your behalf (such as state filing fees for incorporation) or if LegalZoom has already submitted your paperwork.
Red flags
LegalZoom has earned an excellent reputation with an "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. Thousands of reviews on Trustpilot have resulted in an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Despite this, we are hesitant to recommend LegalZoom for incorporation services due to a concerning number of complaints from clients about delays, unhelpful phone support, and even representatives hanging up on customers.
Clients are happy - unless they use the business formation services here
We came across a significant percentage of these complaints while reviewing LegalZoom's services on the BBB listing and Trustpilot, with many of them specifically mentioning issues with the business formation services here. Even though LegalZoom offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, clients seem to either love or hate the service, and positive reviews on LegalZoom's overall performance don't mitigate the prevalence of negative feedback regarding incorporation and LLC formation.
We don't recommend LegalZoom for incorporating your business
As a result of the concerning feedback from clients and numerous complaints regarding business formation services, LegalZoom has experienced a significant drop in our rankings. For a more reliable option, we recommend choosing a competing service that has a consistent record of positive feedback from clients, particularly in regards to company incorporation, and avoiding LegalZoom.
Founded in 2001, FindLegalForms was established by two California-based attorneys who recognized the need for affordable and easily accessible legal forms for individuals, including wills and powers of attorney.
Print from home
Their solution was to create a website where customers could conveniently find and print the necessary forms from home, saving them a significant amount of money compared to hiring a lawyer. The website offers a wide range of legal forms that are regularly reviewed and updated by lawyers specializing in state-specific laws. With over 3.5 million people having used this site, customers can trust that the legal forms they access are valid and meet state requirements.
Low-cost access to all necessary incorporation documents
FindLegalForms is a suitable choice if you're seeking affordable incorporation services. They offer individual forms for as low as $7.99 up to $19.99, based on the type of document required. These include documents for Business Plans, Resolutions, Share Purchase Agreements, Stock Certificates and Ballots, and many others.
Best pricing is the combo package
But, instead of buying each incorporation document a la carte, you should consider FindLegalForms' combo package that includes 10 popular forms:
Preview any document you need
FindLegalForms provides a preview sample and detailed explanation for all of its company incorporation documents. When you purchase a form through their website, you can download it in multiple formats (such as PDF or .doc) and as many times as you need. Additionally, eSignature is included in the purchase price at no extra cost.
Reputation isn't an issue
FindLegalForms has a "A+" rating with the Better Business Bureau, which is a testament to its reputation. Additionally, there have been no complaints filed against the company with the BBB. Furthermore, FindLegalForms provides a 60-day money-back guarantee, giving customers additional peace of mind.
Just bare bones of DIY incorporation, no support offered
If you require expert assistance or have intricate legal requirements, FindLegalForms may not be the ideal solution for you. The forms available on this website do not offer solutions to questions that may arise during the incorporation process. In such scenarios, it may be preferable to choose a provider that provides various service packages and personalized support. Most customers searching for an incorporation service desire more than just a do-it-yourself packet of documents to fill out, which is all that FindLegalForms offers.
Solid company but lackluster incorporation service
While FindLegalForms is a reliable service, it falls short compared to other company incorporation providers that offer more comprehensive support. If you wind up needing more personalized guidance or have complex legal needs, you should go with a platform offering different service packages and expert assistance. Although FindLegalForms may be suitable for simpler tasks, like creating a will or a bill of sale, it may not be the best option for the incorporation of your business. It's essential to choose a well-rounded platform that provides expert assistance to ensure that your incorporation process runs smoothly and to avoid potential mistakes, so take a look at the top-rated providers in our evaluation instead of FindLegalForms.
Once the type of corporation has been decided, you'll need to follow the legal requirements for incorporation, which vary depending on the state in which your corporation is formed. Some of the common requirements include filing articles of incorporation, appointing a board of directors, holding annual meetings, and maintaining corporate records.
So, once you've determined that you want to incorporate, what's next? You could jump in and try to wade through all of the requirements and paperwork on your own - or you could take advantage of a service that can do all of the heavy lifting for you, often at no cost beyond what you'll pay to file your paperwork in your state. Hmmm, do it yourself for free or have someone else do it for free? Easy choice.
When it comes to choosing a service for incorporating your company, it's crucial to get it right on the first try. The process can be complex, so it's important to keep some key factors in mind when deciding how to proceed with your business. Here are some of the criteria to consider when taking the next step:
At Top Consumer Reviews, we understand that company incorporation can be a crucial step in safeguarding your personal assets and limiting your liability as a business owner. To assist you in this process, we have assessed and ranked the most widely used incorporation services. With the help of our comprehensive reviews, we are confident that you will find the right provider to guide you through this important step.
Perhaps you've been in business for a while and feel you want to formalize your status, legally and otherwise. Perhaps your business has been local to date, but you are looking toward operating in more than one state. Maybe you are competing with larger companies in the same niche and feel a change in legal status will bump up your credibility. Or maybe you just like the sound of the syllable "Inc." after your business name.
There are myriad answers to the question, "Why should you incorporate your business." Following are just a few:
Protect Your Assets
If you've owned a sole proprietorship, you know all too well that not only does the buck stop with you relative to operations, you're also on the hot seat when it comes to financial and legal complications that may arise. If a sole proprietorship stumbles under the weight of excessive debt or is taken to court, it's the proprietor's personal as well as business assets that
are at
risk. A corporation is a legal entity all its own. If your company faces legal issues or cannot meets its obligations, your personal assets do not come into play.
Gain Tax Advantages
When you incorporate your business, the IRS allows you to get a tax ID number for your business, establishing its status as a separate entity relative to tax liability. In fact, a corporation files its own tax return -- paying taxes on its profits -- at a complete remove from your individual return.
Separate tax identity alone can be enough justification for some to incorporate their businesses. Keep in mind, though, that when you incorporate, you and any other owners also become shareholders. If your company distributes dividends, you must pay taxes on that dividend income when you file your personal return.
Formalize Status
When you incorporate, you must make your business known to state, and sometimes local, authorities. Regulation specifics vary by state, but nearly universally, you must file articles of incorporation with your state's Secretary of State's office. In addition, you will have to create and record by-laws. Moreover, you'll have to set up a calendar of regular shareholder meetings;
the
minutes from those meetings must be recorded and kept on file at your company. The shareholders are required to elect a board of directors who must also meet regularly to make important decisions about the firm. Not surprisingly, establishing a corporate structure typically requires engaging the services of a lawyer or law firm.
Make a Name (or Two) for Yourself: State and Local Recognition
One key step toward incorporation is filing a business name with state and/or local authorities. If you want to do business under more than one name, you'll also need to file one or more fictitious business name statements. For example, if your company is called Snow Corporation, and you want to sell skis under the name "Speed
Plus
Company," you have to submit the appropriate paperwork to the relevant authorities.
Raising Capital
Finally, incorporating your business makes it possible to raise capital by selling shares to stockholders. Relying solely on bank or personal loans or company profits for financing will be a thing of the past.
The decision to incorporate should be a deliberate one. The administrative costs alone should be enough to deter you from entering into this new status lightly. Should you decide to take the plunge, incorporating could be a crucial step in your company's journey.
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