Cheaper Alternatives To LegalZoom

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When most think about using a business formation service to help them start a business they think of LegalZoom (which can be a good choice). The thing is, there are numerous other great options out there that will accomplish the same goal and sometimes for much less (sometimes free). Find our picks below for the best free (and cheap) alternatives to LegalZoom

Best Free And Cheap Alternatives To LegalZoom

All of the alternatives shown above are showing the base pricing for LLC formation services. You will still be responsible for paying the state fee as well as other premium add-on services. Always compare the complete service and check reviews to make sure the alternative to LegalZoom is the right option and the cheapest option available.

ZenBusiness – Best Overall Alternative To LegalZoom

ZenBusiness Logo
Right now one of the most popular alternatives to LegalZoom is ZenBusiness. They’ve helped establish tens of thousands of new businesses and have great reviews just about anywhere you look.

Their basic business formation service starts at just $49 (billed annually) plus any fees charged by your state. This plan includes your business formation along with professional registered agent service, operating agreement template, and free accounting consultation. If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative that still accomplishes the same goal then this may be your best option.

Price: Starting At $0 + State Fees
Website: ZenBusiness.com

IncFile – Best Completely Free Alternative To LegalZoom

IncFile Logo
IncFile is going to be the number one choice for those looking to save money starting their business. Their incorporation service is free for the basic package and you only pay state fees. You can read our IncFile review to get more in-depth information about the service along with customer reviews.

The free package gives you the basics of forming your business legally in your state along with free professional registered agent services for a year and unlimited name searches. There are other services and plans available if you need other services while forming your business. IncFile is another great alternative to LegalZoom in just about every category of service they offer. The free plan option is our pick for those needing basic business formation at the best price.

Price: Starting At $0 + State Fees
Website: IncFile.com

SwyftFilings – Another Simple To Use Alternative

SwyftFilings
SwyftFilings is one of the lesser-known business formation companies, but their strong reviews and low pricing make it an alternative to LegalZoom. Their cheapest package, the “basic” package starts at $49 plus state fees. The basic package includes your business formation basics along with company name search, business tax consultation, lifetime customer support, ComplianceGuard company alerts, and a free domain name.

The overall price of the SwyftFilings basic package is one of the lower we’ve seen and it covers most of the basics. Most of the extras they charge for are things that the average business owner can figure out themselves instead of paying. This makes it one of the lower-priced options to get your business up and running legally.

Price: Starting At $49 + State Fees
Website: SwyftFilings.com

Inc Authority – A Lesser-Known Free Option

Inc Authority
Inc Authority is another free LLC formation option that competed with LegalZoom. They offer completely free LLC formation and all you have to do is pay the state filing fee. Just like other free LLC options you will have to watch for upsells that can raise the price, but if you need a super-simple LLC filed with some help then Inc Authority is another option.
Price: Starting At $0 + State Fees
Review: Inc Authority Review
Website: IncAuthority.com

Why Choose An Alternative To LegalZoom?

LegalZoom is probably the most well-known business formation service around. They have a good reputation and have helped form millions of businesses including some of our own. They’re a good choice for many customers who need certain services and help with certain aspects of forming a business.

The problem with LegalZoom for some potential customers is that it’s expensive for what you’re getting if you just need basic LLC formation services. A good number of state government websites have made the process much easier than in the past, so this means that some with basic knowledge of incorporation can probably just pay state fees and form their business on the state website. For others who may need a little help then choosing a low-cost service makes the most sense. The services for basic business formation are all nearly the same, so if you can find a service with good reviews and low prices then it can make much more sense.

Also Check Out: Free Texas LLC Formation Services

The prices for business formation at LegalZoom start at $79 but can quickly add up as you add other services you may need to start your business. The added services and bundled services happen with nearly every business formation, but LegalZoom doesn’t give nearly as many free services for your first year as the other providers mentioned. Most of the major business formation services give you a free registered agent for your first year along with other basic services to get your business started.

Another Alternative Comparison: Best Free Alternatives To IncFile

There are still many cases where LegalZoom may be your best option if you’re looking to form a business that may need a few more options or it’s slightly more complicated. For most new business owners you’re better off going with a simple service that gets your business started for the lowest possible price while still getting the job done without any hassle.