5 Best LLC Services in California 2023

* This article does not provide financial advice. Please seek help from a financial advisor if you need financial assistance. 

(Ad) Are you looking for the most reliable  professional LLC formation service at the best price?

LLC formation services not only form your LLC—many also bundle free registered agent services, EINs, and operating agreements in their packages.

We’ll help you find the best LLC service in California and the right formation package for your unique business.

Recommended: Northwest ($29 + state fees) is our top choice for reliability and value

Top California LLC formation services

California LLC professional services:

1. Northwest (top ranked)
2. LegalZoom
3. ZenBusiness
4. Tailor Brands
5. Incfile

1. Best for customer service and value: Northwest

Why we chose it: Northwest took our number one position for exceptional customer service and value. When opting for an LLC formation package with Northwest, you gain access to its knowledgeable and responsive support team. Northwest’s corporate guides include individuals with backgrounds as paralegals, accountants, advisors, educators, lawyers, and business founders.

With Northwest’s basic package, you’ll get a complimentary operating agreement and free registered agent service for the first year. If you want to extend the registered agent service, it’s available for $125 annually after the first free year.

Northwest is best for small businesses that need to start their LLC affordably, professionally, and quickly.

PROS

• Complimentary registered agent service for the first year after LLC formation
• Free operating agreement
• Expert support team
• Positive customer service feedback on major review platforms

• Address confidentiality keeps your details away from public view

CONS

• Doesn’t include a free EIN (you can still get this on your own for free)
• Doesn’t include access to a website builder

Several reviews for Northwest, on platforms like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau, highlight its exceptional customer assistance and streamlined LLC formation process. Yet, some pointed out that reaching a representative could sometimes be time-consuming.

Having been operational for over two decades and with a presence in every state, Northwest is a prominent name in LLC formation services. One of the factors contributing to Northwest’s success could be its 100% accuracy promise. Should there be any oversight by a Northwest professional, Northwest will undertake all the required corrections at no additional cost.

Northwest

Northwest provides personalized customer support and premium registered agent service at an excellent price.

FORM AN LLC WITH NORTHWEST.

$29 basic package (plus state fee) - Includes one free year of Registered Agent services

2. Top pick for legal solutions: LegalZoom

LegalZoom has been a cornerstone in the online legal services realm for years. Opting for an LLC package with it means tapping into its legal expertise pool with offerings tailored to cater to diverse business needs.

PROS

• Extensive experience with a recognized industry presence
• A comprehensive suite of LLC services, from basic formation to in-depth compliance
• A collection of educational resources for businesses
• Streamlined online platform for ease of use
• Free website builder tool with the basic package

CONS

• Some users highlight cost concerns compared to newer competitors.
• Customer feedback is varied, with some citing response time issues.

Platforms like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau often feature both praise for LegalZoom’s breadth of services and critiques concerning support delays or pricing. While sometimes on the higher end, its fees reflect its established brand and comprehensive legal offerings.

LegalZoom isn’t just about forming an LLC—it’s the best choice for small businesses needing an ongoing legal professional service. While the upfront cost might seem higher to some, many entrepreneurs recognize the value of accessing resources and support from a well-known entity in the legal realm.

LegalZoom

As one of the nation’s most well-known formation companies, LegalZoom offers attorney assistance and a reliable LLC formation service.

FORM AN LLC WITH LEGAL ZOOM.

$0 basic package (plus state fee)

3. Premium package options: ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is another player in business formation services. Over a few short years, it has carved out a space among startups and small businesses.

ZenBusiness doesn’t offer any perks with its $0 formation package. Still, it offers premium packages with all the extras, like a business email address, access to a free website builder tool, and complimentary domain registration.

If you want to bundle services, we recommend exploring ZenBusiness’s $199–349 package offerings more closely.

PROS

• Extensive premium package offerings
• User-friendly platform makes navigation and order placement straightforward.
• Feedback suggests timely filing in many cases.

CONS

• As a relatively new player, it might lack the depth of experience of industry giants.
• Some users have mentioned clarity issues with their package details.
• Customer support can vary in terms of responsiveness, based on some reviews.

On platforms like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau, ZenBusiness has received a mix of feedback. While many appreciate its cost-effective solutions and simplicity, there have been instances in which customers sought more clarity on services or experienced slower-than-expected response times.

ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a good service provider for business owners seeking a premium LLC formation package.

FORM AN LLC WITH ZEN BUSINESS.

$0 basic package (plus state fee)

4. Incfile

Incfile has positioned itself as a trusted ally to small business owners forming a limited liability company. Incfile is committed to affordability and transparency and strives to make the business registration process straightforward and hassle-free.

PROS

• Competitive pricing structures, including a free tier (with state fees) for basic LLC formation
• A clear breakdown of what each package includes ensures that entrepreneurs know exactly what they’re getting.
• Offerings extend beyond LLC formation to registered agent services, business banking solutions, and more.
• An intuitive online dashboard helps clients keep track of order status, compliance reminders, and important documents.

CONS

• Some users note an emphasis on add-on services, which can be overwhelming for newcomers.
• While many find its customer support helpful, there are reports of varying response times.

Customer feedback channels, such as Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau, are largely positive. The company’s emphasis on affordability and transparency resonates well with many entrepreneurs. However, as with most services, experiences can vary, with some users noting challenges in communication or clarity on additional services.

Incfile

Choose Incfile for a straightforward and transparent process.

FORM AN LLC WITH INCFILE.

$0 basic package (plus state fee)

5. One-stop shop for entrepreneurs: Tailor Brands

Tailor Brands sets itself apart from other LLC formation services by offering brand building, website creation, and LLC formation. Its goal is to help small business owners quickly launch their ventures by providing a one-stop shop. For business owners that need branding assistance and website help, Tailor Brands might be the best option.

Pros

• Create an LLC, build your website, and begin your social media marketing strategy all at once.

Cons

• Not the most budget-friendly choice for entrepreneurs that just need formation essentials
• Extra fees for essential features such as registered agent service

Elite plan features:

• LLC formation services
• Operating agreement
• Expedited processing
• Annual compliance
• Website builder
• Free domain for a year
• Logo maker
• Social media post maker
• Digital business card tool

In its small business owner toolkit, Tailor Brands is attempting to be the multi-functional legal tool every business owner keeps within arm’s reach. Trustpilot reviews are mixed—some offer excellent customer service while others find their customer support below average.

Tailor Brands

Tailor Brands offers a premium, one-stop-shop service for entrepreneurs to start a company and boost their online brand.

FORM AN LLC WITH TAILOR.

$0 basic package (plus state fee)

Our review methodology

The TRUiC team evaluates each formation service based on the following:

Pricing

As you’ve probably already noticed, pricing for LLC formation services can vary greatly from company to company. Some platforms charge extra for essential features like a registered agent service. Also, it’s best to choose a provider offering transparent pricing to avoid hidden expenses.

Features

Along with helping you register your company, many formation packages include other features and benefits, such as business website hosting, expedited filing, EIN/Tax ID numbers, and many more. It’s vital to consider your own unique entrepreneurial needs so you can get the support you need throughout the process.

User reviews

User reviews are the best available resource for evaluating the quality of a company formation service. To put together our list of the top LLC formation services in California, we considered reviews from business owners who have used the services in the past.

Customer support

If and when issues with your formation process arise, choosing a company that offers high-quality customer support is undoubtedly helpful. We analyzed user reviews and evaluated the quality of customer support provided by each service on our list.

Accessibility and user experience

A service needs to have a quick and streamlined checkout process to help save time for busy entrepreneurs. Additionally, the online dashboard for tracking your filing status and managing your venture should be as easy to use as possible. It should also offer accessibility features for users with disabilities, such as vision impairment.

How to form an LLC in California

You can start an LLC in California on your own in six simple steps:

1. Name your LLC.

You’ll need a name for your business before you form an LLC. Ensure that you follow the LLC naming rules outlined in the California naming requirements . Then, make sure the name you want isn’t already taken by doing a name search on the State of California website.

If you need help brainstorming a business name, use our LLC Name Generator .

2. Choose an agent for service of process.

In California, you’ll need to appoint an agent for service of process, known in many states as a registered agent. An agent for service of process receives notices of lawsuits brought against your company.

Learn more in our California agents for service of process guide.

3. File articles of organization.

To register your company, you must file Form LLC-1 - Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State. You can apply online, by mail, or in person.

For help completing the form, visit our California Articles of Organization guide.

4. File an Initial Statement of Information.

Within 90 days of formation, file the Initial Statement of Information with California’s Secretary of State. You can file this online, by mail, or in person, along with the $20 filing fee.

You can learn more about completing the Initial Statement of Information in our guide.

5. Write an operating agreement.

An operating agreement is a legal document that outlines the ownership structure and operating procedures of your enterprise, and every LLC should have one on hand.

Read more about California LLC operating agreements here.

6. Get an EIN.

You can think of an Employer Identification Number as a Social Security number for your venture. You’ll need an EIN to set up a business bank account and to hire employees.

You can an EIN free through the IRS website .

FAQ

How much does forming an LLC cost in California?

In California, the initial fee to form an LLC is $70. Additionally, there’s an annual minimum franchise tax. Some other costs, like the Statement of Information fee, might also apply, depending on the circumstances.

Is forming an LLC worth it in California?

For many, the benefits of an LLC, such as liability protection and potential tax advantages, outweigh the costs. However, California’s ongoing fees are higher than those of some states. If your business is more than a hobby or carries any risk, you must protect your personal assets with an LLC.

What is the best way to file an LLC in California?

You can file articles of organization (using Form LLC-1) with the California Secretary of State. This can be done online or via mail. Or, you can hire a service or attorney.

*This article is provided by an advertiser and not necessarily written by a financial advisor. Investors should do their own research on products and services and contact a  financial advisor before opening accounts or moving money. Individual results will vary. Foreign companies and investment opportunities may not provide the same safeguards as U.S. companies. Before engaging with a company, research the laws and the regulations around that service, and make certain the company is in compliance. For comprehensive guidance on U.S. investments and financial regulations, visit the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)’s Investor.gov.