Starting a business is one of the most rewarding but challenging endeavors an entrepreneur can undertake. One of the first and most important steps in this journey is legally establishing your business entity. Whether you choose to form an LLC, corporation, or another structure, selecting the right online legal service can make all the difference. For many years, LegalZoom has been one of the most popular business formation platforms, but it is not always the most cost-effective or efficient choice. That’s why more business owners are now seeking out alternatives that provide better pricing, faster service, and improved customer support.
This guide takes a deep dive into the Top 5 LegalZoom Alternatives (Compared) for 2025. We’ll explore each provider in detail, breaking down their pricing, features, advantages, and disadvantages. Along the way, we’ll also provide a comparison chart, a look at DIY filing, and an FAQ section to address the most common questions entrepreneurs have about business formation services.
By the end of this article, you will not only understand the pros and cons of each LegalZoom competitor, but you will also be able to make a confident and informed decision about which one is right for your business.
Why Consider LegalZoom Alternatives?
LegalZoom is widely recognized, but popularity doesn’t always mean it’s the best choice. Many entrepreneurs report frustrations with pricing structures, hidden upsells, and slower-than-expected turnaround times. Here are the key reasons why exploring alternatives makes sense:
- Cost Savings: Competitors often provide the same services for much lower prices, with fewer hidden fees.
- Faster Turnaround: Many alternatives can process documents within a few days, compared to longer wait times with LegalZoom.
- Better Customer Support: Some competitors provide personalized service with dedicated representatives.
- Privacy Protections: Certain companies go the extra mile to protect customer data, something LegalZoom has been criticized for.
- Specialized Benefits: From compliance monitoring to ongoing legal assistance, different providers cater to different needs.
Our Evaluation Criteria
To fairly compare providers, we looked at several key categories:
- Pricing Transparency – Are the packages clear and affordable without excessive upselling?
- Registered Agent Services – Is it included, optional, or overpriced?
- Turnaround Speed – How quickly can they form an LLC or corporation?
- Ease of Use – Is the website and platform beginner-friendly?
- Customer Feedback – Do they have strong Trustpilot or BBB ratings?
- Additional Features – Do they provide extras such as EIN, Operating Agreement templates, or compliance reminders?
These criteria helped us narrow down to five standout services.
The Top 5 LegalZoom Alternatives (Compared)
1. ZenBusiness – Best Overall Value
ZenBusiness has grown into a trusted leader among LLC formation services. They balance affordability with an excellent user experience.
- Starting price: $0 + state fees
- Registered agent service: $199/year (optional)
- Turnaround time: Expedited filing available
- Customer reviews: 4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot with 20,000+ reviews
Key Advantages:
- Transparent pricing with a $0 starter plan
- Ongoing compliance monitoring
- Personalized dashboard for managing documents
- Socially responsible company supporting small business owners
Who it’s best for: Business owners who want a balance of affordability, reliability, and strong customer support.
2. Northwest Registered Agent – Best for Privacy and Support
Northwest is known for prioritizing customer privacy and personal service. Unlike many competitors, they provide direct access to knowledgeable support staff.
- Starting price: $225 + state fees
- Registered agent service: Free for 1st year ($125/year afterward)
- Turnaround time: Same-day or next-day filings in many states
- Customer reviews: Consistently praised for customer service
Key Advantages:
- Commitment to never selling customer data
- Dedicated Corporate Guide assigned to each client
- Excellent reputation for reliability
Who it’s best for: Entrepreneurs who want high-touch service and value confidentiality.
3. Inc Authority – Best Free LLC Formation Service
Inc Authority is one of the few companies that provides free LLC formation, with state fees as the only required payment.
- Starting price: $0 + state fees
- Registered agent service: Free first year, $179/year after
- Turnaround time: Varies by state
- Customer reviews: Generally positive, though some mention upselling
Key Advantages:
- Free LLC or corporation filing
- Complimentary business name check
- Free tax planning consultation
- Access to business funding tools
Who it’s best for: Cost-conscious entrepreneurs starting with a tight budget.
4. BetterLegal – Fastest LLC Formation
BetterLegal is ideal for those who want a business formed quickly without upselling tactics.
- Starting price: $299 + state fees
- Registered agent service: $90/year (not bundled)
- Turnaround time: Often within 2 business days
- Customer reviews: Highly rated for speed and efficiency
Key Advantages:
- Flat-rate pricing with no upsells
- Includes Operating Agreement, EIN, and compliance docs
- One of the fastest services in the industry
Who it’s best for: Entrepreneurs who need immediate filing and want everything completed quickly.
5. Rocket Lawyer – Best for Ongoing Legal Support
Rocket Lawyer stands apart from other providers because it combines formation services with access to attorneys and legal resources.
- Starting price: $0 + state fees with membership ($39.99/month)
- Registered agent service: $149.99/year
- Turnaround time: Standard and expedited options
- Customer reviews: Respected for comprehensive legal tools
Key Advantages:
- Ongoing attorney access with membership
- Extensive library of legal document templates
- Great choice for businesses that require contracts or legal guidance regularly
Who it’s best for: Business owners who want continuous access to legal advice, not just formation.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
Provider |
Starting Price |
Registered Agent Service |
Turnaround Time |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ZenBusiness |
$0 + state fees |
$199/year (optional) |
Fast/Expedited |
Overall Value |
Northwest Registered |
$225 + state fees |
Free 1st year ($125/yr) |
Same-day/Fast |
Privacy & Support |
Inc Authority |
$0 + state fees |
Free 1st year ($179/yr) |
Varies by state |
Free LLC Formation |
BetterLegal |
$299 + state fees |
$90/year |
~2 Business Days |
Speed |
Rocket Lawyer |
$0 + state fees |
$149.99/year |
Standard/Fast |
Ongoing Legal Services |
DIY Option: Filing Your Own LLC
For those who want the most affordable method, filing directly with the state is possible. Here’s what the DIY approach involves:
- Filing Articles of Organization with your state agency
- Paying the state filing fee (ranges from $40–$500)
- Appointing a registered agent with a physical in-state address
- Creating an Operating Agreement
- Obtaining an EIN from the IRS
- Keeping up with annual reporting and compliance requirements
While DIY saves money upfront, it requires time and knowledge. Mistakes in filing could cause delays or compliance issues.
Which Service Should You Choose?
- Choose ZenBusiness if you want a mix of affordability, features, and positive customer reviews.
- Choose Northwest Registered Agent if you value strong privacy protections and high-quality support.
- Choose Inc Authority if you want free business formation and additional financial tools.
- Choose BetterLegal if your top priority is fast turnaround.
- Choose Rocket Lawyer if you expect to need contracts, templates, or ongoing legal advice.
FAQs
Is LegalZoom worth it in 2025?
LegalZoom remains popular but is often more expensive than alternatives. Many entrepreneurs find better value elsewhere.
What is the cheapest way to form an LLC?
DIY filing directly with your state is cheapest. Among services, Inc Authority and ZenBusiness offer the lowest-cost options.
Can I form a corporation with these alternatives?
Yes. All the listed providers support corporations in addition to LLCs.
Do these providers include an Operating Agreement?
Some providers, like BetterLegal and ZenBusiness, include Operating Agreements in their packages, while others may charge extra.
Which provider is fastest?
BetterLegal is recognized as the fastest, often completing filings within two days.
Conclusion
Selecting the right business formation service is a decision that influences your company’s foundation, compliance, and legal standing. While LegalZoom has name recognition, competitors like ZenBusiness, Northwest Registered Agent, Inc Authority, BetterLegal, and Rocket Lawyer offer more affordable, efficient, and feature-rich solutions. Each excels in a specific area, from speed to privacy to ongoing legal support.
By comparing these Top 5 LegalZoom Alternatives (Compared) carefully, you can find a service that not only saves money but also aligns perfectly with your entrepreneurial needs. The right choice will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on what matters most—growing your business.
