Between 2022 and 2025, I formed three different LLCs using three different services. I kept every receipt, tracked every renewal, and calculated the true 5-year cost. The results were staggering.
After forming three LLCs through three different services, I finally found the only option worth paying for. These are my real receipts.
Every LLC service advertises free filing. None of them mean it. The real cost is hidden behind 11 checkout screens of upsells. Small Biz Smarts, after $1,787 in "lessons learned"
They advertise $0 filing, then stack $300+ in "essential" add-ons during checkout. The state fee is the only real cost.
$149/yr for a service that costs them $2/yr. Most states let you be your own agent for free.
They charge $79-$149 for something the IRS gives you for free in 5 minutes online.
Between 2022 and 2025, I formed three different LLCs using three different services. I kept every receipt, tracked every renewal, and calculated the true 5-year cost. The results were staggering.
| Service | Advertised Price | Actual Year 1 | 5-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| LegalZoom | $0 + state fee | $697 | $1,897 |
| ZenBusiness | $0 + state fee | $449 | $1,045 |
| Northwest Registered Agent | $39 + state fee | $39 | $195 |
Too much hassle? Northwest does all of this for $39 — literally the cost of a medium pizza for a full year of service.