Top Cheapest Services
ZenBusiness
Smart savers who want maximum features at minimum cost
Start your business for just $0 plus state fees! ZenBusiness delivers unbeatable value with free formation, free compliance tools for the first year, and award-winning support. No hidden fees, no surprises - just straightforward, affordable LLC formation that saves you hundreds.
Why it's cheap:
- ✓ $0 formation - the absolute lowest price
- ✓ Free compliance tools for 1 year ($199 value)
- ✓ Free registered agent for 1 year
Watch out for:
- ! Registered agent renewal at $199/year
- ! Some features require upgrade
Bizee
Price-focused startups needing quick formation
Another genuine $0 formation option! Bizee (formerly Incfile) matches the lowest price while adding same-day processing and a free year of registered agent service. Perfect for budget-conscious entrepreneurs who need fast, affordable formation without compromising on quality.
Why it's cheap:
- ✓ $0 formation package - unbeatable price
- ✓ Free registered agent for first year ($119 value)
- ✓ Same-day processing in many states
Watch out for:
- ! Operating agreement costs extra
- ! Limited support hours
Inc Authority
DIY entrepreneurs wanting rock-bottom pricing
Truly free LLC formation with no catch! Inc Authority provides $0 formation plus a free year of registered agent service. While they may try to upsell, their basic package delivers everything you need to form your LLC without spending a penny beyond state fees.
Why it's cheap:
- ✓ 100% free basic formation
- ✓ Free registered agent year 1 ($119 value)
- ✓ Free tax consultation included
Watch out for:
- ! Slower processing (7-10 days)
- ! Some upselling attempts
LegalZoom
Value seekers who want brand reputation at low cost
Get started for $0 with the industry's most trusted name! LegalZoom's basic formation package costs nothing upfront, though add-ons can increase your total. With 30+ years of experience and millions of businesses formed, you're getting reliability at an unbeatable starting price.
Why it's cheap:
- ✓ $0 basic formation package
- ✓ 30+ years of trusted service
- ✓ Attorney support available
Watch out for:
- ! Expensive add-ons (RA $249/year)
- ! Operating agreement costs extra
Northwest Registered Agent
Minimalists wanting the cheapest paid option
One of the absolute cheapest paid options at just $39! Northwest keeps costs low by focusing on the essentials. No frills, no spam, no aggressive upselling - just straightforward LLC formation at a price that's hard to beat.
Why it's cheap:
- ✓ Only $39 formation fee
- ✓ No spam or aggressive marketing
- ✓ Transparent, simple pricing
Watch out for:
- ! Email-only support
- ! No rush processing
Quick Price Comparison
| Service | Price | Rating | Speed | Registered Agent | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | $0 + state fees | ★★★★☆ 4.9/5 | 7-10 days | $199/yr | Best Overall Value |
Bizee Fastest Formation | $0 + state fees | ★★★★☆ 4.6/5 | 3 weeks | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Fastest Formation |
Inc Authority Free Formation | $0 + state fees | ★★★★☆ 4.4/5 | 7-10 days | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Formation |
LegalZoom Best for Legal Support | $0 + state fees | ★★★★☆ 4.2/5 | 5-14 days | $249/yr | Best for Legal Support |
Note: All prices shown are starting prices. State fees are additional and vary by location.
Why These Services Are the Cheapest
🎯 Direct-to-Consumer Model
These services cut out middlemen and operate online-only, passing savings directly to you.
📊 Volume Discounts
They process thousands of formations monthly, allowing them to negotiate better rates with states.
🤖 Automated Processing
Technology handles most of the work, reducing labor costs and human error.
💡 Smart Upselling
Basic services are cheap to attract customers, with optional add-ons for those who need them.
⚠️ Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Registered Agent Renewal Fees
Many services offer free first year, then charge $119-$299/year after. We've noted renewal costs for each service above.
Operating Agreement Charges
Some "free" services charge $40-$99 for operating agreements. Check what's included before signing up.
Rush Processing Fees
Need it fast? Expedited processing can add $50-$200 to your total cost.
State Filing Fees
These are unavoidable and range from $40-$500 depending on your state. Not included in service prices.
Ready to Save Money?
Pick your service above and start saving today. Most businesses save $200-300 per year by switching.
Average Savings:
$237/year
Join smart business owners who saved this month:
Last updated: October 14, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Questions? Check our FAQ or learn about us.
Affiliate Disclosure: We earn commissions when you purchase through our links, but this never affects our prices or rankings.