The Best Way to Form an LLC in 2024

After helping thousands of entrepreneurs, we've discovered the fastest, most reliable path to LLC formation. Here's everything you need to know.

The Quick Answer

🏆 Best Way: Use a professional LLC formation service

  • ✓ Takes only 10-15 minutes to complete
  • ✓ Ensures 100% compliance with state requirements
  • ✓ Costs $0-$299 plus state fees
  • ✓ Includes registered agent service
  • ✓ Provides ongoing compliance support
Start Your LLC Now →

DIY vs Professional Service: The Real Comparison

Factor DIY Formation Professional Service Winner
Time Required 2-4 hours research + filing 10-15 minutes Service ✓
Cost State fees only ($50-$500) $0-$299 + state fees DIY ✓
Error Risk High (30% have mistakes) Zero (guaranteed accuracy) Service ✓
Registered Agent You must serve ($0) Included free 1st year Service ✓
Compliance Help None Ongoing support included Service ✓
EIN Number Apply separately Can be included Service ✓

💡 Why 73% Choose Professional Services

The small additional cost (often $0 with basic packages) saves hours of time and prevents costly mistakes. With free registered agent service for the first year, professional services often cost LESS than DIY in the first year.

State-by-State Complexity Score

Some states make LLC formation simple, while others have complex requirements that trip up first-timers. Here's how difficult each state is for DIY formation:

Easy States (1-2 hours)

Wyoming, Delaware, Nevada, Montana, New Mexico, South Dakota

Moderate (2-4 hours)

Florida, Texas, Colorado, Arizona, North Carolina, Georgia

Complex (4+ hours)

California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania

The Hidden Costs of DIY Formation

⚠️

Compliance Penalties

Miss a deadline or filing requirement and face $500-$2,000 in penalties

📮

Registered Agent Issues

Must be available during all business hours or risk missing legal notices

📝

Operating Agreement

DIY templates often don't meet state requirements ($500+ for lawyer to fix)

🔄

Amendment Fees

Fixing formation mistakes costs $50-$200 per amendment

Step-by-Step: The Professional Service Method

  1. 1

    Choose Your Service (1 minute)

    We recommend ZenBusiness for best overall value at $0 + state fees

  2. 2

    Enter Basic Information (3 minutes)

    Business name, address, member names - the form guides you through everything

  3. 3

    Review and Submit (1 minute)

    Double-check your info and submit - they handle all state filings

  4. 4

    Receive Your LLC Documents

    Articles of Organization filed and official LLC documents sent to you

Total Time: 10-15 Minutes

Start Your LLC in Minutes →

Top 3 Services for Fast LLC Formation

Best Overall
#1

ZenBusiness

⏱️ 10 minutes setup
$0 + state fees
Processing: 1 day
★★★★⯨ 4.9/5

ZenBusiness stands out as our top pick for LLC formation services thanks to its unbeatable combination of value, features, and support. With formation starting at $0 plus state fees, you can rest easy with their worry-free compliance service, award-winning customer support, and 100% accuracy guarantee. The Pro and Premium packages add even more value with 1-day processing, an employer ID number, operating agreement, and services to get your business online like domain name registration, AI business website builder, and more.

✓ Starter package is $0 plus state fees
✓ Registered agent and compliance services
✓ Free worry-free compliance for 1 year
✓ Fast 1-day processing time available
Start in Minutes → Review
Fast Formation
#2

Bizee

⏱️ 15 minutes setup
$0 + state fees
Processing: Same day
★★★★⯨ 4.6/5

Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast LLC formation with their $0 package. They're perfect for entrepreneurs who need to form their LLC quickly and affordably. With same-day processing in many states and a year of free registered agent service, Bizee provides exceptional value for basic LLC formation needs.

✓ $0 basic formation package
✓ Same-day processing available
✓ Free registered agent for first year
✓ Compliance alerts included
Start in Minutes → Review
Best for Branding
#3

Tailor Brands

⏱️ 15 minutes setup
$49 + state fees
Processing: 5-7 days
★★★★☆ 4.3/5

Tailor Brands combines LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Their unique approach includes AI-powered logo design, website creation, and marketing materials. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs who want to establish their brand identity alongside their legal structure.

✓ Includes logo design and branding
✓ Website builder included
✓ Business card designs
✓ Mobile app available
Start in Minutes → Review

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the absolute fastest way to form an LLC?

Use ZenBusiness with their 1-day expedited processing. You can complete the application in as little as 10-15 minutes, and your LLC can be officially filed within 24 hours in most states.

Is it really worth paying for a formation service?

Yes. With packages starting at $0 plus state fees and including a year of free registered agent service (worth $119-$299), you often save money compared to DIY while getting professional support and guaranteed accuracy.

What documents do I need to form an LLC?

You don't need any special documents. Just have your business name, business address, member names and addresses, and a credit card for payment ready. The formation service creates all required documents for you.

Can I form an LLC in a different state?

Yes, you can form an LLC in any state. Popular choices include Wyoming, Delaware, and Nevada for their business-friendly laws. However, if you're doing business in your home state, you'll need to register there as a foreign LLC, which adds complexity and cost.

What happens after I form my LLC?

After formation, you'll need to: 1) Get an EIN from the IRS (free), 2) Open a business bank account, 3) Get necessary licenses and permits, 4) Maintain compliance with annual reports and fees. Professional services help with all of these steps.

Ready to Form Your LLC the Right Way?

Join 500,000+ entrepreneurs who chose the smart path to LLC formation

Start Your LLC in Minutes →