7 Best LLC Services in Maine (2024) Picked by Customers
Choosing a reliable LLC formation service for your Maine-based business is a crucial step in protecting your personal assets from any liabilities that might arise during your company's operations.
Working alongside my certified legal team, we have meticulously assessed the leading online LLC services in Maine, aiming to streamline your selection process.
Continue reading to discover Venture Smarter top picks, carefully ranked based on factors such as affordability, the range of services offered, and the quality of customer support.
Company | LLC Packages | LLC Fees | Registered Agent Price | Same & Next Day Filing | Money-Back Guarantee | Free Package Features | BBB Accredited | Advisory Services |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ZenBusiness (Best Overall) |
3 | From 0$ | $199 | Pro & Premium Package | 60 days | LLC Filing & 100% Accuracy Guarantee | Yes | Accounting Consultation |
Northwest (Best Premium) |
1 | $39 using our link | First year free with LLC purchase / $125 from 2nd year | No | 90 days | None | No, A rating | No |
Bizee (Most Affordable) |
3 | From $0 | First year free with LLC purchase / $119 from 2nd year | Platinum Package | Order refundable before state payment (usually 24h), minus $30 fee. | LLC Filing, FREE Registered Agent (1 year), EIN, Operating Agreement, Business Tax Consultation & more | No | Tax: Free 1-hour Consultation |
Swyft Filings (Best Essentials) |
3 | From $0 | $199 | Premium Package | 60 days | LLC Filing & Lifetime customer support | No | No |
LegalZoom | 3 | From $0 | $299 | No | 60 days | LLC Filing, Digital welcome packet, Customizable website | Yes, A+ rating | Attorney Consultations (Premium Plan) |
Harbor Compliance | 1 | $99 | $99 | Depending on the state | No | None | Yes | No |
Rocket Lawyer | 1 | Free with Rocket Legal+ / $99.99 with Rocket Legal | $249.99 with Rocket Legal / $124.99 with Rocket Legal+ | No | 30 days | None | Yes | Legal: Ask-a-lawyer via email & 30-minute monthly phone consultation per new matter (with subscription) |
Top 7 Best LLC Services in Maine (Best Overall) (November 2024)
1 - ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Online dashboard for document management.
- Customizable business templates, streamlining paperwork.
- Offers annual report service, ensuring legal compliance.
- Educational resources available, aiding new entrepreneurs.
- Transparent pricing structure, avoiding hidden costs.
- Positive customer reviews, indicating reliability.
- Annual report filing comes with an additional fee.
- Information might be overwhelming for beginners.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs seeking a fast, low-cost LLC formation service with good customer support.
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer more tailored legal and business consultations.
The Verdict
ZenBusiness offers a straightforward and budget-friendly LLC formation service with solid reviews, but may not suit those looking for extensive legal advice or personalized business consulting.
ZenBusiness is an online legal service that simplifies the process of incorporating small businesses, making legal filings more accessible and affordable.
Their services include business formation (LLCs or corporations), registered agent services, DBA registration, operating agreements, FEIN, and ongoing state compliance/
This service also offers features like a complimentary assessment from a certified accountant in the first year, domain name registration, and business insurance quotes.
During my trial, my LLC was approved in a mere four days, and a comprehensive New Business Kit was provided.
Their customer support was alwas reachable during business hours to respond to my queries. The staff were very quick to respond and had a customer-focused approach.
I was very impressed with their services and I even did a separate ZenBusiness overview.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Starter Formation Package ($0 + $175 State Fee): Along with Maine LLC formation service, complimentary operating agreement template, and 7 to 10 days standard filing speed, you'll also get 100% accuracy guarantee. With this package, you'll also experience worry-free compliance during the first year (optional), with an option to renew at $199/year if you accept. You'll also get annual report file management, two-year amendments, banking services, a Website Builder and Money Pro Bookkeeping.
- Pro package ($199 + $175 State Fee): The Pro Maine LLC services package offers extra perks aside from the Maine LLC formation services, like registering for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) and LLC operating agreement template at $99. Moreover, this package has the added convenience of expedited "rush" filing speed, averaging 1 business day.
- Premium package ($299 + $175 State Fee): This Maine LLC services package includes all Pro features, along with added benefits like business document templates, a business domain name, a fully customizable website, an email account linked to the domain, and domain privacy. Plus, it offers a filing speed of just 1 business day for fast setup.
- Registered Agent Services ($199): You can get a yearly renewal for $199.
2 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Regular compliance alerts help avoid penalties.
- Flat rate pricing eliminates surprises.
- Offers services in all 50 states for wide coverage.
- Extensive experience in LLC formation and compliance.
- User-friendly interface simplifies navigation.
- Full privacy protection requires ongoing service subscription.
- Frequent notifications may be seen as intrusive.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small businesses that value privacy and personalized customer service.
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for the lowest cost option.
The Verdict
NorthWest is ideal for businesses prioritizing privacy and personalized support, though it's not the cheapest service available.
I remember when I was in the beginning phases of my company venture, feeling overwhelmed with all the formalities. Turning to Northwest Registered Agent was a huge help. Their two decades of experience was evident as they handled each of my issues promptly and in detail.
In the United States, where small businesses provide jobs for 61.6 million people, making up 45.9% of the country’s workforce according to the Profile on Small Business Economics, the services provided by Northwest Registered Agent made the LLC formation process straightforward and intuitive.
The first filing was finished in just 9 minutes, with everything processed within 72 hours, even though we chose a 5-day service and began on a Saturday. Their thoroughness and service were clear throughout.
Using PrivacybyDefault ensured that we had no concerns about protecting our privacy.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Plan ($39 + State Fee): Standard LLC formation service with additional state filing fees, with one year of free registered agent service if you set up your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent.
- Full Service LLC Formation Plan ($224 + State Fee): Immediate filing, a full year of registered agent service, complimentary restricted mail forwarding, an operating agreement, and a client account filled with free forms and various resources.
- Registered Agent Services ($125): After you form your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent, you are given the first year of this service for free. Following that, it will be charged each year. Reduced to $100 for national registered agent service for multi-state companies.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Offers essential compliance and legal document services.
- User-friendly online platform for easy navigation.
- Affordable starter packages for new businesses.
- Simplified business formation process.
- Customer support available for queries and guidance.
- Additional charges for state fees and expedited filing.
- Limited customization options for unique business needs.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Startups and entrepreneurs needing basic LLC formation with good customer support.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses that require more comprehensive legal services.
The Verdict
IncFile provides a simple and efficient service for those just starting out, but may not be comprehensive enough for more complex legal needs.
During my early entrepreneurial days, I stumbled upon Bizee (formerly Incfile). The value for money was evident, given the comprehensive features they offered.
My team and I tested the Bizee upgraded LLC services options for additional LLC and legal services, such as EIN registration, banking resolution, and a custom website.
Bizee is notable for its fast processing times and all packages come with lifetime company alerts to help businesses stay compliant with state regulations.
Bizee also offered us a range of valuable limited liability company service features, such as backup software for your formation documents and a tailored dashboard to keep track of important dates and compliance notifications.
Please read the Bizee review for additional details about this company.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Silver Package ($0 + $178 State Fee): Bizee Silver package will be cost-free. You will only have to pay the state of Maine fee for the formation of your LLC. You will have unlimited attempts to find out if your business name is available. The Silver Package will also provide you with aid in the preparation and filing of your company articles.
- Gold Package ($199 + $178 State Fee): Special assistance in the preparation of your operating agreement is one of the features that distinguish the Gold Package from the Silver Package. You will also have access to a personalized online dashboard, IRS Form 2553, a banking account for your business, and professional consultation in the field of taxes will be available for you if you opt for this Bizee Package.
- Platinum Package ($299 + $178 State Fee): With the Platinum Package you get a free domain name and many templates for business contracts, in addition to all features from previous Bizee packages.
- Registered Agent Services ($119): These services will be cost-free if you decide to form your LLC with any of the previous LLC formation packages.
4 - Swyft Filings (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Multiple package options to fit different needs.
- Transparent pricing structure listed on the website.
- Free domain name with certain packages.
- Educational resources available for new business owners.
- Higher-tier packages required for full features.
- Domain renewal costs after the first year.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs needing fast and straightforward LLC formation online.
Who is it not for?
- Those who need in-depth legal advice or have complex business structures.
The Verdict
Swyft Filings is quick and user-friendly, perfect for straightforward LLC setups, but not suitable for more complex legal requirements.
I had a tight deadline once, and Swyft Filings came to the rescue. Their flexible pricing and quick response time made my LLC formation in Maine a breeze.
Swyft Filings also stands firmly behind its 100% satisfaction guarantee! If you're not completely satisfied with their services, they'll be happy to reimburse your payments – no questions asked.
We especially appreciate that Swyft Filings has partnered with a nationwide accounting firm to offer an hour of consulting on various business-related matters.
For additional details about this company, please check our Swyft Filings review.
LLC Formation Packages:
- The Basic package ($0 + $178 State Fee): Basic package is ideal if you want basic LLC incorporation plus document filing.
- The Standard package ($199 + $178 State Fee): Includes everything in the Basic Package. You’ll also obtain Federal Tax ID (EIN) and most documents needed to start your business (operating agreement, banking resolution, and organizational minutes).
- The Premium package ($299 + $178 State Fee): Premium includes all basic and standard services and additional ones, including free domain and business website hosting, a customized digital corporate kit, and the FedEx delivery of your approved articles with a tracking number.
- Registered Agent Service ($99 per three months ): This will be an ongoing quarterly subscription for Registered Agent Services.
5 - LegalZoom
Pros and Cons
- Regular updates to legal documents ensure current compliance.
- Helps with business formation, IP, wills, and more.
- Document Defense® provides added protection for legal documents.
- Quality of support can vary based on demand and time.
- Full legal protection requires subscription or additional payment.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses of all sizes looking for a range of legal services and LLC formation.
Who is it not for?
- Those seeking the most economical or fastest service.
The Verdict
LegalZoom offers a comprehensive suite of services and extensive support, suitable for various business needs, though it might not always be the fastest or cheapest option.
I had some complex legal queries when setting up my LLC, and LegalZoom was my go-to. Their specialization in legal concerns made the process smoother for me.
I was impressed by the breadth of services they offer, and their registered agent service has especially proven valuable.
However, one drawback I noticed with LegalZoom is that they offer limited Maine LLC features compared to other LLC companies.
For more information about this company, check the LegalZoom review.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Package ($0 + $178 State Fee): LegalZoom Basic package includes comprehensive name search and business entity filing, a complete digital LLC welcome packet, an article of organization and a customizable website powered by Wix.
- Pro Package ($249 + $178 State Fee): Includes everything the Basic package includes. However, it comes with tax-saving consultations, EIN, an operating agreement, and a comprehensive guide on licensing.
- Premium Package ($299 + $178 State Fee): It includes everything that the Pro package has, plus an unlimited half-hour attorney consultation on trending legal topics and changes applied to LLC formation documents within 3 months of the initial subscription
- Registered Agent Services ($299): If you choose LegalZoom to form your company, you will pay $50 less for the registered agent. Following that, renewal would cost $299.
6 - Harbor Compliance
Pros and Cons
- Good customer feedback and high satisfaction rates.
- Services tailored to the unique needs of your business.
- Regular compliance alerts and reminders.
- Tailored services can lead to higher overall costs.
- Peak times may see slower response rates.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Companies needing extensive support with compliance and regulatory requirements.
Who is it not for?
- Smaller businesses that might find the comprehensive services overwhelming or too costly.
The Verdict
Harbor Compliance is excellent for businesses that need to navigate complex compliance landscapes, but may be more than is necessary for simpler setups.
Harbor Compliance is an expert firm that provides Maine LLC forms, incorporation, and other business compliance-related solutions.
This compliance expert firm provides a complete registered agent service and numerous business formation services and software options.
Our experience with their registered agent service was highly satisfactory.
They skillfully handled all formal communications between our business and government agencies, ensuring that we met all our legal obligations in a timely and efficient manner.
Check out the Harbor Compliance review for more details about this business.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Formation Package ($99 + $178 State Fee): With this Formation Package you will have your name availability checked and your business articles prepared and filed in the State of Maine.
- Registered Agent Service (89-$99): Annual fees from $89-$99 per state with no additional charges, you get a 5-10 % discount if you pay ahead for your Maine Registered Agent Service for 2+ years. Immediate online access to registered agent address.
7 - Rocket Lawyer
Pros and Cons
- Money-back satisfaction guarantee.
- Mobile app for legal help on the go.
- Regular updates to legal documents.
- Guarantee terms may have limitations.
- App features may be more limited than the website.
- Local attorney availability may vary.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses wanting legal services bundled with their LLC formation.
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for a basic, no-frills LLC registration.
The Verdict
Rocket Lawyer is great for those who want ongoing legal support along with their LLC setup, but might be too much for those just needing simple registration.
Rocket Lawyer offers Maine entrepreneurs cost-effective legal advice and paperwork support with excellent client service.
Their free app for both Android and iPhone is definitely worth mentioning, as it made a big difference for us.
With its intuitive interface, we could easily download the app and generate a variety of legal documents, making the entire process much more manageable.
See the Rocket Lawyer review for additional information on this company.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Standard LLC Formation Package ($99.99 + $178 State Fee / Free with $39.99 per month membership) If you opt for Standard Package membership, you can benefit from free legal documents, attorney services, free LLC formation services, and 25% off registered agent service, according to their website.
- Registered Agent Services ($149.99): $149.99 per year for Maine Register Agent services - A 25% discount is available if you have a membership. Membership costs $39.99 monthly.
Why You Should Trust Us
When it comes to selecting the right LLC service for your Maine-based business, my extensive background and firsthand experience in the field position me as a trustworthy source of guidance.
As the CEO, co-founder, and editor-in-chief of Venture Smarter, I've dedicated over nine years to consulting with startups and established businesses alike, assisting them in scaling and navigating the intricacies of successful operations. My journey is grounded in a solid academic foundation in business management, complemented by numerous industry certifications.
Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work closely with a variety of LLC services, directly contributing to the operational success of countless clients in Maine. This depth of experience has given me a well-rounded perspective on what businesses genuinely need from their LLC service providers.
Therefore, when I recommend ZenBusiness as the premier choice for your LLC formation needs in Maine, it's with a mix of professional expertise and a track record of favorable outcomes.
My dedication to your success is supported by years of aiding businesses in reaching their objectives, making my endorsement of ZenBusiness a recommendation you can trust with confidence.
How We Picked And Tested The Best LLC Services In Maine
Venture Smarter thorough investigation delved into the intricacies of the top 10 LLC services in Maine, going beyond mere listings to deeply understand their offerings.
This involved undercover interactions with their business formation services and insights from an independent review team, ensuring unbiased, evidence-based recommendations.
We scrutinized various aspects, including service costs, the breadth of primary and supplementary offerings, their reputations, and more.
This holistic approach enabled us to score each provider, considering their guarantees and customer feedback.
1. Customer Support
Customer support is crucial for resolving queries and issues efficiently and effectively, reflecting a company's dedication and reliability.
We submitted identical queries to each service’s customer support and recorded response times, noting whether answers were personalized or automated, to evaluate responsiveness and quality.
ZenBusiness stood out for its exceptional customer support due to its multi-channel support system, including phone, email, and live chat options.
Their response times were notably quick, and the support team demonstrated a deep understanding of LLC formation nuances, offering personalized and detailed guidance.
2. Turnaround Time
In a competitive landscape, swift service delivery is a key differentiator for LLC service providers. Faster processing times can draw clients seeking efficiency.
We submitted identical LLC formation requests to each service and tracked the time from submission to the state's confirmation of formation. We recorded these times to compare actual service speeds against advertised turnaround times.
Known for its prompt service, Northwest Registered Agent excels in expediting filings due to its direct and local connections with Maine's state agencies. This proximity and established rapport enable them to process documents faster than many competitors.
3. Pricing
For startups, it's important to compare the pricing structures of different services and engage with the one that meets your budgetary needs.
We compared each service's total costs, including state fees and optional add-ons, for forming an LLC in Maine to determine the most cost-effective options.
ZenBusiness stood out with cost-effective packages, balancing affordability with comprehensive service.
Their competitive pricing, combined with no hidden fees and clear explanations of each package's benefits, makes them a go-to for budget-conscious entrepreneurs.
4. Service Features
The spectrum of services, from essentials like Articles of Organization or EIN to additional services like domain hosting and bookkeeping, is vital in evaluating an LLC service's comprehensiveness.
After comparing the service offerings of different companies, ZenBusiness and Bizee scored high for their extensive service offerings.
ZenBusiness covers all the essentials like Articles of Organization and EIN registration, and they also offer a host of additional services like compliance alerts, annual report filing, and even a worry-free compliance guarantee.
Bizee is also praised for its comprehensive service offerings, including customizable LLC packages, which encompass everything from basic formation to more advanced services like business contract templates and trademark registration assistance.
5. Reliability and Reputation
A reputable and reliable LLC service attracts skilled professionals and quality resources, enhancing service quality.
We evaluated TrustPilot ratings and user reviews to identify the most dependable services.
With consistently high ratings on platforms like TrustPilot and positive customer reviews, Northwest has built a reputation for reliability. Customers frequently commend their transparent pricing and the quality of their customer support.
LegalZoom on the other hand had mixed reviews and indicated the need for improvement especially in their pricing.
6. Ease of Use
Navigating legal and bureaucratic processes can be overwhelming. A user-friendly LLC service simplifies starting a business.
Bizee excelled with a 5/5 rating for its adaptable platform, catering to diverse business needs.
Northwest also scored 5/5 for its excellent technology integration, including mobile accessibility, cloud storage, and digital tools, enhancing functionality and appeal.
7. Local Expertise
Understanding Maine's unique LLC formation and maintenance requirements, including paperwork, fees, and compliance obligations, is crucial. An LLC service well-versed in Maine's laws ensures compliance and avoids legal issues.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent have demonstrated a deep understanding of Maine-specific LLC regulations. This includes nuanced knowledge of state-specific paperwork, compliance requirements, and ongoing obligations.
Their expertise ensures that businesses formed through these services adhere to Maine's legal framework, avoiding potential legal complications and penalties for non-compliance.
Steps To Start an LLC in Maine
The following steps can help you set up an LLC in Maine, whether you use a service or do it yourself:
- Step 1: Select a Name for your LLC
- Step 2: Get Maine Registered Agent
- Step 3: Form an LLC Operating Agreement
- Step 4: File Maine LLC Certificate of Formation
- Step 5: Obtain LLC Business Licenses
- Step 6: Acquire an EIN in Maine
See our article for more information on how long it takes to start a Maine LLC.
"When starting a LLC in Maine, it's essential to designate a registered agent to receive crucial legal documents, as mandated by state law, emphasizing the significance of selecting a dependable and reputable provider."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
FAQs
Does Maine Require a Registered Agent for an LLC?
Yes, Maine's LLC statute requires every LLC in Maine to have a registered agent, who can be a human or a corporate entity with an address in the state (no post office boxes). The registered agent receives official documents from the State of Maine and any service of process that the state can serve on a business during a lawsuit.
How Long Does It Take To Set up an LLC in Maine?
It takes 15–20 business days to set up an LLC in Maine. You can pay for expedited processing if you need your Maine LLC quickly. It costs $50 more for 24-hour processing and $100 more for rapid processing. Expedited costs are in addition to the filing fee for an LLC in Maine.
Venture Smarter Verdict
Having navigated the maze of LLC formation in Maine myself, I can't stress enough the value of a reliable service.
ZenBusiness, with its vast experience supporting over 300,000 LLCs, was my personal lifesaver. Their blend of affordability and comprehensive services made the legal intricacies a walk in the park.
Based on my experience, I was particularly impressed with how quickly my LLC was approved and the invaluable New Business Kit they provided.
If you're on the fence about which service to choose, I'd wholeheartedly recommend ZenBusiness.