5 Best LLC Services in South Carolina (2025 Comparison)
In South Carolina, choosing the right LLC service provider is crucial for your business to stay compliant with state laws.
To help you out, we solicited expert advice from our legal team and reviewed the companies that have the best LLC service in South Carolina.
Here are the top five that you can consider for your South Carolina company.
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 |
Rocket Lawyer (Best Essentials) | 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) |
Swyft Filings | 3 | From $0 | $199 | Premium Package | 60 days | LLC Filing & Lifetime customer support | No | No |
Top 5 LLC Formation Services in South Carolina (January 2025)
1 - ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Low-cost plans starting at $0, plus applicable state fees.
- Noted for user-friendliness and excellent customer support.
- Wide array of services, including LLC formation and compliance.
- Known for quick processing and official filings.
- Actively involved in social responsibility and community activities.
- Packages offer great value for their price.
- Customer support not available round the clock.
- No services for non-profit organization formation.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs seeking straightforward and affordable LLC formation with great support.
Who is it not for?
- Those needing highly specialized or custom services beyond basic LLC formation.
The Verdict
ZenBusiness provides an excellent balance of cost, ease of use, and comprehensive service options, making it ideal for new business owners who value simplicity and efficiency in LLC formation.
When we started our first business, we turned to ZenBusiness, attracted by their promise of a rapid and easy business creation process. This promise is backed by an impressive track record, as evidenced by their 14,500 5-star reviews on Trustpilot.
Their team was there every step of the way, ensuring everything was filed correctly and on time.
They claim a user-tailored system guarantees a quick 10-12 minute filing. We tested this by going through the filing process ourselves and found that it took 10 minutes. They present straightforward package options, emphasizing the importance of features like an EIN.
Another useful feature we appreciated was the option to monitor the status of our orders and track the progress of our formation filing on their dashboard.
For a detailed exploration of this organization, we recommend referring to our comprehensive review of ZenBusiness.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Starter Formation Package ($0 + $132 State Fee): Starter Package handles name searches, registration, ensuring accuracy, and standard filing speed (7 to 10 days). Enjoy free worry-free compliance in the first year, meeting state-required annual reports and filing up to 2 amendments yearly. Renew at $199/year after the first year if preferred.
- Pro Package ($199 + $132 State Fee): This package includes starter perks and quick ''rush'' filing (1 day average). Pro adds EIN for identification, banking, and staff hiring. Get an LLC operating agreement for $99, ensuring clear governance and swift procedures.
- Premium Package ($299 + $132 State Fee): Upgrade to Premium for access to professional features and additional website services, including domain registration, hosting, business email, and document templates. Enjoy faster service with 1 business day filing speed, and use the templates to handle tasks with greater accuracy and efficiency.
- South Carolina Registered Agent Service ($199): The $199 annual renewal charge for their registered agent services is a delayed payment and is not paid until after the business has been fully incorporated.
2 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Keeps your home address private, a unique Northwest feature.
- Choose only necessary services, offering significant flexibility.
- Customer support renowned for its efficiency and expertise.
- Special discount available for Venture Smarter readers.
- Over two decades of industry presence, indicating dependability.
- LLC formation is tied to their registered agent service.
- Absence of BBB accreditation might raise some concerns.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Business owners prioritizing privacy and personalized support during their LLC formation.
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for the lowest cost option without considering the value of enhanced privacy and support.
The Verdict
NorthWest Registered Agent excels in offering privacy and excellent customer service, recommended for those who value these aspects and are willing to invest in quality service.
I remember when I was in the initial phases of my entrepreneurial journey, feeling swamped with all the requirements. Turning to Northwest Registered Agent was a game-changer. Their 20 years in the industry was evident as they managed each of my concerns efficiently and thoroughly.
In the United States, where small companies employ 61.6 million individuals, making up 45.9% of the nation’s workforce according to the Economic Profile for Small Businesses, the services provided by Northwest Registered Agent made the LLC formation process straightforward and intuitive.
The beginning filing was done in just 9 minutes, with everything finalized within 72 hours, even though we chose a 5-day service and began on a Saturday. Their thoroughness and service were evident throughout.
Using PrivacybyDefault ensured that we could forget about protecting our data.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Plan ($39 + $132 State Fee): Fast LLC setup service with additional state filing fees, including one year of free registered agent service, a business address, and complimentary mail forwarding when you form your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent. Enjoy added privacy by default, along with a free domain, website, email, and business phone to kick-start your business effortlessly.
- Registered Agent Services ($125): When you create your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent, you receive the first year of this service for free. Afterward, it will be billed annually. Discounted to $100 for national registered agent service for multi-state businesses.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Clear and transparent pricing structure.
- Option for expedited filing.
- Variety of payment methods accepted.
- Access to educational materials.
- Additional services can increase costs.
- Limited availability for phone support.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- First-time entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking cost-effective LLC formation with basic services.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses that may require robust legal services and high-touch customer support beyond initial setup.
The Verdict
IncFile is notable for its affordability and is best suited for entrepreneurs who are budget-conscious but still want a reliable service to handle the basic aspects of LLC formation.
Bizee advertises free formation plans as a major advantage. We utilized this plan and evaluated the included services against typical business needs, finding them to cover basic requirements effectively, which validates their promotional claim.
This LLC company offers bookkeeping and accounting services at a reasonable monthly fee.
With this, you can access accounting software, monthly reports, and tax consultation.
Bizee prides itself on outstanding customer service. We tested this by contacting their support with a range of issues and found the service to be highly responsive and helpful, confirming their claim.
While many business formation providers take weeks or months to finish the LLC services, Bizee has a quick turnaround time—we got our orders within a single working day.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Silver Package ($0 + $125 State Fee): Silver Package includes preparing & filing the articles of organization, free registered agent service for a full year, unlimited name searches, and phone and email support.
- Gold Package ($199 + $125 State Fee): In addition to the previous plan, in Gold Package you get an EIN Business Tax Number and an IRS Form 2553, banking resolution, an operating agreement & online access dashboard, business banking account, and business tax consultation.
- Platinum Package ($299 + $125 State Fee): This plan has all the Gold Package plus a domain name with a business email, free next-day filing, and business contract templates.
- Registered Agent Services ($119): Bizee offers you a personalized dashboard to access your documents online. If you decide to start your LLC with Bizee, the first year of the registered agent is included in the formation package. After that first year, the renewal will be $119 per year for Agent Services.
4 - Rocket Lawyer (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Extensive range of legal documents and support.
- Document Defense® enhances contract protection.
- Simplified legal document generation for users.
- Free access to expert legal advice on business issues.
- Unexpected billing issues have been reported.
- Free trial and subscription cancellation confusion.
- Some users report difficulty in reaching customer support.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals and small businesses that require ongoing legal services in addition to LLC formation.
Who is it not for?
- Those who only need to file an LLC without additional legal services or advice.
The Verdict
RocketLawyer offers a comprehensive suite of legal services which makes it perfect for businesses that anticipate needing legal advice regularly. It's more than just an LLC formation service, providing substantial legal support post-formation.
I once needed to draft a contract and stumbled upon Rocket Lawyer. Their free legal tools were an absolute lifesaver, and I even spoke with one of their cost-effective attorneys.
Rocket Lawyer’s services for LLC formation are known for their ease of use, accessibility, and affordability.
The platform’s user-friendliness, paired with professional legal support, makes it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs eager to begin their businesses quickly.
Typically, forming an LLC through Rocket Lawyer takes 7-10 business days.
Regular compliance assistance is provided for an additional fee, including notifications for filing deadlines and news specific to your state.
Their website dedicates a full page offering information on topics such as technical support, membership, and launching a business online.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Rocket Lawyer Bundle ($0 + $132 State Fee): Register your first LLC for FREE with Rocket Legal+ subscription ($19.99/month, charged annually at $239.88 after a free 7-day test period).
- Registered Agent Service ($249.99): $124.99 / year with Rocket Legal+ membership ($19.99/month, billed annually at $239.88 following a free 7-day trial)
5 - Swyft Filings
Pros and Cons
- Budget-friendly LLC formation.
- Intuitive website design.
- Exceptional customer assistance.
- Supplementary charges for select services.
- Elevated Registered Agent cost beyond year one.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs who value speed and efficiency in their business formation process.
Who is it not for?
- Those needing more in-depth hand-holding or custom solutions that may require traditional legal consultation.
The Verdict
Swyft Filings focuses on speed and customer service, making it ideal for entrepreneurs who want to get their business up and running
When I was in a rush to get my LLC established, I turned to Swyft Filings. Their speed and efficiency in the LLC formation process were remarkable.
Setting up a business ought not to be challenging or time-consuming, so they supply a formation package that can help businesses set up swiftly.
While forming an LLC with them, we learned that Swyft Filings offers a 100% money-back guarantee.
The largest downside of using them is that their packages do not offer a free registered agent service for your New Mexico business.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Package ($0 + $132 State Fee): This will secure basic LLC incorporation plus document filing.
- Standard Package ($199 + $132 State Fee): Includes LLC incorporation and document filing, plus a Federal Tax ID (EIN) and a good selection of documents to start your business. Premium
- Premium Package ($299 + $132 State Fee): The premium package provides all Basic and Standard services, plus a customized digital corporate kit, free domain, and business website hosting.
- Registered Agent Service ($149 per three months): The registered agent service is a subscription billed every 3 months.
Why You Should Trust Us
Here at Venture Smarter, we pride ourselves on guiding you, the Venture Smarter reader, through the complexities of forming an LLC in South Carolina. Our team, deeply rooted in the business formation landscape, leverages extensive firsthand experiences to provide you with advice that's not just reliable, but also tailored to your unique entrepreneurial journey.
The Venture Smarter team has meticulously evaluated numerous LLC services in South Carolina, ensuring our recommendations are based on comprehensive analysis and real-world testing. This rigorous approach guarantees that our advice is not only trustworthy but also directly applicable to your business needs.
Our commitment extends beyond mere suggestions. Led by Jon Morgan, a seasoned entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in business formation, our team is dedicated to your success. We understand the hurdles and challenges of starting a business, which is why we offer practical, actionable advice that stems from genuine experience and a deep understanding of the industry.
Choosing to trust the Venture Smarter team means partnering with experts who are genuinely invested in your success. We're here not just to recommend services but to support you through every step of your LLC formation journey in South Carolina.
Join the community of Venture Smarter readers who have successfully navigated the path to business ownership with our guidance. Trust us to provide you with the knowledge, support, and confidence you need to start your business on the right foot.
Related Articles:
- Looking Up An LLC in South Carolina
- Dissolving an LLC in South Carolina
- How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in South Carolina
How We Picked And Tested The Best LLC Services In South Carolina
In our quest to identify the best LLC services in South Carolina, we embarked on a comprehensive review process. We meticulously examined 16 leading LLC service providers, engaging with their services anonymously to ensure an unbiased evaluation.
Our assessment criteria were multi-faceted, focusing on aspects crucial for a reliable LLC service. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of each provider, the range of primary and supplementary services offered, their reputation in the market, and the user experience of their platforms.
Additionally, we considered their proficiency in South Carolina-specific regulations, the efficiency of their service delivery, the quality of customer support, and feedback from existing users.
1. Pricing
Price plays a pivotal role in selecting an LLC service, as it directly impacts the affordability and value proposition of the service.
In our analysis, we found that ZenBusiness offers an attractive package, including a free registered agent, at no initial cost except the state fee. Bizee also stands out with its free formation plan, including a year of registered agent service.
Northwest, although slightly higher priced at $39, provides a compelling offer with a free registered agent for those opening an account through our link.
2. Turnaround Time
The speed of service is a crucial factor, especially for time-sensitive business decisions.
"A registered agent with a swift turnaround ensures your important documents are processed quickly avoiding any penalties."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
Providers like ZenBusiness and Bizee demonstrated remarkable efficiency in processing and relaying legal documents, significantly outperforming others in this regard.
3. Service Offered
The range and quality of services are critical in choosing an LLC service. We looked for services like operating agreements, EIN registration, and additional offerings like legal advice or tax consultation.
ZenBusiness and Bizee emerged as leaders, offering a comprehensive range of included and additional services.
On the other hand, a provider like Swyft Filings, despite its merits, fell short in offering a broader spectrum of services.
4. Customer Support
Effective customer support is vital in navigating the complexities of LLC formation. We evaluated the communication channels offered by these companies, including phone, email, and online chat, and assessed their responsiveness and availability.
Our findings revealed that ZenBusiness and Bizee offer exceptional customer support, with quick response times and helpful assistance.
However, a company like Swyft Filings, while providing good support, did not match the level of its competitors in this area.
5. Ease of Use
Many business owners are time-constrained and cannot afford to spend hours navigating a complex service. User-friendly LLC services streamline the process of forming and maintaining an LLC, saving valuable time.
Our analysis found that ZenBusiness and Bizee offer exceptionally user-friendly online platforms that are easy to navigate and access information, making the process seamless for users.
6. Reliability and Reputation
A provider's reputation and reliability are gauged through customer reviews and ratings on platforms like TrustPilot and BBB.
ZenBusiness and Bizee again stood out, showing high levels of customer satisfaction and trustworthiness.
7. Local Expertise
If legal disputes arise, understanding the local legal environment, including South Carolina's court system and case law pertaining to LLCs, can be crucial for effective resolution.
Providers like ZenBusiness demonstrated significant expertise in South Carolina's laws and regulations and provided invaluable assistance in ensuring legal compliance, optimizing tax obligations, maintaining good standing, and leveraging state-specific opportunities and resources for the benefit of our LLC.
Related Articles:
- Looking Up An LLC in South Carolina
- Dissolving an LLC in South Carolina
- How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in South Carolina
Steps To Start an LLC In South Carolina
Here's a step-by-step guide to starting an LLC in South Carolina on your own:
- Step 1: Choose a name for your South Carolina LLC
- Step 2: Search for a registered agent in South Carolina
- Step 3: File the South Carolina Certificate of Formation
- Step 4: Create a South Carolina LLC Operating Agreement
- Step 5: Obtain your Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Step 6: Select the type of your LLC in South Carolina
- Step 7: File your South Carolina LLC annual report
FAQs
Is an LLC Service Important in South Carolina?
Yes, an LLC service is important in South Carolina if you want to form your limited liability company as quickly as possible. An LLC service will also handle and organize all the paperwork on your behalf.
Our Verdict
Having navigated the maze of LLC formation in South Carolina myself, we can't emphasize enough the importance of a reliable LLC service.
Drawing from our firsthand experience, ZenBusiness, with its pocket-friendly plans and responsive customer service, truly stood out for us.
Their comprehensive offerings, from business formation to legal services, made our journey smoother. We were particularly impressed with their knowledgeable customer service team, always ready to assist.
If you're looking to set up an LLC in South Carolina, ZenBusiness is a choice we'd vouch for. They not only helped us get our business off the ground but also provided invaluable support along the way.
Did you know that the data here is quite similar to the report published last year? Very informative nonetheless.
Yeah, right, like this article is going to change anything. Same old story, different day.
Oh yes, because we all need another ‘expert’ opinion… NOT! 😂
I strongly disagree with the points made in this article. The arguments presented are weak at best.
I can’t believe how biased this piece is, it’s littered with inaccuracies.
Wow, this artikle is really insightful! I learned a lot from it. Thanks for sharing!