7 Best LLC Services in Virginia (2024) From Our Experience
Choosing the right LLC service provider is crucial for Virginia businesses. With so many options, finding the best fit can be challenging.
To help you out, our team of legal experts evaluated top LLC services in Virginia, grouping them by service attributes, delivery methods, and pricing.
Read along to find out the best LLC service we recommend for helping you with your Virginia business.
| 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 |
| MyCompanyWorks | 3 | from $59 | First year free with when buying Entrepreneur & Complate Package / $99 from 2nd year | Yes | 90 days | None | Yes, A+ | Trademark Consultation & 1-hour Tax Webinar |
| Harbor Compliance | 1 | $99 | $99 | Depending on the state | No | None | Yes | No |
ZenBusiness7 Best Virginia LLC Services (October 2024)
1 - ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Starts with low-cost plans, only $0 plus state fees.
- Users consistently praise its ease of operation and support.
- Offers comprehensive services, including LLC formation and compliance.
- Known for quick processing and filing efficiency.
- Dedicated to social responsibility and active in community projects.
- Packages are competitively priced, ensuring value for money.
- Customer support is not available 24/7.
- Non-profit organization formation services are not offered.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs seeking a fast, affordable LLC setup
Who is it not for?
- Those needing in-person support due to lack of 24/7 assistance
The Verdict
ZenBusiness is highly recommended for its ease of use and comprehensive features, making it ideal for new businesses seeking a quick start with robust support.
Launched in 2015, ZenBusiness uses technology to offer efficient and affordable business formation services.
When I was setting up my LLC, I was amazed at how ZenBusiness streamlined the process, making it feel personal and tailored to my needs.
Their user-optimized platform ensures a seamless 10-12 minute filing. They showcase transparent package options, with pivotal inclusions like an EIN. My LLC saw swift approval in four days, complemented by a detailed New Business Kit.
Additionally, 14,335 reviews on Trustpilot have given ZenBusiness a five-star rating, as shown in the company website, highlighting the company's high level of customer satisfaction.
According to the plan and delivery time we chose, ZenBusiness gathered and submitted our incorporation articles and other necessary papers to the Virginia Secretary of State.
Looking for more information about this organization? Our ZenBusiness review provides a detailed analysis.
Service Features:
- Starters Plan ($0 + $100 State Fee): This choice provides you with all the essentials to establish your LLC affordably. Included is the standard LLC filing service, typically taking 2 to 3 weeks. Additionally, you'll receive a bank account and a user-friendly website builder, allowing customization to your preferences. You can also decide to include worry-free compliance, which is initially free for the first year and can be renewed at a cost of $199 annually.
- Pro Plan ($199 + $100 State Fee): The Pro Package covers everything found in the Starter Plan and adds a quicker "rush" filing speed of 1 to 2 business days. This package is great if you're in a hurry to start your business. It also provides an EIN (a special number from the IRS). Additionally, with the Pro Plan, you can get an operating agreement for $99. This agreement helps everyone in the LLC understand how things will be done and keeps everyone protected.
- Premium Plan ($349 + $100 State Fee): Bringing together all the Pro features, the Premium Plan also introduces business document templates. These templates are there to help with the kind of paperwork that takes a lot of time and to make tasks that keep repeating easier, so things run even smoother. On top of that, this plan includes website services like getting your own domain name, hosting, and a special email address for your website.
- Registered Agent Services ($199): As your own registered agent, ZenBusiness will handle your filing deadlines and yearly report submissions.
2 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Keeps your address off public records, a Northwest hallmark.
- Select services based on your specific needs, ensuring customized service.
- Customer support renowned for its quick and knowledgeable responses.
- Exclusive discount for Venture Smarter readers.
- Over two decades of experience, demonstrating a long-term reliable presence.
- LLC formation requires using their registered agent service.
- Some may be deterred by the absence of BBB accreditation.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses that prioritize privacy and detailed support
Who is it not for?
- Startups looking for the cheapest option
The Verdict
Northwest is a standout for providing exceptional customer service and privacy protection, making it worth the investment for businesses that value these aspects.
Since 1998, Northwest Registered Agent has incorporated nearly two million firms, offering efficient registered agent and incorporation services.
This company has risen to the top because of its affordable prices and attentive customer care. They handled my LLC formation with such professionalism and ease, it's no wonder they've been in the game for so long.
This company formation service offers the best customer care in the business.
We spent only 9 minutes on the initial filing, and in a swift 72 hours, everything was finalized, despite our 5-day selection.
Uncover key information about this company by checking the Northwest Registered Agent review.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Base Formation Package ($39 + $100 State Fee): This Virginia LLC formation service plan offers business registration, operating agreement, name verifications, and compliance filing with the Virginia state corporation commission.
- Deluxe Package ($179 + $100 State Fee): This deluxe bundle comes with EIN/TIN registration plus all essential features of the lower plan.
- Registered Agent Services ($125): Includes a free year of premium Northwest registered agent service and Virginia resident agent business address. It renews annually for the same amount.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Affordable LLC formation, starting at $0.
- Free 1-year Registered Agent included.
- Proven reliability with 25+ years in business.
- Quick 1-day service turnaround.
- Some add-on services can be costly.
- Customer support only available Monday to Friday.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious entrepreneurs
Who is it not for?
- Those who want more hands-on customer support
The Verdict
Bizee is perfect for individuals who want a cost-effective and straightforward LLC formation, with essential services included at no extra charge.
Bizee (formerly Incfile) is one of the few Virginia LLC formation services that promises to file your paperwork within one business day without charging you more.
Furthermore, they will create your LLC at no cost and act as your registered agent for an entire year.
According to the company website, Bizee has been in the business for over 20 years and has served over 1,000,000 customers. Additionally, it has a 4.8 average star rating from 17,522 Trustpilot reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.
We put them to the test and we were quite pleased with the results.
Until we acquired our final report, they provided limitless phone and email support, and we received a real-time file track and trace feature.
Online data storage for your LLC records and a unique dashboard that keeps track of important due dates and compliance reminders are just some advantageous features that Bizee offers.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Silver Package ($0 + $100 State Fee): Free Virginia LLC incorporation, lifelong business compliance alerts, and a Virginia registered agent service. In this case, the cost of an LLC in Virginia is $100, the state fee.
- Bizee Gold ($99/year + $100 State Fee): Has features from the lower package plus drafting the operating agreement, EIN acquisition, and banking settlement papers.
- Platinum Package ($299/year + $100 State Fee): All services from all lower packages plus a free corporate website, domain business name, and faster document delivery.
- Registered Agent Service ($119): If made using an LLC creation package, the first year is free. The renewal fee will be $119 per year after the first year.
4 - Rocket Lawyer (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Online legal services available 24/7.
- Access to legal forms anytime, anywhere.
- Integration with popular document storage services.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Mixed user reviews on document accuracy.
- Trial-to-subscription transition may be unclear.
- Possible document formatting issues.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses needing a broader range of legal services
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer a simple LLC service without additional legal support
The Verdict
Rocket Lawyer is ideal for businesses that may require ongoing legal services beyond LLC formation, offering comprehensive legal aid as part of their packages.
This San Francisco-based company offers consumers access to a selection of pre-formatted legal documents and other top-notch legal services.
If you are unsure about joining, keep in mind that the company offers a 7-day free trial period to try out their value-added services.
Rocket Lawyer boasts one of the most excellent, individualized customer support. I recall reaching out to them with a bunch of questions, and their team was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly patient with me. It felt like they genuinely cared about my business.
Thoughtfully forwarding all vital emails to you, they serve as a defense against spam while helping you maintain a competitive edge in the world of business.
The difficulties we had with forming LLC were carefully explained to us by one of their attorneys.
Interested in knowing more about this enterprise? Our Rocket Lawyer review should provide you with plenty of insight.
LLC Formation Packages:
- LLC Formation Package ($99.99 + $100 State Fee): Free legal paperwork, lawyer services, and LLC formation services included. Additionally, you will get a 25% discount on registered agent services. If you decide to become a member for a $39.99 monthly subscription, you'll get your LLC for free.
- Registered Agent Service ($149.99 for non-members): As a member, you will receive a 25% discount. To become a member, it will cost you $39.99 per month and you can apply on their website.
5 - Swyft Filings
Pros and Cons
- Cost-effective LLC formation.
- Intuitive website experience.
- Outstanding customer service.
- Positive Trustpilot and Sitejabber feedback.
- Extra charges for some services.
- Increased Registered Agent fees in year two.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small business owners looking for speed and efficiency
Who is it not for?
- Businesses that can afford higher-end, bespoke LLC services
The Verdict
Swyft Filings offers fast and effective service perfect for entrepreneurs who need to get up and running without delay.
Swyft Filings is a reasonably priced company creation service with some of the fastest response times in the business. When I was in a time crunch to get my LLC up and running, they were my go-to, and their efficiency was a lifesaver.
Thanks to their short application process and excellent customer support team, you'll have all the tools necessary to launch your company quickly.
I really liked working with them. The customer support team was willing to listen and answer all of my concerns.
I recommend it for small enterprises or business owners that need to start their company fast and inexpensively.
Another great thing with Swyft Filings is that they offer a 100% refund policy in case you're disappointed with their services.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Plan ($0 + $100 State Fee): Preparing and filing business documents, business name checks and verifications, and free domain name.
- Standard ($199 + $100 State Fee): Personalized operating agreement, EIN acquisition, and custom corporate minutes.
- Premium ($299 + $100 State Fee): All lower plan features, digital document delivery, express processing, and website hosting.
- Registered Agent Service ($99 / 3 months): Billing for the registered agent service occurs quarterly (ongoing quarterly subscription).
6 - MyCompanyWorks
Pros and Cons
- Outstanding average ratings from a vast number of customer reviews.
- Enhanced Basic Package offerings compared to industry norms.
- Efficient response to customer queries during work hours.
- Not all additional features like consulting will be useful for every business.
- Phone support is constrained to weekdays and business hours.
- Refund policy is restrictive post-document dispatch to the state.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- New entrepreneurs who value a blend of speed and support
Who is it not for?
- Those seeking the lowest cost service available
The Verdict
MyCompanyWorks offers an excellent balance of comprehensive features and efficient processing, suitable for first-time business owners who need a bit more guidance.
MyCompanyWorks enables budding entrepreneurs to quickly file the required paperwork to establish an LLC or corporation.
I remember feeling overwhelmed with all the paperwork, but their team guided me every step of the way. It was such a relief to have experts by my side
This company offers a straightforward order management dashboard, free business alerts, and an interactive setup process.
Every plan has manuals and guides that help with the establishment and running of different types of businesses in Virginia.
Along with officially establishing our business structure, we also received help opening a business bank account and designing a logo. Which is quite neat.
However, expensive plans may obscure some of this legal service's advantages.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic plan ($59 + $100 State Fee): Offers essentials for forming a business, like name searches and drafting articles of organization.
- Entrepreneur ($199 + $100 State Fee): Basic plan features plus access to Set-up Wizard and faster filing.
- Complete ($299 + $100 State Fee): Everything in the basic and entrepreneur package plus EIN acquisition and VIP processing.
- Registered Agent Service ($99): With the last two packages, you get a free first year of registered agent service.
7 - Harbor Compliance
Pros and Cons
- Personalized consultations with experts.
- Diverse service range available.
- Responsive customer assistance.
- Higher pricing relative to competitors.
- Reports of sporadic service issues.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Companies that require detailed compliance assistance
Who is it not for?
- Small businesses looking for the most basic, budget-friendly options
The Verdict
Harbor Compliance is best suited for larger businesses or those in regulated industries that need to ensure stringent compliance and benefit from specialized support.
Harbor Compliance puts the bulk of its products into a unified software suite for faster processing.
This software, the cornerstone of their service, enables you to keep track of your registration and licensing expertly from a centralized location.
We love that you can also get a one-on-one compliance consultation from one of their tax managers.
This Virginia LLC formation service also provides excellent customer assistance.
Their compliance professionals have one-on-one interactions with their clients.
Check our full review of Harbor Compliance.
LLC Formation Packages:
- LLC Formation Package ($99 + $100 State Fee): This involves checking the availability of names as well as drafting and submitting your articles of incorporation to the state.
- Virginia Registered Agent Service ($99): Harbor Compliance acts as your primary communication point with the Virginia SOS under this plan. If you register for more than 2 years, you get a 2-5% bulk discount.
Why Should You Trust Us
You should trust the Venture Smarter team for your Virginia LLC formation needs because our dedicated team of legal experts has meticulously reviewed and evaluated the top LLC services in Virginia. Our unique approach involves anonymous interactions with these services and leveraging the insights of an independent review team, ensuring that our recommendations are unbiased and solely in the interest of Venture Smarter readers.
The Venture Smarter team is committed to providing transparent and evidence-based suggestions to help you navigate the complexities of starting your LLC in Virginia. We understand the importance of choosing the right service provider to ensure compliance and maintain good standing with state regulations. That's why we've partnered with legal professionals to identify the top choices for your business, focusing on service attributes, delivery methods, and pricing.
Our recommendations are designed to provide Venture Smarter readers with peace of mind, knowing that their chosen LLC service will handle their business formation efficiently and confidentially. We aim to empower you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision, ensuring that your business complies with Virginia laws and regulations.
By choosing Venture Smarter, you're not just selecting an LLC service; you're choosing a partner dedicated to the protection and growth of your business in Virginia. Trust the Venture Smarter team to guide you to the best LLC service that meets your business needs and legal requirements.
How We Picked And Tested The Best LLC Services In Virginia
In our quest to identify the top LLC services in Virginia, we collaborated with legal advisors to develop a comprehensive selection process.
This process was designed to evaluate each service provider on critical aspects such as pricing, customer service, turnaround time, and the range of services offered.
We examined a variety of LLC service providers in Virginia, focusing on those that offered the most relevant and valuable services for businesses in the state.
1. Pricing
We examined the pricing of each service, focusing on initial and ongoing fees for transparency and affordability.
We evaluated ZenBusiness's free package for its value and comprehensiveness, including business formation features and clear additional costs. It stood out for its free package offering key services like Articles of Organization, name checks, standard LLC filing, and a website builder.
Northwest Registered Agent is premiumly priced however, it offers a competitive deal at $39, including business registration and compliance filing if you sign up through our link.
2. Customer Support
In the business formation process, issues or questions can arise that need immediate attention.
"Prompt customer support ensures that issues are resolved quickly, preventing delays in the LLC formation process and subsequent business operations."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
We evaluated the providers based on the variety of communication channels offered, such as phone, email, and online chat, and the speed and quality of their responses.
The two top performers in this section are ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent; they excelled in customer support, offering quick and personalized assistance.
MyCompanyWorks is at a disadvantage with its limited customer service.
3. Turnaround Time
We compared the actual turnaround times for each service, documenting the duration from the initial application to the final state approval.
Based on our evaluation, ZenBusiness offers a 1-2 business day turnaround with the premium plan however, if you purchase the basic plan you'll wait for 2-3 weeks for your LLC formation process to be completed.
LegalZoom fell short in this category with their most basic Economy plan having a 20-day processing time window.
4. Service Offered
We reviewed the scope and quality of each service's offerings, focusing on how well they meet the needs of Virginia businesses.
ZenBusiness scored a 5/5 for its wide array of services, including worry-free compliance, bank account, business email and website, and EIN acquisition.
In contrast, Harbor Compliance lags behind at 3/5 because of its limited features; its basic package lacks a registered agent service and they do not have a free basic formation plan like other competitors.
5. Reliability and Reputation
We analyzed customer feedback and third-party reviews for each service, focusing on reliability, timeliness, and customer satisfaction.
We highlighted ZenBusiness and Northwest for their positive customer feedback and examined how their reputations align with our own findings regarding their service quality and efficiency.
6. Ease of Use
The usability of the website can directly impact the efficiency of the LLC formation process. A straightforward, intuitive interface allows for quick and error-free submission of necessary information and documents, speeding up the formation process.
Our evaluation of each service's online platform included a user experience assessment, focusing on the ease of navigation, clarity of information, and the simplicity of the LLC formation process.
During our test, ZenBusiness was rated 5/5 noted for its intuitive online platform that offers easy access to online tools like document tracking and customizable legal forms. We could also reach support via different channels laid out on the user dashboard.
7. Local Expertise
In case of legal disputes or challenges, a service provider with local legal expertise is better equipped to handle these issues effectively, understanding the local legal environment and potential implications for your Virginia LLC.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent showed strong local expertise in rules that govern Virginia LLCs from formation and maintaining compliance with the Secretary of State to obtaining state and local licenses required to start operations.
Steps To Start an LLC in Virginia
If you want to save money and not hire an LLC service provider, you can start your own Virginia LLC by following these six steps [1].
- Step 1: Select an available name for your Virginia Limited Liability Company.
- Step 2: Submit a professional business address for your LLC.
- Step 3: Hire a reliable Virginia registered agent service.
- Step 4: Draft your articles of organization/incorporation with the SOS.
- Step 5: Register for an EIN for tax purposes.
- Step 6: Draft an operating agreement for your business entity.
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FAQs
Is Virginia a Good State to Register LLC in?
Yes, Virginia is a good state to register an LLC in because it has the lowest corporate tax rate of 6%. Additionally, there are no general business license requirements for LLCs.
Do LLC Pay Taxes in Virginia?
No, LLCs do not pay taxes in Virginia because they're treated as pass-through entities. However, each LLC member is expected to report a 15.3% federal self-employment tax rate on their individual income.
Do You Need a Business License to Start an LLC in Virginia?
No, you do not need a business license in Virginia for an LLC. Virginia SOS doesn't have a general business license for LLCs, but you may need to apply for an occupational license depending on your business type.
Our Verdict
Having delved deep into the world of LLC services in Virginia, I've come to appreciate the nuances of each provider.
From my experience, ZenBusiness truly stood out with its user-friendly platform and swift approval process.
Their transparent package options and the invaluable inclusion of an EIN made the journey smoother for me.
While there are several commendable services out there, ZenBusiness's blend of affordability, efficiency, and comprehensive support makes it my top recommendation for anyone looking to form an LLC in Virginia.
Our #1 Recommendation
ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
- Starts with low-cost plans, only $0 plus state fees.
- Users consistently praise its ease of operation and support.
- Offers comprehensive services, including LLC formation and compliance.
- Known for quick processing and filing efficiency.
- Dedicated to social responsibility and active in community projects.
- Packages are competitively priced, ensuring value for money.
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of October
- Customer support is not available 24/7.
- Non-profit organization formation services are not offered.
