5 Best LLC Services in West Virginia (2024) We Use & Trust
As a seasoned business professional with a lot of experience in LLC formation, I understand the advantages of using formation services when creating a limited liability company in West Virginia.
However, selecting the right service for your new business may be tricky.
To assist you in making an informed decision, I spent over 2 months researching and consulting a team of legal experts to thoroughly test the top LLC services available in the region.
In this review, Venture Smarter aimed to provide you with an insightful overview of the benefits and drawbacks of the leading West Virginia LLC services.
| 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 |
ZenBusiness5 Best West Virginia LLC Services (December 2024)
1 - ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Streamlines business setup, reducing startup stress.
- Affordable pricing tiers, fitting various budgets.
- User-friendly platform, simplifying the formation process.
- Fast processing time, launching businesses quickly.
- Excellent customer support, guiding through setup.
- Free registered agent service for the first year.
- Additional fees for state filings and services.
- Premium features require higher-tier plans.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Startups and small businesses seeking affordable and comprehensive LLC formation and compliance services.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses needing very specialized or complex legal services.
The Verdict
ZenBusiness offers a great balance of price, ease, and comprehensive services, making it ideal for new business owners looking for reliability and affordability.
ZenBusiness registered agent took the top spot in our review for its streamlined legal documents submission process for small business owners.
The company also offers a cost-effective and hassle-free solution. While they may not be the most popular option, they offer excellent business formation services at affordable rates.
For just $199 for the first year and an equivalent annual fee after that, ZenBusiness provides pretty decent registered agent services.
We combined their registered agent services with their Worry-Free Compliance service and were very satisfied with the results.
Their platform is designed for user ease, facilitating a rapid 10-12 minute filing. They offer lucid package choices, spotlighting essentials like an EIN.
My LLC was confirmed in just four days, and I was presented with a robust New Business Kit. The dashboard is a wealth of information, offering a clear post-filing trajectory.
Another significant advantage of working with ZenBusiness is exceptional customer service.
ZenBusiness's registered agent and compliance services are a good option for anyone seeking an efficient way to launch a business.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Starter ($0 + $100 State Fee): Simple filing, a company bank account, compliance, Website Builder, Money Pro Bookkeeping, and cost monitoring are included in their starter package. Additionally, you can expect a 100% accuracy guarantee and a standard filing speed that ensures your documents are ready in approximately 7 to 10 days, according to their website. As an option, Zen Business presents worry-free compliance free for the first year, with the opportunity to renew at $199/year if chosen.
- Pro ($199 + $100 State Fee): Besides the Starter package, this package has the fastest "rush" filing speed of up to 1 business day and includes West Virginia articles of organization and guided LLC running management or the operating agreement template at $99 and an EIN.
- Premium ($299 + $100 State Fee): This plan offers everything in the Pro plan, plus a website for your West Virginia LLC, business document templates, a personalized domain, and email. It also includes the option for 1 business day filing speed. All West Virginia Secretary of State fees are covered in the total price.
- Registered Agent Services ($199): This is the cost of hiring a registered agent without the other services.
2 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Personalized customer service enhances experience.
- Local scanning included, ensuring privacy.
- Same-day document filing speeds up processes.
- Privacy by Default® offers strong data protection.
- No hidden fees, promoting transparency.
- Higher cost compared to other services.
- Services may be more than needed for simple LLCs.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses prioritizing privacy and hands-on customer service for LLC formation.
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for the cheapest service.
The Verdict
Northwest is a premium service that offers exceptional privacy protections and customer support, worth the extra cost for businesses valuing these features.
I remember when I was in the initial stages of my business path, feeling burdened with all the formalities. Turning to Northwest Registered Agent was a game-changer. Their two decades of experience shone through as they addressed each of my issues quickly and thoroughly.
In the United States, where small businesses hire 61.6 million individuals, making up 45.9% of the U.S. workforce according to the Profile on Small Business Economics, the services provided by Northwest Registered Agent made forming my LLC easy and clear.
The first filing was completed in just 9 minutes, with everything processed within 72 hours, even though we chose a 5-day service and started on a Saturday. Their attention to detail and customer support were apparent throughout.
Using PrivacybyDefault made sure that we had no concerns about protecting our information.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Plan ($39 + $125 State Fee): Fast LLC formation service with additional state filing fees, including one year of free registered agent service, a business address, and complimentary mail forwarding when you set up your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent. Enjoy added privacy by default, along with a free domain, website, email, and business phone to launch your business smoothly.
- Registered Agent Services ($125): Once you create your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent, you are given the first year of this service for free. Afterward, it will be charged each year. Discounted to $100 for national registered agent service for multi-state operations.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Simplified business formation process.
- Affordable starter packages for new businesses.
- User-friendly online platform for easy navigation.
- Offers essential compliance and legal document services.
- Customer support available for queries and guidance.
- Potential hidden fees not disclosed upfront.
- Limited customization options for unique business needs.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs and small business owners looking for cost-effective LLC formation with basic features.
Who is it not for?
- Larger companies or those needing more hands-on business consulting services.
The Verdict
Bizee offers an affordable and straightforward LLC registration process, making it perfect for first-time entrepreneurs on a budget.
Bizee (formerly IncFile) is an online registered agent service provider that offers tiered pricing, making it accessible to many businesses.
They can even provide free registered agent services if you are starting a new business and are operating on a tight budget.
Bizee offers a good selection of LLC formation services. Their online dashboard for checking and retrieving legal documents is highly user-friendly, making the process effortless.
We were impressed with the quality of their customer support team.
They offered useful advice and expertly guided us through every step of the process in a professional and approachable manner, leaving us with the impression that our business was their top priority.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Silver Plan ($45 + $125 State Fee): This is their lowest LLC formation plan and includes the necessities for getting your business started.
- Gold Plan ($244 + $125 State Fee): Includes features of the lower plan plus bank resolution documents.
- Platinum Plan ($344 + $125 State Fee): Offers everything in the Silver and Gold plans, plus expedited shipping and VIP processing.
- EIN acquisition ($70): You need an Employee Identification Number (EIN) to open a bank account and file taxes in West Virginia [1]. According to the West Virginia Department of Revenue, 100% of businesses operating in the state are required to obtain an EIN for tax and banking purposes.
4 - Rocket Lawyer (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- On-call attorneys provide personalized advice.
- Free 7-day trial to explore services.
- Wide range of legal documents available.
- Easy-to-use platform simplifies legal processes.
- Membership required for best rates.
- High costs after trial without subscription.
- Document customization can be limited.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses that will benefit from a combination of legal services and LLC formation.
Who is it not for?
- Individuals needing only basic formation services without additional legal assistance.
The Verdict
Rocket Lawyer is ideal for businesses that foresee the need for ongoing legal services, providing a comprehensive suite that supports business growth.
I once needed to draft a contract and discovered Rocket Lawyer. Their free legal resources were an incredible help, and I even talked with one of their budget-friendly attorneys.
Rocket Lawyer’s services for LLC formation are renowned for their convenience, approachability, and value.
The platform’s straightforwardness, paired with professional legal support, makes it an ideal choice for business founders eager to kick-start their businesses without hassle.
Typically, forming an LLC through Rocket Lawyer requires 7-10 business days.
Continual compliance assistance is available for an additional cost, including notifications for filing deadlines and updates specific to your state.
Their website hosts a full page providing information on topics such as help desk services, membership, and establishing a business online.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Rocket Lawyer Plan ($99.99 + $125 State Fee): Set up your first LLC for FREE with Rocket Legal+ membership ($19.99/month, charged annually at $239.88 after a free 7-day trial).
- Registered Agent Service ($249.99): $124.99 / year with Rocket Legal+ plan ($19.99/month, billed annually at $239.88 after a free 7-day evaluation)
5 - Swyft Filings
Pros and Cons
- Affordable packages for business formation.
- Easy-to-use online platform for quick setup.
- Fast processing and filing times.
- Additional costs for essential services.
- Mixed reviews on customer service quality.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs who need quick, efficient, and straightforward LLC services.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses that might require more robust legal and business advisory services.
The Verdict
Swyft Filings focuses on speed and customer service, making it suitable for entrepreneurs who want to start their business without hassle and at a fast pace.
When I was in a rush to get my LLC up and running, I chose Swyft Filings. Their quickness and efficiency in the LLC formation process were noteworthy.
Setting up a business should not be difficult or time-consuming, so they provide a formation package that can help businesses get started effectively.
While forming an LLC with them, we discovered that Swyft Filings extends a 100% money-back guarantee.
The largest downside of engaging them is that their packages do not provide a free registered agent service for your New Mexico business.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Package ($0 + $125 State Fee): This will secure basic LLC incorporation plus document filing.
- Standard Package ($199 + $125 State Fee): Features LLC incorporation and document filing, including a Federal Tax ID (EIN) and a comprehensive selection of documents to start your business. Premium
- Premium Package ($299 + $125 State Fee): The premium package features 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 paid every 3 months.
Why You Should Trust Us
When it comes to selecting the right LLC service for your West Virginia 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 service providers, directly contributing to the operational success of countless clients. This depth of experience has given me a well-rounded perspective on what businesses genuinely need from their LLC service providers in West Virginia.
Therefore, when I recommend ZenBusiness as the premier choice for your LLC formation needs in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
Venture Smarter approach in choosing the best LLC services in this state involved thoroughly examining 15 providers and ensuring a comprehensive market analysis.
This extensive review process was crucial in developing our final list of recommendations.
Our evaluation criteria were multifaceted. We focused on aspects such as the range of services offered, pricing structures, customer feedback, and the overall efficiency of each service.
This holistic approach enabled us to gain a well-rounded understanding of what each provider brings to the table.
1. Service Features
The range and quality of services offered are critical in choosing an LLC service provider. Companies with essential services like operating agreements in their basic packages tend to stand out.
We evaluated each service by setting up mock LLCs to assess essential features like operating agreements, EIN registration, and compliance alerts, specifically noting the ease of use and completeness.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent are the frontrunners. ZenBusiness offers a comprehensive package, including essentials like an EIN, while Northwest provides flexibility in choosing services.
Swyft Filings, although user-friendly, falls short in offering a free registered agent service in their formation plan.
2. Turnaround Times
As a business owner, when hiring an LLC service provider, you want one with the fastest turnaround to complete your LLC formation and compliance procedures as quickly as possible.
We submitted identical LLC formation requests to each service and measured the actual time taken to receive state approval, comparing it against the advertised turnaround times.
Bizee is notable for its swift service completion, often within one working day. ZenBusiness also has a reputation for quick processing and filing times.
On the other hand, Rocket Lawyer may not be as fast, which could be a deciding factor for some businesses.
3. Customer Service
Customer support is a crucial aspect of LLC services as it directly impacts the user experience and the efficiency of resolving issues or queries.
We conducted multiple support inquiries through phone, email, and chat for each service, documenting response times and the accuracy and helpfulness of the answers provided.
Northwest Registered Agent excels with its responsive and expert team, which is available to address various queries.
ZenBusiness also provides strong customer support, but their limited support hours might be a constraint for some users.
Bizee, despite its affordability, has customer support limited to weekdays, which might not be ideal for all businesses.
4. Price Points
Understanding the cost implications of LLC services is crucial for any business. Affordable pricing can be a game-changer, especially for startups and small businesses.
While evaluating service providers in West Virginia, we assessed the various pricing strategies to determine which service or package provides the most value for money.
Bizee's competitive pricing and additional benefits make it a strong contender for budget-conscious businesses.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent stand out for their combination of competitive pricing and comprehensive service offerings.
5. Ease of Use
Ease of use is a critical factor when choosing an LLC service provider because it directly impacts the efficiency and satisfaction of the user experience.
From our analysis, Bizee offers a user-friendly interface for ease of use, making navigation and document handling effortless. ZenBusiness also provides a platform designed for user ease.
However, Rocket Lawyer's platform might present some challenges in navigation and customization for free users.
6. Reliability and Reputation
Reliability and reputation are crucial in the selection of an LLC service provider because they reflect the trustworthiness and quality of the service.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent both have strong user reviews and a positive reputation in the industry.
Swyft Filings offers competitive rates and excellent customer support and has higher registered agent fees after the first year, which might affect their perceived value.
7. Local Expertise
Local knowledge is crucial for businesses to ensure compliance and efficient handling of state-specific legal requirements.
Each state, including West Virginia, has its own set of rules and requirements for LLC formation and operation.
Companies with local expertise are well-versed in these nuances, ensuring that your LLC complies with all local legal requirements.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent demonstrate considerable local expertise in understanding West Virginia-specific regulations.
Related Articles:
- Looking up an LLC in West Virginia
- Dissolving an LLC in West Virginia
- How Much Does an LLC Cost in West Virginia
Steps to creating an LLC in West Virginia
Sometimes hiring an LLC service provider can be expensive.
If you want to start a West Virginia LLC on your own, here are the steps you should follow:
- Step 1: Do multiple name searches and verifiability.
- Step 2: Choose a registered agent with a physical office in West Virginia.
- Step 3: File and submit your LLC's charter documents.
- Step 4: Create different LLC operating agreements.
- Step 5: Acquire an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for bank account creation purposes.
- Step 6: Open a business entity bank account.
- Step 7: Get a West Virginia business license.
FAQs
Is West Virginia a Good State for LLCs?
Yes, West Virginia is a good state for LLCs because it offers one of the most business-friendly corporate tax systems and has no franchise tax, like some other states.
What Is the Tax Rate for LLC in West Virginia?
The tax rate for LLCs in West Virginia is 3%-6.5% depending on income bracket and 15.3% for self-employment tax rate.
Do LLCs Pay Taxes in West Virginia?
No, LLCs do not pay taxes in West Virginia as they are pass-through entities. However, members are subject to a 3-6.5% personal income tax and a 15.3% federal self-employment rate.
Venture Smarter Verdict On The Best LLC Service in West Virginia
Based on our thorough research and firsthand experience, we recommend ZenBusiness as the optimal choice for establishing an LLC in West Virginia.
ZenBusiness stands out for its extensive range of LLC services and excellent customer support, making them a top pick. Their services are also highly affordable and efficient, providing all the necessary components for your business's success.
We were very satisfied with ZenBusiness's LLC formation service packages, registered agent services, and prompt processing times during our engagement with them.
They also have extended hours for customer assistance, and you can be confident that problems will be fixed in a timely manner.
Venture Smarter #1 Recommendation
ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
- Streamlines business setup, reducing startup stress.
- Affordable pricing tiers, fitting various budgets.
- User-friendly platform, simplifying the formation process.
- Fast processing time, launching businesses quickly.
- Excellent customer support, guiding through setup.
- Free registered agent service for the first year.
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of December
- Additional fees for state filings and services.
- Premium features require higher-tier plans.
