FileNow Review (2025 Updated) All You Need to Know

Jon Morgan
Published by Jon Morgan | Co-Founder & Chief Editor
Last updated: May 12, 2025
FACT CHECKED by Lou Viveros, Growth & Transition Advisor
Methodology
We diligently evaluate each service provider showcased in our reviews and guides. By interacting anonymously with their business formation and services, and leveraging the insights of an independent review team, we strive to offer unbiased, evidence-based suggestions. Learn more

If you’re looking to form a new business, FileNow is an excellent option that has a great reputation and has helped form and maintain thousands of businesses although it’s a fairly new company.

Since I've collaborated with several online formation services across all states, I've gained considerable experience dealing with companies and clients alike.

Given that basis, the review on FileNow will cover all aspects with regard to their packages, costs, benefits, special services and other factors to help you decide if it is the ideal platform for your business entity.

Quick Summary

A FileNow logo and two people having a chat in an office

FileNow is an excellent option for entrepreneurs forming a new business, particularly those looking for a straightforward, fast LLC formation service with essential features included in their base packages. The service has built a reputation as one of the fastest formation services in the industry, despite being a newer company.

While FileNow excels at core formation services with a stellar 4.3/5 overall rating, it does have fewer add-on services compared to competitors like ZenBusiness, which may not suit all business needs.

However, its pricing structure, which includes valuable features like free EIN registration, and its efficient same-day filing option make it an excellent choice for entrepreneurs who prioritize speed and value.

Key Service Highlights:

  • Core Formation Services: Error-free guarantee, company name search, comprehensive compliance alerts, and electronic document delivery.
  • Registered Agent Service: Free for the first year with any package, renewing at $119 annually for ongoing compliance support.
  • Federal Tax ID (EIN): Free EIN included with every package, saving additional costs and application time.
  • Filing Speed: Generally quicker than competitors, with same-day filing option for $75 or standard processing within 1-2 business days.
  • Support Options: Multiple support channels available via phone, email, and live chat with responsive and professional customer service team.

Pros & Cons

✅Free federal tax ID (EIN) included with every package

✅Exceptional customer support with 98% satisfaction rate

✅Quick filing process with no unnecessary delays

✅Money-back guarantee with 100% refund within 30 days

✅Free registered agent service for the first year

✅Electronic document delivery for better organization

✅User-friendly interface with clear, step-by-step process

❌Limited additional services compared to other formation services

❌Newer company (established 2018) with fewer customer reviews

❌Some premium features only available in higher-tier packages

❌Add-on services may increase overall costs for comprehensive needs

FileNow

FileNow

FileNow logo with a background of two business men having a conversation in an office
Rated 4.30/5
4.3
Support
4.3
Price
4.3
Turnaround
4.3
Ease of Use
4.3
User Ratings
4.3
Features

FileNow Pricing & Packages

FileNow offers straightforward pricing with two main LLC formation packages plus additional à la carte services. All packages include core formation essentials while providing options to scale services based on business needs.

Plan Options:

Plan Price Features
Starter LLC Formation Package $49 (Plus State Fees) • Error-free guarantee
• Company name search
• Email/chat support
• Compliance alerts
• Order tracking
• Electronic document delivery
• Free EIN
Premium LLC Formation Package $199 (Plus State Fees) • All Starter features
• One-day processing
• Federal tax ID (EIN)
• Free registered agent service for a year
• LLC kit
• Contract templates
• Banking resolution document
Registered Agent Service $119/year • Free for first year with any package
• Renews at $119 annually
Same-day filing $75 • Expedited processing
EIN acquisition $75 • Included free in all packages
Company kit $99 • Organization materials
Certificate of good standing $49 • Official verification document
Operating agreement $50 • Legal business structure document
Banking resolution document $50 • Required for business banking
Contract templates $100 • Ready-to-use legal documents

*As of May 2025

FileNow offers exceptional value with its inclusion of a free EIN and registered agent service in its packages. The $49 starter package plus state fees is competitively priced when compared to major competitors, especially considering it includes features others charge extra for.

Verdict: 4.3/5

FileNow Alternatives

A business man counting money while using a laptop
Service Package FileNow ZenBusiness Northwest Registered Agent Bizee
Basic $49 $0 $39 $0
Premium $199 Similar price Higher price Higher price with extra fees

*As of May 2025

Both ZenBusiness and FileNow offer LLC formation services.

While ZenBusiness and Bizee offer $0 entry packages, FileNow includes more features in its base price like a free EIN, which these competitors charge extra for. FileNow's process and turnaround time are quicker than both Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness, making it ideal for entrepreneurs requiring fast business formation.

FileNow User Experience & Filing Process

FileNow provides a user-friendly interface with a clear, step-by-step process. Venture Smarter's methodology involved anonymously engaging with the service, testing their business formation capabilities, and evaluating the insights provided by the independent review team.

The interface is designed for simplicity, making LLC formation accessible even to first-time business owners. Navigation is straightforward, with well-structured dashboards for easy management. The step-by-step process guides users through each stage of business formation, from entity selection to document completion.

Filing with FileNow is remarkably quick, with options for both standard processing and expedited same-day filing. The ordering process is simple and efficient, without unnecessary complications that might delay formation.

Verdict: 4.5/5

Website & Mobile Experience

FileNow offers a responsive website that works well across desktop and mobile devices. The user-friendly interface features a clear, step-by-step process with a well-structured dashboard for easy management.

While FileNow doesn't explicitly mention a dedicated mobile app, their website is optimized for mobile use, allowing customers to track order status and access documents on the go.

Feature Comparison Across Platforms:

Feature Desktop Mobile Web
Order Placement
Document Access
Support Access
Order Tracking

FileNow Core Services & Features

Two business men shaking hands and closing a deal

Business Formation Process

FileNow's formation process is streamlined for efficiency while maintaining accuracy. Their system offers error-free guarantees, company name availability searches, compliance alerts, and electronic document delivery.

The entire process can be completed quickly, with same-day filing options available for an additional fee.

Based on Venture Smarter's testing, FileNow has gained considerable experience despite being newer to the market, demonstrating expertise in dealing with formation requirements across all states.

Verdict: 4.3/5

Document Preparation & Filing

FileNow excels in document preparation with their error-free guarantee. The service handles all necessary paperwork, ensuring compliance with state requirements while saving customers time and potential legal complications. Documents are delivered electronically for immediate access, with physical options available as needed.

Verdict: 4.3/5

Registered Agent Services

FileNow includes a year of free registered agent service with their packages, renewing at $119 annually thereafter. This service ensures businesses remain compliant with state requirements for receiving legal and tax documents. Their registered agent services are available nationwide with professional handling of all official correspondence.

Verdict: 4.3/5

Additional Business Services

FileNow offers several valuable add-on services, including:

  • Same-day filing ($75)
  • EIN acquisition (included free)
  • Company kit ($99)
  • Certificate of good standing ($49)
  • Operating agreement ($50)
  • Banking resolution document ($50)
  • Contract templates ($100)
  • Name reservation ($50)

While FileNow offers fewer add-ons compared to some competitors, they include essential services like EIN registration free with all packages.

Verdict: 4.4/5

FileNow Data Security & Privacy

While specific security features aren't detailed in the review, FileNow maintains professional standards for handling sensitive business information, including secure electronic document delivery and storage. Their professional team of attorneys and tax professionals suggests adherence to appropriate security protocols for legal and financial data.

FileNow Document Management & Record Keeping

FileNow provides electronic document delivery as a standard feature, allowing for easy access and storage of formation documents. Their system includes compliance alerts to help businesses stay on top of deadlines and requirements. The company also offers a physical company kit option ($99) for businesses preferring traditional document organization.

Verdict: 4.4/5

FileNow Customer Support

FileNow offers multiple support channels with a responsive and professional customer service team. Support is accessible via phone, email, and live chat, with quick issue resolution. The customer support team boasts a 98% satisfaction rate, aligning with industry benchmarks for responsiveness and professionalism.

Former customers particularly praise the support team's helpfulness in answering questions and guiding them through the package selection process. The team's responsiveness and expertise in helping new business owners through the formation process is frequently mentioned in testimonials.

Verdict: 4.3/5

FileNow Alternatives

Venture Smarter compared FileNow to its biggest competitors: ZenBusiness, Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee. Here’s what we’ve concluded.

FileNow's Review Ratings from Review Sites

 

 

FAQs

How Much Does It Cost To Form An LLC With FileNow?

It costs $49 plus state fees to form an LLC with FileNow. Keep in mind that the actual cost varies depending on how much your state fee is.

How Long Does FileNow Take To Process Your LLC?

On average, it normally takes seven to ten business days for FileNow and the state to process your LLC. Of course, that time frame varies by state and if the state is behind on applications or understaffed.

Does FileNow Help With Taxes?

No, FileNow doesn't help with taxes. Other businesses like ZenBusiness help with some essential tax filing assistance, but most LLC formation companies don't offer tax services.

Venture Smarter Verdict On FileNow

FileNow is a great option for forming your LLC. FileNow can offer services such as a federal EIN and quick order processing.

They also have a stellar reputation, excellent customer service, the ability to customize their plans, and a money-back guarantee.

However, if you are looking for add-on services, including an accounting consultation, expense tracking, and deduction tracking, choose ZenBusiness.

The additional features ZenBusiness offers can be extra beneficial to specific customers, especially those who aren't experienced with business taxes.

We Recommend This Instead

ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness CTA
Rated 4.92/5
5.0
Support
4.9
Price
4.9
Turnaround
4.9
Ease of Use
4.8
User Ratings
5.0
Features
Pros
  • They offer various formation packages to choose from
  • The prices of each package are reasonable
  • They provide a worry-free compliance
  • They make business formation as quick as possible
  • Has a lot of positive customer feedback
  • Get the BEST PRICE until the end of July
Cons
  • Formation of non-profit business is not supported

About The Author

Venture Smarter | FileNow Review (2025 Updated) All You Need to Know
Co-Founder & Chief Editor
Jon Morgan, MBA, LLM, has over ten years of experience growing startups and currently serves as CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter. Educated at UC Davis and Harvard, he offers deeply informed guidance. Beyond work, he enjoys spending time with family, his poodle Sophie, and learning Spanish.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Venture Smarter | FileNow Review (2025 Updated) All You Need to Know
Growth & Transition Advisor
LJ Viveros has 40 years of experience in founding and scaling businesses, including a significant sale to Logitech. He has led Market Solutions LLC since 1999, focusing on strategic transitions for global brands. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in Communications, LJ is also a distinguished Matsushita Executive alumnus.
Learn more about our editorial policy

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