5 Best California LLC Services for 2024 (Formation & Help)

Planning to launch your business in California? It is much easier if a professional lends a hand in the formation of your corporation or LLC in California. When you look for the best LLC formation services, you probably get many names that are claimed to be the best.

The LLCBuddy team has made things easier for you. If you’re lost in so many services, here we are with a list of the best LLC formation services in California. On this page, you will find their features, pricing, and other details that can be compared before you purchase the service. Check out the best LLC formation service in California. If you’re not a reading type of person, you can watch this video before you make your purchase.

Best LLC Service in California

Best LLC Formation Services in California

Here is the list of the best LLC services available in California. The best thing about these services is starting your LLC for free. Some of the following services are offering LLC formation in California at $0. Other than the state fees and charges, you do not have to pay any charges to the service provider. You will get the basic formation package for free. Now, let’s check out the list of best LLC formation service providers in California-

LLC Service	Our Rating & Pricing	Top Features	Learn More
#1 TOP PICK	4.5/5 $0 + State Fees	100% accuracy guarantee Worry-free service Great customer support	Learn More
	4/5 $0 + State Fees	Free LLC Formation Extras are bit more expensive Other business solutions	Learn More

Below is the list of the best LLC formation services we picked for you in California.

ZenBusiness – Known for its affordable packages and efficient service, ZenBusiness has become a favorite among new entrepreneurs.
TailorBrands – Beyond LLC services, TailorBrands stands out with its branding solutions, making it a one-stop shop for budding businesses.
LegalZoom – With years of industry experience, LegalZoom offers comprehensive services and a vast array of legal resources.
Northwest Registered Agent – Praised for its top-notch customer service, Northwest ensures personalized assistance and detailed compliance guidance.
BetterLegal – Speed is BetterLegal’s forte, promising the fastest LLC formation process in the market.

Our Editorial Team selects these companies through thorough research and market study. It is recommended that you cross-check all the factors before choosing the right one for your business.

1. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a Texas-based company that provides services from formation to annual compliance to an LLC. It offers three plans, Starter, Pro, and Premium. The Starter plan starts from $0. That means you can form your LLC for free in California, though you must pay the state filing fee of $70 to the California Secretary of State. But, the company charges nothing to form your business in the state.

ZenBusiness Plans

Starter Plan at $0 + state filing fee
Pro Plan at $199/year + state filing fee
Premium Plan at $299/year + state filing fee

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get ZenBusiness	Why You Should Not Get ZenBusiness
100% accuracy rate	Does not form California nonprofit
Free LLC formation in California	Additional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Registered Agent services in California

ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness is one of those top-rated companies that provide business formation in California at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in California. The state filing fee and other necessary fees must be paid, including the registered agent fee.

ZenBusiness offers three plans, among which the Pro plan is recommended. The Pro plan has everything you need to start an LLC in California. Obtaining EIN, operating agreement drafting, name search, and all other services are available with the rush filing feature.

Form LLC in California with ZenBusiness

2. TailorBrands

Do you want to create a brand for your business in California? Here is the LLC formation service provider, TailorBrands, for you. The company was established in 2015 in New York, and since then, it has offered several incredible services to set up your business. TailorBrands has a single LLC formation plan that starts at $49 a year. You can choose different other add-on services at an additional cost.

TailorBrands Services

TailorBrands offers a single plan for forming an LLC at $49. There are some basic services that TailorBrands offers, including starting an LLC, filing it, California name availability search, priority support, and so on. You can use their add-on services as and when required. Add-ons are-

Registered Agent Service – $199/year
Employment ID Number (EIN) – $99 (one-time pay)
Annual Compliances – $299/year
Operating Agreement – $29
Expedited Filing – $49
Business bank account – Free

TailorBrands Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get TailorBrands	Why You Shouldn’t Get TailorBrands
Low-cost LLC formation	Not BBB Accredited
Free business bank accounts	No business domain packages
Hassle-free LLC formation	Additional charges to obtain EIN
Additional services like logo, website, domain

TailorBrands Overview

TailorBrands does not have vast LLC formation packages. Instead, it has a single package that includes the formation of LLCs. The name availability search is unlimited, and you don’t have to pay any additional fees. The state filing fee of $70 must be paid apart from the charges you pay for add-ons.

TailorBrands offers other business services such as logo making, domain, website, business bank account, merchandise, and other business services. As a small or start-up business, you must go for TailorBrands.

Form LLC in California with TailorBrands

3. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in California that offers free LLC formation services. If you want to avoid spending money to form your LLC, then LegalZoom is for you. It offers various formation packages that include all types of LLC services. Aside from LLC formation, LegalZoom offers C and S Corp formation. With over thousands of customers, the company offers basic LLC formation services at $0.

LegalZoom Plans

Basic Package- $0 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)
Pro Package – $249 + State Filing Fees (Tax deductible may be applicable)
Premium Package – $279 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)

Apart from these packages, LegalZoom offers a bunch of add-on services as well. Add-on services include the following-

Registered Agent – $299 per year. Available as an add-on and not included in any packages
Trademark registration: Assisting with the US trademark application process
Copyright registration: Guidance on registering copyrights for creative works
Patent services: Support in obtaining utility, design, and plant patents
Estate planning: Offering personalized wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
Legal advice: Access to a network of lawyers for consultations and legal guidance
Expedited Filing: With an additional $99, you can speed up your filing process.

LegalZoom Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get LegalZoom	Why You Shouldn’t Get LegalZoom
Free LLC formation	Expensive add-ons, such as Registered Agent
Trustworthy and established reputation	Higher pricing compared to some competitors
Quick turnaround time	Fewer add-on options
Access to legal professionals	Some additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support is available through phone or chat	Mixed customer reviews

LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is one of the oldest companies in the USA. This company is a service provider offering LLC formation at $0. It offers three broad packages, Basic, Pro, and Premium. The Basic package costs $0. However, you must pay the California filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State. The filing fee depends on which method, mail, online, or any other method you choose.

LegalZoom offers vast add-ones like others. Hence, the chances of getting diverse services are comparatively high. The best part about the company is that it has access to legal documents and legal consultations. The registered agent service is a bit expensive. If you want to hire a Registered Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately; it does not come with any formation plans.

Form LLC in California with LegalZoom

4. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a family-owned business based in Spoken, Washington state. The company offers LLC formation, registered agent service, annual compliances, and other business-related services in all 50 states, including California. It offers LLC formation at $39 + state fees and registered agent service at $125 yearly.

Northwest Plans

Northwest does not have conventional packages. It offers Core, Business maintenance, and business development services. Under these categories, various services are available at a flat rate. Some of the services offered by Northwest in California are listed below-

LLC formation in California at $39 + state filing fee
Registered Agent at $125 yearly
Annual report filing at $100 + state filing fee
Obtaining EIN at $50
Northwest offers National Agent Service. If you operate your LLC Registered Agent in 5 or more states, you can pay $100 + state fees (if applicable) to get a single agent for all states.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get Northwest	Why You Should Not Get Northwest
DIY Packages for your LLC in California	Not BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all services	You must form California LLC to purchase only the service you need.
You must form California LLC to purchase only the service you need.	The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers a standalone Registered Agent service in California

Northwest Registered Agent Overview

Northwest is one of those service providers that offer DIY packages. Northwest is not for you if you want a wholesome formation package in California. It does not have conventional LLC formation packages. It is simply like a departmental store for you. You don’t need to buy everything, but the only thing you need.

Northwest has in-house corporate guides to guide you through the formation process. It offers LLC formation at $39 plus the state filing fee ($125). If you have already formed your LLC in California and are willing to appoint a Registered Agent only, then Northwest can provide a standalone registered agent service at $125 per year.

Northwest offers single flat rates for all services in California and other states. The best part about the company is it does not outsource any of its services. Northwest offers corporate guides to help you through the steps of LLC formation.

Form LLC in California with Northwest Registered Agent

5. BetterLegal

BetterLegal is a comparatively new company compared to other competitors. However, this company has successfully grabbed a large portion of the market in the United States. Serving in 51 states, BetterLegal has been in business since 2016. Unlike other experienced companies, it does not have a list of packages and plans for LLC formation.

BetterLegal Plans

BetterLegal offers one single plan at a flat $299 + state filing fees. It has a list of add-on services as well. BetterLegal is an online service that started off with a very small team. However, even after being in the business for so long, they didn’t increase their team size much. They have transparent pricing, and no hidden charge exists for any services they provide.

BetterLegal offers a list of add-on services. Following are the additional services they offer-

Registered Agent service – $10/month or $90/year
State Annual compliance services – $10/month or $90/year
Permit & License Search Service – $125
Amendment & document research – Free with the core formation service package

BetterLegal Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get BetterLegal	Why You Shouldn’t Get BetterLegal
No refund; all sales are final	The basic package does not include a registered agent service
Quick Turnaround time	Additional charge for EIN
A+ BBB Accredited	The basic package does not include a registered agent service
Single plan for all incorporation

BetterLegal Overview

Even though the company is called BetterLegal, no attorneys or legal services are available. The company offers a single plan for all types of business formation. Hence, if you are planning to form a corporation, you can pay $299 + incorporation fee ($100 for filing online and by mail. $115 for in person filing in California). It offers comparatively better turnaround time at a reasonable price than other companies. You can file your LLC within 10 minutes with BetterLegal.

It offers a resource center for new entrepreneurs. They provide guidance to make things easier when it comes to filing your business. Their small team sometimes fails to cater to their customers on time. Reaching out to their customer support team is very difficult. Another disadvantage is it does not have a refund policy. All sales with BetterLegal are final, and at any stage, no refund is made upon cancelation. However, basic LLC formation and registered agent services are much cheaper in BetterLegal than in other close competitors.

Form LLC in California with BetterLegal

How to Form an LLC in California

Forming an LLC in California takes a few steps. The first step is to get a clear idea about doing business in California. Before jumping into the pool of paperwork, make sure you have a thorough knowledge of taxes and the costs of starting any business in California.

In general, California, popularly known as The Golden State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 40,223,504. The state has the nominal GDP is 3,634,821 (in millions). Hence, you can start any small or medium-sized business in California based on your budget. Forming an LLC in California can be a good option as it is less complicated than other forms of business. If you choose the state capital, Sacramento, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

There are five most important steps to follow when you establish an LLC in California:

Step 1: Give a name to the LLC: Make sure the name is available to use in California. You can also get a DBA.
Step 2: Get a Registered Agent in California. The person will be responsible for all communications between your LLC and the State.
Step 3: File the California Articles of Organization.
Step 4: Draft an LLC operating agreement in California.
Step 5: Get an EIN in California

Now, these steps seem to be easy. But unfortunately, it is not that simple. Each business has to file different documents based on local licenses and permits. From January 1, 2024, all the LLCs and Corporations have to file the BOI Report with the FinCEN. If you start an LLC, you must file the BOI Report in California.

You can do that on your own. However, getting a professional on board is always recommended to guide you through the process. These steps are crucial and sensitive. You must complete everything to avoid canceling your formation process. Hence, having a professional LLC formation service for your LLC is better.

How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Florida

It is important to choose the best service for your business carefully. Before you select the best one, make sure you thoroughly research the following points-

Reputation: Look for a company with a good reputation. Check reviews and ratings from previous clients to see how they feel about the services offered.
Experience: Choose a company with years of LLC formation experience. This ensures that they have knowledge of the process and can provide quality services.
Cost: Compare prices between different companies. Choose a company that offers affordable pricing for the services you need.
Customer Service: Ensure that the company has good customer service. They should be responsive, helpful, and willing to answer any questions.
Services Offered: Look for a company that offers a range of services, including entity formation, registered agent services, and ongoing compliance support to ensure your LLC remains in good standing.
Ease of Use: Choose a company with a user-friendly website and easy-to-use online platform. This makes the process of forming an LLC simple and straightforward.
Guarantees: Check if the company offers a satisfaction guarantee or a refund policy. This gives you peace of mind that you are getting the best possible service.

FAQs

What are the best LLC formation services in California?

Some popular LLC formation services in California include LegalZoom, IncFile, and Rocket Lawyer.

How much does it cost to form an LLC in California through a formation service?

The cost of forming an LLC in California using a service typically ranges from $50 to $500, depending on the provider and the level of services needed.

Do I need to hire a professional service to form an LLC in California?

While it is not legally required to hire a professional formation service, many entrepreneurs in California choose to do so to ensure all paperwork is properly filed and minimize potential errors.

Can an LLC formation service help me with obtaining an EIN for my California LLC?

Yes, many LLC formation services in California offer EIN acquisition as part of their package or as an add-on service.

What is the difference between an LLC formation service and hiring a lawyer to help with setting up an LLC in California?

LLC formation services typically provide a more simplified, budget-friendly option for setting up an LLC in California, while hiring a lawyer would offer more personalized legal advice and assistance.

Are there any specific requirements for forming an LLC in California compared to other states?

California has certain requirements for LLC formation, such as filing forms that comply with the California Secretary of State’s guidelines and paying a minimum annual franchise tax.

How long does it take to form an LLC in California using an LLC formation service?

The timeframe for forming an LLC in California through a service can vary but typically takes around 1-2 weeks to complete all necessary steps.

Can an LLC formation service help me choose a business name for my California LLC?

Yes, many LLC formation services offer name availability checks and guidance on choosing a business name that complies with California’s naming regulations.

Do I need a physical address in California to form an LLC in the state?

Yes, California requires LLCs to have a registered address within the state for legal paperwork and business communication purposes.

What are the annual maintenance requirements for an LLC in California?

Annual requirements for maintaining an LLC in California include filing Statement of Information forms and paying annual franchise taxes.

Can I form a single-member LLC in California using an LLC formation service?

Yes, many LLC formation services in California offer services for forming both single-member and multi-member LLCs.

Are LLC formation services in California experienced in helping foreign entrepreneurs set up an LLC in the state?

Yes, many LLC formation services in California have experience working with foreign entrepreneurs and ensuring all requirements are met for forming an LLC in the state.

How do I know which LLC formation service is the best option for my California business needs?

Researching customer reviews, comparing pricing and services offered, and noting any extra features or guarantees can help you determine which LLC formation service is the best fit for your California business.

Is it possible to form an LLC in California on my own without using a formation service?

Yes, it is possible to form an LLC in California without using a formation service, but it may require a full understanding of the legal requirements and paperwork involved.

Are there any ongoing compliance requirements for an LLC in California that I should be aware of?

Yes, California requires LLCs to file annual Statements of Information and pay annual franchise taxes to remain compliant with state regulations.

How do I choose the best LLC formation service in California?

Research various LLC formation services in California, read reviews, and compare features and prices before making a decision.

Can I form an LLC in California without using a formation service?

Yes, you can form an LLC in California on your own by following the necessary steps outlined by the California Secretary of State.

What are the advantages of using an LLC formation service in California?

LLC formation services in California can save you time, simplify the process, and ensure all the necessary paperwork is filed correctly.

How long does it take to form an LLC in California with the help of a formation service?

The timeline for forming an LLC in California with the assistance of a formation service can vary, but typically it takes around 1-2 weeks.

Are there any specific requirements for forming an LLC in California?

Yes, in California, you must choose a unique name for your LLC, file articles of organization, appoint a registered agent, and pay the necessary fees.

Are online LLC formation services available for residents of California?

Yes, there are various online LLC formation services specifically catering to residents of California.

How much does it cost to form an LLC in California using a formation service?

The cost of using an LLC formation service in California can range from $50 to $300 or more, depending on the features and services included.

Do I need to be a resident of California to form an LLC in the state?

No, you do not need to be a resident of California to form an LLC in the state. Non-residents can also establish an LLC in California.

Can a formation service help me with obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for my California LLC?

Yes, many LLC formation services in California can assist you in obtaining an EIN for your LLC from the IRS.

What is the best way to check the availability of a business name for my California LLC?

You can conduct a name search on the California Secretary of State’s website to check the availability of a business name for your LLC.

Are there any ongoing requirements for maintaining an LLC in California?

Yes, in California, LLCs must file an annual Statement of Information and pay the necessary fees to keep their entity in good standing.

Can an LLC formation service in California help me with obtaining business licenses and permits?

Yes, many LLC formation services in California can assist you in obtaining the necessary business licenses and permits for your LLC.

Can I change the name of my California LLC after it has been formed?

Yes, you can change the name of your California LLC by filing an amendment with the California Secretary of State.

What is a registered agent, and do I need one for my California LLC?

A registered agent is a person or entity designated to receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC. In California, all LLCs are required to have a registered agent.

How do I choose a registered agent for my California LLC?

You can serve as your LLC’s registered agent, or you can hire a professional registered agent service in California to fulfill this requirement.

Conclusion

Starting a business in Florida is a big step. It’s really helpful to have experts on your side. When you use a professional LLC service, you’re making sure everything is done right without any headaches. We’ve given you a list of the top choices in this article. Take your time to look at each one. Check their prices, see what they offer, and think about what’s best for your business.

Remember, picking the right Florida LLC service can make things smoother and better for your business as it grows. If you want the best for your business, check out ZenBusiness. They’re our number one recommendation for their compelling offer of $0 + state fee for LLC formation, combined with an impressive array of 5-star Trustpilot reviews. Seize this exceptional opportunity for your business!