5 Best DC LLC Services for 2025 (Formation & Help)

It is not so complicated to start an LLC in DC. The paperwork, procedure, and taxation are much easier than other business structures. However, there are other things things that need to be done and professional hands are the best option for them. When you look for a professional service, you’ll probably be lost as there are so many that claim to be the ‘best.’

LLCBuddy team found a way to lend a hand here. Editors shared a list of the best LLC formation service in DC you can explore. If you’re not a fan of reading a lengthy article, then here’s a video for you.

Best LLC Service in D.C.

Best LLC Formation Services in DC

Here is the list of the best LLC services available in DC. The best thing about these services is starting your LLC for free. Some of the following services are offering LLC formation in DC 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 DC-

LLC Service	Our Rating & Pricing	Top Features	Learn More
#1 TOP PICK	5/5 $0 + State Fees	Fastest filing: 1-day processing 4.8/5.0 Trustpilot & A+ BBB scores 700k+ new businesses formed	Start LLC Now
	4.5/5 $39 + State Fees	In-house corporate guides Standalone Registered Agent service DIY packages	Learn More

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

ZenBusiness – Known for its affordable packages and efficient service, ZenBusiness has become a favorite among new entrepreneurs.
Northwest Registered Agent – Praised for its top-notch customer service, Northwest ensures personalized assistance and detailed compliance guidance.
LegalZoom – With years of industry experience, LegalZoom offers comprehensive services and a vast array of legal resources.
Swyft Filings – Best for small business formation, Swyft Filings offers incredible customer support.
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 DC, though you must pay the state filing fee of $220 to the DC 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 DC nonprofit
Free LLC formation in DC	Additional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Registered Agent services in DC

ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness is one of those top-rated companies that provide business formation in DC at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in DC. 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 DC. Obtaining EIN, operating agreement drafting, name search, and all other services are available with the rush filing feature.

Form LLC in DC with ZenBusiness

2. 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 DC. 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 DC are listed below-

LLC formation in DC 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 DC	Not BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all services	You must form DC LLC to purchase only the service you need.
You must form DC 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 DC

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 DC. 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 DC 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 DC 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 DC with Northwest Registered Agent

3. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in DC 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 DC filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the DC 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 DC with LegalZoom

4. Swyft Filings

An online business formation service, Swyft Filings, is popular among budding entrepreneurs for its customer support and quick document processing. The company offers three types of formation plans for diverse benefits. Swyft Filings, like other close competitors, offers LLC formation at $0. Swyft Filings is an appropriate service for small businesses in DC.

Swyft Filings Plans

Basic Plan at $0 + State filing fee
Standard Plan at $199 + State filing fee
Premium Plan at $299 + State filing fee

Swyft Filings Pros and Cons

Why to Choose Swyft Filings	Why Not to Choose Swyft Filings
Free LLC Formation ($0 + state filing fee)	Non-transparent cost, expensive add-ons
Quick processing time	Registered Agent is not included in any plans
Smooth customer support
Good for small business

Swyft Filings Overview

Swyft Filings is one of the services that are known best for a small business. It offers LLC formation at $0 and a 10-day processing and expedited option. However, they don’t include registered agent service with any of its packages. Besides, once you proceed to check out after selecting your package, many add-ons appear, leading to a bigger amount.

Swyft Filings offers three broad packages, Basic, Standard, and Premium, along with many expensive add-ons. Compared to other competitors, Swyft Filings’ add-ons are a bit expensive. If you want to start a small business (LLC, S-Corp, Corporation, Nonprofit, etc), Swyft Filings has everything you need.

Form an LLC in DC with Swyft Filings

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 ($220 for filing online and by mail filing in DC). 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 DC with BetterLegal

How to Form an LLC in DC

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

In general, DC, popularly known as The Nation’s Capital, is a business-friendly state with a population of 715,891. The state has the nominal GDP is 163,150 (in millions). Hence, you can start any small or medium-sized business in DC based on your budget. Forming an LLC in DC can be a good option as it is less complicated than other forms of business. If you choose the state capital, Washington DC, 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 DC:

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

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 DC.

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 District of Columbia

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 advantages of using LLC formation services in DC?

LLC formation services in DC have knowledge of local regulations and can ensure compliance with DC laws.

How much does it cost to use LLC formation services in DC?

The cost of LLC formation services in DC varies depending on the service provider and the package chosen.

Can LLC formation services in DC help me choose the right business structure?

Yes, LLC formation services in DC can provide guidance on selecting the best business structure for your needs.

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

With the assistance of an LLC formation service in DC, you can typically form your LLC within a few weeks.

Do I need a registered agent in DC if I use an LLC formation service?

Yes, your LLC formation service in DC will typically provide you with a registered agent, which is required by DC law.

What documents do I need to provide to an LLC formation service in DC?

You will typically need to provide information such as your business name, business purpose, and contact information to an LLC formation service in DC.

Can an LLC formation service in DC help me with tax registration and compliance?

Yes, many LLC formation services in DC offer assistance with tax registration and compliance to ensure you are meeting DC tax requirements.

Are there any ongoing compliance requirements for an LLC in DC?

Yes, LLCs in DC are required to file an Annual Report each year to remain in good standing with the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

What is the process for dissolution of an LLC in DC?

LLC formation services in DC can help guide you through the process of dissolving your LLC, which typically involves filing paperwork with the DC government.

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

Yes, many LLC formation services in DC can assist you with understanding the necessary licenses and permits required to operate your business in DC.

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

When selecting an LLC formation service in DC, it’s important to consider factors such as experience, customer reviews, and pricing.

Do I need an attorney to use an LLC formation service in DC?

It is not required to have an attorney when using an LLC formation service in DC, but legal advice is always recommended for complex business matters.

Can an LLC formation service in DC help me with name search and reservation for my business?

Yes, LLC formation services in DC can assist with conducting a name search and reserving your business name with the DC government.

What are the benefits of hiring an LLC formation service in DC for my business?

Hiring an LLC formation service in DC can save you time, ensure compliance with DC laws, and provide expertise in forming your business.

Can an LLC formation service in DC help me with creating an Operating Agreement for my LLC?

Yes, many LLC formation services in DC can assist with drafting an Operating Agreement, which is a key document outlining the management structure of your LLC.

How can an LLC formation service in DC help me with obtaining an EIN for my business?

LLC formation services in DC can assist with obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, which is necessary for tax purposes.

Do I need to have a physical address in DC to form an LLC in the city?

Yes, to form an LLC in DC, you will need to have a physical address within the District of Columbia where your business is located.

Can an LLC formation service in DC help me with foreign qualification if I plan to operate my business in multiple states?

Yes, if you plan to do business in states outside of DC, an LLC formation service in DC can help with the process of foreign qualification.

Are there any restrictions on choosing a business name for an LLC in DC?

When naming your LLC in DC, there are certain guidelines and restrictions to follow to ensure your business name complies with DC regulations.

Can an LLC formation service in DC help me with business banking and finance options?

Many LLC formation services in DC can provide guidance on setting up business banking accounts and exploring finance options for your LLC.

Can an LLC formation service in DC help me with intellectual property protection for my business?

Yes, many LLC formation services in DC can assist with understanding intellectual property laws and securing trademarks or copyrights for your business.

Do I need to publish a notice of my LLC formation in a DC newspaper?

No, DC does not require LLCs to publish a notice of formation in a newspaper as some other states do.

Can an LLC formation service in DC help me with obtaining business insurance for my LLC?

Yes, many LLC formation services in DC can provide guidance on the types of business insurance needed to protect your LLC and its assets.

How can an LLC formation service in DC help me navigate zoning and permitting requirements?

LLC formation services in DC can assist with understanding local zoning laws and obtaining the necessary permits for your business operations.

Do I need to file a DC tax return for my LLC?

As a business entity operating in DC, you will likely need to file a DC tax return each year, which an LLC formation service can help with.

Can an LLC formation service in DC provide ongoing support for my business after formation?

Many LLC formation services in DC offer ongoing support to help with issues such as compliance, regulatory changes, and business growth.

Are there any special regulations or requirements for LLCs in specific industries in DC?

Some industries in DC have specific licensing and regulatory requirements that LLC formation services can help navigate to ensure compliance.

How can I benefit from using the services of an LLC formation service in DC rather than forming an LLC on my own?

LLC formation services in DC can provide expertise, save you time, and ensure compliance with DC laws, giving you peace of mind in the formation process.

What are the best LLC formation services in DC?

Some of the top LLC formation services in DC include LegalZoom, Incfile, Northwest Registered Agent, and Rocket Lawyer.

How much does it cost to form an LLC in DC using these services?

The cost of forming an LLC in DC varies depending on the service provider, but it typically ranges from $49 to $299 plus any state filing fees.

Conclusion

Starting a business in DC 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 DC 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!