5 Best Iowa LLC Formation Services 2023 List (Updated)

When you decide to start an LLC in Iowa, you must thoroughly research and do your homework. Starting an LLC is relatively easy; with professional help, opening an LLC in Iowa becomes even smoother. You will find many such companies when choosing the best LLC formation service in Iowa. Surprisingly, every other company will claim to be the best. But who to trust? How do you know who is the best for your business?

LLCBuddy Editors have eased the task for you. We scanned the market and came up with a list of the best LLC formation services in Iowa. You can compare their services, prices, and other information here before choosing the right one!

If you do not like reading a long article, you can watch the above video for the complete list of best LLC Iowa LLC formation services. It is mandatory to choose the best LLC formation service in Iowa, especially when you want to get rid of any hassle while forming your Iowa LLC. You may start it on your own, but it will not be a wise decision, as missing out any step or even a small thing can lead to the cancellation of the process.

Best LLC Service in Iowa

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

Best LLC Formation Services in Iowa
How to Form an LLC in Iowa
How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Iowa
FAQs

Best LLC Formation Services in Iowa

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

LLC Service	Our Rating & Pricing	Top Features	Learn More
#1 TOP PICK	5/5 $0 + State Fees	Free LLC formation Access to Legal Support Trustworthy and established reputation	Learn More
	4/5 $299 + State Fees	Flat pricing for all services Basic business filing services A+ BBB Accredited	Learn More

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

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

1. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in Iowa 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	Less number of add-on options
Access to legal professionals	Some additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support available through phone or chat	Mixed customer reviews

LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is one of the oldest companies in 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. Though you must pay the Iowa filing fee while filing the Certificate of Organization with the Iowa 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 there is an access to legal documents and legal consultation. The registered agent service is a bit expensive. If you want to hire Registered Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately, it does not come with any formation plans.

Form LLC in Iowa with LegalZoom

2. BetterLegal

BetterLegal is a comparatively new company than other competitors. But 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 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 ($50 for filing online and by mail in Iowa). 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, upon cancelation, no refund is made. However, basic LLC formation and registered agent services are much cheaper in BetterLegal than in other close competitors.

Form LLC in Iowa with BetterLegal

3. TailorBrands

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Iowa? 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 offer a single plan for forming an LLC at $49. There are some basic services that TailorBrands offer, including starting an LLC, filing it, Iowa 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 $50 (by mail and online) 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 Iowa with TailorBrands

4. 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 Iowa, though you must pay the state filing fee of $50 (by mail and online) to the Iowa 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 Iowa nonprofit
Free LLC formation in Iowa	Additional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Registered Agent services

ZenBusiness Overview

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

Form LLC in Iowa with ZenBusiness

5. 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 Iowa. 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 Iowa are listed below-

LLC formation in Iowa 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 Iowa	Not BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all services	Additional charges to obtain EIN in Iowa
Purchase only the service you need to form Iowa LLC.	The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers standalone Registered Agent service in Iowa

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 Iowa. 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 ($50 (by mail and online)). If you have already formed your LLC in Iowa and are willing to appoint 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 Iowa 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 Iowa with Northwest Registered Agent

How to Form an LLC in Iowa

Iowa, popularly known as The Hawkeye State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 3,233,572. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of Iowa is $233,468 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in Iowa will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Des Moines, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

To form an LLC in Iowa, you need to follow some basic steps, including getting an LLC name, appointing your Iowa Registered Agent, filing the Iowa Certificate of Organization, creating Iowa LLC operating agreement, and finally getting an EIN for filing required taxes.

You can do that on your own. However, it is always recommended to get a professional person on board to guide you through. 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 Iowa

It is important to choose the best service for your business carefully. Before you select the best one, make sure you thoroughly research on 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 is an LLC?

LLC stands for Limited Liability Company. It is a type of business structure that combines the limited liability of a corporation with the simplicity and tax benefits of an unincorporated business.

Can I form an LLC in Iowa?

Yes, you can form an LLC in Iowa.

What are the benefits of forming an LLC in Iowa?

There are multiple benefits of forming an LLC in Iowa, like liability protection, pass-through taxation, privacy, and more.

How much does it cost to form an LLC in Iowa?

The filing fee for an LLC in Iowa is $50.

Can I file online to form an LLC in Iowa?

Yes, Iowa has an online filing option for LLC formation.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Iowa?

It typically takes 3 to 5 business days for the state to process your LLC filing in Iowa.

What are the requirements for forming an Iowa LLC?

Some basic requirements are choosing a unique business name, filing Articles of Organization, appointing a registered agent, and getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.

Who can be a registered agent for my Iowa LLC?

Any resident of Iowa or a registered Iowa business may act as a registered agent for your LLC.

Can I serve as my registered agent in Iowa?

Yes, but the registered agent needs to be available during normal business hours to accept service for your LLC.

What is an Iowa Certificate of Attestation of Exempt Status?

It is a form that allows Iowa LLCs to obtain exemption from certain state taxes.

How do I get this Certificate of Attestation of Exempt Status?

For Iowa LLCs, it is included in the Articles of Organization when you create your LLC.

Does Iowa have an annual report requirement for LLCs?

Yes, Iowa requires its LLCs to file an annual report and pay a $60 fee.

Can I dissolve an Iowa LLC?

Yes, your Iowa LLC can be voluntarily dissolved by filing a Statement of Dissolution with the Iowa Secretary of State’s office.

Can I change the name of my Iowa LLC after filing?

Yes, file Articles of Amendment with in Iowa’s Secretary of State’s office to effect a name change.

What is a single-member LLC?

A single-member LLC is a type of LLC that has just one owner.

Do I need an operating agreement for my Iowa LLC?

Iowa LLCs are not required to create an operating agreement, but it is highly recommended to have one for clarity and protection of your LLC.

Are foreign LLCs allowed to operate in Iowa?

Yes, foreign LLCs need to register with Iowa’s Secretary of State to operate in the state.

Do I need a business license in Iowa if I form an LLC?

It depends. Most businesses in Iowa do not require a state license, but some professions require a specific license for that occupation.

Can I have both a C Corporation and an LLC in Iowa?

Yes, you can have both but they will be separate entities with their own regulations and taxes.

Can Iowa LLC have a nonprofit purpose?

Yes, Iowa LLCs may be formed to have nonprofit purposes.

Can I form an Iowa LLC for holding assets?

Yes, Iowa LLCs are often used for holding assets such as property or intellectual property.

Can an Iowa LLC be converted into a different business entity type?

Yes, an Iowa LLC can be converted to another entity type by filing conversion paperwork with the Secretary of State.

Do I need to live in Iowa to form an Iowa LLC?

No, residency is not a requirement to form an LLC in Iowa.

Can an Iowa LLC work with multiple owners?

Yes, both single-owner and multiple-owner LLCs are allowed in Iowa.

Can an Iowa LLC participate in legal action either as the plaintiff or defendant?

Yes, Iowa LLCs have the legal standing to sue or be sued in courts.

When is the Iowa Secretary of State’s office available for filing documents?

Documents can be filed with the Iowa Secretary of State’s office online around the clock, but in-person and phone services have specific hours.

Are there any disadvantages of forming an LLC in Iowa?

One disadvantage of an LLC in Iowa is the $60 minimum annual report fee, which is higher than some other states.

Can I include asset protection with my Iowa LLC formation?

Yes, LLC formation companies in Iowa may offer asset protection services or recommend outside asset protection professionals.

Can someone else file the paperwork to form an LLC for me in Iowa?

Yes, professional LLC formation companies can file the paperwork to form an LLC on your behalf.

Which are some of the best LLC formation services available in Iowa?

Some of the best LLC formation services available in Iowa are LegalZoom, ZenBusiness, Incfile, and Swyft Filings.

Is it easy to form an LLC in Iowa?

Yes, it is easy to form an LLC in Iowa. The state has a simple and straightforward process.

Do I need an attorney to form an LLC in Iowa?

No, you do not need an attorney to form an LLC in Iowa. However, it is always recommended to consult with an attorney regarding business-related legal matters.

Is it expensive to form an LLC in Iowa?

No, forming an LLC in Iowa is relatively affordable compared to other states. The filing fee is only $50, and the registration process is simple and streamlined.

What is the standard processing time for LLC registration in Iowa?

The standard processing time for LLC registration in Iowa is about seven business days.

Can I reserve a company name before registering my LLC in Iowa?

Yes, you can reserve a company name before registering your LLC. Iowa allows name reservation for an estimated $10 fee.

Can two LLCs have the same name in Iowa?

No, two LLCs cannot have the same name in Iowa. The state requires every LLC name to be unique and distinguishable from other entities.

Can I form a single-member LLC in Iowa?

Yes, you can form a single-member LLC in Iowa. The state allows for both single-member and multi-member LLCs.

What steps do I need to take to register an LLC in Iowa?

You need to file Articles of Organization, appoint a registered agent, and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.

Are foreign LLCs allowed to do business in Iowa?

Yes, foreign LLCs are allowed to do business in Iowa. They need to register with the Secretary of State, obtain a certificate of authorization, and have a registered agent.

What is the annual reporting requirement for LLCs in Iowa?

LLCs in Iowa are required to file an Annual Report on or before April 1st every year. The fee for the report is $60.

Do I need to publish my LLC formation in Iowa newspapers?

No, you do not need to publish your LLC formation in Iowa newspapers. The state does not require publication or notice of forming an LLC.

Is Iowa a suitable place for businesses to expand or relocate to?

Yes, Iowa is an excellent place for businesses to expand or relocate to. The state has a stable economy, low cost of living, and a friendly business environment.

Can I use a PO Box as my LLC’s registered office address in Iowa?

No, you cannot use a PO box as your LLC’s registered office address in Iowa. You need to have a physical street address.

Does Iowa have any special tax incentives for small businesses?

Yes, Iowa provides several tax incentives for small businesses such as tax credits, exemptions, and deductions.

Can individuals from outside Iowa form an LLC in the state?

Yes, individuals from outside Iowa can form an LLC in the state. However, they must comply with the same registration requirements as Iowa residents.

Can I change the name or address of my LLC after registration?

Yes, you can change the name or address of your LLC after registration by filing an amendment with the Secretary of State.

What rights and responsibilities do LLC members have in Iowa?

LLC members in Iowa have the right to share in the profits and management of the business. They also have a responsibility to maintain the LLC’s records and conduct business ethically.

Is there a minimum capital requirement for LLCs in Iowa?

No, there is no minimum capital requirement for LLCs in Iowa. The state does not require LLCs to have a specific amount of capital.

What happens if I do not file an annual report for my Iowa LLC?

If you do not file an annual report for your Iowa LLC, your business may become inactive, and you may be subject to additional fees and penalties.

Can I dissolve an inactive Iowa LLC?

Yes, you can dissolve an inactive Iowa LLC by filing a Certificate of Dissolution with the Secretary of State.

Does Iowa have any specific provisions for foreign LLC operating in the state?

Yes, foreign LLCs operating in Iowa must appoint a registered agent, pay an annual report fee, and filed additional annual franchised reports.

Can I register my LLC online in Iowa?

Yes, you can register your LLC online in Iowa using the Secretary of State online filing system.

How long does it take to file amendments with the Iowa Secretary of State?

Amending an LLC in Iowa may take three-five business days, sometimes sooner.

Do Iowa LLCs need to have an operating agreement?

An operating agreement isn’t required in Iowa, but it’s also one of the most important internal legal documents of the business. It’s recommended that owners should have an operating agreement in place in any circumstance.

What should I include in my LLC’s operating agreement?

Your LLC’s operating agreement should explain how the LLC will operate, how much each member contributes originally, and performance guidelines such as gross margin or earnings threshold.

What if I have concerns about following the LLC compliance requirements even in the future?

Consider hiring a Registered Agent authorized to conduct business in IowaThis gives corporation owners peace of mind since they don’t have to remember the compliance deadlines every year as they will be taken care of by their listing service.

Can my Iowa LLC conduct all businesses under the same company?

Yes, an Iowa LLC can operate multiple companies under the same particular LLC filing. This is achieved with a “Statement of Authority,” rather than multiple LLCs.

Conclusion

Having a professional service to form your LLC in Iowa is much better than doing it yourself. It is hassle-free, and there is no chance of making mistakes while filing your business. This article lists the best LLC formation services in Iowa. Before you select one, make sure you compare the price, services, and features properly.