5 Best Massachusetts LLC Formation Services 2023 List (Updated)

Best LLC Formation Service in Massachusetts

When you decide to start an LLC in Massachusetts, you must thoroughly research and do your homework. Starting an LLC is relatively easy; with professional help, opening an LLC in Massachusetts becomes even smoother. You will find many such companies when choosing the best LLC formation service in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts LLC formation services. It is mandatory to choose the best LLC formation service in Massachusetts, especially when you want to get rid of any hassle while forming your Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts

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

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

Best LLC Formation Services in Massachusetts

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

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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts filing fee while filing the Certificate of Organization with the Massachusetts 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 Resident Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately, it does not come with any formation plans.

Form LLC in Massachusetts 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 ($275 for filing online, in-person, or by mail in Massachusetts). 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 Massachusetts with BetterLegal

3. TailorBrands

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Massachusetts? 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, Massachusetts 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 $500 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts, though you must pay the state filing fee of $500 to the Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts nonprofit
Free LLC formation in Massachusetts	Additional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Resident Agent services

ZenBusiness Overview

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

Form LLC in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts are listed below-

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

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 Massachusetts. 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 ($500). If you have already formed your LLC in Massachusetts and are willing to appoint Resident Agent only, then Northwest can provide a standalone registered agent service at $125 per year.

Northwest offers single flat rates for all services in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts with Northwest Registered Agent

How to Form an LLC in Massachusetts

Massachusetts, popularly known as The Bay State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 7,174,604. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of Massachusetts is $693,131 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in Massachusetts will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Boston, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

To form an LLC in Massachusetts, you need to follow some basic steps, including getting an LLC name, appointing your Massachusetts Resident Agent, filing the Massachusetts Certificate of Organization, creating Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts

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 the best LLC formation service in Massachusetts?

There are several business formation services operating in Massachusetts, each with different advantages depending on your specific needs.

How do I find the right LLC formation service in Massachusetts?

Start by researching different LLC formation services in Massachusetts, comparing factors like features, pricing, and customer reviews to determine the best fit for your business.

Is it necessary to hire an LLC formation service in Massachusetts?

While it is possible to file your own LLC formation documents in Massachusetts, using an LLC formation service may streamline the process and help ensure everything is filed properly.

How much does an LLC formation service in Massachusetts cost?

The cost of an LLC formation service in Massachusetts can vary widely, depending on the package and added features you choose.

Can you set up an LLC in Massachusetts without a registered agent?

No, Massachusetts law requires every LLC to appoint a registered agent, which is someone with a physical address in Massachusetts who is responsible for receiving legal notices and other important correspondence on behalf of the business.

Are there any unique requirements for creating an LLC in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts requires LLCs and corporations to file an annual report that includes information about the business, such as officers and directors.

What is a “domestic” LLC in Massachusetts?

A domestic LLC is one that is formed and registered within Massachusetts.

Can I form a Massachusetts LLC online?

Yes, there are several LLC formation services in Massachusetts that allow you to form your business online from scratch.

Can I add members after forming my LLC in Massachusetts?

Yes, you can add members to your Massachusetts LLC at any time by updating your business formation paperwork.

Does the state of Massachusetts offer business incorporation services?

Massachusetts does not provide direct incorporation services, but the state does have resources available to help businesses navigate the registration process.

How do I change the address on my Massachusetts LLC headquarters?

You can change your business address by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Office or Principal Office with the Massachusetts Secretary of State.

Does Massachusetts require LLCs to file annual reports?

Yes, Massachusetts requires LLCs and corporations to file an annual report each year by the first day of the fourth month after the close of their fiscal year.

How do I get an EIN for my Massachusetts LLC?

You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website.

Can I change my Massachusetts LLC name after filing?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an Articles of Amendment with the Massachusetts Secretary of State.

Can two businesses have the same name in Massachusetts?

No, Massachusetts law prohibits two businesses from operating with the same name.

Can out-of-state businesses form an LLC in Massachusetts?

Yes, businesses from out-of-state can form an LLC in Massachusetts as long as they comply with the state’s LLC paperwork requirements.

How long does it take for an LLC to form in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, it usually takes one business day for the Secretary of State to process LLC formation paperwork and approve the request.

Can I dissolve my Massachusetts LLC?

Yes, you can voluntarily dissolve your Massachusetts LLC by filing a Certificate of Dissolution.

How do I publish my Massachusetts LLC formation notice?

Massachusetts does not require LLC formation notices to be published in a local newspaper.

How do I update the name of an existing Massachusetts LLC?

You can change the name of your Massachusetts LLC by filing an Articles of Amendment with the Secretary of State.

Can an LLC in Massachusetts have foreign owners?

Yes, Massachusetts LLCs can have owners from other states or countries.

Do LLCs in Massachusetts need to obtain a business license?

Depending on the nature of your specific industry, you may need to obtain certain business licenses or permits from local and/or state government agencies in Massachusetts.

How do I file a lawsuit against a Massachusetts LLC?

To file a lawsuit against an LLC in Massachusetts, you must first serve the registered agent designated by the business.

How do I update a Massachusetts LLC’s operating agreement?

LLC owners can update their operating agreement at any time through an amendment to the document that must be filed with the Massachusetts Secretary of State.

Can I form a Massachusetts LLC for a non-profit organization?

Yes, non-profit organizations can register and organize as LLCs in Massachusetts.

Will my Massachusetts LLC be taxed as a corporation?

No, Massachusetts LLCs are generally taxed as a pass-through entity for federal tax purposes, meaning profits and losses are passed through to the LLC owners for individual reporting on their tax returns.

Can Massachusetts LLC owners limit their personal liability?

Yes, LLC owners in Massachusetts can limit their personal liability for the LLC’s debts and obligations, shielding their personal assets.

How can I dissolve my Massachusetts LLC without involving other owners?

To dissolve a Massachusetts LLC without involving other owners, you may need to buy out their interests or file a lawsuit to compel a sale.

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

The filing fee for forming an LLC in Massachusetts is $500. However, if you use an LLC formation service, they will charge additional fees for their services.

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

In Massachusetts, it typically takes about 3-4 weeks to process LLC formations by mail.

Do I need to hire a registered agent in Massachusetts for my LLC?

Yes, all LLCs in Massachusetts are required to have a registered agent.

How can I check if my LLC name is available in Massachusetts?

You can check if your desired LLC name is available in Massachusetts through the Corporations Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website.

Can I form an LLC on my own in Massachusetts?

Yes, it’s possible to form an LLC on your own in Massachusetts. However, the process can be complicated and time-consuming. It’s recommended to hire an LLC formation service to make the process easier.

Are there any restrictions on business activities for LLCs in Massachusetts?

Yes, there are some specific activities that LLCs in Massachusetts are restricted from pursuing. For example, an LLC cannot be a bank, insurance company, or engage in any activities that require a professional license (such as legal or medical services).

How do you dissolve an LLC in Massachusetts?

To dissolve an LLC in Massachusetts, you need to file a Certificate of Dissolution and pay a $100 fee.

Do I need an operating agreement for my LLC in Massachusetts?

While an operating agreement is not mandatory for LLCs in Massachusetts, it’s strongly recommended as it outlines rules, internal management, and ownership percentage.

Can a foreign entity form an LLC in Massachusetts?

Yes, a foreign entity can form an LLC in Massachusetts, but it must register with the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth and appoint a registered agent.

How do I change my LLC’s registered agent in Massachusetts?

To change your LLC’s registered agent in Massachusetts, you need to file a Change of Registered Office or Agent form with the Secretary of State and pay a fee.

Are there any ongoing requirements for LLCs in Massachusetts?

Yes, LLCs in Massachusetts must file an Annual Report each year with the Secretary of State, pay the required fee, and keep proper records.

How do I register my foreign LLC to do business in Massachusetts?

To register your foreign LLC to do business in Massachusetts, you need to file a Certificate of Registration with the Secretary of the Commonwealth, appoint a registered agent in Massachusetts, and pay a fee.

How many people do I need to start an LLC in Massachusetts?

You only need one person to start an LLC in Massachusetts as one-person businesses are eligible to create an LLC.

How do I search for LLCs in Massachusetts?

You can search for LLCs in Massachusetts through the Corporations Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website.

Are LLCs taxed in Massachusetts?

Yes, LLCs in Massachusetts are taxed at both the federal and state levels.

Can my LLC be taxed as an S Corporation in Massachusetts?

Yes, an LLC in Massachusetts can elect to be taxed as an S Corporation for federal tax purposes if they meet specific criteria.

Can I convert my LLC to another business entity in Massachusetts?

Yes, an LLC in Massachusetts can change its business structure if there’s a valid reason, such as product changes, financial debts, or an increased number of shareholders.

What happens if my Massachusetts LLC loses money?

LLCs in Massachusetts that lose money on their income taxes can carry forward those losses to future years.

How do I renew my LLC in Massachusetts?

To renew your LLC in Massachusetts, you need to file an Annual Report with the Secretary of State, pay the required fee, and update any member or registered agent changes.

What is a Certificate of Organization in Massachusetts?

A Certificate of Organization in Massachusetts is a legal document required to form an LLC, and it includes critical business details such as the LLC’s name and the names of its members.

How do I reserve LLC name in Massachusetts?

To reserve an LL name in Massachusetts, you need to file an application and pay a fee with the Secretary of State’s office.

Is it possible to change the name of my LLC after forming it in Massachusetts?

Yes, you can change the name of your LLC in Massachusetts by filing a Certificate of Amendment with the Secretary of the Commonwealth and pay a fee of $100.

Do I need to publish my company’s formation in a local newspaper in Massachusetts?

There is no legal requirement to publish an LLC formation in a local newspaper in Massachusetts.

What information needs to be included in the Operating Agreement for an LLC in Massachusetts?

Highly recommended information in an Operating Agreement include details regarding members and their responsibilities, allocation of profits and losses, voting rights, meeting formalities, and the dissolution process.

Who can form an LLC in Massachusetts?

Anyone above 18 can form an LLC in Massachusetts, whether it be an individual, partnership and corporation, among others.

Can the members of an LLC in Massachusetts be from a different state?

Yes, members of LLCs in Massachusetts do not have to be residing in Massachusetts.

How can I receive my Certificates via electronic delivery in Massachusetts?

To receive electronic delivery of certificates from Massachusetts, an entity needs to take certain steps to change delivery preferences with the Commonwealth, including accessing their CARS account, registering for eDelivery of notifications, modifying file and delivery preferences.

Conclusion

Having a professional service to form your LLC in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts. Before you select one, make sure you compare the price, services, and features properly.