5 Best Montana LLC Formation Services 2023 List (Updated)


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Best LLC Formation Service in Montana

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

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

LLC Service

Our Rating & Pricing

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#1 TOP PICK

$0 + State Fees

  • Free LLC formation

  • Access to Legal Support

  • Trustworthy and established reputation

$299 + State Fees

  • Flat pricing for all services

  • Basic business filing services

  • A+ BBB Accredited

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

  1. LegalZoom
  2. BetterLegal
  3. TailorBrands
  4. ZenBusiness
  5. NorthWest Registered Agent

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

incfile-logo

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in Montana 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 LegalZoomWhy You Shouldn’t Get LegalZoom
Free LLC formationExpensive add-ons, such as Registered Agent
Trustworthy and established reputationHigher pricing compared to some competitors
Quick turnaround timeLess number of add-on options
Access to legal professionalsSome additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support available through phone or chatMixed 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 Montana filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the Montana 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. 

2. BetterLegal

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 BetterLegalWhy You Shouldn’t Get BetterLegal
No refund; all sales are finalThe basic package does not include registered agent service
Quick Turnaround timeAdditional charge for EIN
A+ BBB AccreditedThe 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 ($70 for filing online in Montana). 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.

3. TailorBrands

tailore-brands-logo

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Montana? 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, Montana 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 TailorBrandsWhy You Shouldn’t Get TailorBrands
Low-cost LLC formationNot BBB Accredited
Free business bank accountsNo business domain packages
Hassle-free LLC formationAdditional 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.

4. ZenBusiness

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 Montana, though you must pay the state filing fee of $70 to the Montana Secretary of State. But, the company charges nothing to form your business in the state. 

ZenBusiness Plans

  1. Starter Plan at $0 + state filing fee
  2. Pro Plan at $199/year + state filing fee
  3. Premium Plan at $299/year + state filing fee

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get ZenBusinessWhy You Should Not Get ZenBusiness
100% accuracy rateDoes not form Montana nonprofit
Free LLC formation in MontanaAdditional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Registered Agent services

ZenBusiness Overview

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

5. Northwest Registered Agent

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 Montana. 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 Montana are listed below-

  • LLC formation in Montana 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 NorthwestWhy You Should Not Get Northwest
DIY Packages for your LLC in MontanaNot BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all servicesAdditional charges to obtain EIN in Montana
Purchase only the service you need to form Montana LLC.The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers standalone Registered Agent service in Montana

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 Montana. 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 ($70). If you have already formed your LLC in Montana 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 Montana 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. 

How to Form an LLC in Montana

Montana, popularly known as The Treasure State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 1,112,668. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of Montana is $65,736 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in Montana will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Helena, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits. 

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

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-

  1. 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.
  2. Experience: Choose a company with years of LLC formation experience. This ensures that they have knowledge of the process and can provide quality services.
  3. Cost: Compare prices between different companies. Choose a company that offers affordable pricing for the services you need.
  4. Customer Service: Ensure that the company has good customer service. They should be responsive, helpful, and willing to answer any questions.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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 benefits of forming an LLC in Montana?
Montana has some of the lowest filing fees in the country, there is no minimum capital requirement, and an LLC in Montana can have a perpetual existence.
What are the annual fees for maintaining an LLC in Montana?
In Montana, the annual report fee is $20.
Do I need to have a registered agent if I form an LLC in Montana?
Yes, all LLCs in Montana are required to have a registered agent.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Montana?
The processing time for forming an LLC in Montana is usually two to four weeks.
Can anyone be a registered agent for my Montana LLC?
No, a registered agent for your LLC in Montana must be a resident of the state or a company registered to do business in Montana.
Can I form an LLC in Montana if I don’t live in the state?
Yes, you can form an LLC in Montana even if you don’t live there.
What are the filing requirements for a Montana LLC?
The Articles of Organization need to be filed with the Montana Secretary of State to start an LLC.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Montana?
It costs $70 to file the Articles of Organization with the Montana Secretary of State.
Can I get a name reservation for my Montana LLC?
Yes, you can reserve a name for your LLC in Montana for a fee of $10.
What information is needed to form an LLC in Montana?
You’ll need the name and address of your LLC, the name and address of your registered agent, and the names and addresses of the owners.
Can I make changes to my Montana LLC after it’s formed?
Yes, you can amend your LLC’s Articles of Organization at any time.
Do I need an Operating Agreement for my Montana LLC?
Montana doesn’t require LLCs to have an Operating Agreement, but it’s a best practice.
Can I dissolve my Montana LLC online?
Yes, you can dissolve your LLC in Montana online.
How can I change my Montana LLC’s registered agent?
You can file a Statement of Change of Registered Agent or Registered Office with the Montana Secretary of State.
Can I use a PO Box as my LLC’s address in Montana?
No, you need to have a physical street address for your LLC in Montana.
How many members can my Montana LLC have?
Montana LLCs can have an unlimited number of members.
How do I check the availability of a name for my Montana LLC?
You can check the availability of a name for your LLC in Montana on the Secretary of State’s website.
What administrative responsibilities will I have as the owner of a Montana LLC?
Montana LLC owners need to file an Annual Report and keep records of minutes and meetings.
Can I operate my Montana LLC under a different name?
Yes, you can file a Certificate of Assumed Business Name with the Secretary of State to operate under a different name.
Is there a publication requirement for Montana LLCs?
No, Montana LLCs don’t have a publication requirement.
How do I receive my LLC documents after forming an LLC in Montana?
You can receive your LLC documents through email or physical mail.
How long does it take to obtain a Montana Tax ID number for my LLC?
You can usually obtain a Montana Tax ID number for your LLC within four days.
Do I need a business license for my Montana LLC?
It depends on the industry, but some businesses in Montana may require a license.
Are Montana LLCs protected by asset protection laws?
Yes, LLCs in Montana have asset protection.
Can I change my Montana LLC’s name after it’s formed?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s name in Montana by filing a Certificate of Amendment with the Secretary of State.
How do I renew my Montana LLC registration?
Montana LLCs need to file an Annual Report to renew their registration.
Can I have a foreign LLC in Montana?
Yes, foreign LLCs can operate in Montana by registering with the Secretary of State.
Can my Montana LLC have a non-Montana resident as a member?
Yes, a Montana LLC can have non-residents as members.
Can I convert my Montana LLC to a different business entity?
Yes, you can convert your Montana LLC to a different business entity like a corporation or partnership.
What are the requirements to form an LLC in Montana?
The primary requirements to form an LLC in Montana include submitting articles of organization to the Secretary of State, designating a registered agent in Montana, and paying the necessary fees.
Can I form an LLC in Montana if I don’t live there?
Yes, you can register and operate an LLC in Montana even if you do not live in the state.
Is it necessary to hire an attorney to form an LLC in Montana?
No, an attorney is not necessary to form and register an LLC in Montana.
Do I need to have an operating agreement for my Montana LLC?
An operating agreement is not required by Montana law, but it is highly recommended for any LLC.
Can I change the name of my Montana LLC?
Yes, the name of a Montana LLC can be changed by filing an amendment with the Secretary of State.
Can I form a single-member LLC in Montana?
Yes, Montana allows for the creation of single-member LLCs.
What is the Montana LLC annual report due date?
The annual report for Montana LLCs is due by April 15th each year.
Can I hire a third-party LLC filing service in Montana?
Yes, you can hire a third-party LLC formation service in Montana to help with the process of forming and registering your LLC.
Must I obtain an EIN for my Montana LLC?
An EIN is not required by Montana law, but it is highly recommended as it provides limited liability protection and other benefits.
How can I dissolve a Montana LLC?
A Montana LLC can be dissolved by filing Articles of Dissolution with the Secretary of State.
Is there a residency requirement for registered agents in Montana?
No, there is no residency requirement for registered agents in Montana.
How long does the Montana Secretary of State retain LLC filings?
Montana Secretary of State retains LLC filings permanently.
What is the Montana LLC taxation structure?
Montana LLCs can be either treated as a pass-through entity and taxed at the federal level or elect to be taxed as a corporation.
How do I change the address of my Montana LLC?
A Montana LLC can change its address by filing an amendment with the Secretary of State.
Is Montana LLC business-friendly?
Yes, Montana is considered a very business-friendly state and has a low tax burden.
Are there any initial contribution requirements for Montana LLCs?
No, there are no initial contribution requirements for Montana LLCs.
Can I convert another business entity into an LLC in Montana?
Yes, other business entities can be converted into an LLC in Montana through the Secretary of State.
What language should I use for LLC filings in Montana?
The official language for LLC filings in Montana is English.
Can I reserve a Montana LLC name before filing?
Yes, name reservations can be made in Montana for $10.
Can I transfer ownership of my Montana LLC?
An LLC can transfer ownership by selling membership interest or assigning membership interest in transfer agreements.
Is converting to an LLC in Montana automatic?
No, businesses must complete the appropriate filing with the Montana Secretary of State to convert to an LLC.
How private are companies in Montana compared to other states?
Montana does not publicly register names, birth dates, or addresses, which results in higher privacy standards.
Can I independently conduct business under the guise of Montana’s LLC rights?
Yes, an LLC in Montana can conduct businesses once it has registered its name with the state government.
Does Montana LLC law require annual owner meetings where directors vote on management strategies?
LLCs have power-strategic routines which revamp every year. Montana has no compulsion expounding annual occurrences.
Is a Montana registered agent required to receive documents personally from the Secretary of State?
If the individual being registered as the agent asserts receiving notification directly at his principal place of business or others, there’s no obligation to comply with personal impressions.

Also Read

Conclusion

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


About Author & Editorial Staff

Steve Goldstein, founder of LLCBuddy, is a specialist in corporate formations, dedicated to guiding entrepreneurs and small business owners through the LLC process. LLCBuddy provides a wealth of streamlined resources such as guides, articles, and FAQs, making LLC establishment seamless. The diligent editorial staff makes sure content is accurate, up-to-date information on topics like state-specific requirements, registered agents, and compliance. Steve's enthusiasm for entrepreneurship makes LLCBuddy an essential and trustworthy resource for launching and running an LLC.

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