5 Best Rhode Island LLC Formation Services 2023 List (Updated)

Best LLC Formation Service in Rhode Island

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

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

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

Best LLC Formation Services in Rhode Island

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

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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 ($230 for online, by mail filing or in person filing in Rhode Island). 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 Rhode Island with BetterLegal

3. TailorBrands

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Rhode Island? 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, Rhode Island 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 $150 (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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, though you must pay the state filing fee of $150 (by mail and online) to the Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island nonprofit
Free LLC formation in Rhode Island	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 Rhode Island at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island. Obtaining EIN, operating agreement drafting, name search, and all other services are available with the rush filing feature.

Form LLC in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island are listed below-

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

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 Rhode Island. 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 ($150 (by mail and online)). If you have already formed your LLC in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island with Northwest Registered Agent

How to Form an LLC in Rhode Island

Rhode Island, popularly known as The Ocean State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 1,110,822. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of Rhode Island is $72,055 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in Rhode Island will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Providence, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

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

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 are the benefits of forming an LLC in Rhode Island?

Forming an LLC in Rhode Island may provide liability protection for the members, as well as tax advantages.

Do I need an attorney to form an LLC in Rhode Island?

No, hiring an attorney is not required to form an LLC in Rhode Island.

How much does it cost to form an LLC in Rhode Island?

The cost varies depending on the service provider chosen, but it can range from $150 to $500.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Rhode Island?

It typically takes around 2-3 business days to process an LLC formation in Rhode Island.

Can I form an LLC in Rhode Island if I am not a resident of the state?

Yes, non-residents can form an LLC in Rhode Island.

How do I choose a name for my LLC in Rhode Island?

The name should be unique and contain “LLC”, “Limited Liability Company”, or an acceptable abbreviation.

Do I need a registered agent to form an LLC in Rhode Island?

Yes, a registered agent must be appointed to file the articles of organization with the state.

Can I be my own registered agent in Rhode Island?

Yes, members of the LLC can act as the registered agent, but a physical address in wasington must be provided.

How often do I need to renew my LLC in Rhode Island?

Annual reporting and payment of a $50 fee is due on May 1st each year in Rhode Island.

Can I change the name of my LLC in Rhode Island?

Yes, the name can be changed by filing an amendment with the state.

Can my LLC do business in other states besides Rhode Island?

Yes, the LLC can register as a foreign entity with other states to do business there.

Does Rhode Island require a business license to form an LLC?

Depending upon type of business, a license or certification may be required. Please consult the RI Licenses & Permits section of RI.gov to start your search.

Can I dissolve my LLC in Rhode Island?

Yes, an LLC can be dissolved by filing articles of dissolution with the state.

Can my LLC have only one member in Rhode Island?

yes, only member LLC formation is allowed in Rhode Island.

What taxes does my LLC need to pay in Rhode Island?

LLCs in Rhode Island are required only to pay yearly report fee

How do I get an EIN for my LLC in Rhode Island?

You can get an EIN by applying online one the IRS website or filing the SS-4 form with the IRS by mail, fax or online.

Is there an annual fee to maintain my LLC in Rhode Island?

Yes, each year, Rhode Island Limited Liability requirements require payment of $50 annual reports to remain in good standing with the State.

How do I register an out-of-state LLC doing business in Rhode Island?

The LLC must register as a foreign entity with the Rhode Island Secretary of State and have a registered agent in Rhode Island.

Can I convert my current business to an LLC in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island doesn’t allow conversion from other structures to an LLC in Rhode Island, it first needs to be dissolved and a new LLC can then be formed.

Do I need to file annual reports for my LLC in Rhode Island?

Yes. Rhode Island require annual reports and it needs to be filed online.

Can I change the tax status of my LLC in Rhode Island?

Yes, taxation of LLC may be changed by requesting different classifications from the IRS.

Can I have a foreign citizen in my Rhode Island LLC?

Yes, foreign citizens can be members of an LLC as long as a verified address is provided for each person in Rhode Island.

What is the role of a registered agent in Rhode Island?

The registered agent is the person or entity responsible for receiving legal documents and process in it in Rhode Island.

How do I change the registered agent for my Rhode Island LLC?

The registered agent can be changed by filing a Statement of Change of Registered aged with the Secretary of State.

What are the management requirements for an LLC in Rhode Island?

Either members or managers can run an LLC in Rhode Island.

When is an annual report due for an LLC in Rhode Island?

completely filing needs to submitted for an annual report available online and payment of $50 needs to submitted

Can my LLC be taxed as an S Corporation in Rhode Island?

Yes, an LLC in Rhode Island can choose to be taxed as an S Corporation by filing IRS Form 2553.

What is the best LLC formation service in Rhode Island?

It depends on individual needs, but some popular options are ZenBusiness, Incfile, and Northwest Registered Agent.

Can non-residents form an LLC in Rhode Island?

Yes, non-residents can form an LLC in Rhode Island as long they comply with state regulations.

Where do I file for an LLC in Rhode Island?

You can file your LLC formation paperwork online on the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s website.

Do I need a registered agent in Rhode Island?

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

What is a registered agent in Rhode Island?

A registered agent is a person or business responsible for receiving important legal documents and correspondence on behalf of an LLC.

Can I serve as my own registered agent in Rhode Island?

Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent in Rhode Island as long as you have a physical address in the state.

Can I change my registered agent in Rhode Island?

Yes, you can change your registered agent in Rhode Island by submitting a Statement of Change form to the Secretary of State.

Are there any additional requirements for LLCs in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island requires LLCs to file an Annual Report and pay an annual fee.

Can I file my own LLC paperwork in Rhode Island?

Yes, you can file your LLC paperwork on your own in Rhode Island.

Is an EIN required for LLCs in Rhode Island?

An EIN is not required for LLCs in Rhode Island, but it is recommended for tax purposes.

Can LLCs in Rhode Island have more than one member?

Yes, LLCs in Rhode Island can have more than one member.

Can LLCs convert to other business entities in Rhode Island?

Yes, LLCs in Rhode Island can convert to other business entities like corporations or partnerships.

Do LLCs in Rhode Island have to renew their registration annually?

Yes, LLCs in Rhode Island must renew their registration annually by filing an Annual Report.

What is the fee for LLC registration renewal in Rhode Island?

The Annual Report fee in Rhode Island is $50.

What are the tax requirements for LLCs in Rhode Island?

LLCs in Rhode Island are subject to state and federal taxes like any other business entity.

What is the maximum number of members for an LLC in Rhode Island?

There is no limit to the number of members an LLC in Rhode Island can have.

Can LLCs in Rhode Island have foreign members?

Yes, LLCs in Rhode Island can have foreign members as long as they comply with state regulations.

What is the difference between an LLC and a corporation in Rhode Island?

LLCs in Rhode Island provide the liability protection of a corporation with the flexibility and simplicity of a partnership.

What is the difference between an LLC and a sole proprietorship in Rhode Island?

LLCs in Rhode Island provide liability protection and the ability to raise capital, while sole proprietorships are personally liable for all business debts.

Do LLCs in Rhode Island need a written operating agreement?

An operating agreement is not required by law in Rhode Island, but it is recommended to properly outline the management and rights of the LLC.

Can LLCs in Rhode Island have multiple managers?

Yes, LLCs in Rhode Island can have multiple managers if specified in the operating agreement.

What happens if an LLC member dies in Rhode Island?

The LLC operating agreement should specify how the business will be affected by the death of a member. If no agreement exists, state law may dictate the outcome.

How can I dissolve an LLC in Rhode Island?

An LLC in Rhode Island can be voluntarily dissolved by submitting a formal notice of dissolution to the Secretary of State.

What is the cost to dissolve an LLC in Rhode Island?

There is a $10 fee to file a Notice of Termination in Rhode Island.

Can LLCs in Rhode Island exist perpetually?

LLCs in Rhode Island can exist perpetually or for a specified time period specified in the operating agreement.

Are online LLC formation services legal in Rhode Island?

As long as they comply with state regulations, yes, online LLC formation services are legal in Rhode Island.

Can I operate a business under a different name than my LLC in Rhode Island?

LLCs in Rhode Island can operate under a different name than their legal name as long as they file for a fictitious business name certificate.

Conclusion

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