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


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
Business Formation Expert
Steve runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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If you plan to start your LLC in Tennessee, you must consider the documentation and processing involved. From an LLC name search to filing it to hiring a registered agent, it is a roller coaster ride. Having a professional service to form your business in the state is not only cost-effective but also a wise decision.

If you’re a newbie and don’t know where to start, here comes the LLCBuddy team. They shared a list of the best LLC formation services available in Tennessee. Check out the best LLC formation service in Tennessee. If you’re not a reading type of person, you can watch this video before you make your purchase.

Best LLC Formation Services in Tennessee

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

LLC Service

Our Rating & Pricing

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#1 TOP PICK

$0 + State Fees

  • Fastest filing: 1-day processing

  • 4.8/5.0 Trustpilot & A+ BBB scores

  • 700k+ new businesses formed

$39 + State Fees

  • In-house corporate guides

  • Standalone Registered Agent service

  • DIY packages

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

  1. ZenBusiness – Known for its affordable packages and efficient service, ZenBusiness has become a favorite among new entrepreneurs.
  2. Northwest Registered Agent – Praised for its top-notch customer service, Northwest ensures personalized assistance and detailed compliance guidance.
  3. LegalZoom – With years of industry experience, LegalZoom offers comprehensive services and a vast array of legal resources.
  4. Swyft Filings – Best for small business formation, Swyft Filings offers incredible customer support.
  5. BetterLegal – Speed is BetterLegal’s forte, promising the fastest LLC formation process in the market.

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

1. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a Texas-based company that provides services from formation to annual compliance to an LLC. It offers three plans, Starter, Pro, and Premium. The Starter plan starts from $0. That means you can form your LLC for free in Tennessee, though you must pay the state filing fee of $300 to the Tennessee Secretary of State. But, the company charges nothing to form your business in the state.

ZenBusiness Plans

zenbusiness-logo
  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 Tennessee nonprofit
Free LLC formation in TennesseeAdditional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Registered Agent services in Tennessee

ZenBusiness Overview

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

2. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a family-owned business based in Spoken, Washington state. The company offers LLC formation, registered agent service, annual compliances, and other business-related services in all 50 states, including Tennessee. 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 Tennessee are listed below-

  • LLC formation in Tennessee 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 TennesseeNot BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all servicesYou must form Tennessee LLC to purchase only the service you need.
You must form Tennessee LLC to purchase only the service you need.The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers a standalone Registered Agent service in Tennessee

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 Tennessee. It does not have conventional LLC formation packages. It is simply like a departmental store for you. You don’t need to buy everything, but the only thing you need.

Northwest has in-house corporate guides to guide you through the formation process. It offers LLC formation at $39 plus the state filing fee ($125). If you have already formed your LLC in Tennessee and are willing to appoint a Registered Agent only, then Northwest can provide a standalone registered agent service at $125 per year.

Northwest offers single flat rates for all services in Tennessee 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.

3. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in Tennessee 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

LZ_Logo_Black
  • 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 timeFewer add-on options
Access to legal professionalsSome additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support is available through phone or chatMixed customer reviews

LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is one of the oldest companies in the USA. This company is a service provider offering LLC formation at $0. It offers three broad packages, Basic, Pro, and Premium. The Basic package costs $0. However, you must pay the Tennessee filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the Tennessee Secretary of State. The filing fee depends on which method, mail, online, or any other method you choose.

LegalZoom offers vast add-ones like others. Hence, the chances of getting diverse services are comparatively high. The best part about the company is that it has access to legal documents and legal consultations. The registered agent service is a bit expensive. If you want to hire a Registered Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately; it does not come with any formation plans.

4. Swyft Filings

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

Swyft Filings Plans

  1. Basic Plan at $0 + State filing fee
  2. Standard Plan at $199 + State filing fee
  3. Premium Plan at $299 + State filing fee

Swyft Filings Pros and Cons

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

Swyft Filings Overview

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

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

5. BetterLegal

BetterLegal is a comparatively new company compared to other competitors. However, this company has successfully grabbed a large portion of the market in the United States. Serving in 51 states, BetterLegal has been in business since 2016. Unlike other experienced companies, it does not have a list of packages and plans for LLC formation.

BetterLegal Plans

BetterLegal offers one single plan at a flat $299 + state filing fees. It has a list of add-on services as well. BetterLegal is an online service that started off with a very small team. However, even after being in the business for so long, they didn’t increase their team size much. They have transparent pricing, and no hidden charge exists for any services they provide.

BetterLegal offers a list of add-on services. Following are the additional services they offer-

  • Registered Agent service – $10/month or $90/year
  • State Annual compliance services – $10/month or $90/year
  • Permit & License Search Service – $125
  • Amendment & document research – Free with the core formation service package

BetterLegal Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get BetterLegalWhy You Shouldn’t Get BetterLegal
No refund; all sales are finalThe basic package does not include a 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 ($100 for online and by mail filing in Tennessee). It offers comparatively better turnaround time at a reasonable price than other companies. You can file your LLC within 10 minutes with BetterLegal.

It offers a resource center for new entrepreneurs. They provide guidance to make things easier when it comes to filing your business. Their small team sometimes fails to cater to their customers on time. Reaching out to their customer support team is very difficult. Another disadvantage is it does not have a refund policy. All sales with BetterLegal are final, and at any stage, no refund is made upon cancelation. However, basic LLC formation and registered agent services are much cheaper in BetterLegal than in other close competitors.

How to Form an LLC in Tennessee

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

In general, Tennessee, popularly known as The Volunteer State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 7,080,262. The state has the nominal GDP is 480,050 (in millions). Hence, you can start any small or medium-sized business in Tennessee based on your budget. Forming an LLC in Tennessee can be a good option as it is less complicated than other forms of business. If you choose the state capital, Nashville, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

There are five most important steps to follow when you establish an LLC in Tennessee:

Now, these steps seem to be easy. But unfortunately, it is not that simple. Each business has to file different documents based on local licenses and permits. From January 1, 2024, all the LLCs and Corporations have to file the BOI Report with the FinCEN. If you start an LLC, you must file the BOI Report in Tennessee.

You can do that on your own. However, getting a professional on board is always recommended to guide you through the process. These steps are crucial and sensitive. You must complete everything to avoid canceling your formation process. Hence, having a professional LLC formation service for your LLC is better.

How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Tennessee

It is important to choose the best service for your business carefully. Before you select the best one, make sure you thoroughly research the following points-

  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 advantages of using an LLC formation service in Tennessee?
An LLC formation service in Tennessee can help ensure compliance with state regulations and streamline the process of starting a business in the state.
Are there specific requirements for forming an LLC in Tennessee?
Yes, in Tennessee, you will need to choose a unique name for your LLC, appoint a registered agent, file formation documents with the state, and pay the required fees.
Can I form an LLC in Tennessee on my own without a formation service?
Yes, you can technically form an LLC in Tennessee on your own, but using a formation service can help simplify the process and ensure that everything is done correctly.
How much does it cost to use an LLC formation service in Tennessee?
The cost of using an LLC formation service in Tennessee can vary depending on the provider and the specific services you need. Prices typically range from $50 to $500 or more.
What documents do I need to provide to an LLC formation service in Tennessee?
You will need to provide basic information about your business, such as the name of your LLC, its purpose, the names and addresses of the members, and the registered agent’s information.
How long does it take for an LLC formation service to complete the process in Tennessee?
The time it takes for an LLC formation service to complete the process in Tennessee can vary, but it typically takes around 1-4 weeks to receive your final LLC documents.
Can an LLC formation service in Tennessee help me with obtaining an EIN for my business?
Yes, many LLC formation services in Tennessee offer assistance with obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business.
Do I need to have a physical address in Tennessee to form an LLC in the state?
Yes, you will need to have a physical address in Tennessee where your LLC is located to form the business in the state.
What are the tax implications of forming an LLC in Tennessee?
Forming an LLC in Tennessee can have various tax implications, including state and federal tax obligations. It’s recommended to consult with a tax professional to understand your specific tax obligations.
Can an LLC formation service in Tennessee help me with business licensure and permits?
Some LLC formation services in Tennessee may offer assistance with obtaining necessary business licenses and permits, but it’s essential to verify the specific services provided before signing up.
Is there a deadline for forming an LLC in Tennessee?
There is no specific deadline for forming an LLC in Tennessee, but it’s advisable to start the process as soon as possible to avoid any delays in starting your business.
Can I change the name of my LLC in Tennessee after it has been formed?
Yes, you can change the name of your LLC in Tennessee after formation by filing the necessary documents with the state and paying the required fees.
Do I need to publish a notice of my LLC formation in a local newspaper in Tennessee?
No, Tennessee does not require LLCs to publish a notice of formation in a local newspaper.
Can I use a PO Box as the address for my LLC in Tennessee?
No, you cannot use a PO Box as the physical address for your LLC in Tennessee.
What is the annual reporting requirement for LLCs in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, LLCs are required to file an annual report with the state and pay the associated fee to maintain compliance.
Can an LLC formation service in Tennessee help me with creating operating agreements?
Yes, many LLC formation services in Tennessee offer assistance with creating operating agreements for your business.
Is there a residency requirement for members of an LLC in Tennessee?
There is no residency requirement for members of an LLC in Tennessee.
Can I form a single-member LLC in Tennessee?
Yes, you can form a single-member LLC in Tennessee.
What is the difference between an LLC and a corporation in Tennessee?
LLCs offer more flexibility in management and tax structure compared to corporations in Tennessee.
Can I form an LLC in Tennessee if I am not a US citizen?
Yes, non-US citizens can form an LLC in Tennessee, but additional requirements may apply.
Are there any restrictions on the type of business that can be formed as an LLC in Tennessee?
While most businesses can be formed as an LLC in Tennessee, some professions such as legal or medical practices may have specific regulations.
How do I dissolve an LLC in Tennessee?
To dissolve an LLC in Tennessee, you will need to file dissolution documents with the state and settle any outstanding debts or obligations.
Can an LLC formation service in Tennessee help me with obtaining business insurance?
Some LLC formation services in Tennessee may offer assistance with obtaining business insurance, but it’s crucial to verify the specific services provided before signing up.
Can I form an LLC in Tennessee if I already have an existing business entity in another state?
Yes, you can form an LLC in Tennessee even if you have an existing business entity in another state.
Do I need a business bank account for my LLC in Tennessee?
It is recommended to have a separate business bank account for your LLC in Tennessee to maintain the separation between personal and business finances.
How can I convert my existing business entity into an LLC in Tennessee?
To convert an existing business entity into an LLC in Tennessee, you will need to file the necessary conversion documents with the state and pay the associated fees.
Can I operate my LLC in Tennessee under a different name than the one registered with the state?
Yes, you can operate your LLC in Tennessee under a different name than the one registered with the state by filing a “doing business as” (DBA) or fictitious name registration.
How can I find the best LLC formation service in Tennessee?
To find the best LLC formation service in Tennessee, consider reviewing customer reviews, comparing pricing and services, and verifying the legitimacy of the provider.
What are the best LLC formation services available in Tennessee?
Some popular options in Tennessee include Incfile, LegalZoom, and Rocket Lawyer.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Tennessee?
The cost of forming an LLC in Tennessee can vary, but you can expect to pay between $50 and $300 for the filing fee.

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Conclusion

Starting a business in Tennessee is a big step. It’s really helpful to have experts on your side. When you use a professional LLC service, you’re making sure everything is done right without any headaches. We’ve given you a list of the top choices in this article. Take your time to look at each one. Check their prices, see what they offer, and think about what’s best for your business.

Remember, picking the right Tennessee LLC service can make things smoother and better for your business as it grows. If you want the best for your business, check out ZenBusiness. They’re our number one recommendation for their compelling offer of $0 + state fee for LLC formation, combined with an impressive array of 5-star Trustpilot reviews. Seize this exceptional opportunity for your business!

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