5 Best West Virginia LLC Formation Services 2023 List (Updated)


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Best LLC Formation Service in West Virginia

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

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

LLC Service

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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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the West Virginia 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 ($25 for online and by mail filing in West Virginia). 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 West Virginia? 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, West Virginia 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 $100 (Online & by mail) 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 West Virginia, though you must pay the state filing fee of $100 (Online & by mail) to the West Virginia 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 West Virginia nonprofit
Free LLC formation in West VirginiaAdditional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Registered Agent services

ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness is one of those top-rated companies that provide business formation in West Virginia at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in West Virginia. 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 West Virginia. 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 West Virginia. 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 West Virginia are listed below-

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

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 West Virginia. 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 ($100 (Online & by mail)). If you have already formed your LLC in West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia

West Virginia, popularly known as The Mountain State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 1,775,932. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of West Virginia is $97,404 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in West Virginia will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Charleston, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits. 

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

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 advantages to forming an LLC in West Virginia?
West Virginia LLCs offer owners limited liability protection and potential tax benefits.
What is the cost of forming an LLC in West Virginia?
The cost of forming an LLC in West Virginia is $100.
Can I form an LLC in West Virginia without a lawyer?
Yes, it’s possible to form an LLC in West Virginia without a lawyer.
How long does it take to form an LLC in West Virginia?
It can take as little as one day to form an LLC in West Virginia.
Do I have to appoint a manager for my West Virginia LLC?
No, you do not have to appoint a manager for your West Virginia LLC unless you choose to do so.
Do I need to appoint a registered agent for my West Virginia LLC?
Yes, all West Virginia LLCs are required to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state.
Can I form an LLC for investment purposes in West Virginia?
Yes, you can form an LLC for investment purposes in West Virginia.
Can non-US residents form an LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, non-US residents can form an LLC in West Virginia with the help of a professional LLC formation service.
How many members does the West Virginia LLC need to have?
West Virginia LLCs can have one or more members.
Do I need to register a trade name for my West Virginia LLC?
No, it’s not mandatory to register a trade name for your West Virginia LLC.
Do I need to file an annual report for my West Virginia LLC?
Yes, all West Virginia LLCs are required to file an annual report.
Can I have multiple LLCs in West Virginia?
Yes, there’s no limit to the number of LLCs you can create in West Virginia.
What is the minimum age to form an LLC in West Virginia?
The minimum age to form an LLC in West Virginia is 18 years old.
Can I change the name of my West Virginia LLC later?
Yes, you can change the name of your West Virginia LLC, but there are specific rules and regulations that need to be followed.
Can I form an LLC in West Virginia if I’m already a member of an LLC in another state?
Yes, you can form an LLC in West Virginia regardless of your LLC formation in another state.
Can I form a Series LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia allows for the formation of Series LLCs.
Can I form a professional LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia allows for the formation of professional LLCs for licensed professionals.
How do I dissolve my West Virginia LLC?
You can dissolve your West Virginia LLC by filing a Certificate of Termination with the Secretary of State.
Can I start an LLC in West Virginia to own rental property?
Yes, you can form an LLC in West Virginia to own rental property.
Can I convert my existing business to an LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, you can convert your existing business to an LLC in West Virginia by filing articles of organization with the Secretary of State.
Should I form an S-Corporation or an LLC in West Virginia?
It depends on your specific business goals and mechanisms.
Can I form a nonprofit LLC in West Virginia?
No, nonprofit LLCs are not recognized in West Virginia.
Do I need to file for a state tax ID number for my West Virginia LLC?
Yes, West Virginia LLCs need to obtain a state tax ID number.
Can I form an LLC in West Virginia to provide professional services?
Yes, you can form a professional LLC in West Virginia to provide professional services.
Can I form an LLC in West Virginia to run a restaurant?
Yes, you can form an LLC in West Virginia to run a restaurant.
Can my LLC own trademarks or patents?
Yes, your LLC can own trademarks or patents.
Do I need to have an attorney in West Virginia to form an LLC?
No, but it’s better to hire an LLC formation service that can help you with the process.
Can I form an LLC in West Virginia with one person?
Yes, you can form an LLC in West Virginia with just one person.
What is an LLC?
An LLC is a type of business entity that combines the benefits of both a corporation and a partnership.
Can I form an LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, it is very easy to form an LLC in West Virginia.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in West Virginia?
The state of West Virginia charges a $100 filing fee to register an LLC.
What are the advantages of forming an LLC in West Virginia?
West Virginia LLCs offer greater liability protection and tax benefits for business owners.
Do I need a registered agent to form an LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, every LLC in West Virginia is required to have a registered agent.
Can I act as the registered agent for my LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, however, it is highly recommended to hire a professional registered agent to ensure compliance with state laws.
Are there any residency requirements to form an LLC in West Virginia?
No, there are no residency requirements to form an LLC in West Virginia.
What documents are required to form an LLC in West Virginia?
The main document required is the Articles of Organization, which must be filed with the WV Secretary of State.
How many members are required to form an LLC in West Virginia?
At least one member is required to form an LLC in West Virginia.
What happens if I don’t file the required documents for my LLC in West Virginia?
Your LLC will not legally exist, leaving you personally liable for any debts or damages incurred by your business.
How can I protect my LLC’s name in West Virginia?
By registering a trade name or trademark, you can protect your LLC’s name from being used by other businesses in West Virginia.
Can I change the name of my LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, but you must file a Certificate of Amendment with the WV Secretary of State.
What are the annual requirements for an LLC in West Virginia?
West Virginia LLCs have to file an annual report and pay a registration fee of $25 to stay in good standing.
Can I dissolve my LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, a registered agent or the LLC’s legal representative can dissolve the LLC by filing articles of dissolution with the WV Secretary of State.
Does a West Virginia LLC have to file for an EIN?
Yes, before taxes can be paid, you’ll need to obtain a unique employer identification number (EIN) for your West Virginia LLC.
Can non-US citizens own an LLC in West Virginia?
Yes, non-US citizens can own and form LLCs in West Virginia.
How can I change the tax status of my West Virginia LLC?
You can either make the election through the IRS or state tax agency.
What are the tax implications of forming an LLC in West Virginia?
West Virginia LLCs usually are not taxed as a separate entity, since income is reported on the owner’s personal income tax return.
How is my West Virginia LLC taxed?
West Virginia LLC can be taxed as a sole proprietor, a partnership or an S-Corp.
Is entrepreneurship encouraged in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia has made efforts to encourage entrepreneurship and small business growth.
What is the business environment like in West Virginia?
West Virginia has a strong infrastructure and low taxes for businesses, making it a great location for business owners.
Can a West Virginia LLC operate in other states?
Yes, by filing with the state of incorporation, your West Virginia LLC can operate within other states.
Can I form an anonymous LLC in West Virginia?
No, West Virginia requires you to list an organizer in your articles of organization.
What is the West Virginia Small Business Development Center?
The West Virginia SBDC provides business expertise and ongoing help in growing businesses of all sizes in the state.
Can I apply for funding for my West Virginia LLC?
Yes, there are various sources of funding in West Virginia that LLCs may be qualified for, including angel investors and venture capital firms.
Can I change my West Virginia LLC’s tax status in the future?
Yes, it is possible to change your West Virginia LLC’s tax status, but certain requirements must be met first.
Can I file my West Virginia LLC documents online?
Yes, the WV Secretary of State allows for online filing for LLCs.

Also Read

Conclusion

Having a professional service to form your LLC in West Virginia 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 West Virginia. 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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