Northwest Registered Agent vs Harbor Compliance: Which One to Choose (Comparison 2025)


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.

All Posts by Steve →
Business Formation Expert  |   Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
Last updated: 
LLCBuddy™ offers informative content for educational purposes only, not as a substitute for professional legal or tax advice. We may earn commissions if you use the services we recommend on this site.
At LLCBuddy, we don't just offer information; we provide a curated experience backed by extensive research and expertise. Led by Steve, a seasoned expert in the LLC formation sector, our platform is built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the nuances involved in establishing and running an LLC. We've navigated the intricacies of the industry, sifted through the complexities, and packaged our knowledge into a comprehensive, user-friendly guide. Our commitment is to empower you with reliable, up-to-date, and actionable insights, ensuring you make informed decisions. With LLCBuddy, you're not just getting a tutorial; you're gaining a trustworthy partner for your entrepreneurial journey.

Northwest Registered Agent vs. Harbor Compliance: When you attempt to start an LLC or any sort of business in the United States, you must do it flawlessly to avoid discrepancies. A business formation service like Northwest Registered Agent or Harbor Compliance makes it easier for you as they have plenty of professional services that help you establish your business smoothly, irrespective of the state you’re in.

This page will explain a comparative guide between Northwest Registered Agent and Harbor Compliance. LLCBuddy editors, with their best possible knowledge, have come up with this comparison to ease your decision on which service to buy. Let’s dig up more on Northwest Registered Agent vs Harbor Compliance guide for the aspiring entrepreneurs around us!

Northwest Registered Agent vs. Harbor Compliance: Quick Review

ServicesNorthwest Registered AgentHarbor Compliance
LLC FormationAvailableAvailable
Starting Price$39 + state filing fee$99 + State filing fee
Registered Agent ServiceAvailable at $125 per yearAvailable at $99 per year
Legal AdviceAvailable on callNot Available
EIN Available at $50Available at $99
Operating AgreementFree Template is available$99
Annual Report$100 + state filing fee$100 to $175 per state + state filing fee
Attorney ServiceNot availableNot available
WebsiteNorthwest Registered AgentHarbor Compliance
ReviewNorthwest Register Agent Review

Northwest Registered Agent vs. Harbor Compliance: Our Take

Northwest Registered Agent has a hands-on specialty in offering registered agent service. Unlike other close competitors, Northwest does not offer free LLC formation. However, it offers a standalone registered agent, a free registered agent for a year, a national registered agent for businesses operating across the nation, and many other DIY services that are required while forming your business. Northwest does not have any package but you can make your own by choosing only the required ones. However, on the other side, Harbor Compliance specializes in compliance services more than direct legal support. It also offers diverse business software that helps small businesses to manage their company without any hassle. Harbor Compliance is not as popular as Northwest Registered Agent but it does have a brand presence when it comes to offering LLC formation services. Choosing Northwest over Harbor Compliance will be wise if you’re looking for an LLC formation at a lower price..

We prefer LLC formation packages over subscriptions or memberships. We would also prefer to go with customized packages where you can pick services and make your own package. You must have your own preferences, budget, and requirements. You can explore the best LLC services to get an overall comparison among the top-rated companies in the market.

Our main aim is to share insights into the features and prices that both these services offer. We researched the details of Northwest Registered Agent and Harbor Compliance to bring the comparison study for you.

Northwest Registered Agent vs. Harbor Compliance: Price and Packaging

This is the most crucial part you should consider before making a choice between Northwest Registered Agent or Harbor Compliance. Your requirements, your budget, the services they offer, and the price they charge should all be aligned so that you can make a smooth choice. However, the world isn’t that easy. You lose some, you gain some. If you’re looking only for the registered agent service and not the formation, you can explore the best Registered Agent services available. So, here we are with a comparative price and package study for Northwest Registered Agent vs Harbor Compliance.

Northwest Registered Agent Price & Package

  • LLC formation package has single rate at $39 + state filing fee. Additional standalone services, such as registered agent is available at $125 per year without buying the package.,
  • Registered Agent is free for a year with a formation package. Afterwards, it costs $125 per year.,
  • EIN is available at $50.,
  • Annual report can be filed at $100 + state filing fee.,
  • It also offers DIY formation package. It means you can choose the ones you need from its service menu, pay for it, and make your own DIY formation package.

Add-ons by Northwest Registered Agent

  • Company formation for Non-US residents: Packages start from $925.,
  • EIN for Non-US residents: $50.,
  • Law on Call: $9 per month (get legal consultation on call immediately by paying the subscription fee).,
  • Certified copies of formation documents: The cost varies from state to state.,
  • Certificate of good standing: The cost varies from state to state.,
  • Corporate kits (books, seals): These cost from $30 to $80.

Harbor Compliance Price & Package

  • LLC formation: $99 + state filing fee,
  • Registered Agent: $89-$99 per state per year,
  • Initial Report Starting at $175 plus state fees,
  • Annual Reports: $100 to $175 per state plus filing fees,
  • Dissolution & Withdrawal: $399 plus state fees,
  • Articles of Reinstatement: $399 plus state fees,
  • Certificate of Good Standing: $85 plus state fees,
  • Foreign Qualification: $399 service fee includes a registered agent,
  • Nonprofit Registration Services from $1,799 plus filing fees

Add-ons By Harbor Compliance

  • Initial Report Starting at $175 plus state fees,
  • Establish Payroll Tax Accounts one-time package of $600,
  • Sales and Use Tax IDs one-time package $300,
  • Publishing starts at $300 plus state fees
Starter/Basic Package: Comparison
ServicesNorthwest Registered AgentHarbor Compliance
LLC formation$39 + state filing fee$99 + State filing fee
Processing time3 to 5 business daysStandard filing
Business Name SearchUnlimitedUnlimited
EINAvailable at $50Available at $99
Operating AgreementFree Template is available$99
Business ComplianceNot AvailableOn demand
Web domain & web hostingNot availableNot available
Pro/Mid-Level Package: 
ServicesNorthwest Registered AgentHarbor Compliance
LLC formation$39 + state filing fee (flat)$99 + state filing fees (flat)
Processing Time2 to 3 business daysStandard filing
Business Name SearchUnlimitedUnlimited
EIN$50$99
Operating AgreementNot Available$99.00
Business ComplianceNot AvailableOn demand
Web domain & web hostingNot AvailableNot Available
Domain Name RegistrationNot AvailableNot Available
Business EmailNot AvailableNot Available
Premium/Top Level Package:
ServicesNorthwest Registered AgentHarbor Compliance
LLC Formation$39 (flat) + state filing fee$99 + state filing fees (flat)
Processing Time2 to 3 business daysStandard filing
Business Name SearchUnlimitedUnlimited
EIN$50$99
Operating AgreementNot Available$99.00
Business ComplianceNot AvailableOn demand
Web domain & web hostingNot AvailableNot Available

Northwest Registered Agent vs. Harbor Compliance: How They Are Different or Similar

Northwest Registered Agent and Harbor Compliance offer similar yet different services. Both companies have many things in common, while some things are different. Let’s look at the similarities and differences Harbor Compliance and Northwest Registered Agent have with each other. 

Business Formation

business

Northwest Registered Agent does not provide a conventional LLC formation package like others. It rather offers a DIY package that can be chosen by the user. It offers a flat $39 for LLC formation. Northwest mainly focuses on registered agent service. It not only offers standalone registered agent service but also provides National Registered Agent and wholesale registered agent. Most of the companies do not provide such variation in registered agent services. In Northwest, along with LLC formation, EIN, annual report, trademark services, law on call, and more at a flat price.

Harbor Compliance does not have a series of formation packages. It has only one flat rate for LLC formation. The overall price is much more in Harbor Compliance than Northwest Registered Agent for the formation of an LLC. But for the compliance documents Harbor Compliance is certainly a better choice.

Legal Support & Attorney Services

corporate law and order

Northwest Registered Agent does not have the provision of legal service. They do have a “law on call” service. Apart from this, Northwest does not offer any other type of legal services such as legal documents for compliance.

Harbor Compliance does not offer legal support or attorney service. Hence, users who are looking for legal service Harbor Compliance would not be a wise option.

Overall Cost

cost

Northwest Registered Agent does not offer free LLC formation. However, Northwest offers registered agent service at a higher cost (free for the first year and then $125 a year). On the other hand, Northwest offers a selective plate of services that have flat rates. Hence, in terms of cost, Northwest is cheaper for specific services. Also, you will get a DIY package which means buying what you need instead of paying for useless services in a package.

Harbor Compliance, no doubt is a bit expensive than Northwest. If we calculate the overall price, Harbor Compliance’s price is much more than Northwest’s. Though the price of some of the services is less, however, other services such as EIN are much higher than Northwest. Besides, it does not offer any free registered agent.

Customer Support

Northwest Registered Agent has three points of contact, email, phone, and live chat through their official website. The customer support manager/assistant is available during business hours.

Users can reach Harbor Compliance Service Help Center via 4 ways. First, users can call them directly. You can drop a mail at their main office in Pennsylvania, you can email them, Fax them, and/or you can call them from Monday to Friday during official hours.

Harbor Compliance Additional Services

There are some services that Northwest Registered Agent might not have expertise in while Harbor Compliance does have dominance over them. Here’s a list of some ‘exclusive’ services that Harbor Compliance offers!

Establish Payroll Tax Accounts with Harbor Compliance available at one-time package at $600

Some sepcific state needs publishing after creating the LLC. Harbor Compliance offers this service at $300 plus state publishing charges.

Some states require Initial Business Report filing. Harbor Compliance offers this service starting at $75 plus state filing fee

Northwest Registered Agent vs. Harbor Compliance: Pros & Cons

As we are talking about forming an LLC or any business, both services, Northwest Registered Agent and Harbor Compliance can be your choice. However, establishing a business is not only about filing the papers; a whole lot of work is involved. Hence, let’s get into the Pros and Cons of each service before you jump to any conclusion.

Northwest Registered Agent: Pros & Cons:

Pros of Northwest Registered Agent👍Cons of Northwest Registered Agent👎
Privacy: Northwest Registered Agent offers high privacy protection for business owners, as they serve as registered agents for their clients. This means that their address is used instead of the client’s on public documents, offering an added layer of privacy and security.Limited services: Northwest Registered Agent provides very limited services. Hence, compared to other competitors Northwest has much lesser options.
Exemplary customer service: Northwest Registered Agent is known for its outstanding customer service. Their team is known to be highly responsive, knowledgeable, and helpful in assisting with any questions or issues that may arise.No BBB Accredited: Northwest registered agent service isn’t BBB accredited.
Competitive pricing: Northwest Registered Agent offers competitive prices for their services. Also, they offer flat prices for each service they offer. This makes them a cost-effective choice for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Harbor Compliance: Pros & Cons:

Pros of Harbor Compliance👍Cons of Harbor Compliance👎
Harbor Compliance has been in business for over a decade and has successfully helped thousands of businesses with their compliance needs.Hiring a professional service like Harbor Compliance comes with a cost. While their services can save you time and provide peace of mind, it may not be the most cost-effective option for everyone
Harbor Compliance ensures that all the necessary legal and compliance requirements for forming an LLC are met.Some users may value a personalized experience when creating their LLC. As Harbor Compliance works with many clients, there may be limited opportunities for one-on-one communication and customization
Harbor Compliance provides ongoing support, even after your LLC is formed. They can help with annual report filings, business licenses, and other compliance requirements that may arise throughout the life of your LLC.Some users may prefer more control over the formation and compliance process of their LLC. Harbor Compliance offers standardized services, which may not cater to the specific needs or preferences of certain businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary differences in service offerings between Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent?
Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent both offer registered agent services and business compliance solutions, but Harbor Compliance tends to emphasize comprehensive compliance management, including risk monitoring and audit support, while Northwest Registered Agent focuses on personalized customer support and privacy protection via exclusive corporate address services. Their platforms differ in dashboard interfaces, ease of use, and the level of proactive compliance assistance provided.
How do pricing structures compare in Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent?
When examining Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent, pricing can be a major determinant for businesses. Harbor Compliance generally charges a higher fee that reflects its advanced compliance monitoring and additional consulting services, making it suitable for companies with complex regulatory needs. In contrast, Northwest Registered Agent offers transparent flat-rate pricing with minimal add-ons, ideal for small businesses and startups looking for cost-effective, straightforward registered agent solutions.
What are the key compliance features offered by Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent?
In a comparison of Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent, Harbor Compliance provides extensive compliance management services such as automated alerts for filing deadlines, audit support, and risk-management tools. Northwest Registered Agent, on the other hand, focuses on the essentials of registered agent services with excellent customer support, ensuring reliable acceptance of legal documents and maintenance of privacy, which appeals to businesses that prioritize simplicity and directness.
How does customer support compare between Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent?
Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent showcase distinct approaches to customer support. Harbor Compliance is known for its dedicated compliance experts and proactive outreach, offering tailored guidance through complex filings and compliance challenges. Meanwhile, Northwest Registered Agent has a reputation for exceptional personalized customer service with real-time assistance, making it an attractive choice for businesses that prefer a more human touch in solving issues quickly.
Which service offers better technology and user interface: Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent?
In the tech arena, Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent each brings different strengths. Harbor Compliance provides an integrated digital dashboard that facilitates a comprehensive view of compliance requirements, upcoming deadlines, and risk alerts, which benefits businesses with significant compliance challenges. Northwest Registered Agent, though more streamlined, offers a user-friendly portal that’s easy to navigate, catering to companies that need efficient document management and straightforward service usage.
What scalability options do Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent provide for growing businesses?
When comparing Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent for scalability, Harbor Compliance offers scalable compliance management solutions tailored for mid-to-large enterprises with evolving regulatory needs, including multi-state filings and complex compliance tracking. Northwest Registered Agent, while primarily suited for startups and small businesses, easily accommodates growth with reliable registered agent services and a consistent focus on privacy and document handling, though it may require external solutions for advanced compliance management.
How do service integrations differ in Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent?
Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent differ notably in the scope of integrations. Harbor Compliance often integrates with additional business systems, accounting software, and regulatory databases, providing a holistic approach to compliance and risk management. Conversely, Northwest Registered Agent offers primary integration with document management platforms and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, focusing on ease of use and ensuring that legal documents are securely and promptly handled.
Can Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent assist with multi-state filings and compliance issues?
Both Harbor Compliance and Northwest Registered Agent offer support for multi-state filings, but the approaches vary. Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent are designed to serve businesses operating in several states; Harbor Compliance provides robust multi-state tracking, automated reminders, and detailed compliance dashboards for complex operations, while Northwest Registered Agent ensures that businesses receive prompt service and consistent document handling across multiple jurisdictions, with a strong emphasis on privacy and efficiency.
What are the onboarding processes like for Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent?
Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent have distinct onboarding experiences. Harbor Compliance typically utilizes a consultative onboarding process that includes detailed compliance assessments and personalized setup assistance, ideal for companies that require a deep dive into their regulatory needs. On the other hand, Northwest Registered Agent offers a streamlined, quick-start onboarding process with less complexity, making it favorable for businesses that need fast, efficient implementation with minimal fuss.
Which service is more suitable for businesses seeking comprehensive compliance management: Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent?
For businesses aiming for extensive compliance management, Harbor Compliance vs Northwest Registered Agent are positioned differently. Harbor Compliance is more suited for enterprises needing comprehensive compliance oversight, detailed risk analysis, and proactive audit support, which is especially beneficial for larger companies or those in highly regulated industries. In contrast, Northwest Registered Agent is ideal for businesses that require reliable, straightforward registered agent services with excellent customer service and privacy protection, particularly small to mid-sized companies with less complex compliance needs.

Also Read

Northwest Registered Agent vs MyCorporationNorthwest Registered Agent vs ZenBusiness
Northwest Registered Agent vs Swyft FilingsNorthwest Registered Agent vs LegalZoom
Northwest Registered Agent vs BizFilingsNorthwest Registered Agent vs Rocket Lawyer
Northwest Registered Agent vs InCorpNorthwest Registered Agent vs Bizee

Conclusion

Northwest Registered Agent and Harbor Compliance are both popular and top-rated companies that have made a lot of difference in the business world in the past few years. We shared this comparative guide to make your way easier while choosing the right option for yourself.

While doing our research, we have come up with a perspective that brands are not always helpful. You can go for the pricey and most popular company. But it is all about your company’s formation requirements. It is all about what they offer and what you need. Whether their offering is useful for your company or not, no matter how big their company or brand name is. We personally preferred ZenBusiness (LLC formation at $0 + state fees) for its vast services and packages at a very affordable price.

It is worth noting that both companies offer a satisfaction guarantee, so if you are not satisfied with their services, you might get a refund.

Leave a Comment