Starting an LLC (Limited Liability Company) is one of the first steps to establishing your business. For many, turning to an online service like Rocket Lawyer can seem like an easy way to handle the paperwork, legal filings, and associated tasks. However, while Rocket Lawyer is a well-known brand in the legal services world, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Whether it’s due to cost, additional services, or specific needs, there are several affordable alternatives that provide excellent LLC formation services.
In this article, we’ll review four of the most popular and cost-effective Rocket Lawyer alternatives for 2025, including Northwest Registered Agent, ZenBusiness, MyCompanyWorks, and LLC University®. Each alternative has unique offerings that may better suit your LLC formation needs, so let’s dive in and explore the details.
About Rocket Lawyer
Rocket Lawyer has been around for more than a decade, offering a wide range of legal services to businesses and individuals. For entrepreneurs and small businesses, their LLC formation service is often advertised as a straightforward and reliable option. Rocket Lawyer allows users to form an LLC with their expert guidance, but it comes with a hefty price tag.
Here’s what Rocket Lawyer generally offers for LLC formation:
- LLC Formation: A one-time fee of $99.99, plus state fees, for forming an LLC.
- Subscription Service: The subscription plan at $39.99 per month includes various legal services, including the ability to create documents, have legal consultations, and access business services.
- Legal Support: Rocket Lawyer allows users to consult with attorneys and get legal advice. This is helpful, but it’s a service you’ll need to pay for beyond the LLC formation package.
- Additional Costs: If you need more advanced services like a registered agent, operating agreements, or EIN (Employer Identification Number), these add-ons can make the service more expensive than other alternatives.
Though Rocket Lawyer is reliable and trustworthy, the price tag can be steep, especially for startups and entrepreneurs on a budget. Additionally, the service often comes with upselling, where you’re encouraged to sign up for monthly subscriptions to access legal services. This leads some customers to look for more cost-effective alternatives.
4 Cheaper Alternatives to Rocket Lawyer for Starting Your LLC
If you’re looking for cheaper alternatives to Rocket Lawyer for LLC formation, you’re in luck. Here are four companies that offer similar services at a fraction of the cost, with some added perks.
1. Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest Registered Agent is often hailed as one of the best LLC formation services available. Known for its simplicity, strong customer service, and privacy-first approach, Northwest is a great alternative to Rocket Lawyer.
Simple Business Formation Services
Northwest offers LLC formation for as low as $39 (plus state fees). This service includes a registered agent for the first year, which can save you even more money. While Rocket Lawyer charges around $99 for LLC formation alone, Northwest Registered Agent gives you more value for a fraction of the price.
Best for Privacy
One of Northwest’s standout features is its commitment to privacy. Unlike other services, they do not sell your personal information to third parties. This is a huge benefit for business owners who are concerned about protecting their privacy in today’s data-driven world.
Streamlined Website
Their website is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Whether you’re new to LLC formation or have prior experience, Northwest offers a streamlined process that guides you through each step. You won’t find yourself overwhelmed by too much information or upselling tactics—just simple, straightforward services.
Best LLC Formation Service
With over 20 years in the business, Northwest Registered Agent has earned a solid reputation for reliability. Their services are tailored to small businesses and startups, and they offer top-notch customer service to ensure your LLC formation goes smoothly.
Best Customer Service
Unlike Rocket Lawyer’s more standardized customer support, Northwest offers personalized service with dedicated corporate guides. This means you get expert assistance and advice throughout the process, making sure everything is done correctly. If you have questions or run into issues, their team is there to help you every step of the way.
2. ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness has rapidly become a top competitor in the LLC formation industry, thanks to its affordable pricing, ease of use, and modern features. If you’re looking for an affordable and straightforward LLC formation service, ZenBusiness might be exactly what you need.
New Chat-Based Business Formation Service
ZenBusiness has created a chat-based interface that guides you through the LLC formation process. This is particularly helpful for people who prefer a more interactive, real-time approach to learning and filing their LLC paperwork. ZenBusiness takes the guesswork out of forming an LLC and allows you to complete the process without needing to contact customer service unless necessary.
LLC Service Website
ZenBusiness’s website is clean, easy to navigate, and well-organized. Whether you’re forming your LLC or need ongoing compliance services, everything is accessible from the dashboard. You can manage your business, pay fees, and track your progress without jumping through hoops or facing confusion.
ZenBusiness vs. Rocket Lawyer
| Feature | ZenBusiness | Rocket Lawyer |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Formation Price | Starts at $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees |
| Registered Agent | Free for 1st year | $150/year |
| Customer Support | Excellent | Standard |
| Additional Services | Website, EIN, Operating Agreement | Limited |
ZenBusiness is known for offering great value at a lower price point than Rocket Lawyer, with fewer hidden fees and better overall customer satisfaction.
3. MyCompanyWorks
MyCompanyWorks offers a range of services that make it easy to start and maintain your LLC. They focus on providing real value with their affordable pricing, and their website is very intuitive, making it easy to manage your LLC’s compliance and other important tasks.
Good Value
MyCompanyWorks starts at $79 for basic LLC formation, which is a more affordable option compared to Rocket Lawyer. They also provide add-on services like operating agreements and compliance alerts, which help you stay on top of your business’s legal obligations.
Easy-to-Use Website
The website is clean, and the interface is easy to use. Whether you’re starting from scratch or maintaining an existing LLC, MyCompanyWorks makes the entire process simple and stress-free.
Helpful Extras
One of the major benefits of using MyCompanyWorks is their commitment to helping businesses thrive after their LLC formation. Their services include business license research, DBA (Doing Business As) registration, and other helpful tools that can help you manage your business effectively.
MyCompanyWorks vs. Rocket Lawyer
| Feature | MyCompanyWorks | Rocket Lawyer |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Formation Price | Starts at $79 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees |
| Registered Agent | $99/year | $150/year |
| Customer Support | Fast response times | Standard |
| Additional Services | DBA, Business License | Limited |
While Rocket Lawyer offers legal consultations and a broader set of services, MyCompanyWorks is more affordable and provides great support for ongoing business needs.
4. LLC University®: Do It Yourself
For those who want to cut costs entirely and have the time to learn the process, LLC University® is a great resource. LLC University® is an educational platform that teaches you how to form an LLC on your own without any paid services.
DIY Approach
LLC University® offers comprehensive guides, templates, and resources to help you form your LLC without spending any money. The website walks you through the entire process, from filing the articles of organization to drafting an operating agreement.
Cost-Effective
Since LLC University® is free, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to form your LLC. However, it requires more time and effort than using a paid service like Rocket Lawyer. If you prefer doing things yourself and want to save money, LLC University® might be the best choice.
LLC University® vs. Rocket Lawyer
| Feature | LLC University® | Rocket Lawyer |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Formation Price | Free | $99.99 + state fees |
| Registered Agent | Not included | $150/year |
| Customer Support | Self-guided | Standard |
| Additional Services | None | Legal consultations |
For those who are comfortable handling the paperwork themselves, LLC University® offers a completely free alternative to Rocket Lawyer’s paid services.
Final Thoughts
While Rocket Lawyer is a solid option for LLC formation, it may not always be the most affordable. Alternatives like Northwest Registered Agent, ZenBusiness, MyCompanyWorks, and LLC University® provide excellent services at lower prices. Depending on your budget, privacy concerns, and how hands-on you want to be, one of these alternatives could be the perfect fit for your LLC formation needs in 2025.
Take the time to review each service, and choose the one that aligns with your business goals and financial situation. By choosing the right LLC formation service, you’ll be taking the first step towards building a successful business with minimal hassle.
FAQs
Which LLC formation service is the most affordable?
ZenBusiness offers a free LLC formation option, requiring only state filing fees. This makes it one of the most affordable options available.
Does Northwest Registered Agent offer any discounts?
Yes, they sometimes offer special deals through affiliate partners. Be sure to check for any current promotions before committing.
Can I form an LLC without using a service?
Yes, services like LLC University® provide all the tools you need to form an LLC on your own. You can file your paperwork directly with your state for a much lower cost.
Are there any hidden fees with these services?
Most reputable services like ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent have transparent pricing with no hidden fees. However, always check for state fees, as they can vary.
Which service offers the best customer support?
Northwest Registered Agent is known for offering the best customer service. Their dedicated corporate guides ensure you get personalized help whenever needed.
