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LegalZoom Review (2024): Services, Pricing, Pros and Cons

Expert Reviewed

Updated: Aug 15, 2024, 1:25pm

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Our Verdict

LegalZoom is an online service provider dedicated to helping you start your business properly, with the mission to make the process of your business formation easy. If you are looking to start a limited liability company (LLC) and need assistance, LegalZoom will complete and file the paperwork for you. LegalZoom will also provide additional tools, important information, legal forms and legal advice (for additional fees).

LegalZoom believes every business deserves the full protection of the legal system and, therefore, has an independent network of experienced attorneys to provide you with legal advice if you select a package that includes this. In addition, not only is LegalZoom a great option for setting up an LLC but it also is a one-stop solution, providing legal help for every part of your life, including personal, family or intellectual property.

• User-friendly, easy process
• Wide range of legal services available
• 100% satisfaction guarantee with 60-day refund
• Monthly payment options on products that cost over $200
• Top-rated customer support
• Customizable legal forms
• Add-ons can get costly
• Turnaround time varies by state and package purchased

Table of Contents

What is legalzoom, how legalzoom works, what sets legalzoom apart, legalzoom services, legalzoom pricing and plans, getting started with legalzoom, legalzoom customer service and support, legalzoom additional services worth noting, legalzoom alternatives and how they compare, who is legalzoom best for, our expert take, frequently asked questions (faqs).

LegalZoom is one of the first do-it-yourself platforms with a focus on a user-friendly experience, designed for a quick and easy preparation from start to finish, all without having to leave the comfort of home. If you are at the beginning stages of forming an LLC and you’re considering using LegalZoom, let’s begin by taking a look at how LegalZoom may benefit you.

• Affordable: LegalZoom can be considered affordable, especially for individuals and small businesses that don’t have the budget to hire a lawyer for legal services. It also offers a free plan for simple LLC formation needs. In addition, LegalZoom also offers a refund policy within the first 60 days if you are unhappy with the services and will process your refund within five business days.
• Customization: LegalZoom offers a wide range of customizable legal documents to meet your specific needs. The platform offers over 150 legal forms for business and personal needs, all created by attorneys. Choose your form, customize it to your needs and print, store or share for later.
• Convenience: Legal services and phone support are easily available online and over the phone, eliminating the need for in-person visits, and saving time and money. LegalZoom offers a (BPA) Business Advisory Plan, giving you ongoing access to its vetted network of attorneys for less than $50 per month.
• Expertise: LegalZoom provides access to experienced tax professionals and an independent network of attorneys who can provide legal advice. LegalZoom has attorneys who are licensed in every state and have knowledge about both federal and local state laws.
• Support: LegalZoom provides customer care phone support and sales phone support, Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific time and weekends from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT. In addition, you can submit questions online through email or chat.
• Security: LegalZoom uses secure encryption technology to protect customer information, but LegalZoom also collects very personal information about you and your internet activity so be sure to read its privacy policy here .

Featured Partners

ZenBusiness

$0 + State Fees

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On ZenBusiness' Website

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$39 + State Fees

On Northwest Registered Agent's Website

Tailor Brands

$0 + state fee + up to $50 Amazon gift card

Varies by State & Package

On Tailor Brands' Website

$0 + State Fee

On Formations' Website

Now that you know what LegalZoom is and how it can benefit you, you’re probably wondering how it works. The process is fairly simple but we’ll put it in its simplest form so you’ll have a general idea.

The first step to getting started with LegalZoom is to create an account. From there, you’ll want to select the type of document you need as well as answer a series of questions to customize the document. In this case, it would pertain to an LLC, so you’ll select the “Form an LLC” option.

After you complete the form, LegalZoom will then create the document and provide you with a copy to review and sign. If you would like to have your documents reviewed by an attorney before signing, you may do so for an additional fee. Once the document has been signed, LegalZoom stores it in a secure online repository for easy access. LegalZoom will review your filing documents for accuracy and make sure they go to the right place at the state level to officially register your LLC.

There’s no doubt that LegalZoom offers a variety of resources as well as a wide range of legal services but how does LegalZoom stand out from its competitors? Let’s take a close look.

• Free version: LegalZoom is one of the few platforms that offers a free version to its customers. This option includes articles of organization, name check, a digital welcome packet and a customizable website. While most other platforms offer the basic necessities, they do not offer a customizable website for free. Although you can start an LLC without the help of a service platform, some find it valuable to work with a professional service. The free service plans can be appealing since they come with perks that are not otherwise included if you file yourself.
• Customizable website: LegalZoom has partnered with Wix to generate a fully functional website that you can customize to your needs. Existing businesses and new businesses in the formation stage will be able to easily start their business and create an online presence with a ready-made site created by Wix. LegalZoom’s intention for including this feature is to help empower entrepreneurs and support their growth. If you’re a new business in need of a website, you might find this helpful to get you up and running. If you already have your website in the works, you might not find this feature necessary.
• Mobile app: LegalZoom offers a mobile app for all of its LLC and corporation customers. The app allows you to manage and track the formation process from anywhere. It gives you the ability to schedule appointments with experts, get and access business formation and official digital documents, track the status of your paperwork and resolve any issues that pop up. It also offers unlimited cloud storage so you can securely share, save and view your documents.
• Additional Services: LegalZoom not only gives you the free version with the basic necessities but if you opt for the paid plans, you’ll have access to a variety of professional guidance—from tax specialists to registered agents, insurance agents and an extensive network of attorneys. On top of that, you can also file for an employer identification number (EIN), file for a DBA (Doing Business As), and get an operating agreement and annual reports as add-ons.
• Satisfaction guaranteed: LegalZoom has a refund policy offering 100% satisfaction guarantee within the first 60 days of purchase if you are unhappy with the service. Refunds are processed within five business days.
• One-stop-shop: LegalZoom not only provides help for your business, but for all other areas of your life as well, including wills, power of attorney, estate planning, trademarks, copyrights and patents. Not all service platforms include this, so if you are looking for more than just a business formation, LegalZoom is a great option.

LegalZoom wants legal help to be accessible to all in a less expensive way. Therefore, it has created a directory of attorneys from all over the country as part of its network. For less than $50 per month, the Business Advisory Plan gives you access to its attorneys who provide legal advice on all matters from business formations and estate planning to intellectual property, family law and more.

If you are looking to save on attorney fees, this service option can save you $300 per hour or more in lawyer fees and provide you with more than one area of expertise. LegalZoom also offers a variety of resources to help individuals with their legal needs such as an online library of legal information.

All LLCs are required to have a registered agent but It can be costly to use LegalZoom as a third-party agent at $199 per year. If you are the face of your business and you reside in the state of your LLC, you or someone you know can be the registered agent at no cost.

The purpose of a registered agent is to receive legal documents, letters or important tax documents, so unless you have multiple LLCs in multiple states or you have a need to stay anonymous, you can certainly be your own registered agent and save the cost. The downside, your information will be available to the public.

To properly start an LLC , it’s important to check with your state LLC formation guides for information that is specific to your state. In this case, you can do most of the work yourself, but LegalZoom offers multiple ways to meet your needs and more. Let’s take a look at just some of its main features to see how LegalZoom can provide for you as a business formation service.

Online Document Preparation

LegalZoom offers a library of over 150 legal documents that can be customized, prepared and filed online or printed, stored or shared. These include wills, trusts, LLCs, copyrights, trademarks, affidavit forms, real estate forms and so much more.

Business Formation

LegalZoom helps customers form and register their business entities, such as LLCs, corporations, nonprofits, DBAs and sole proprietorships. Name Check Service: LegalZoom offers a name check search to confirm that your business name is available to use. This feature is available in the free plan.

Operating Agreement

LegalZoom helps you create an operating agreement starting at $99 for the Standard plan or $199 for the Rush plan if you buy it separately. It is included free with the second- and third-tier LLC formation plans.

Digital Welcome Packet

After your LLC is officially registered, LegalZoom will send you a digital welcome packet that includes a step-by-step checklist to follow. This feature is available in the free plan.

Articles of Organization

LegalZoom provides you with articles of organization, which is the legal document used to establish your LLC at the state level. This feature is available in the free plan.

Customizable Website

LegalZoom has partnered with Wix to offer immediate access to a personalized website, customizable for your business at the time of formation. This feature is available in the free plan.

Document Storage

LegalZoom provides secure document storage and retrieval services. Customers can store and access their legal documents online.

Legal Forms

LegalZoom offers a wide range of legal forms and templates that customers can use to customize, create, download and print. For example, mutual NDA, independent contractor agreement and consulting services agreement just to name a few.

Legal Advice

LegalZoom provides immediate and ongoing legal support with access to a network of attorneys for less than $50 per month.

Registered Agent Services

LegalZoom offers to represent you as the registered agent for your business at $199 per year.

If you are ready to form an LLC or want professional advice, LegalZoom offers three plans to choose from—the Basic plan, the Pro plan or the Premium plan. As an add-on, LegalZoom also offers a Business Advisory Plan. Let’s take a look at each plan to see what best meets your needs.

LegalZoom Tiered Pricing and Plans [Compared]

The Basic Plan

If you want to do most of the work yourself and only need the essentials, this may be the plan for you. This plan includes the articles of organization, which is the document you need to officially register your LLC with the state. It also has a name check service to check that your business name is available as well as a digital welcome packet that includes a step-by-step guide to follow after your LLC is registered.

On top of that, It also includes a customizable website for your business, powered by Wix. This plan gives you everything you need to make your business official. Bonus—this plan is free but remember, you will still have to pay state filing fees. Also, take note, this package does not include any access to an attorney.

The Pro Plan

This plan gives you everything you need and more to form your LLC. It includes everything the Basic plan offers and then some. The Pro plan includes an operating agreement, which is a legal document that outlines the rules and guidelines for your LLC. It also includes an EIN (employer identification number), which is the tax ID number assigned to businesses for tax filing and reporting purposes.

In addition, the Pro plan includes a complete guide to business licenses for your specific location and industry. It also includes a consultation with an insurance agent and a tax consultation with a small business specialist. This plan starts at $249 plus state filing fees.

The Premium Plan

This plan gives you everything the Basic plan and the Pro plan include and more. This plan starts at $299 plus state filing fees and includes one-day LegalZoom expedited processing time and prioritization within the Secretary of State’s queue (in states where applicable).

As a solid, low-cost option for small businesses that don’t have their own lawyers, LegalZoom was included as one of Forbes Advisor’s Best LLC Services .

Start an LLC Online Today With ZenBusiness

Click on the state below to get started.

As a small business owner, you want to start a business properly so it’s important you have all the information you need before diving in. Once you have the essentials in order, it’s fairly easy to get going with LegalZoom. You’ll be asked a series of questions during the process of formation. It doesn’t take long, but the process can feel tedious to some. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to have on hand before getting started.

• The name of your business (first thing you will do is search for name availability with LegalZoom before filing)
• The state you are forming your LLC in
• Primary name, phone, address and email
• Start date of business
• The nature of your business
• Where are you selling products or services? (for example, online or in person, if applicable)
• Will you accept cash payments?
• Will you have employees within the first 12 months?

From here, LegalZoom will try to upsell so take note—although some of these features are included in the plans, many of these are additional add-on services that can get costly.

• Do you want the registered agent service?
• Do you need an operating agreement?
• Do you need an EIN?
• Do you need compliance services?
• Do you need tax and accounting services?
• Do you need a legal protection plan?

Turnaround time depends on any state-specific backlogs and filing times for services. Some states also offer expedited processing. If you decide to download LegalZoom’s mobile app, you’ll be able to check on the status of your order at any time.

Having a good customer experience can lead to an impactful and favorable outcome. It is a crucial aspect of customer satisfaction and product experience. We took a close look at how LegalZoom measures up by evaluating its most recent customer service reviews and interacting with them firsthand.

Wait time: Forbes Advisor had firsthand experience calling LegalZoom and experienced very little wait time. The time we recorded was around one minute before a representative became available.

Representatives: Most recent online reviews suggest agents are very helpful, patient and knowledgeable as they guide you through the process of setting up an LLC. So, if it is your first time setting up an LLC, there is no need to worry as they will walk you through each step, leaving you feeling confident. The chat option can also help walk you through the process by connecting you with a human being. Our firsthand experience with customer service was very pleasant as the agent was very kind and helpful.

Resolutions: Most recent reviews suggest the majority of customers with questions and/or difficulties setting up their LLC were resolved quickly, leaving them feeling satisfied with the outcome.

LegalZoom provides multiple methods of contact and support through phone, email or an online chat forum. You can contact customer care at (888) 379-0854, or for sale inquiries, call (855) 787-1922. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT, or weekends from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT. LegalZoom does not offer 24/7 support.

You may also submit questions online by entering your contact information under the “submit a question” tab through the “contact us” page.

LegalZoom also has an online chat support, but to use this feature, you must enter your name and email with the option of also giving your phone number. Once entered, the chat forum will pop up and an agent will be available to chat. Take note, if you do decide to enter your phone number, you are agreeing to allow LegalZoom to call you about your order or special offers.

If you are in need of an attorney for more complex or ongoing legal matters beyond the initial consult, the legal plan provides a 25% discount on your consulting attorney’s hourly rate.

LegalZoom might look like a viable alternative to hiring an attorney due to attorneys being costly but, in the long run, hiring an actual attorney might save you real money depending on your actual needs.

LegalZoom vs. Bizee (formerly Incfile)

LegalZoom and Bizee both offer free plans and similarly-priced premium plans. Two key differences are that Bizee offers next-day processing and free first-year registered agent services.

With LegalZoom, registered agent services are an additional add-on for $199 a year. With that said, if you want more bang for your buck, LegalZoom has more to offer as far as legal services and personal services. Bizee also does not include a mobile app.

• LegalZoom vs. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness can certainly take care of your LLC formation filing needs, but it doesn’t offer the same capabilities as LegalZoom.

ZenBusiness offers a premium package at $349, which includes rush filing speed, worry-free compliance, a guided operating agreement and a website, compared to LegalZoom’s Pro plan at $249, which includes a website, an operating agreement, EIN and phone consultations with specialists. With ZenBusiness, an EIN is an add-on and will cost you an extra $99.

ZenBusiness will save you $100 on registered agent services at $199 a year vs. LegalZoom, which also costs you an extra $199 per year.

Each service offers a free plan, but ZenBusiness offers a customizable website for $129 a year vs. LegalZoom, which has partnered with Wix to include it in the plans. Even though Wix typically offers free website services, there may be potential for upgrades.

• LegalZoom vs. Rocket Lawyer

One thing both LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer have in common that the others don’t is that they both handle business formation as well as personal matters and legal and tax advice.

The difference is that Rocket Lawyer charges a yearly or monthly membership fee. If you are a member, it is $39.99 per month for a range of services including personal legal matters.

Rocket Lawyer also offers a seven-day free trial with the option to cancel anytime. LegalZoom offers a free service for LLC business formation but any additional matters such as legal advice or personal matters are additional add-ons unless you opt for the paid plans.

LegalZoom has been helping people start businesses for over 20 years. Its goal is to make the process for you efficient and easy, from simple online filing to available attorneys, tax experts and trusted partners. Overall, LegalZoom is a great option for anyone looking to form a small business LLC, but it can also provide you with many other legal sources to meet all of your needs. With a friendly platform, affordable starting price and personal legal services, LegalZoom wants you to feel secure and confident with the many phases.

Start A Limited Liability Company Online Today with ZenBusiness

Click to get started.

Starting a business or filing important legal documents can be intimidating. Most people who are not familiar with the process want assistance or expert advice on how to begin. Those who seek out help are looking for a product or service that provides a level of trust, accuracy and peace of mind. Everyone wants to feel that anything they invest in is setting them up for success and ensuring the decisions they make are the right ones. We pay for services that make our life easier, not harder.

Can I set up an LLC myself?

First, check with your state if you are interested in starting a limited liability company. Each state may use different regulations. Here are a few general guidelines to help navigate the process: How To Set Up An LLC In 7 Steps.

Is LegalZoom a good way to start an LLC?

LegalZoom is a well-known, established brand and it may be a good option if you are willing to pay the additional cost for professional guidance and services.

Can I form an LLC without physically being in the United States?

Yes, nonresidents of the United States can form an LLC under the laws of any state they choose. There may be some restrictions under various state laws.

What are the best LLC services?

With many LLC services to choose from, LegalZoom, ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent rank at the top of the list. The right LLC services for you personally will depend on your budget and specific needs.

What is the LegalZoom customer support phone number and email?

Customer Care: (888) 379-0854 Monday–Friday: 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific time Weekends: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Sales Support: (855) 787-1922

For email inquiries: [email protected]

Is LegalZoom a trusted site?

Yes, LegalZoom is a trusted site. It provides a variety of legal services, including LLC formation, trademark registration and wills.

What does an LLC service help with?

LLC services can provide different variations in offerings, but all of the LLC services on Forbes Advisor’s list include name availability search, online document access, the option for a registered agent add-on, creation of articles of organization and additional legal services. Some, if not most, of these services may only be available through add-on fees or the more expensive packages, depending on the service provider.

What other legal classifications are there for my business?

There are a number of different kinds of legal classifications your company can use to protect itself from liabilities. For example, filing a corporation can be useful if you want your company to be partially owned by outside shareholders. This is a preferable arrangement for many business owners. For more details, check out our comparison of LLCs and corporations.

• Best LLC Services
• Best Registered Agent Services
• Best Trademark Registration Services
• Top LegalZoom Competitors
• Best Business Plan Software
• ZenBusiness Review
• Northwest Registered Agent Review
• Rocket Lawyer Review
• Inc. Authority Review
• Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom
• Bizee Review (Formerly Incfile)
• Swyft Filings Review
• Harbor Compliance Review
• Sole Proprietorship vs. LLC
• LLC vs. Corporation
• LLC vs. S Corp
• LLP vs. LLC
• DBA vs. LLC
• LegalZoom vs. Incfile
• ZenBusiness vs. Incfile
• How To Start A Business
• How to Set Up an LLC
• How to Get a Business License
• LLC Operating Agreement Template
• 501(c)(3) Application Guide
• What is a Business License?
• What is an LLC?
• What is an S Corp?
• What is a C Corp?
• What is a DBA?
• What is a Sole Proprietorship?
• What is a Registered Agent?
• How to Dissolve an LLC
• How to File a DBA
• What Are Articles Of Incorporation?
• Types Of Business Ownership

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• Best Online Legal Services
• How To Write A Business Plan
• Member-Managed LLC Vs. Manager-Managed LLC
• Starting An S-Corp
• LLC Vs. C-Corp
• How Much Does It Cost To Start An LLC?

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LegalZoom LLC Review 2024

Last Updated: March 6, 2024, 9:05 am by TRUiC Team

Looking for the best LLC service in 2024 to help start your business? We used LegalZoom to form a limited liability company, and then analyzed the platform’s features.

In our LegalZoom LLC review , we’ll go over details of the company's business formation services and explain how it compares to others on the market.

Read on to find out if LegalZoom is the right choice for you.

Recommended:  Use  Legal Zoom to launch your LLC today.

Recommended Step Before Using LegalZoom to Form an LLC

It’s important to name your business before going through the limited liability company formation process with a service provider. TRUiC’s Free LLC Name Generator will help you to do the following:

• Discover the perfect brand name for your company.
• Conduct a business name search to make sure your desired name is available in your state and not already taken.
• Help verify the availability and secure a domain name for your LLC.

What Is LegalZoom?

LegalZoom is an online business formation and legal services company that offers LLC services starting at $0 plus state fees; however, there are other more reliable LLC service options that save on cost in the long run and offer better customer support.

In this LegalZoom review, we’ll further explore the service's pricing, customer reviews, and rate their specific features.

Our Approach

For our LegalZoom LLC review, we kept the following questions in mind:

• Is it a good deal?
• Is there a better deal?
• Who uses the platform and how did they review their experience?

LegalZoom remains one of the most well known LLC service providers in the industry and has excellent reviews on Trustpilot.

LegalZoom Pros

• Established brand, with plenty of reviews from customers to help you make a decision.
• Access to a wide range of online legal services and products (e.g., access to tax advice and legal forms) to help owners and managers navigate the legal issues and challenges of starting and maintaining a business.
• Ability to form a professional LLC (PLLC).

LegalZoom Cons

• Some online LegalZoom reviews complain about lack of customer support and higher fees.
• Customers can be required to pay extra for helpful features, such as an Employer Identification Number (EIN), Operating Agreement, and registered agent

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LegalZoom Alternatives and Competitors

LegalZoom pricing is higher than average compared to other online filing services . Additionally, the formation service has slow order turn-around with the basic package, and it’s easy to accidentally sign up for expensive subscription services that auto-renew.

Best LegalZoom Alternative for LLC Services: Northwest

Overall, going with an established name like LegalZoom comes at a higher cost. Northwest Registered Agent , for instance, provides a more affordable LLC service ($29 + state fee) that is just as reliable; as a result, you'll save both time and money. 

Additionally, if you value customer service, Northwest Registered Agent excels in this area by offering knowledgeable customer support through a team of Corporate Guides® — business experts who help you throughout the entire process. 

You can learn more by reading our full Northwest Registered Agent review .

Best LegalZoom Alternative for Branding Services: Tailor Brands

If you're seeking tools to boost your brand and online presence in addition to business formation and registered agent service, Tailor Brands is the right choice for you. Their all-in-one Elite plan offers a plethora of features including LLC formation, annual compliance, expedited processing, and an operating agreement. Additionally, this package provides powerful business-building tools such as a logo maker, website builder, digital business cards, graphic design tools, and more.

Learn more by checking out our Tailor Brands review .

Best LegalZoom Alternative for Legal Services: Rocket Lawyer

If you're a business owner looking for other online legal services beyond company formation, we highly recommend Rocket Lawyer. In fact, our partnership with Rocket Lawyer offers our users an exclusive discounted price of $349.99 + state filing fee (Regularly $649.97 + state filing fee!) and provides online incorporation services, registered agent services, legal forms, ongoing legal advice, and more.

Learn more by visiting our Rocket Lawyer review .

Form an LLC Yourself

Of course, the most affordable way to form an LLC is to file it yourself using our free guide .

LegalZoom LLC Pricing & Features

Similar to most other services, the LegalZoom pricing plans offer multiple tiers of service: Basic, Pro, and Premium. 

All of LegalZoom’s packages have an average processing time of 5 to 14 business days, although this can be expedited to one day for an additional fee.

LegalZoom LLC Packages: Basic ($0 + State Fees)

This package offers everything you need to get started, but does not include additional features that will help you operate. 

You can expect to pay a minimum of $40 to $500 for an LLC formation order placed within this tier when adding state filing fees. 

• Name check and business filing
• Articles of organization
• Customer support

Who should purchase LegalZoom Basic?

This package is suitable for customers who just want the LLC essentials such as business filing, but are confident that they will not need additional support with features that relate to their LLC’s management or operations.

LegalZoom LLC Packages: Pro ($249 + State Fees)

Pro includes the essentials of the Basic package, and additional helpful features.

• Operating agreement
• One year editor access to customize legal forms
• One year access to eSignature
• Financial account authorization letter

Who should purchase LegalZoom Pro?

Pro includes all the essentials in the Basic package, plus some nice perks like a business license guide, financial account authorization letter, and tax consultation with a business specialist. The main benefit for this price tier is to get additional features that can help you post-formation, albeit at a significant cost.

LegalZoom LLC Packages: Premium ($299 + State Fees)

The real advantage of the premium package is that it offers hands-on guidance from an experienced business attorney.

You'll receive all the features in Basic and Pro, along with a variety of legal services.

• Rush processing
• Attorney consultations
• Access to legal forms
• One entity amendment with rush service included for 90 days
• One copyright registration per month

Who should purchase LegalZoom Premium?

Premium is best suited for the individuals that would like to talk to a specialized business attorney before getting started, and that are not operating on a tight budget. 

Note: Unlike many other LLC formation services, LegalZoom does not include a registered agent service for free for the first year post LLC formation; this will cost users $199 per annum.

Get Professional Help

LegalZoom is one of the most recognizable names in the LLC formation space, offering excellent customer service and packages for all types of needs.

LegalZoom Reviews

LegalZoom’s services are most appealing to first-time entrepreneurs who are worried about making mistakes when forming an LLC.

The platform is more focused on full online legal services for business beyond just company formation. For instance, it offers a legal plan called the Business Advisory Plan, which provides features like tax advice, independent attorney consultations, and access to legal forms.

Here are some verified LegalZoom LLC reviews (from the company's website) by customers who used the service to help launch their business:

"I had never started a business before, so LegalZoom was a perfect place to go. It let me take my vision for the company and make it a reality, legally."

"We've used [LegalZoom] for quite a few things over the years, and overall it's gone very smoothly. They've been easy to work with and very affordable."

Here are some verified LegalZoom reviews (from ConsumerAffairs) by customers who used the services to help start their business:

"Everything is working out well with LegalZoom, for the most part. But they did, most of the time, not verify to me how to get the documents signed correctly to start my business. So, I was prolonged for four months from doing so."

"For a couple of years, they charged me and I didn't know. I called them and asked why they charged me. They said it was not refundable and that I put them as a secretary. I told them I didn't know that they were gonna be my secretary. They charged me $300 for doing nothing and I never got my money back. But LegalZoom was okay. They also do their purpose."

Best LLC Formation Services

Legalzoom review ratings, cost value - 3.7/5.

Overall, LegalZoom is one of the more expensive online business formation services.

Although LegalZoom starts at $0 plus state fees, you'll need to pay extra for essential LLC features such as an operating agreement, EIN, and registered agent. Here is what their basic plan includes:

• Articles of Organization filing

LegalZoom doesn’t offer a free year of registered agent services like other companies.

For example, Northwest Registered Agent provides a year of registered agent services with LLC formation, and $125/year after the first year.

In contrast, LegalZoom's formation packages charge $199/year for registered agent service.

Customer Service - 3.5/5

We had a below average experience with customer support.

Some features seem prone to charging customers for subscription services they may not actually want. This can make for an aggravating experience.

According to online LegalZoom reviews, some customers mention a slower process and lack of communication.

If you value customer reviews when choosing an LLC formation service, this may reduce your trust in LegalZoom. Northwest, on the other hand, is known for their personalized, premium customer support.

Ease of Use - 4/5

The entire order process should take no longer than 15-20 minutes.

In case you are unable to complete an order in one sitting, Legal Zoom emails a link to your saved answers, giving you the option of completing your LLC formation order at a later time.

Included Features - 3.8/5

LegalZoom's most expensive plan offers a variety of helpful legal services.

LegalZoom Premium includes attorney consultations, access to legal forms, and more.

Essential business features like an Operating Agreement and EIN are offered as part of the pro and premium packages.

These features are not included in the basic plan. Additionally, registered agent services are $199/year for all three plans.

FORM AN LLC FOR FREE USING OUR GUIDE

LegalZoom may be a decent option if you:

• Want to work with an established brand to start your LLC
• Are seeking ongoing legal services for your new business
• Are willing to pay extra for better premium services and features, such as an EIN and registered agent services
• Are not in a rush to form your LLC or are willing to pay a considerable premium to expedite your order
• Need to form a professional limited liability company (PLLC)

However, we recommend that you check out Northwest Registered Agent , a more affordable and quality service, or our top LLC formation services  article.

What do I need to form an LLC and can I start one on my own?

You can learn everything about starting an LLC — and form one on your own — by following the steps outlined in our comprehensive state-based guides !

Is LegalZoom a good service for small businesses?

The biggest advantage of this company would be their brand power. They’ve established a name for themselves in the business formation service industry. However, there are many other more affordable and high-quality options available, such as Northwest Registered Agent.

Is LegalZoom free?

No, it is not free. Although their basic plan starts at $0, you will still need to pay the state filing fee.

How much does LegalZoom cost?

LLC prices start at $0 + state fees. Depending on the package you choose, you could spend up to $300 or more.

Is LegalZoom worth it?

It is the more expensive option when it comes to getting a limited liability company formed. There are other services that are more worth it in the long run.

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We earn commissions if you shop through the links below.  Read more

LegalZoom LLC Review: Features, Cost, Pros & Cons

Back to LLC Service Reviews

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on September 5, 2022

When you’re in the initial stages of setting up a business, creating your business entity is one of the primary and most critical challenges you will encounter. This procedure can be exceedingly complicated and lengthy, prompting many business owners to seek out specialized formation services.

LegalZoom is a popular choice amongst these services. This analysis aims to provide a more detailed view, taking the perspective of an entrepreneur, to guide you in selecting the formation service that will set you on the path to success.

• Service Overview
• Our Verdict on LegalZoom

LegalZoom offers incredibly useful services for individuals looking to start their own business. The platform is not only user-friendly but also promises an excellent customer experience, a fact we confirmed through our own interactions with their support services and the extensive number of customer reviews we analyzed.

Beyond simplifying the business start-up process, LegalZoom helps maintain compliance with your state’s regulations without the stress and inconvenience usually associated with it. Their pricing is competitive too. For comprehensive business and legal solutions, LegalZoom emerges as an ideal choice.

Turnaround Time

Help and Support

Customer Satisfaction

Ease of Use

Overall Score: 4.2/5

• Pros and Cons
• Reputable and reliable services
• Local attorneys available in all 50 states
• Great customer support
• Quick and easy purchase process
• Variety of legal services and documents available to business owners
• Registered agent service cost is higher compared to competitors
• Too many upsells when signing up
• Slow turnaround time

LegalZoom has a great reputation of being a one-stop shop for all your legal needs.

• LegalZoom Services

LegalZoom offers assistance with the formation process for various business entities such as LLCs, Incorporations (S Corp, C Corp), Nonprofits, Sole Proprietorships, Limited Partnerships (LP), Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP), and DBAs. Each type of business structure comes with different pricing plans.

However, in this article, we will primarily concentrate on LLCs, as they represent the most prevalent business structure. Here’s a comprehensive list of all business products and services that LegalZoom provides.

Business Formation Service

The formation of your LLC involves filing articles of organization with your state, which can also be referred to as a certificate of organization or formation. This can be carried out online or via mail. LegalZoom manages this online filing on your behalf, and the time it takes for LLC approval differs from state to state.

If you wish to register a specific name for your entity, it must be verified for its availability within the state where you plan to establish your company. LegalZoom provides a service for checking the availability of the entity name and also reserves it on your behalf if it is available. Name check service is included in all the plans. Entity name reservation service starts at $49 + state filing fees.

For an entrepreneur, this process can be daunting and time-consuming, and it’s often difficult to secure customer support from your state government office. However, with LegalZoom, you can avail of customer support services seven days a week.

Once your LLC is approved and official, you can access your formation documents on the LegalZoom website at any time. 

Registered Agent Services

In most states, when you form an LLC, you need a registered agent . A registered agent is a person or business authorized to accept and respond to legal, tax, and financial documents on behalf of your business. 

For $249 per year, LegalZoom can act as your registered agent and handle official correspondence. They will ensure all correspondence is handled on time and keep copies of documents for you. They will keep track of deadlines for you and send you reminders of things you may have to file, such as tax forms or annual reports.

Operating Agreement

An operating agreement for an LLC is an important legal document that details who owns the business and also provides essential information pertaining to member duties. It helps you set entity guidelines and settle potential disputes.

LegalZoom streamlines the creation of your LLC operating agreement through the following steps:

• Online Query : You answer relevant business questions, such as your company’s structure, members, and operational procedures.
• Document Production and Shipment : They generate a custom LLC agreement based on your answers and mail it to you.
• Signature Collection : To officially validate the document, all LLC members must sign it.

Under the Basic plan, which is free, the operating agreement is not provided. The cost of obtaining an operating agreement starts at $99. However, the operating agreement is incorporated within the Pro and Premium plans at no extra cost.

An employer identification number (EIN) is a tax-identifying number for your business. It’s required if your LLC has more than one member or has employees. It’s obtained by applying through the IRS.

The process is quite simple. You will need to complete our simple online questionnaire. LegalZoom will handle the application process to the IRS and send you your EIN as soon as it’s approved.

The Basic plan, which comes at no cost, does not include the provision for an EIN. The standalone fee to acquire your federal tax ID is $79. However, the EIN feature is built into the Pro and Premium plans without any additional charges.

Business Licenses and Permits

LegalZoom offers advice on the potential licenses and permits your business may require , depending on your specific state and industry. LegalZoom obtains these licenses from the relevant government authorities.

The guide for business licenses and permits is not part of the Basic plan. The cost of obtaining business licenses and permits starts at $99.99 + state fees. However, this feature is included in both the Pro and Premium plans at no extra cost.

Annual Reports

In the majority of states, there’s a legal obligation for LLCs to submit regular reports . Non-compliance could result in your business being penalized with fines and potentially losing its liability protection.

LegalZoom assists by fulfilling these legal requirements, ensuring that the state is up-to-date with the latest information about your company, such as its name, address, and management.

The cost of this service starts at $99 + filing fees.

Trademark and Copyright Services

LegalZoom offers trademark and copyright services that other services, such as ZenBusiness, do not. 

Forming your LLC will protect the name in your state, but the only way to protect it across the US is to trademark your business name. Applying for a trademark can be a complicated process, and using a service like LegalZoom ensures that the application process is handled smoothly and professionally.

At $599 plus federal filing fees, the service is somewhat expensive, but if you plan to expand your business to other states or online, a trademark ensures that your name is protected across the country.

If you’ve created a logo or other creative images or written copy for your business, a copyright can protect those from being copied by others. The LegalZoom copyright service handles this process for you. At $114 plus filing fees, this is a solid value buy. 

Other Business Services

All plans come with a customizable business website. 

Attorney Consultations

With the Premium plan, you’ll have access to unlimited 30-minute attorney consultations for 30 days.

Legal Forms and Agreements

LegalZoom maintains a comprehensive library of legal forms and documents to cater to both business and personal requirements, all of which are prepared by professional attorneys.

• Plans and Pricing

The Basic plan includes a business name availability search through your state and the business formation service, with full customer support. It also offers a few extras, including a digital welcome packet and a business website. You’ll also have access to your formation documents online at any time.

This plan is a good value and appropriate for entrepreneurs with a limited budget who just want to get their business up and running and plan to handle annual reporting and the operating agreement themselves. You can add additional services at the time of purchase or later. 

This plan, at the cost of state fees only, is of great value.     

The Pro plan includes all the services included in the Basic plan, but with the addition of an operating agreement, an EIN, a business license guide, and initial phone consultations with specialists.

This plan, with all that’s included, is an excellent value.

Premium Plan

The Premium plan includes everything in the Pro plan with the advantage of unlimited 30-minute attorney consultations and changes to your LLC for 30 days, plus hands-on guidance from a business attorney.

• Turnaround Time and Cancellation

We asked email customer service about filing turnaround times and received a response in about 48 hours.

• 20 days for Basic
• 10 days for Pro
• 2-5 days for Premium

All times depend on the state’s turnaround time.

The LegalZoom plans are one-time charges and services, so there is no need to cancel.  If you want to cancel an order, you can call the Customer Care Center at (800) 773-0888. If you’re canceling s subscription, you can cancel online through the “My Account” portal or call (888) 310-0151.

We did note that a few of the reviews of LegalZoom were about difficulties with cancellation.

• Forming an LLC Using LegalZoom Service

We took our review a step further and actually went through the entire process to form a real LLC.

We had to choose a package, answer a few questions about the business, and quickly into the process, we were offered services that we could purchase in addition to the LLC formation.

We were offered to proceed with one of LegalZoom’s partner banks (Chase and Bank of America, or skip the step.

We finally got to the processing, where we could choose to speed up the process and add the Founder’s Kit.

We clicked the Expedited Processing button and opted out of the Founder’s Kit, and received our total price.

It was possible to pay the cost in three monthly installments (including a $5 monthly installment fee), or as one payment.

On the checkout page, we were prompted to select either payment in installments or a one-time fee and fill out the form. You can also sign in to your existing account here or create the account.

Since we didn’t have an account, we decided to create it. Then we went through another series of questions about our business, including how it would be named and the state it would be based in.

The entire process only took about 20 minutes. It was quite simple, but the upselling of other products was a bit intrusive.

We received an automated welcome email within minutes.

A short time later, we received a more personal welcome email.

All that was left to do was to wait for our filed documents. To our surprise and pleasure, we received them in 24 hours! We also received some other helpful documents, including instructions and a guide to our next steps, such as drafting an operating agreement.

We found this document to be quite helpful.

With our Legal Zoom account, we are able to access our documents online at any time.

After the process was completed, however, we did continue to receive emails upselling other products. This is to be expected but is a bit intrusive.

Overall, our experience with Legal Zoom was quite positive. We had no issues, everything was simple, and what we received is a good value for the money.

• Customer Support

We tested all three forms of LegalZoom’s customer support, as detailed below. 

Chat support

When we tested the customer service response time through the online chat option, we received a response almost immediately.

We asked about the price of operating agreements and what determines the final price since it’s listed as “from $99”. The answer was that it was $99 for standard processing and $199 for rush processing. 

The customer service agent was quick and polite, and after the chat, we received a follow-up email almost immediately. 

Chat Support Rating:

Response time:

Phone support

We called LegalZoom to ask a question about registered agent services. Our call was answered in two minutes, and the question was answered promptly. The question was whether registered agent services were included in any of the plans, and the answer was no. 

The customer service representative was very professional and polite and made no sales pitches.

Phone Support Rating:

Email support

We asked email support what the standard filing time is vs. expedited filing. Our email was sent on a Saturday, and we received a response on Monday at about 11 a.m. The answer was polite and clear.

Email Support Rating:

• Customer Reviews

The best way to learn about LegalZoom is to see what real customers thought of their experience. We visited the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot. 

LegalZoom is an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ rating. They have 4.63/5 stars from over 6,500 customer reviews.

The following aspects are emphasized as positive in BBB customer reviews:

• Knowledgeable and responsive team
• Easy and fast process

The following aspects are emphasized as negative in BBB customer reviews:

• Surprise charges
• Miscommunication

LegalZoom has 4.6/5 stars on Trustpilot , from nearly 3000 reviews.

The following aspects are emphasized as positive in Trustpilot customer reviews:

• Simple process
• Excellent customer support
• Professional and informative team

The following aspects are emphasized as negative in Trustpilot customer reviews:

• Poor communication
• Surprise charges for unwanted services
• Alternatives to LegalZoom

We explored similar services to LegalZoom to see how they stack up to the competition. 

LegalZoom is more expensive than some competitors. However, they do offer a wider variety of legal services and have been in business for more than 20 years.

Your choice will ultimately depend on your specific needs, budget considerations, and preferences.

ZenBusiness

LegalZoom and ZenBusiness are both well-known providers of legal services, including business formation, but they have notable differences.

LegalZoom offers a comprehensive range of legal services beyond business formation, making it a versatile platform for various legal needs. However, LegalZoom tends to have higher pricing and additional upsells compared to ZenBusiness, which is often praised for its affordability and tiered packages that cater to different business requirements.

Rocket Lawyer

LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer are both popular platforms for legal services, including business formation, but they have some distinct differences.

LegalZoom offers a wide range of legal services beyond business formation, making it a comprehensive solution for various legal needs. On the other hand, Rocket Lawyer focuses primarily on subscription-based legal services, offering access to legal documents, consultations, and other resources for a monthly fee.

While LegalZoom may have a broader range of services, Rocket Lawyer’s subscription model can be cost-effective for ongoing legal support.

Northwest Registered Agent

LegalZoom offers a wide range of legal services beyond just business formation, making it a comprehensive platform for various legal needs.

However, LegalZoom tends to have higher pricing and upsells compared to Northwest Registered Agent, which provides a singular, competitively-priced package with essential business formation services.

Northwest Registered Agent is also known for its exceptional customer service and commitment to privacy.

Company’s Background

LegalZoom was founded in 2001 by a group of entrepreneurs and attorneys. LegalZoom has helped more than 2 million businesses get started. The company employs more than 1,000 people, and the CEO is Dan Wernikoff.

According to LegalZoom, they are “a tech company that’s in the business of providing clarity, making things simple, and creating innovative services so that legal and tax help are accessible to every business owner, creator, and every family.”

• Our Approach

As an entrepreneurial advisory site, we take our responsibilities seriously . We understand that countless entrepreneurs, and potential entrepreneurs, rely on our judgments and insights, particularly when it comes to creating their business.

As a result, our writers do their utmost to gain a comprehensive understanding of the services offered and the actual customer experience. In this case, we:

• Examined every single page of the LegalZoom website
• Reviewed all of their offerings, from a la carte products to packages
• Put ourselves in the customer’s shoes, creating an account
• Communicated with customer service via chat, email, and phone
• Gained a full understanding of the customer experience and service value

Thanks to this full immersion in the actual customer experience, our reviewer and team are able to provide the most complete and insightful review of LegalZoom’s LLC formation services.

A service like LegalZoom can make the business formation process easy for you and ensure that it’s done correctly. They provide customer support and additional services to support your business.

LegalZoom offers business formation services to handle the paperwork and cut through the red tape with your state, so you don’t have to. They also offer additional services, including registered agent services and an operating agreement.

Yes, all of their plan prices are one-time fees.

There are no fees or penalties to cancel your annual services with LegalZoom. If you want to cancel an order, you can call the Customer Care Center at (800) 773-0888. If you’re canceling s subscription, you can do it online through the “My Account” portal or call (888) 310-0151.

The LegalZoom Plans all offer a lot for the money, particularly their Basic Plan that costs state fees only.

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Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom: Differences, pros & cons in 2024

Brynne Conroy

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 4:21 a.m. UTC Sep. 3, 2024

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Best LLC service

Rocket lawyer.

Free version available

Lowest published package price

• Free LLC formation for new members.
• Great customer reviews.
• Membership provides ongoing legal support.
• Customer support is lacking.
• Only one LLC service plan.
• Limited LLC plan add-ons.

Best for business attorney guidance

• Offers a free LLC service.
• Free package includes a Wix website.
• Premium plan comes with advice from an attorney.
• Free package has limited services.
• Expensive registered agent service ($299 per year).
• Mid-tier plan is expensive compared to other LLC services.

Featured LLC service offers

Zenbusiness.

Via ZenBusiness’ website

Northwest Registered Agent

Via Northwest Registered Agent’s website

Tailor Brands

Via Tailor Brands’ website

$0 + state fee + up to $50 Amazon gift card

Service time

Varies by State & Package

LegalZoom is an all-in-one stop for business formation services that’s been around since 2001. The online platform can help you complete tasks and processes, such as setting up your LLC and appointing your registered agent . It also has services for personal legal matters such as divorces, trusts and wills. 

Rocket Lawyer is a similar company that’s been on the scene since 2008. It has a focus on small- to medium-sized businesses and provides many of the same personal legal services that LegalZoom does. 

There are pros and cons of using each service. Today, we’ll dive into the similarities and differences. Bear in mind that while using an online platform can sometimes be cheaper than hiring a personal lawyer who can customize all your documents, both LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer charge enough extra fees that it’s worth running the math on both options.

Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom: LLC services

Rocket Lawyer and LegalZoom provide a similar suite of products, providing LLC formation services and legal consultations through their subscription plans. Both services can get quite pricey in terms of fees compared to other companies on our best LLC creation services roundup. However, if you want built-in legal help, it may be worth the cost, depending on your circumstances. 

LegalZoom does provide a free Wix site to everyone who uses their LLC services, which is something Rocket Lawyer does not offer. That said, the amount of money you save by using Rocket Lawyer’s services over LegalZoom’s may be enough to justify paying for your own website independently. Plus, Rocket Lawyer allows you to view all of your documents via your online portal, while LegalZoom only provides limited access. 

Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom: Registered agent services

Of the two, Rocket Lawyer is the cheaper option for registered agent services. If you’re not a member, the fee is $149.99 per year, but if you do have a membership, the price is bumped down to $111.99 per year. At LegalZoom , you’ll pay $249 per year for registered agent services.

Both companies offer a similar level of service, uploading any documents received to your account and emailing you a notification. In some instances, LegalZoom will also send you a postcard via snail mail to notify you of particularly important documents. 

Should your notifications contain any documents that would require attorney review or assistance, both services provide access to lawyers through additional subscription plans. These include free consultations, attorney discounts, document reviews and more. 

Rocket Lawyer’s $39.99 per month membership plan includes attorney document defense, 30-minute lawyer consultations on any issue and up to 40% off Rocket Lawyer network attorney services. LegalZoom’s attorney plan starts at $39.08 per month (billed annually) and offers unlimited 30-minute legal consultations on new matters, annual business evaluations and legal checkups, a legal document review (up to 10 pages) and 25% off of attorney services. 

Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom: Cost

*The registered agent is an annual recurring fee. In some cases, companies waive it for the first year or other specified period of time. It’s also included in some companies’ plans.

LegalZoom has three packages that can help you set up your LLC. You won’t be charged any fees by LegalZoom for the free basic package — but you will have to pay state filing fees. This package includes articles of organization, name check service, a Wix website and access to email and chat support. It lacks phone support. 

The Pro package is the next largest. It includes everything in the basic package, plus an operating agreement, an EIN, a business license guide specific to your region and access to customer service by phone. 

The Premium plan includes everything in the Pro package, plus free amendments to your LLC formation documents for the first 30 days. There are extra legal services but these are only 30-day subscriptions that come with a $49 per month fee after the first month. These trial services include attorney consultations and reviews of your legal contracts and documents, one copyright registration and a library of customizable legal forms.

Rocket Lawyer works differently. There aren’t tiers per se, but there are different prices for LLC formation depending on your membership status. If you purchase LLC formation services a la carte, you’ll pay $99.99 + state filing fees. 

You can also subscribe to Rocket Lawyer’s entire suite of services for $39.99 per month, or $479.88 per year. You can bring this price down by paying annually instead of monthly. If you pay annually, membership only costs $239.99 per year. Right now, Rocket Lawyer is offering a free, 7-day trial for its subscription membership, so you could theoretically get the free LLC formation and then cancel your membership before the free week is up. 

Just like with LegalZoom, “free” isn’t actually free. You’ll still have to pay state filing fees. Free LLC formation is only available to new members. Existing members get 25% off the $99.99 a la cart price. While both services charge a lot of extra fees, Rocket Lawyer’s prices are cheaper. Its membership plan offers deeper discounts on attorney services and additional discounts on business services such as tax preparation and trademark application services. 

Learn more about LLC formation costs by reading our costs to start an LLC guide.

Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom: Features

Affordable legal services is where Rocket Lawyer really shines. If you have a membership, you’ll get free access to common legal documents, Document Defense — a service in which a lawyer helps you enforce your business contracts — and the ability to ask a lawyer specific questions, 30-minute attorney consultations, 40% off of attorney services and 25% off Rocket Lawyer registered agent services. After the free trial is over, you’ll also get access to 30-minute consultations with a lawyer on new business matters only. 

With the premium package, LegalZoom gives you 30 days of free 30-minute consultations with an attorney for new business matters only. They’ll also review new business documents and contracts. But after those first 30 days, you’ll be charged $49 per month for this service unless you cancel the subscription. LegalZoom has a similar arrangement for its copyright registration services and access to its legal forms library. 

Both LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer will research your business name before registering your LLC with the state. While both technically offer online document access, Rocket Lawyer comes out on top in this domain. You can access all of your documents via your online portal, while LegalZoom will only allow you to access articles of operation, operating agreements or bylaws, and signing instructions.

Both companies also have an app, but Rocket Lawyer’s app has earned far better user reviews. It has 4.9 stars in the App Store and 4.7 on Google Play. LegalZoom’s app is only available in the App Store, where it gets 3.3 stars. Negative reviews often contain complaints about both the app and LegalZoom’s services.

Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom: Add-ons

You’ll want to be careful before engaging with either Rocket Lawyer or LegalZoom’s services. There are lots of extra fees. For example, both companies provide annual report filing, but you’ll pay for it. At $49 compared to LegalZoom’s $99 fee, it’s less expensive at Rocket Lawyer than LegalZoom — even if you don’t have a Rocket Lawyer membership. 

Employee Identification Numbers (EINs) are included in LegalZoom’s Pro and Premium packages. Technically, at Rocket Lawyer, an EIN will cost you $59.99. However, its customer service representatives recommend visiting the IRS’ website to file for an EIN yourself. It’s free through the IRS, and it is a relatively simple process. If you still want assistance, you may ask the sales department for a discount, which can get you as much as $20 off. 

Rocket Lawyer has a more extensive library of documents for real estate, like eviction notices and affidavits of title. Granted, you’re getting a boilerplate template. If you want any modifications and want to ensure those modifications are legal, you have to pay to speak with a Rocket Lawyer attorney.

LegalZoom does customize your real estate documents, but it charges you to do so. Its offerings are also slimmer. In its suite of business products, it provides residential leases and quit claim deeds only, for which Rocket Lawyer does have free templates.

At LegalZoom, expedited quit claim deeds are $40 more expensive than those with standard delivery, but they’ll get to you faster. Standard quit claim deeds take five to seven days, while the expedited service cuts that time down to two days. For residential leases, the $29 rate gets you one week of revisions, while the $49 package gives you six months to make revisions.

Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom: Customer support

Rocket Lawyer and LegalZoom both offer similar customer service features. Both companies offer phone service, but LegalZoom only offers it to Pro and Premium clients. That said, once you have access to customer support via phone, LegalZoom has more expansive hours. You can reach representatives from 5 a.m. through 7 p.m. PST on weekdays and 7 a.m. through 4 p.m. PST on weekends. Rocket Lawyer’s hours are only from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT on weekdays.

Both companies offer live chat, but LegalZoom’s is more helpful. Many of the questions you may ask at Rocket Lawyer will get you a referral to their phone customer service line. The phone line is where you will find extremely helpful representatives to answer your questions. 

Overall, both services are quite popular among users. Rocket Lawyer has a 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot with over 7,000 reviews. LegalZoom has a rating of 4.5 out of five stars on Trustpilot with over 3,000 reviews.

Which company formation service is right for your business?

Both Rocket Lawyer and LegalZoom come with a lot of extra fees. There are cheaper LLC formation services out there when all is said and done. 

However, if you’re looking for access to legal consultations, the fact that LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer both provide them is a big deal. Between the two services, Rocket Lawyer’s subscription is cheaper. When you have this membership, it also knocks down the cost of other add-ons like registered agent services and annual report filings. 

If weekend customer service hours are imperative, or you prefer to conduct customer service inquiries through live chat, LegalZoom may be the better fit. Just bear in mind that its premium customer support features are likely to be more expensive than going with a competitor with fewer support options.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

In its free plan, Rocket Lawyer offers members free business document templates, ongoing legal support, a well-received mobile app and discounts on add-on services such as registered agent services and access to a network attorney. However, unlike many competitors, it does not offer free registered agent services in its plan, is somewhat expensive compared to other LLC formation services (at $239 per year) and does not offer a free plan for LLC formation services.

For example, ZenBusiness offers free LLC formation services with an annual report and ongoing compliance alerts free for the first year. And, Bizee  and Inc Authority offer free registered agent services in their free LLC formation plans.

LegalZoom offers free LLC formation services, which include a free name check and Wix website, legal services in its Pro plan and a 60-day guarantee that either refunds your money or replaces the product with a satisfactory one.

However, its add-ons can be expensive. It also does not offer free registered agent services for the first year like many competitors do and its free plan has few features compared to some competitors’ free plans. For example, Bizee ’s free LLC formation plan includes free registered agent services for one year, and after the first year, its registered agent services are $119 per year compared to LegalZoom’s $249 per year.

Some LLC formation services offer deals and features LegalZoom does not. For example:

• Bizee offers a free LLC formation plan with free registered agent services for one year. This same plan at LegalZoom is $249 for one year. 
• Inc Authority also offers a free LLC formation plan with free registered agent services for the first year. In addition, it offers a free state and federal tax planning consultation and business credit and funding analysis with this plan, features that cost extra at LegalZoom. 
• Active Filings has a free LLC formation plan that includes one year of registered agent services, a free annual report and ongoing filing deadline alerts to help you stay compliant. 

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Brynne Conroy has over 12 years of experience writing about money, with a particular focus on women's finances and small business lending and credit products. Her debut book was an Amazon #1 New Release across multiple categories, and she has been awarded a PEN America grant for the body of her work in the field. Find her bylines on LendingTree, Her Agenda, GoBankingRates, and Business Insider, and features on MSN Money, Jean Chatzky's HerMoney, and Yahoo Finance.

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