19 Best LLC Services in Alabama (November 2023)
For business owners planning to form a Alabama LLC, partnering with an entity filing service is the trending approach.
Let the LLC service handle the paperwork with the Alabama Secretary of State.
We tested 19 LLC services and ranked them based on features, client privacy, package pricing, customer service and BBB reviews.
Continue reading to discover the top-tier LLC services for your Alabama business.
These are the top LLC formation services that stood out in terms of service, features, response time, price, registered agent service, user reviews and customer support.
Best LLC Services
- Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
- Incfile
- ZenBusiness
The Best LLC Service in Alabama
We recommend Northwest Registered Agent.
Northwest is Best-In-Class: Some other LLC services maybe cheaper but those other LLC services may also sell your private data.
Northwest is a professional firm with top-quality customer support and a policy of ‘Privacy by Default’ for their clients.
1. Northwest Registered Agent (Best-In-Class)
Price:
My top pick for LLC formation service in Alabama is Northwest Registered Agent.
Northwest provides business formations and registered agent services. Northwest has been providing LLC formation services for over 20 years.
Northwest Registered Agent Reviews
They are known for exceptional customer service and are the industry leader in registered agent services. Alabama LLC formations with Northwest are discounted for our readers, just $39, and you also get a year of free registered agent service. This keeps your start-up costs low. Northwest is our top choice, and it’s an LLC service that puts customer service above all else.
Northwest RA Pros and Cons Pros
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#2 Incfile (Best Budget LLC Service)
Incfile is another LLC service that has been in business for nearly 20 years. can be a great choice if you are concerned about start-up costs. They offer free Alabama LLC filing and registered agent services for the first year. A “free LLC” may be good for some, but Incfile needs to make money somehow. This can be done by upselling needed features at a lofty price. If privacy is important to you, Northwest emphasizes customer privacy more than any other LLC service I know. Incfile may not have as many bonus features as its competitors. Still, they offer all the essentials for an additional fee: filing an EIN and registering a DBA, filing annual reports, and others.
Incfile Pros and Cons Pros
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#3 ZenBusiness (Best New LLC Service)
Thanks to competitive technology and a dedication to affordability, ZenBusiness has one of the most affordable LLC services available. Formations start at $0 plus the state fee. ZenBusiness provides Alabama registered agent services at an additional cost of $199/yr. You can choose the Pro package ($199 annually) for a flat annual fee to get business formation, and an operating agreement template.
ZenBusiness Pros and Cons Pros
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#4 LegalZoom (Best for Ongoing Legal Services)
LegalZoom is a great way to get involved with a well-known brand. LegalZoom was founded in 2001 and has grown to offer hundreds of services. LegalZoom is more expensive than the other Alabama LLC services listed in this guide. LegalZoom is not the only option if you need a complete legal service. Rocket Lawyer is another option for LLC services and online legal services. LegalZoom gets pricey after the add-ons.
LegalZoom Pros and Cons Pros
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I have a personal story to tell
In 2008 I started a business and hired an attorney to do the LLC formation paperwork. I thought it would be complicated.
I paid $600 plus a $50 state fee to the lawyer in his office. The lawyer got on his computer, entered my name, and some basic information, and then printed out several pieces of paper and said “sign here and here”.
The whole process took about 10 minutes for $600. That same lawyer today probably charges $900 for these 10 minutes of work.
After that, I have only worked with online services.
LLC Formation Lawyers in Alabama
If your business is particularly complex, or if you don’t mind spending $100s of dollars more and want the peace of mind that comes with having an experienced business attorney to form your business entity, you could hire a lawyer instead of a formation service.
Business Attorneys in Alabama
As I just mentioned, hiring an attorney is more expensive than using an online LLC service, but you will obtain a level of competence and experience that can only be provided by an attorney.
I evaluated a long list of Alabama business attorneys on Avvo’s website to find the most qualified LLC formation lawyers.
To locate these respectable attorneys, I researched Avvo’s list of “best reviewed” Alabama business attorneys.
Here are my top five state recommendations:
Tier 2 – Other Alabama LLC Services
Swyft Filings
Swyft Filings was launched in 2012 and are one of the latest services for LLC formation.
Prices start at $0 + state fee. If you need an EIN and LLC operating agreement, the price is $199 + state fee. Swyft Filings charges $199/year for registered agent services.
MyCompanyWorks
MyCompanyWorks has a basic LLC service package that costs $79 and includes assistance with Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement assistance, an online portal to store legal documents, compliance alerts, and assistance with registering with the Alabama Secretary of State.
They have maintained mostly positive reviews online. You will need to buy their premium package for $279 if you want a Alabama registered agent.
Inc Authority
Inc Authority, like Incfile, allows you to file your company formation paperwork free of charge, but each offer comes at an additional cost.
Ask the “free LLC” if they plan to sell your private information. I believe the “Free LLC” is a gimmick just to get you in the door. Yes, their filing service is “free” plus the state fee.
You will need to buy their $399 basic package if you require assistance drafting an Operating Agreement or accessing an EIN.
You will also need to buy their premium $799 package if you want to receive express processing.
Tailor Brands
Tailor Brands is a bit different than the others on my list.
Like their name says, they build brands. Tailor Brands promotes itself as a comprehensive business formation service that provides a complete list of services to entrepreneurs, including compliance and LLC formation, logo design, and branding features.
Tailor Brands offers three formation plans.
Incorporate.com
Incorporate.com offers a $99 base package that includes very few services, similar to Rocket Lawyer or LegalZoom. They offer an online account and assistance in filing your Articles of Organization, and that’s nothing else.
CorpNet
CorpNet has been in business for over 20 years. They will file the initial LLC documents and provide compliance alerts to maintain good standing with the Secretary of State. All for $79.
MyCorporation
MyCorporation is owned and operated by the check printing company Deluxe Corp. Their LLC formation services are like many others on our list.
They charge $133 to prepare your Operating Agreement and process your Articles of Organization. Each additional, comprehensive service comes at an additional cost.
Incorporate Fast
Incorporate Fast offers Alabama LLC formation services at a low $99 price. This includes assistance with filing documents, assistance with filing them, and an Operating Agreement template.
They offer “same-day” filings. They will process and file your documents within 24 hours of receipt.
If you can upgrade to their $199 package, you get an EIN.
BizFilings
BizFilings, another Alabama LLC service provider, charges $99 for the basic package. This includes assistance in filing your limited liability company formation documents and a year of their registered agent services.
Like each of the LLC services, they have additional features for additional fees.
Rocket Lawyer
Similar to LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer offers online legal services. They also offer LLC services such as registering an agent, filing your formation documents, and an online document storage portal.
If you like having access to ongoing legal assistance for a fee, Rocket Lawyer might be a good fit for you.
Active Filings
Active Filings is another LLC formation service, they are based in Dania Beach, Florida. Active Filings has been in business since 2001 but is still a small player in this industry.
According to the company website, they have only four employees.
Direct Incorporation
Direct Incorporation offers the same LLC services that MyCorporation but includes a banking resolution as well as an Employer Identification number. They charge $174 for these services.
If you need an LLC operating agreement, you need to get the next package at $297. They also offer logo design, trademarks, a business website, and email.
InCorp
InCorp costs $99. plus state fees to file your Articles of Organization. Registered agent services are $129 per year.
National Incorporations
Nationwide Incorporators offers basic LLC filing services for $200, and for $475, you get an LLC operating agreement. You get to talk to an attorney. Pricey!
SunDoc Filings
SunDoc Filings has a $79 base package for filing your Articles of Organization. $70 for an EIN and $69 for an LLC operating agreement.
What is a Alabama LLC?
A Alabama LLC, short for limited liability company, is an entity type that combines the flexibility of a sole proprietorship with the financial protection of personal assets.
That’s not a bad thing. Let’s find out what this means.
You would operate as a sole proprietorship if you started selling handcrafted apparel out of your home. Sole proprietorships are legal entities.
This means that everything the business owns, from fabrics to sewing machines, is owned solely by the proprietor. The proprietor pays all taxes.
If the business is sued or taken to court by a third party, the owner may lose all of his or her personal property to pay the damages.
Business entities, such as LLCs, have personal asset protection. This is because the business itself is considered an independent legal entity.
The business can have assets, open a bank account, and be sued. If the business goes under, members of the company cannot lose their assets.
LLCs aren’t subject to a lot of complex requirements, unlike corporations. This makes it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs who want to keep their filings simple and still protect their assets.
Pros and cons of starting a limited liability company in Alabama
An LLC is one of the most common types of entity in America. However, it’s not the right type of entity for everyone.
Only you know your business best and can choose the entity type most appropriate for you. Your vision is clear for the future and your products.
It’s important to understand the pros and cons of LLCs to decide if an LLC is right for your needs.
Pros
- It is easier to create and manage than a corporation
- Protection of personal assets
- A flexible tax structure can be paid as a partnership (or a corporation)
- Exclusive use of a business name within a state is prohibited
Cons
- No authority can issue stock. Therefore, capital-raising opportunities are limited.
- Some states have higher annual fees and taxes than sole proprietorships or partnerships.
- Some entrepreneurs may not be comfortable with the extra paperwork.
How to set up a Alabama LLC on your own
You don’t need to use an LLC formation service such as LegalZoom or ZenBusiness. While these services can be very helpful, you can save money by doing it yourself.
1. Choose a company name
Alabama LLCs need a memorable name that can give potential clients an idea of the products or services available. Names should be unique for both legal and business reasons.
2. Appoint a Registered Agent in Alabama
As we have mentioned, every LLC requires an agent to accept service of process on its behalf. You can be your own registered agent in most states as long as there is a physical address.
However, we recommend that you appoint another person (an online service) as your agent.
3. File the Articles for Organization
Once completed and filed, this document officially forms your Alabama business. Some important information will be required, such as your contact information, business address, signatures of your LLC members, and other details. Alabama charges a $45 filing fee.
It’s easy to set up an LLC. However, it is the maintenance requirements that can be a little more difficult.
4. Register and pay taxes
You will need an IRS Employer Identification Number if you have employees. There are also state-specific taxes. Alabama has graduated income taxes. Individual rates are between 5% to 6.9%, and corporate rates are between 1% to 6.5%. The Franchise Tax is the largest tax burden. Other taxes, such as sales taxes (6.5%) or miscellaneous taxes, will need to be included.
5. Get permits and licenses
Alabama does not have a general business license, but many cities and counties do require one. You might also need to apply in order for an industry license.
6. Create a Alabama LLC Operating Agreement
Even single-member LLCs need to create a master document that outlines how the business will function in the future.
7. Get your annual report.
Alabama’ annual report is a companion to the annual franchise tax. You will file your Alabama annual report with the Department of Finance and Administration and not with the Secretary of State. A minimum tax is $150 per year.
8. Get business insurance
All businesses with employees need to have workers’ compensation insurance. A general business liability policy may be an option.
9. Open a bank account for your business
Register for a bank account in your business name to write checks and make business purchases
Our Selection Method for Choosing the Best Alabama LLC Services
This is how I found the best LLC service in Alabama.
I formed an LLC a few years ago and did a lot of research before doing so. Because I have spent so much time on this subject, I believe I am very capable of finding and recommending the best LLC formation services. I also recommend using a registered agent service rather than being your own.
How did I research and choose the best LLC service in Alabama?
My research approach included these four steps to select the best Alabama LLC formation service.
Step 1: Reviews
I began by analyzing the reviews of online customers for the top 19 LLC services in Alabama.
I spent many nights scrolling through the customer feedback on Trustpilot and Google Business Profiles (among other review websites) to discover which LLC services were new, which seemed questionable, and which were legitimate.
Step 2: Website Analysis
Once I had a good idea of who I could trust, I could go to their websites and see exactly what they offered.
To find out who offered what products or business services, I looked through pricing pages and looked at detailed breakdowns.
Step 3: Talking with real customers
Online customer reviews are only one way to learn. To truly understand the experience of using a service, it is important to talk to the people who use it.
I sought out the opinions of customers who I had recommended to me over the years in order to get a clear understanding of Alabama LLC services. I wanted to know how easy the system was, how helpful and polite their support staff is, and how fast they process applications.
This direct feedback from customers helped me to see which promises were fakes and which were legitimate.
Step 4: Talking with their Sales Team
The last step was to talk to their sales team to find out how difficult they were with upsells.
I asked several questions that a first-timer would. Then I waited to see how many times I was encouraged to get additional services.
My Testing and Rating Criteria for Alabama LLC Services
While I was completing my investigative analysis, I was constantly evaluating these LLC formation services on the basis of these four aspects.
1: Features and Services
There are many steps involved in starting an LLC. If you have read at least half of the above, you will know this. Fill out and file your Articles of Organization. You will need an EIN to open bank accounts. Choose a premium registered agent in to get an address in Alabama. And a lot more.
To ensure you get as many completed projects as possible when you invest your money, I first assessed each LLC formation company on the business and product services they offer.
2: Pricing
I checked if they charge extra for a lot of pricey add-ons that are not mentioned at first. I liked the very clear services and upfront with everything. The best value LLC formation services rose to the top.
3: Ease of use
It’s a good idea to sign up for a business formation service that offers a variety of products at a reasonable price without any trouble navigating their system.
I created an account with each Alabama LLC formation service and attempted to register my fictional LLC. This was to ensure that all the systems were easy to use and simple to navigate.
4: Customer service
I was not satisfied with my customer service experiences after the recent corporate trend to outsource customer support to unaffiliated phone centers. These representatives know little about the service they are supporting and the laws and regulations that it is subject to.
I did my best to test their customer service teams to determine the quality of their business formation services. I sent them polite questions, called them to inquire about obvious information, and jumped onto their online chat portals. I also complained about inappropriate things. I wanted to know how they dealt with my comments and requests and how fast it took for them to reply.
Conclusion: Alabama LLC Formation Services
My investigative analysis resulted in my picking Northwest Registered Agent as the best LLC service for Alabama.
FAQs
What is a Alabama LLC?
LLC stands for limited liability company. It’s a type of business structure that lessens your exposure to liability while you operate your company.
What About LegalZoom for an LLC in Alabama?
LegalZoom is a strong brand name and they provide a wide selection of online legal services but they charge a lot for these services. LegalZoom’s registered agent service is overpriced at $299 per year. They nickel and dime you for every add-on. You could end up spending over $1000 for an LLC formation, registered agent, EIN, LLC operating agreement, and compliance reminders, plus the state fee on top of that.
How much do online filing services charge to form an LLC in Alabama?
Depending on the filing service that you choose, the typical cost to form an LLC in Alabama is between $99 and $199 (plus state fees). Prices will vary greatly based on the services you require and how much work you are ready to perform yourself, and there are many flexible choices available. If you choose to use a premium service like LegalZoom with a shortlist of add-ons, the price can go up considerably.
Every state has a minimal filing fee requirement. If you use an online LLC service like those mentioned above, Northwest Registered Agent has a free DYI plan and Incfile and ZenBusiness have a basic filing plan that is “free”. Or you can choose to “just pay for what you need” so you only pay for the assistance you actually require.
What features should entrepreneurs look for when choosing the best LLC formation services in Alabama, and how do these features align with Alabama’s specific regulations for starting a Limited Liability Company?
Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Alabama involves a multitude of steps, which can be made easier through the selection of a top-rated LLC service. These services should offer comprehensive professional services, tailored to meet the state requirements in Alabama for business registration and company filings.
One of the primary considerations should be the LLC packages offered. These packages vary in pricing plans, catering to a range of entity types, be it a small business or a larger enterprise. Reading customer reviews can give you an honest look into the services provided, particularly their turnaround time and efficiency.
Firstly, the service must help you incorporate by filing the necessary Articles of Organization. They should also provide a registered agent, which is a mandatory requirement in Alabama for handling state filings. Another crucial element is obtaining business licenses, for which the service should offer guidance, ensuring full legal compliance.
Creating an operating agreement is another crucial step that should be part of the package. While not mandatory in Alabama, it is highly recommended for internal corporate governance. The service you choose should offer help in drafting this document, thereby ensuring organizational compliance.
Your chosen LLC formation service should also assist in obtaining a Business Tax ID (EIN) or Employer Identification Number, a must-have for federal taxation purposes. They should guide you through the process of opening a business bank account to manage your company’s finances separately from personal funds.
For entrepreneurs grappling with the choice between sole proprietorship vs LLC, quality business consulting can be a valuable resource. The business advisors included in many services can offer insights into business planning, helping you make an informed decision for your business startup.
Also, inquire about annual reports and the provision of a company seal, both of which can be useful as your business matures. Transparency about filing fees is essential, so there are no surprises down the road.
By selecting an online formation service that offers a one-stop solution for all these needs, you not only ensure that all aspects of forming an LLC in Alabama are covered, but you can also save yourself valuable time and effort. This enables you to focus on the other aspects of running and growing your business.
What considerations should entrepreneurs in Alabama keep in mind when selecting an LLC formation service, especially with regard to affordability, speed, and user-friendliness?
When you’re thinking about forming an LLC in Alabama, several service providers can make the process easier for you, including LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, Incfile, ZenBusiness, Northwest Registered Agent, and MyCompanyWorks. These services offer a range of options catering to different pricing, turnaround time, and customer support needs.
If you are primarily concerned about pricing, Incfile and ZenBusiness offer competitive rates, with Incfile even offering a year of free registered agent services. LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer are on the higher end of the pricing scale but offer comprehensive packages that include additional features like banking services and accounting software options. These added features can be very useful in the long run for streamlining your business operations.
When it comes to turnaround time, MyCompanyWorks stands out for its speed and efficiency in filing necessary documents like your Articles of Organization. For those who value excellent customer support, Northwest Registered Agent is a strong contender. They provide in-depth guidance for every aspect of LLC formation, including annual report filings with the Secretary of State and EIN obtainment from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Regardless of which service you choose, you’ll find options to draft a suitable Operating Agreement and guidance in compliance with the Small Business Administration (SBA) rules. Before making a decision, it’s essential to look at reviews and ratings. Check out each company’s BBB Ratings, read customer reviews, and consult industry publications for a well-rounded understanding of what each service offers.
If your business requires specific business licenses, most of these providers offer guidance or even specific services to help you comply with Alabama laws. Also, take advantage of the resources on their company websites, which often include FAQs, articles, and customer testimonials that can guide your decision-making.
In summary, forming an LLC in Alabama involves various considerations, including pricing, turnaround time, and customer support. By understanding the advantages and limitations of services like LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, Incfile, ZenBusiness, Northwest Registered Agent, and MyCompanyWorks, you can better align your choice with your business needs. Be sure to consult reviews and ratings, and consider any extra features like banking services or accounting software to make the most informed decision for your Alabama LLC.
Brian Wilson is the content manager and founder of LLC Radar.
Brian grew up in North Texas, just outside of Dallas, and has a bachelor’s degree in business journalism from Southern Methodist University. Since graduating from SMU, Brian has gained over 10 years of experience in business writing for several online publications.
Brian resides in Plano, Texas and he can be reached by email: info@llcradar.com
Phone: 972-776-4050
Northwest Registered Agent was fantastic! It’s been a challenge to begin an enterprise. A phone call to Northwest was so easy that I was afraid of making the phone call. Northwest made everything simple and ensured that I understood everything. It was a great phone call. I am grateful for people like Northwest who are able to help people like me who aren’t knowledgeable about the procedure. Northwest was incredible! !
Hi Brian,
What a fantastic article on LLC formation! As someone who has recently gone through the process, I can attest to the accuracy and usefulness of the information presented here. It covered all the essential aspects of forming an LLC, from selecting a suitable business structure to the necessary legal and financial requirements. I was particularly impressed by the inclusion of real-life examples and practical tips that provide a clear understanding of the steps involved.
Moreover, the article emphasizes the advantages of an LLC, such as the ability to separate personal and business assets, while also explaining the potential drawbacks. The overall tone of the article is approachable and encouraging, making it an enjoyable read for both novices and those familiar with LLC formation.
I would highly recommend this article to anyone considering starting their own business. Well done for delivering such a comprehensive and well-organized resource!
Thanks!
Great article Brian! LLC formation can be quite daunting for many aspiring entrepreneurs, but this piece breaks down the process in a clear and concise manner. I particularly appreciate how the author highlighted the benefits of forming an LLC, such as personal liability protection and flexibility in management structure. The step-by-step guide provided valuable insights on choosing a unique business name, filing the necessary paperwork, and understanding the tax implications. It’s evident that the author has a deep understanding of the subject matter and has done a fantastic job simplifying the complexities of LLC formation. This article will undoubtedly serve as a valuable resource for anyone looking to establish their own business entity. Kudos for creating such an informative and well-written piece!
Thanks!