19 Best LLC Services in Massachusetts (November 2023)
Selecting a good LLC service is crucial for the successful launch of a new business in Massachusetts.
With a good LLC service, your venture can be operational in a matter of days, all formation documents accurately filed with the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the necessary business licenses secured.
On the flip side, an inefficient LLC service may prolong the formation procedure, delaying your business operations for weeks or even months due to incomplete registrations and paperwork.
Based on a four-step investigative process and four critical factors, I’ve ranked the top 19 LLC services. Here’s the culmination of my extensive research, presenting you the best LLC service options:
These are the top LLC formation services that stood out in terms of features, response time, price, registered agent service, user reviews, and customer support.
Best LLC Services
- Northwest Registered Agent (Best Overall)
- Incfile
- ZenBusiness
Although LLC formation services can be a great help, not all LLC formation services will be the same.
The Best LLC Service in Massachusetts
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 LLC Service for Privacy)
Price:
My top pick for LLC formation service in Massachusetts 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. Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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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Massachusetts Business Tips
When it comes to forming an LLC in Massachusetts, it’s essential to consider the best LLC services and registered agents in Massachusetts. A good LLC service may prevent delays and effect the length of time to form your Massachusetts LLC due to filing errors from diy entreprenuers. Choosing a Massachusetts LLC vs S Corp is another issue to consider.
To begin, conduct a Massachusetts LLC name search to ensure the availability of your desired business name.
Once you’ve confirmed its availability, you can proceed with preparing the essential formation documents, including registering your Massachusetts business name and drafting a Massachusetts LLC operating agreement, which outlines the internal structure and management of your LLC.
It’s advisable to gather all required information and submit your filings promptly. Furthermore, obtaining a Massachusetts Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is essential for tax purposes if you plan to have employees.
If you ever want to change your Massachusetts registered agent, the options are available for a smooth transition.
In the event that you decide to dissolve an LLC in Massachusetts, ensure compliance with the state’s dissolution procedures to avoid any potential legal or financial complications.
Consulting with professional dissolution services like Incfile can provide valuable guidance and assistance throughout the dissolution process, ensuring a smooth conclusion to your LLC’s operations in Massachusetts.
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 Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts business attorneys on AVVO’s website to find the most qualified LLC formation lawyers.
From Avvo’s list of “best reviewed” business attorneys in Massachusetts, these are my top five picks.
Tier 2 – Other Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts Secretary of State.
They have maintained mostly positive reviews online. You will need to buy their premium package for $279 if you want a Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts LLC?
A Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts 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
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts
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 Massachusetts business. Some important information will be required, such as your contact information, business address, signatures of your LLC members, and other details. Massachusetts 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. Massachusetts 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
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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.
Massachusetts’ annual report is a companion to the annual franchise tax. You will file your Massachusetts 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
My Research for Choosing the Best Massachusetts LLC Services
This is how I found the best LLC service in Massachusetts.
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 Massachusetts?
My research approach included these four steps to select the best Massachusetts LLC formation service.
Step 1: Reviews
I began by analyzing the reviews of online customers for the top 19 LLC services in Massachusetts.
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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts 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.
What should entrepreneurs in Massachusetts consider when choosing the best LLC formation services, and how do these services align with the specific state regulations for establishing a Limited Liability Company?
Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Massachusetts is an exciting journey that involves several crucial steps. To simplify the process, many entrepreneurs seek top-rated LLC services that offer a variety of professional services, helping them navigate through state requirements and ensure legal compliance.
When it comes to picking the best LLC formation service, customer reviews can offer invaluable insights. These reviews often cover the turnaround time, the quality of legal services, and the comprehensiveness of LLC packages offered. Keep an eye on different pricing plans, especially if you’re operating a small business with budget constraints.
One of the first steps in your business startup journey is business registration, where the formation service should assist you in filing the Articles of Organization as well as other necessary company filings. Additionally, they should provide a registered agent, a requirement in Massachusetts, to handle all state filings.
A good LLC formation service will help you draft an operating agreement, which although not mandatory in Massachusetts, is crucial for outlining corporate governance and maintaining internal compliance. Furthermore, the service should guide you in obtaining any required business licenses.
Another critical component is acquiring a Business Tax ID (EIN) or Employer Identification Number, essential for federal taxation purposes. Formation services should also assist you in setting up a business bank account, thereby ensuring your personal and business finances remain separate.
Choosing the right business structure can be confusing, particularly when deciding between sole proprietorship vs LLC. Services that offer business consulting, backed by experienced business advisors, can guide you in making an informed decision. This advice is often invaluable for long-term business planning.
The best LLC formation services will offer a one-stop solution that includes options for document filing, annual reports, and even a company seal, which can be vital for formal business transactions. Be sure to inquire about all filing fees upfront to avoid any hidden costs.
The formation package you choose should ideally be tailored to the specific entity type you’re establishing, providing you with a streamlined and effective way to incorporate and operate your business in Massachusetts.
In conclusion, choosing an online formation service that offers a comprehensive range of offerings from legal services to business consulting will significantly simplify the process of establishing an LLC in Massachusetts, allowing you to focus on growing your venture.
In Massachusetts, what factors should startups consider when selecting an LLC formation service, particularly in terms of financial investment, time sensitivity, and customer service quality?
Starting an LLC in Massachusetts is an exciting venture, and there are numerous services designed to make the process simpler for you. Providers like LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, Incfile, ZenBusiness, Northwest Registered Agent, and MyCompanyWorks offer different packages that vary in pricing, turnaround time, and customer support to meet your unique needs.
Pricing is often one of the most critical considerations for new business owners. Incfile tends to be the go-to choice for those on a budget, offering competitive rates along with free registered agent services for the first year.
ZenBusiness also presents an economical package, with the added benefit of ease of use; their platform is intuitive and ideal for those unfamiliar with the LLC formation process.
Conversely, LegalZoom and Rocket Lawyer offer more expensive but comprehensive packages, often including banking services and accounting software options which can add significant value to your LLC over time.
If you’re under time pressure to get your LLC operational, consider the turnaround time for each service. MyCompanyWorks is known for its quick service, notably in filing Articles of Organization.
Northwest Registered Agent excels in customer support, offering a more personalized service which can be crucial when you’re dealing with bureaucratic steps like EIN obtainment from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or annual report filings with the Secretary of State.
Before making a decision, it’s vital to examine each service’s Operating Agreement templates, as this document is crucial for laying out the organizational structure of your LLC.
Make sure that the service you choose adheres to Small Business Administration (SBA) guidelines, providing you with an extra layer of confidence in your LLC’s legality and functionality.
Never underestimate the power of reviews and ratings when making your selection. Consult each company’s BBB Ratings, check out customer reviews, and read industry publications for an unbiased opinion on what to expect from each service.
For entrepreneurs who need specific business licenses, most of these services offer some level of guidance, with valuable information often available on their company websites.
In conclusion, when selecting an LLC formation service in Massachusetts, it’s crucial to consider multiple facets like pricing, turnaround time, and customer support.
Whether it’s LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, Incfile, ZenBusiness, Northwest Registered Agent, or MyCompanyWorks that aligns with your needs, doing your due diligence in comparing services, checking reviews and ratings, and considering added features like banking services or accounting software will ensure you make the best choice for your Massachusetts LLC.
Conclusion: Massachusetts LLC Formation Services
My investigative analysis resulted in my picking Northwest Registered Agent as the best LLC service for Massachusetts.
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
Thorough analysis, Brian! I appreciate how you’ve delved into the nitty-gritty of each service. Having used both ZenBusiness and LegalZoom in the past, your points resonated with me. ZenBusiness indeed had that personal touch, while LegalZoom’s extensive legal resources were a boon. Northwest Registered Agent’s in-depth local expertise is something I hadn’t considered before but is a critical point for entrepreneurs aiming to set up shop in Massachusetts. A great comparison for anyone looking to understand the nuanced differences between these LLC formation services. Keep the insightful content coming!
Thanks!
Brian, a fantastic breakdown of the often overlooked differences in online LLC formation services. Your post will surely be an asset to many entrepreneurs in Massachusetts.
The distinction you made between Incfile’s competitive pricing and Northwest Registered Agent’s premium customer service was especially enlightening. I appreciate how you highlighted ZenBusiness’s ease of use as well.
Your comparison paints a clear picture for someone making a decision, keeping in mind both their budget and specific needs. Thanks for this enlightening comparison!
Good article, Brian! Your insight into the varying intricacies of online LLC formation services like Northwest Registered Agent, ZenBusiness, LegalZoom and Incfile is genuinely enlightening. I particularly appreciated the way you dissected their offerings and differentiated their strengths and potential weaknesses.
It’s fascinating to see how these digital entities have made the complex process of starting a business more accessible. As an aspiring entrepreneur, your piece has armed me with invaluable knowledge for navigating this sphere. Your deep-dive comparison is just the compass I needed to chart my path through the realm of online business formation.
Keep up the good work
Thanks!
Brian, your meticulous analysis of these online LLC formation platforms is impressive and very much appreciated. You managed to crystallize the nuances of Northwest Registered Agent, ZenBusiness, LegalZoom, and Incfile, making a potentially overwhelming decision feel much more manageable.
The way you’ve framed the capabilities of each platform in the context of a Massachusetts LLC creation process demonstrates your expertise. This sort of comparative scrutiny is a breath of fresh air in the online business community.
It’s comforting to see that there are resources like your article to help entrepreneurs find their footing in the business landscape. Keep enlightening us with your well-researched articles!
Thanks!