A business idea can be exciting until the paperwork starts. Choosing a business structure, checking your state’s requirements, paying the filing fee, and making sure everything is submitted correctly can quickly make LLC formation feel more complicated than expected.
The good news is that forming an LLC does not always require paying a company to do it for you. In many cases, you can file directly with your state and pay the required state filing fee. However, handling everything yourself means taking care of the paperwork, registered agent requirements, and other state-specific steps.
For people who prefer convenience, LLC formation services can handle much of this process for an additional fee. Some even advertise free formation, although you may still need to pay the state filing cost and may encounter additional charges for optional services.
With so many providers available, comparing the best LLC formation services means looking beyond the headline price. The registered agent cost, turnaround time, included features, renewal fees, and overall filing process can all affect what you actually pay. This guide compares your options so you can find a formation service that fits your budget and needs.
Also read: How much does it cost to start an LLC?
The cheapest way to form an LLC without paying for extras
Starting an LLC does not have to mean paying a formation company to handle everything for you. The cheapest route is usually filing directly with your state, where your main cost is the required state filing fee. The trade-off is that you are responsible for getting the paperwork right and meeting every state requirement.
When DIY makes sense
Filing yourself can be a good fit when you have a straightforward business and enough time to handle the process. You will typically need to:
- Choose and check your LLC name.
- Prepare and file the required formation documents.
- Appoint a registered agent where required.
- Pay the state filing fee.
- Complete any additional state requirements.
When a formation service makes sense
Paying for a service may be worthwhile when you want someone else to handle the filing or help you avoid administrative mistakes. Some providers offer low-cost or free formation packages, although you still pay the state fee and may be charged for extras such as registered agent services or compliance support.
The right choice comes down to whether saving money or saving time matters more for your situation.
The comparison below looks at base pricing, registered agent costs, processing times, and the features that distinguish each LLC formation service.
Also read: Open a USD business account without a US address
11 best LLC formation services compared
Also read: How to File Taxes for an LLC: A Step-by-Step Guide
Where can you form an LLC for the least money?
The cost of forming an LLC can change quite a bit depending on where you file. The formation service may advertise a $0 price, but you still have to pay the state filing fee, and some states charge annual fees that can make a cheap setup more expensive over time.
For the lowest upfront cost, look for a provider with a $0 base fee, such as Bizee or ZenBusiness, then compare the government fee and ongoing costs in your state.
Here are four states with some of the lowest government filing costs:
- Montana: Bizee or ZenBusiness ($0) + $35 state filing fee; $20 annual upkeep.
- Kentucky: Bizee or ZenBusiness ($0) + $40 state filing fee; $15 annual upkeep.
- New Mexico: Bizee or ZenBusiness ($0) + $50 state filing fee; $0 annual upkeep.
- Missouri: Bizee or ZenBusiness ($0) + $50 online filing fee; $0 annual upkeep.
New Mexico and Missouri can be particularly interesting when you look beyond the initial filing cost because there is no annual report or recurring state fee listed here.
Why California can cost much more than it first appears
California is a good example of why the lowest filing fee does not necessarily mean the least expensive LLC to maintain.
The initial state filing fee is $70, and you must also file a Statement of Information within 90 days, which costs $20. The bigger expense is the $800 annual franchise tax. That means the ongoing cost can quickly outweigh what you saved by choosing a $0 formation service.
Before choosing a state, look at the full cost of keeping the LLC active, not just what it costs to file on day one.
What to check before you pay for an LLC formation service
A formation service can look incredibly cheap when you first land on its pricing page. The number that catches your eye may only cover basic filing, while important services are added at checkout or automatically renewed the following year. Before entering your card details, take a few minutes to check what you are actually paying for.
- Check renewal prices: A registered agent may be free for the first year but costs $100 or more at renewal. Check the recurring price, not just the introductory offer.
- Look for upsells: EIN applications, operating agreements, compliance services, business licences, and other extras may be presented during checkout. Decide which ones you actually need.
- Check what the base plan includes: A $0 formation package may only cover the provider’s service fee, while your state filing fee still applies.
- Review cancellation terms: Find out whether optional services renew automatically and how to cancel them before the next billing date.
The cheapest price at checkout is not always the cheapest cost over the life of your LLC.
Once your LLC is registered, set up how you will receive and spend money
Getting your LLC approved is an important step, but there is still the practical side of running the business. Once the paperwork is done, you need a reliable way to receive payments, manage business income, and access your money when clients start paying you.
For freelancers and business owners working with US clients, a Grey USD account can give you a way to receive USD income without asking clients to deal with unfamiliar international payment processes. Funds can be managed from your Grey account, giving you a clearer way to separate business income from your personal finances.
The Grey virtual card can also help when you need to spend your business funds online or pay for services and subscriptions. Keeping your income and business spending organised from the beginning can make your finances easier to manage as the company grows.
You can sign up for Grey or download the app to get started and set up your account for international payments.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to start an LLC?
The cheapest way is usually filing the Articles of Organization yourself through your state's Secretary of State portal and paying only the mandatory state government fee. You avoid the service fee charged by formation companies, although you remain responsible for completing the paperwork and meeting all state requirements.
Are formation services worth it?
They can be useful if you want to save time, keep your home address off public business records where possible, or get help managing compliance requirements. The value depends on what the service includes and what you would otherwise handle yourself. Compare the upfront price with recurring fees and optional add-ons.
Can I form an LLC myself?
Absolutely. You can generally visit your state's official business registration website, complete the required formation documents, and pay the applicable state filing fee. The exact process varies by state, so check the requirements before submitting your application and make sure you understand any follow-up obligations.
What is a registered agent?
A registered agent is a person or company designated to receive legal documents, official notices, and certain government correspondence for your LLC. The agent generally needs a physical address in the state where your LLC is registered and must be available to receive documents during required business hours.
How long does LLC approval take?
The processing time depends on the state and how you file. Online applications can sometimes be processed within a few business days, while paper filings may take longer. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Check your state's current processing times before submitting your application.
How much does it cost to maintain an LLC?
The ongoing cost depends on your state. Some states charge annual or biennial report fees, franchise taxes, or other recurring charges, while others have little or no annual upkeep. Check your state’s requirements so you know what you will pay after the initial filing.
Can I change my LLC name after forming it?
Yes. Most states allow you to change your LLC’s legal name by filing an amendment with the appropriate state agency and paying a fee. Before making the change, check your state’s naming rules and confirm that your preferred new name is available.










