Best Illinois LLC Formation Services in 2023

Image of author Nick Cotter
Nick
LLC formation services in Illinois
September 12, 2023
-
10
min read

When it comes to forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Illinois, it's important to choose the right service. You need to find a reliable and trustworthy company that will make the process easier and faster so you can focus on growing your business. To help you get started, we've reviewed and ranked the 7+ best LLC services in Illinois. Each option offers comprehensive services, pricing plans and customer reviews so you can make an informed decision before making a commitment. Read on to discover the best LLC services in Illinois.

Who is the best LLC Formation Services in Illinois?

ZenBusiness is considered the best LLC Formation Service in Illinois due to its exceptional customer service, affordable pricing, and comprehensive range of services. They offer a user-friendly platform that guides entrepreneurs through the entire LLC formation process, ensuring all necessary documents are filed accurately and efficiently. ZenBusiness also provides ongoing compliance support, including annual report filing and registered agent services, making it a reliable and convenient choice for entrepreneurs in Illinois.

The Best LLC Formation Services in Illinois of 2023:

Here’s our shortlist of the best LLC formation services in Illinois I'm ranking through our extensive research and use:

  1. ZenBusiness
  2. SunDoc Filings
  3. MyCompanyWorks
  4. Bizee
  5. LegalZoom

Our Reviews of the Best LLC Formation Services in Illinois:

Here is our list of the best LLC formation services in Illinois in 2023:

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Best for: Variety Services & Support
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ZenBusiness

Newfoundrz's Software Review:
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4.3
out of 5

Embarking on my entrepreneurship journey, I was introduced to ZenBusiness, a comprehensive platform tailored for startups and seasoned business owners alike. As I navigated its intuitive platform interface, I was met with a wealth of business resources, each designed to simplify the often complex business lifecycle. From LLC formation to support for other business entity types like Corporations and Nonprofits, the platform offers a seamless experience. The business dashboard became my go-to, aiding in tasks like securing an EIN, accessing my operating agreement, and reviewing the annual report. State-specific guidance ensured I was always compliant, adhering to state regulations and filings. The worry-free compliance service, complete with deadline reminders, was particularly invaluable. Additionally, the clear pricing tiers and robust customer support underscored ZenBusiness's commitment to facilitating every facet of business management. As I integrated various business tools, it became evident that ZenBusiness is more than just a service; it's a holistic toolkit designed for the modern entrepreneur.

  • Business Formation Services: ZenBusiness helps individuals and entrepreneurs form various types of business entities, such as LLCs (Limited Liability Companies), corporations, and nonprofits. They provide assistance with filing the necessary paperwork, including articles of organization or articles of incorporation, in compliance with state regulations.
  • Registered Agent Services: Many states require businesses to have a registered agent, a designated entity responsible for receiving legal documents and official notices on behalf of the business. ZenBusiness offers registered agent services to fulfill this requirement and maintain compliance.
  • Compliance Monitoring and Maintenance: ZenBusiness provides ongoing compliance support to help businesses stay in good standing with state authorities. They offer services such as annual report filing reminders and assistance with other compliance requirements, ensuring that businesses remain in compliance with state regulations.
  • Business Website and Domain Services: ZenBusiness offers website and domain-related services to help businesses establish and enhance their online presence. This includes domain name registration, website design, and hosting services, allowing businesses to create a professional online image.
  • Business Banking: ZenBusiness partners with financial institutions to offer business banking services, including the ability to open a business bank account. This feature simplifies the financial management of a business and separates personal and business finances.
  • Comprehensive Business Toolkit: ZenBusiness is more than just a business formation service. It offers a holistic approach to entrepreneurship, providing everything from registered agent services to obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number). This comprehensive toolkit ensures every aspect of your business is well taken care of.
  • State-Specific Guidance: No matter where I intended to set up my business, ZenBusiness offered clear, state-specific guidance. This included insights on state regulations and filings, ensuring compliance at every step.
  • Intuitive User Experience: The platform interface is meticulously designed, ensuring a smooth user experience. Navigating through the various resources, tools, and services feels natural, even for a startup novice.
  • Business Tools Integration: While ZenBusiness offers a robust set of tools, integrating with other popular business software would elevate its utility further.
  • Upselling: ZenBusiness may try to upsell additional services during the formation process.
  • Registered agent fee: ZenBusiness charges an annual fee for its registered agent services.
Pricing for ZenBusiness starts at $0 (plus state fees) and moves up to custom pricing for other additional legal documents and services needed. Please check the ZenBusiness website for the most up to date pricing information as pricing is also dependent on a state-by-state basis.
Best Fit For:
small and medium sized business
Free Trial Offered?
YES
NO
Pricing Plan 1:
$0 (plus state fees)
Pricing Plan 2:
Custom
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
Get started →
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Best for: Rapid Document Filing
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SunDoc Filings

Newfoundrz's Software Review:
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3.8
out of 5

Upon evaluating SunDoc Filings, I found the platform to be a comprehensive solution for business registration and compliance needs. Specializing in document filing and retrieval services for all 50 states, their interface was intuitive, making the process straightforward, even for beginners. Their claim of fast and reliable services was evident from the timely filings and retrievals I experienced. One of the highlights was the customer support, which proved to be both knowledgeable and responsive. The platform offers a range of services, from LLC formations to UCC filings, serving a broad spectrum of business needs. Pricing was transparent, with clear delineations between package offerings. Overall, SunDoc Filings appears to be a reliable choice for businesses looking for streamlined document filing and management services.

  • Business Entity Formation: SunDoc Filings helps businesses with the formation and registration of various business entities, including LLCs (Limited Liability Companies), corporations, partnerships, and nonprofits. They can assist with the necessary paperwork and filing requirements in multiple states.
  • Registered Agent Services: Many states require businesses to have a registered agent, which is a designated individual or company responsible for receiving legal documents and government notifications on behalf of the business. SunDoc Filings offers registered agent services to fulfill this requirement.
  • Document Retrieval: SunDoc Filings can assist businesses in retrieving official documents and records, such as certificates of good standing, copies of articles of incorporation, and other business-related documents from state agencies and authorities.
  • UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) Filings: For businesses engaging in secured transactions or filing financing statements, SunDoc Filings can assist with UCC filings, ensuring that the necessary documentation is properly submitted to the appropriate authorities.
  • Compliance Services: SunDoc Filings may provide services to help businesses stay compliant with state regulations and requirements. This may include annual report filing, updating corporate records, and making necessary amendments to business filings.
  • Fast processing: SunDoc Filings offers expedited processing, with some services completed within 24 hours, which is beneficial for businesses with tight deadlines.
  • Experience: SunDoc Filings has been in the industry since 1999, providing a wealth of experience and expertise for clients.
  • Online order tracking: SunDoc Filings offers an online order tracking system, allowing clients to easily monitor the progress of their filings.
  • Limited additional services: SunDoc Filings may not provide the same range of services as some other providers.
  • No free formation: SunDoc Filings does not offer a free formation package.
  • Limited customer support hours: SunDoc Filings may have limited customer support hours compared to some competitors.
Pricing for SunDoc Filings starts at $79 (plus state fees; price varies by state) and moves up to custom pricing for other additional legal documents and services needed. Please check the SunDoc Filings website for the most up to date pricing information as pricing is also dependent on a state-by-state basis.
Best Fit For:
small and medium sized business
Free Trial Offered?
YES
NO
Pricing Plan 1:
$79 (plus state fees; price varies by state)
Pricing Plan 2:
Custom
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
Get started →
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Best for: Customer Satisfaction Focus
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MyCompanyWorks

Newfoundrz's Software Review:
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4.3
out of 5

After spending time exploring the offerings of MyCompanyWorks, it's clear that this platform is tailor-made for entrepreneurs and businesses navigating the complexities of formation and compliance. The platform primarily specializes in helping users establish LLCs, corporations, and nonprofits, ensuring that the process is both smooth and comprehensible. The dashboard is intuitive, offering a clear step-by-step guidance through the maze of legal paperwork, which many entrepreneurs find daunting. What I especially appreciated was the Startup Wizard checklist, a feature that ensures businesses don't miss any crucial post-formation tasks. Additionally, MyCompanyWorks provides a personal touch with their responsive customer support, allowing for quick resolution of queries and concerns. Their prices are competitive, with clear breakdowns and no hidden fees, making budgeting a simpler task for startups. In essence, MyCompanyWorks stands out as a reliable ally for businesses, ensuring they remain compliant while also supporting their initial growth stages.

  • Business Formation Services: MyCompanyWorks assists entrepreneurs and business owners in forming various types of business entities, including LLCs, corporations, and nonprofits. They help with the preparation and filing of necessary documents to officially establish a business.
  • Registered Agent Services: MyCompanyWorks offers Registered Agent services to act as the point of contact for receiving legal documents and official notices on behalf of their clients' businesses. This is crucial for maintaining compliance and privacy.
  • Lifetime Company Alerts: MyCompanyWorks provides access to their compliance portal, which sends clients alerts and reminders about critical filing deadlines, ensuring that businesses remain compliant with state requirements over time.
  • Business Document Templates: While not providing legal advice, MyCompanyWorks offers customizable templates for common business documents such as operating agreements, bylaws, and meeting minutes. Clients can use these templates as a starting point for creating their own documents.
  • Business Maintenance Services: In addition to formation, MyCompanyWorks offers ongoing business maintenance services, including annual report filing, amendment services, and assistance with business dissolution. This helps clients manage their businesses in the long term and stay compliant with regulatory requirements.
  • Satisfaction guarantee: MyCompanyWorks offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, ensuring customers feel confident in their services.
  • Fast processing: MyCompanyWorks offers expedited processing options for clients who need their documents filed quickly.
  • Personalized customer support: MyCompanyWorks provides personalized customer support, making it easy for customers to have their questions and concerns addressed.
  • Limited additional services: MyCompanyWorks may not provide the same range of services as some other providers.
  • No free formation: MyCompanyWorks does not offer a free formation package.
  • Limited customer support hours: MyCompanyWorks may have limited customer support hours compared to some competitors.
Pricing for MyCompanyWorks starts at $59 (plus state fees) and moves up to custom pricing for other additional legal documents and services needed. Please check the MyCompanyWorks website for the most up to date pricing information as pricing is also dependent on a state-by-state basis.
Best Fit For:
small and medium sized business
Free Trial Offered?
YES
NO
Pricing Plan 1:
$59 (plus state fees)
Pricing Plan 2:
Custom
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
Get started →
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Best for: Cost-Effective Incorporation
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Bizee

Newfoundrz's Software Review:
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4.5
out of 5

Upon delving into Bizee, it immediately struck me as a comprehensive platform geared towards aiding business owners in their journey from startup to growth. Their main offering centers on business formation services, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover their Silver package, which allows entrepreneurs to form a company for $0 + state fees. The platform's dashboard is elegantly designed, ensuring that even those new to the business formation process can navigate with ease. Beyond just company formation, Bizee extends its offerings to include services like annual compliance, business licenses, and tax consultations. What truly impressed me was their lifetime company alerts, ensuring that business owners remain compliant without the constant stress of deadlines. The platform's support system, from customer service representatives to their Learning Center, showcases their commitment to empowering entrepreneurs at every stage. To sum up, Bizee presents itself as a holistic, value-driven platform for business formation and management, tailored to support startups and established businesses alike.

  • Free Business Formation: Similar to some of its competitors, Bizee offers a free LLC formation service, where clients are only responsible for paying the state fees. This package includes the preparation and filing of the Articles of Organization, among other services.
  • Lifetime Company Alerts: One of Bizee's standout features is the lifetime company alerts they provide. These alerts are designed to keep businesses informed about upcoming filing deadlines, such as annual reports or franchise tax dates, ensuring that businesses remain in compliance and good standing.
  • Online Dashboard: Bizee provides an online dashboard where clients can access all of their business documents, track their order status, and stay updated on compliance deadlines. This centralized portal can be a valuable tool for business management.
  • Range of Additional Services: Beyond just the initial business formation, Bizee offers a suite of additional services, including obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), filing for S-Corp status, creating Operating Agreements, and offering Registered Agent services.
  • Transparent Pricing: Bizee is known for its transparent pricing structure. They lay out their pricing tiers clearly on their website, allowing potential clients to easily understand what each package includes and how much additional services will cost.
  • Free basic formation: Bizee offers a free basic formation package, which includes preparing and filing articles of organization/incorporation. This makes it an affordable option for new businesses.
  • First-year free registered agent service: Bizee includes registered agent service free for the first year, saving businesses money and simplifying the formation process.
  • Competitive pricing: Bizee's pricing for additional services is generally lower than competitors', making it an attractive option for cost-conscious entrepreneurs.
  • Limited customer support: Bizee's customer support availability may be limited compared to some competitors.
  • Upselling: Bizee may try to upsell additional services during the formation process.
  • Inconsistent reviews: Some customers have reported varying experiences with Bizee's services.
Pricing for Bizee starts at $0 (plus state fees) and moves up to custom pricing for other additional legal documents and services needed. Please check the Bizee website for the most up to date pricing information as pricing is also dependent on a state-by-state basis.
Best Fit For:
small and medium sized business
Free Trial Offered?
YES
NO
Pricing Plan 1:
$0 (plus state fees)
Pricing Plan 2:
Custom
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
Get started →
Sponsored badge
Best for: Broad Range of Legal Services
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LegalZoom

Newfoundrz's Software Review:
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4.3
out of 5

Having recently delved into the features and services offered by LegalZoom, I've come to appreciate its comprehensiveness as an online legal platform. At its core, LegalZoom is designed to simplify and demystify the legal process for individuals and businesses, offering everything from business formations to wills and trusts. One of the standout features is its user-friendly interface, making legal tasks more approachable for those without a legal background. The platform provides various pre-made legal forms that users can easily customize, ensuring they get documents tailored to their needs. Notably, the platform isn't a replacement for traditional legal counsel, but it offers consultations with attorneys to bridge that gap. The pricing, while not the cheapest in the market, is transparent and upfront, allowing users to weigh the benefits against the cost. Overall, LegalZoom acts as a powerful tool, streamlining numerous legal procedures and offering a sense of empowerment to users navigating the often complex legal landscape.

  • Business Formation Services: LegalZoom provides comprehensive business formation services, assisting entrepreneurs in setting up various entities such as LLCs, corporations, nonprofits, and sole proprietorships. They handle the paperwork and guide clients through the process from start to finish.
  • Legal Document Creation: LegalZoom offers a library of legal forms and documents that users can customize for their specific needs. This includes contracts, wills, leases, and more. Their platform guides users in tailoring these documents to their specific situations.
  • Registered Agent Services: For businesses that need a registered agent to receive official paperwork and legal notices, LegalZoom offers these services. Having a registered agent is a requirement for incorporated businesses in many jurisdictions.
  • Subscription Legal Services: LegalZoom offers a legal subscription plan called the "Business Advisory Plan." This plan provides subscribers with ongoing legal advice, annual business evaluations, and access to tax professionals.
  • Trademark & Intellectual Property Services: LegalZoom assists businesses and individuals with trademark searches and registrations, patent applications, and copyright registrations. They provide guidance on how to protect intellectual property rights effectively.
  • Well-known and reputable: LegalZoom has been around since 2001 and has helped millions of customers. This strong reputation provides trust and reliability.
  • Wide range of legal services: LegalZoom offers comprehensive legal services beyond business formation, such as wills, trademarks, and attorney consultations.
  • Good customer support: LegalZoom provides phone and email support, making it easy for customers to get the help they need.
  • Higher pricing: LegalZoom's pricing can be more expensive compared to some competitors.
  • Additional fees: Many essential services require extra fees, leading to higher overall costs.
  • Slower processing: LegalZoom's standard processing times can be longer than those of other providers.
Pricing for LegalZoom starts at $0 (plus state fees) and moves up to custom pricing for other additional legal documents and services needed. Please check the LegalZoom website for the most up to date pricing information as pricing is also dependent on a state-by-state basis.
Best Fit For:
small and medium sized business
Free Trial Offered?
YES
NO
Pricing Plan 1:
$0 (plus state fees)
Pricing Plan 2:
Custom
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
Get started →
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Important Features to Look For in LLC Formation Services in Illinois:

LLC Formation Services in Illinois Pricing Comparison Table:

Platform Free Trial? Pricing #1 Pricing #2
ZenBusiness false $0 (plus state fees) Custom
SunDoc Filings false $79 (plus state fees; price varies by state) Custom
MyCompanyWorks false $59 (plus state fees) Custom
Bizee false $0 (plus state fees) Custom
LegalZoom false $0 (plus state fees) Custom

LLC Formation Services in Illinois Rating Comparison Table:

Software Customer Support Performance Value Total Product Rating
ZenBusiness 4.5 4 4.5 4.3
SunDoc Filings 4 4 3.5 3.8
MyCompanyWorks 4.5 4 4.5 4.3
Bizee 4.5 4 5 4.5
LegalZoom 4.5 4 4.5 4.3

How much does it cost to get an LLC in Illinois?

Do you need an LLC for your business in Illinois?

What are the steps needed to form an LLC in Illinois?

How long does it take for an LLC to be approved in Illinois?

Factors we use to Rank LLC Formation Services in Illinois:

Nick

Founder and CEO

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.