LegalZoom Review (2025): Features, Pricing & Top Alternatives

LegalZoom Review: Starting an LLC is one of the most popular and effective ways to protect your assets while growing your business. In this blog, we’ll explore how LegalZoom’s LLC service can help you set up a Limited Liability Company with ease.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about the process, pricing plans, pros and cons, and customer support. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or expanding your business, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive into the features, pricing, and benefits of forming an LLC with LegalZoom.

LegalZoom Review: Table Of Contents

What Is LegalZoom?

LegalZoom is an online platform that provides affordable legal services and resources for individuals and businesses. It offers a wide range of services, including business formation, trademark registration, estate planning, and legal document preparation.

LegalZoom simplifies complex legal processes by allowing users to create customized legal documents, access attorney consultations, and handle various legal matters without the need for an in-person visit to a law firm. Its services are designed to be cost-effective, convenient, and accessible to everyone, regardless of legal experience.

Overview of LegalZoom Services

LegalZoom Features

LegalZoom offers a range of services to help entrepreneurs start and manage their businesses, from forming an LLC to setting up a nonprofit or corporation. With customizable options and a user-friendly process, it simplifies the complexities of business formation. Below are the key features of each service to help you choose the best fit for your needs.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

LegalZoom’s LLC formation service is an ideal choice for business owners who seek flexibility and protection of personal assets. It is the simplest structure to set up, requiring no board of directors, which makes it an appealing option for solo entrepreneurs or small teams.

LLCs allow for unlimited owners, known as “members,” and can be structured in a way that minimizes taxes, as owners can choose between being taxed once or twice. However, the LLC requires ongoing filings and state fees to maintain compliance, and it cannot go public or be recognized as a corporation in some foreign countries, which may result in different tax treatment.

Corporation (S corp or C corp)

For businesses looking to grow, raise capital, or go global, forming a corporation through LegalZoom may be the right choice. Starting at $149 plus state filing fees, this service provides a more formal business structure that allows for the issuance of shares, which can be sold to raise funds or help the company expand.

Corporations are recognized globally and can operate in multiple jurisdictions, making them ideal for businesses planning to go public or scale internationally. However, corporations require a more complex management structure, including a board of directors, regular meetings, and strict compliance with corporate formalities.

Nonprofit (501c3)

LegalZoom also offers nonprofit organization formation services, starting at $99 plus state filing fees. A nonprofit organization is specifically designed to serve a public or social benefit, and it can apply for tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code.

This makes nonprofits eligible for certain tax breaks, making it an attractive option for charitable and community-driven ventures. However, nonprofits must adhere to strict regulations and maintain transparency in their operations to retain their tax-exempt status. Additionally, nonprofits may need to file annual reports and undergo audits depending on their size and operations.

Doing Business As (DBA)

If you’re a sole proprietor or an established entity looking to operate under a different name, LegalZoom provides an affordable DBA registration service, starting at $99 plus state filing fees. A DBA, or “Doing Business As,” allows you to use a business name that is different from your legal entity name.

This option is ideal for small business owners who want a professional business name without the complexity of creating a separate legal entity. However, unlike LLCs or corporations, a DBA does not offer liability protection, and it’s only a name registration, meaning it doesn’t protect your assets from business risks.

How To Order a Service?

Getting started with LegalZoom is simple. Follow these easy steps to order your business formation service, choose your preferred plan, and have your business set up with ease. Here’s a quick guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Click the “Business Formation” Button

To start the process, visit LegalZoom’s official website and click on the “Business Formation” button. This will direct you to the section where you can begin setting up your business entity, whether it’s an LLC, corporation, DBA, or nonprofit.

Step 2: Choose Your Business Formation Type

Next, select the type of business entity you want to form. LegalZoom offers various options, including LLC (Limited Liability Company), Corporation (S corp or C corp), DBA (Doing Business As), or Nonprofit. Each structure has different benefits, so choose the one that aligns with your business goals and operations.

Step 3: Enter Your Business Name

In this step, you’ll be asked to provide a name for your business. Make sure to choose a unique business name that complies with your state’s naming requirements. LegalZoom’s platform also includes a name availability check to ensure that your business name is available for registration.

Step 4: Select Your Business’s State of Formation

Next, you’ll need to select the state in which your business will operate. Your business formation will be governed by the laws of this state, and filing fees may vary depending on your location. Choosing the correct state is crucial for compliance and taxation purposes.

Step 5: Choose Your Pricing Plan

Once you’ve entered your business name and state, it’s time to select your desired pricing plan. LegalZoom offers three primary options: Basic, Pro, and Premium. Each plan includes different features, such as expedited processing, document support, and additional legal services. Choose the plan that best fits your business needs and budget.

Step 6: Review Your Order and Complete Checkout

After selecting your plan, you’ll proceed to the checkout page. Here, you’ll review your order details and enter your payment information. LegalZoom will process your payment, and you will receive a confirmation once your business formation process begins.

LegalZoom Pricing Plans

LegalZoom offers three distinct pricing plans tailored to meet different business needs, ranging from essential services to more comprehensive legal support. Below is a detailed breakdown of the available plans.

Basic Plan – $0 + State Filing Fees

The Basic Plan is ideal for entrepreneurs who need only the essentials to start their LLC. This plan includes the Articles of Organization, which are necessary to officially register your LLC with the state.

Additionally, it provides a name check service to ensure that your preferred business name is available. The Basic Plan also offers a consultation with 1-800Accountant, helping you with tax-saving services to get your business off to a solid start.

Pro Plan – $249 + State Filing Fees

The Pro Plan is recommended for individuals planning to establish and run a business or side hustle. This plan includes everything offered in the Basic Plan, along with an operating agreement, which helps set guidelines for your LLC and resolves potential disputes.

The Pro Plan also provides you with an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is essential for filing taxes, opening business bank accounts, and hiring employees. You will also get a one-year subscription to bookkeeping tools, which helps track expenses, send invoices, and save on taxes.

In addition, the Pro Plan gives you access to over 150 customizable legal documents for one year, unlimited eSignatures for sending and signing documents online, and a customizable website to help establish your professional online presence.

Premium Plan – $299 + State Filing Fees

The Premium Plan is the most comprehensive option, designed for those who seek expert legal advice to ensure that their business setup is handled with precision. This plan includes everything provided in the Pro Plan, plus personalized guidance from an experienced business attorney.

You can select the attorney based on their state, years of experience, and ratings. The Premium Plan also includes unlimited 30-minute attorney consultations on new legal topics for the first 30 days and allows for any changes to your LLC formation documents within the first 30 days of registration.

LegalZoom Customer Reviews

LegalZoom receives positive reviews for its ease of use and reliable service in business formation. Customers appreciate its user-friendly platform, responsive support, and customizable plans that suit various business needs. Many small business owners find it particularly helpful to stay compliant without the need for a full-time attorney.

LegalZoom Customer Support

LegalZoom offers comprehensive customer support through multiple channels to assist users with any inquiries or issues. For general customer care, you can reach out to their team at (888) 379-0854, available Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT, and on weekends from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT.

Additionally, for sales-related questions, their dedicated line is (855) 787-1922, with the same operating hours. LegalZoom also provides a convenient live chat feature for instant assistance during business hours, ensuring that help is always just a click away.

LegalZoom Review: Pros and Cons

Who Should Hire LegalZoom?

LegalZoom is a great solution for a variety of individuals and businesses. Here’s a point-wise breakdown of who should hire LegalZoom:

• First-Time Entrepreneurs: LegalZoom simplifies the business formation process, making it ideal for individuals starting their first business without legal expertise.
• Small Business Owners Seeking Cost-Effective Solutions: Small business owners can take advantage of affordable pricing to handle business formations and legal needs without the high cost of hiring a law firm.
• Individuals Starting an LLC or Corporation: LegalZoom specializes in LLC and corporation formations (S corp or C corp), helping you navigate the complex filing process.
• People Needing Legal Documents and Contracts: Access customizable legal documents such as contracts, agreements, and legal forms to ensure your business operations are properly documented.
• Business Owners in Need of Ongoing Legal Support: LegalZoom offers premium plans with attorney consultations for ongoing legal support, ideal for business owners needing continuous advice.
• Nonprofit Founders: If you’re starting a nonprofit organization (501c3), LegalZoom can assist with structuring your nonprofit and filing for tax-exempt status.
• Those Seeking Registered Agent Services: If you want to outsource your registered agent duties, LegalZoom provides registered agent services to receive official documents on your behalf.
• Entrepreneurs Looking for a Fast, Professional Online Presence: LegalZoom offers customizable website-building tools, perfect for entrepreneurs who need a professional online presence without the time investment.

Top Alternatives to LegalZoom

ZenBusiness

LLC Formation Service
Registered Agent Services
Tax & Banking Tools
Website Creation Support
Automated Compliance Solutions

$36$199 Check Offer Read full review

Northwest Registered Agent

Hassle-free formation
Lifetime customer support
Local expert assistance
Registered agent service
Mail forwarding service

$25$389 Check Offer Read full review

Inc Authority

Free LLC service
Easy checkout process
Free basic registration
Range of extra services
Registered Agent & tax consultant

$39$389 Check Offer Read full review

StartGlobal

Name Check and Clearance
Get A Registered Agent
Get Formation Service And EIN Number
Get US Address with Mail Forwarding
Get a US Business Bank Account

$79$299 Check offer Read full review

Doola

Get LLC Formation Service
Get an EIN Number
US Bank Account + Payment Processor
US Mailing Address
US State + IRS Tax Filings
Stress-Free Annual Compliance Reminders
Digital Document Access

$49$189 check offer Read full review

Conclusion: Final Verdict

In conclusion, LegalZoom is a reliable and affordable choice for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and individuals needing legal services. Whether you’re starting a business, filing for trademarks, or creating legal documents, LegalZoom makes the process easier with its simple online platform. It offers flexible pricing plans and various services, making it accessible to people with different needs.

While it may not replace a personal attorney for complex cases, it’s an excellent tool for those seeking convenience and cost savings. Overall, LegalZoom can be a valuable resource for getting legal tasks done quickly and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)