4 Best LLC Services in Minnesota (2024 In-Depth Reviews)
According to the Office of Advocacy, small businesses represent 99.4 percent of all Minnesota businesses, predominantly LLCs, demonstrating significant growth.
Hiring an LLC service in Minnesota ensures your paperwork is done correctly, giving you more time to focus on your business.
To help you hire the best service that meets your business type and needs, I teamed up with our legal team to try and review the top LLC service providers in Minnesota.
Based on our comprehensive evaluation, this article will share the 4 best LLC service providers in Minnesota. Our criteria for selection included factors such as affordability, efficiency, range of services, customer support, and user feedback.
| Company | LLC Packages | LLC Fees | Registered Agent Price | Same & Next Day Filing | Money-Back Guarantee | Free Package Features | BBB Accredited | Advisory Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZenBusiness (Best Overall) |
3 | From 0$ | $199 | Pro & Premium Package | 60 days | LLC Filing & 100% Accuracy Guarantee | Yes | Accounting Consultation |
| Northwest (Best Premium) |
1 | $39 (using our link) | First year free with LLC purchase / $125 from 2nd year | No | 90 days | None | No, A rating | No |
| Bizee (Most Affordable) |
3 | From $0 | First year free with LLC purchase / $119 from 2nd year | Platinum Package | Order refundable before state payment (usually 24h), minus $30 fee. | LLC Filing, FREE Registered Agent (1 year), EIN, Operating Agreement, Business Tax Consultation & more | No | Tax: Free 1-hour Consultation |
| Harbor Compliance (Best Essentials) |
1 | $99 | $99 | Depending on the state | No | None | Yes | No |
ZenBusinessTop 4 LLC Services in Minnesota (May 2024)
1 - ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
For those starting a business in Minnesota, ZenBusiness handles the company formation and offers features like compliance filing.
We set up our business with ZenBusiness in just four days. Their clear packages include essentials like an EIN.
Their Starter plan is great for first-time business owners. We loved their approach to us as new clients.
Their representatives asked specific questions about our business so they could recommend the package we could benefit from the most.
We trusted them and tested their Pro plan with faster filing speed.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Starter Package ($0 + $155 State Fee): Get your business formation paperwork ready and submitted, with standard filing speed between 2 to 3 weeks. Basic, but mandatory documentation in this package includes an LLC operating agreement template, one month of free banking, bookkeeping, and website builder. Next to 100% accuracy guarantee, you can opt for worry-free compliance without charge for a year, if you want extra layer of protection.
- Pro Package ($199 + $155 State Fee): This business formation services package includes starter package features, plus federal tax ID number (EIN). Choosing Pro Package brings fastest ''rush'' filing speed of 1-2 business days, making it great option when you need to set up your business fast. With an operating agreement in Pro package you will get inputs on how to organize internal processes and outline important procedures.
- Premium Package ($349 + $155 State Fee): Premium Package offers features from Pro Package and builds on that by offering business document templates. For stronger online presence and wider client reach, this option includes a customizable business website, domain name, and a professional email address.
- Registered Agent Service ($199): The service plan can be renewed annually for $199.
- Attractively priced from $0, plus state fees.
- User acclaim for its user-friendliness and customer assistance.
- Broad service spectrum, including LLC setup and compliance management.
- Quick turnaround for processing and filings.
- Focused on social responsibility and community involvement.
- Packages offer excellent value at competitive prices.
- Restricted customer support hours.
- Non-profit formation services are not provided.
2 - Northwest Registered Agent (Best Premium)
You can trust professionals to manage the paperwork and business formation procedure when you use Northwest Registered Agent.
We value that all of Northwest's clients receive assistance from its Corporate Guides, and we can confirm that this LLC formation service always has highly qualified personnel on the other end of the line.
Their customer support is impressive, guiding you at every step. We completed the initial filing in just 9 minutes and had everything set in under three days.
They may not be the cheapest LLC on this list, but they are worth the investment.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Package ($39 + $155 State Fee): Basic Package is a great option for business starters, including the formation of LLCs, nonprofits, and corporations. It also includes one year of cost-free registered agent services and articles of organization, if they hire. It comes with standard and expedited processing speed.
- Full Service LLC Formation Package ($225 + $155 State Fee): This package comes with an account for clients that are filled with free forms and tools, operating agreements, business filling on the same day and free limited mail forwarding. It also contains all features from Basic Plan.
- Northwest Registered Agent Service ($125): You will get Registered Agent Service cost-free for the first year with the formation of any LLC Northwest Plan. Features like cost-free mail forwarding, privacy, and expert corporate guides are all included.
- Ensures your address stays undisclosed, a Northwest advantage.
- Flexibility in selecting services as per your needs.
- Customer support highly regarded for its responsiveness and expertise.
- Special discount for Venture Smarter followers.
- Established for over a quarter-century, indicating a stable history.
- Basic services are priced reasonably, but extras can be costly.
- Mandatory to use their registered agent service for LLC formation.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Bizee (formerly IncFile) offers a free LLC formation with their Starter package, ideal for those on a budget. This includes a physical address in Minnesota for your LLC's documents.
This package includes a free year of registered agent service. From our experience, their representatives will treat you equally no matter which plans you eventually choose.
While testing Bizee products, we were impressed with their fast turnarounds after filing our orders, it took them only three days to complete them.
They do have a lot of add-ons and upgrades, which is something that you should be ready for.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Silver Package ($0 + $155 State Fee): Unlimited phone and email support are some of the great services that the Silver Package offers. With this package, you will also get unlimited name searches, drafting, and submitting documents of your LLC with first-year free Registered Agent Services.
- Gold Package ($199 + $155 State Fee): Great services like call with a Bizee consultant on taxes, lifetime company notifications with an operating agreement, business banking account, banking resolution, IRS Form 2553, access to an online dashboard, EIN Business Tax Number comes with Gold Package. All features from Silver Package are also included.
- Platinum Package ($299 + $155 State Fee): Platinum Package comes with all the services from Gold Package. Some of the specific features of the platinum package are a business email address, free business contract templates, domain name, and next-day filling.
- Registered Agent Services ($119): Specific Registered Agent Services are personalized dashboards with easy access to your online documents. With the formation of any LLC with any Bizee Package you get the first year for free.
- Free LLC formation service as a starting point.
- Registered Agent service at no cost for the first year.
- Established for over 25 years, ensuring trustworthiness.
- Quick and efficient service delivery, often in one day.
- Premium charges for certain extra services.
- Customer support limited to Monday-Friday.
4 - Harbor Compliance (Best Essentials)
Harbor Compliance stands out with its 1-on-1 customer support, offering personalized assistance for your LLC formation needs, unlike others with a helpline.
Harbor Compliance also provides other legal services to maintain the excellent standing of your LLC to the Minnesota Secretary Of State.
We also tested Minnesota registered agent services for foreign limited liability companies. They will invoice you annually, and there are no unexpected charges.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Formation Package ($99 + $155 State Fee): With the formation package you get name availability checking, drafting & filing your articles of organization.
- Registered Agent Service ($88 - $99): With no additional charges, the yearly fee goes from $89 to $99 per state for immediate online access to Minnesota registered agent addresses. If you pay two years of fee in advance, you get a 5-10% discount.
- Expedited handling of various compliance tasks.
- Multi-year service agreements feature discounts.
- One-on-one consultations with compliance professionals.
- Relatively more expensive than competitor offerings.
- Some customer service follow-up issues noted.
Why Should You Trust Us
Venture Smarter stands as your premier guide in choosing LLC services in Minnesota, supported by our extensive expertise and comprehensive understanding of the state's business environment. Our team, boasting substantial experience in legal, financial, and strategic consultancy, brings together a century's worth of collective knowledge to ensure your business meets Minnesota's legal standards.
The Venture Smarter team, drawing on our broad background in business consultancy, has meticulously evaluated various LLC services in Minnesota. Our approach, rooted in firsthand experiences and legal insight, ensures that our recommendations are not only detailed but also tailored to address the specific challenges and opportunities within the Minnesota business landscape.
Acknowledging the intricacies of Minnesota's business regulations, the Venture Smarter team has identified the top LLC services that best meet the needs of Minnesota entrepreneurs. Our selection process goes beyond basic functionalities; we also examine customer feedback, legal compliance, and the unique elements of operating a business in Minnesota.
At Venture Smarter, transparency and integrity are at the core of our mission. Our reviews and recommendations are based on unbiased, evidence-driven evaluations. When you choose an LLC service based on our guidance, you're leveraging the collective expertise of a team dedicated to your business's success and adherence to legal standards in Minnesota.
How We Picked and Tested the Best LLC Services in Minnesota
To identify the top LLC services in Minnesota, we embarked on a comprehensive review process, examining a wide range of providers.
Our team meticulously evaluated 15 different companies, ensuring a diverse and representative sample of the services available in the state. This approach gave us a holistic view of the market and its offerings.
Our methodology was rigorous and multifaceted. We engaged with these services anonymously, ensuring an unbiased and genuine user experience.
This was complemented by consultations with legal experts who deeply understand Minnesota's business landscape.
Each company was scored based on these criteria, with additional consideration given to any unique guarantees or standout customer reviews.
1. Pricing
Pricing is a crucial factor when choosing an LLC service, as it directly impacts the affordability and value of the service for businesses. Our review found that several companies stood out for their competitive pricing structures.
ZenBusiness stands out with its affordable packages, starting at $0 plus state fees, including essential LLC formation services.
Bizee, following closely, also offers a free LLC formation package, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious entrepreneurs.
On the other hand, Northwest Registered Agent, while slightly more expensive, provides a comprehensive package at $39 plus state fees, which includes a year of free registered agent services.
2. Ease of Use
An easy-to-use platform simplifies the process of forming and managing your LLC, making it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy.
We evaluated each service's user interface and experience. This included the sign-up process's simplicity, instructions clarity, and overall navigability.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent offer intuitive platforms, while Bizee and Harbor Compliance might not be as user-friendly.
3. Customer Support
Effective customer support ensures that you can quickly resolve issues and get answers to critical questions. It's especially important for new business owners who might be unfamiliar with the LLC formation process.
We tested the responsiveness and knowledge of each service's customer support team, ensuring they could answer state-specific questions.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent excel in providing responsive and diverse support channels, while Bizee and Harbor Compliance, though adequate, may have limitations in their support offerings.
4. Service Offered
A comprehensive range of services ensures that all your LLC-related needs are met under one roof. This can simplify the process and provide peace of mind that all aspects of your LLC are handled professionally.
We looked at the extra services offered, such as registered agent services, annual report filings, and online document storage.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent offer a broad spectrum of services, including essential and additional features, while Bizee and Harbor Compliance might have more limited offerings.
5. Turnaround Time
Quick processing of legal documents and filings means your business can start and operate without unnecessary delays. This is particularly important in time-sensitive business environments.
We evaluated how quickly each service could process and submit LLC formation documents to the state of Minnesota.
ZenBusiness is notable for its quick processing and filing, often completing tasks within days.
Harbor Compliance, while offering expedited handling of tasks, has some customer service follow-up issues that might affect overall turnaround time.
6. Local Expertise
Understanding state-specific laws and regulations is crucial for the legal and efficient operation of your LLC.
We examined how well each LLC service understands and adheres to Minnesota-specific regulations and business environments.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent show substantial expertise in Minnesota regulations, ensuring compliance and smooth operation.
7. Reliability and Reputation
A reliable and well-reputed LLC service ensures that your business formation and maintenance are in trustworthy hands.
Here, we focused on customer feedback and the historical performance of the providers.
We analyzed user reviews on platforms like TrustPilot and scrutinized each company's track record for consistency and quality of service.
ZenBusiness and Northwest Registered Agent have established strong reputations, while Bizee and Harbor Compliance have mixed reviews.
"Consider services providing registered agent address privacy to protect your personal address from public records, or those offering integration with accounting software to streamline business operations."
- Delina Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, Distinguished Expert in Mergers & Acquisitions
Minnesota LLC Formation Process
If you're considering an LLC formation service in Minnesota, it's essential to understand the entire business formation process.
The process includes the following steps:
- Step 1: Choose a name for your Minnesota LLC
- Step 2: Locate a Minnesota-based Agent
- Step 3: File Minnesota Articles of Organization
- Step 4: Create an LLC Operating Agreement
- Step 5: Obtain an Employer Identification Number.
Based on the insights from the Office of Advocacy, from 1996 to 2020, employment in these entities increased by 9.9 percent, resulting in 1.3 million employees, highlighting the crucial role of registered agents in this development [1].
FAQs
How Fast Can You Get a Minnesota LLC?
You can get a Minnesota LLC immediately if you file online. However, formation documents filed by mail are approved around 3 to 4 weeks.
What is the Cost of Forming an LLC in Minnesota?
The cost to form an LLC in Minnesota is $155 for online filing or $135 for filing by mail, covering the state filing fee for the Articles of Organization.
Do You Have to Renew LLC in Minnesota?
You have to renew an LLC in Minnesota every year to remain active. You can visit the official SOS website and file an annual renewal to update or change your business information. Failure to file the annual renewal will result in the dissolution of your LLC.
Our Verdict on the Best LLC Formation Service in Minnesota
Among the many LLC formation services you can find in Minnesota, the four companies we've mentioned stand out for many reasons.
However, after detailed research, we recommend ZenBusiness as the best LLC formation solution for any business size and needs. They gave us a full suite of tools to help launch our LLC quickly and efficiently.
ZenBusiness provides valuable and engaging service that gives clients everything they need.
It combines low-cost business formation service packages, the best-paid registered agent service, and top-notch quality.
Our #1 Recommendation
ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
- Attractively priced from $0, plus state fees.
- User acclaim for its user-friendliness and customer assistance.
- Broad service spectrum, including LLC setup and compliance management.
- Quick turnaround for processing and filings.
- Focused on social responsibility and community involvement.
- Packages offer excellent value at competitive prices.
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of May
- Restricted customer support hours.
- Non-profit formation services are not provided.
References:
- https://advocacy.sba.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2023-Small-Business-Economic-Profile-MN.pdf
