ZenBusiness Review 2024
- LLC starts at $0 + state fee
- Trusted service with the fastest 1-day processing speed
- Registered agent & Worry-free compliance service
- A+ BBB and 4.8 Trustpilot scores
- Award-winning customer service
- Doesn't offer the option to form a nonprofit
Overview
If you’re an entrepreneur, you know that starting a new business is no easy feat, especially when it comes to paperwork. You’re faced with finding the right legal structure, setting up your business bank account, getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and more.
That’s where ZenBusiness steps in as your trusted partner. The platform empowers entrepreneurs to launch their LLC with ease, offering fast processing speeds, registered agent services, and worry-free compliance.
For over five years, I’ve had the opportunity to review ZenBusiness alongside other LLC filing services, and one thing that consistently stands out is how the ZenBusiness product continues to evolve.
Most recently, in August 2024, they introduced updated (reduced) pricing and enhanced services, which only strengthens their appeal for aspiring entrepreneurs. It’s clear that ZenBusiness is committed to improving its offerings, making it a solid choice for those looking to start their business journey.
ZenBusiness update: Pricing and features (September 2024)
Even experienced business owners can benefit from the convenience of ZenBusiness’ solution, which reduces the administrative burden on the entrepreneur through its valuable upgrades. The three most noteworthy changes to ZenBusiness’ solution are:
- Updated Pricing: ZenBusiness has made its top-tier subscription even more affordable for business owners. The Premium package is now just $299 (down from $349), delivering even more value at a lower price. Plus, Premium subscribers get access to ZenBusiness’ award-winning Premium Support, adding even more appeal to this unbeatable offer.
- Faster Processing Times: Set your company free from the delays of processing paperwork. ZenBusiness is now the fastest online formation service available. ZenBusiness Pro and Premium packages now offer “Rush” processing speed. This means it only takes 1 business day to complete your LLC’s processing with the relevant authorities. Even the Starter package has an updated standard speed, which now processes documents in 7-10 business days, a huge improvement over the earlier timeline of 2-3 weeks on average.
- Industry Recognition: ZenBusiness has earned industry acclaim from within the industry for delivering amazing value to their customers. These achievements are highlighted by the company’s excellent 4.8 TrustPilot rating and A+ Better Business Bureau scores. ZenBusiness also received the Silver Stevie® Award for Sales & Customer Service in Front-Line Customer Service Team Category.
*Processing times are based on receiving complete information. ZenBusiness processing times do not include Secretary of State processing times, which can vary.
ZenBusiness review: Ease of use
Forming a company can be overwhelming and time-consuming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the legal requirements in your state. ZenBusiness takes the complexity out of the process, making it the ideal choice for entrepreneurs who want to streamline their startup tasks without the hassle of figuring out everything from scratch.
I really like the fact that ZenBusiness performs a business name search in your state as soon as you start the LLC incorporation process. If your chosen name isn’t available, ZenBusiness notifies you quickly, allowing you to perform multiple searches until you find the perfect fit.
Once your name is secured, the next steps are a breeze. You can complete the ZenBusiness purchase form in minutes by providing basic company details, which helps ZenBusiness tailor the incorporation process to your needs. The instructions are clear and straightforward, even for complete beginners.
ZenBusiness is the go-to solution for anyone looking to form an LLC quickly and effectively. Whether you’re registering in one state or across multiple, they handle all the essential forms, filings, and more. You’ll receive transparent information on costs and any additional fees upfront, ensuring no surprises.
After selecting your state, ZenBusiness guides you through four simple steps to get your business off the ground:
- Completing the required forms and selecting services.
- Submitting paperwork to the state.
- Receiving state verification of your company’s approval.
- Accessing all your documents securely in an online account.
And if you need any assistance along the way (or want to ask questions about ZenBusiness), their customer support team is available via email, phone call, and live chat 7 days/week.
ZenBusiness review: Pricing
Looking for a reliable business formation service that won’t break the bank? ZenBusiness is our top choice as the best LLC formation service. ZenBusiness offers three main filing packages for LLC formation:
Starter Package
The Starter Package has all the essentials you need. Inclusions:
- 7 to 10 business days processing*
- 100% accuracy guarantee
- Worry-Free Compliance (optional)
- Online dashboard access
- Customer service
If you’re just starting out and need an affordable way to get your LLC paperwork done, ZenBusiness offers the perfect solution. The Starter Package is free, with only state fees required. This package covers all the essentials needed to launch your business.
For entrepreneurs on a tight budget, the ZenBusiness Starter package is a smart choice. It allows you to complete and submit your LLC paperwork while having access to reliable customer service. Any issues are quickly resolved, ensuring a smooth and efficient process from start to finish.
Pro Package
The ZenBusiness Pro Package is the most popular choice and, in my opinion, offers unbeatable value for your money at just $199 (plus state fees). It includes all the features of the Starter Package, with these additional benefits:
- Processes in 1 business day*
- 100% accuracy guarantee
- Worry-Free Compliance
- Operating agreement
- ID required to file taxes
- Online dashboard access
- Customer service
The Worry-Free Compliance service offers significant advantages. Missing an annual report or forgetting to update your information can lead to costly delays. With Worry-Free Compliance, you’ll be notified of any required actions, keeping your business in good standing with the state.
This service ensures you never miss a filing deadline or incur late fees, taking the stress out of compliance. It’s a game-changer for startup owners who want peace of mind and don’t want to navigate complex legal requirements on their own.
Premium Package
The ZenBusiness Premium Package is perfect for those who want to form an LLC fast, with the added benefit of premium support and access to essential business documents. It includes everything from the Pro Package, plus even more valuable benefits:
- Processes in 1 business day*
- 100% accuracy guarantee
- Worry-Free Compliance
- Operating agreement
- ID required to file taxes
- Online dashboard access
- Business document templates
- Website builder
- Domain name with privacy
- Business email address
- Premium Support
For those facing challenges with building a website or setting up company emails, the Premium Package with the Online Tools Bundle is the ideal solution. It gets your business online fast and efficiently, giving you a powerful start.
ZenBusiness renewal cost for Worry-Free Compliance
Renewing the ZenBusiness Worry-Free Compliance feature costs $199 a year. You can unsubscribe from the service if you no longer want it.
Before Check Out
If you choose the Starter Package, you can add a la carte services according to your needs. Alternatively, you can build your own package and choose the services you want. You’ll find a comprehensive list of services and charges on the ZenBusiness Pricing Page.
With so many ways to customize your ZenBusiness package, the summary screen before you finalize your purchase is a big help. It shows you exactly what you’re paying for, and you can edit any of the items in your cart in case you want to change your order.
ZenBusiness review: Additional services
Registered Agent
You can’t form a business entity in the United States without appointing a registered agent to receive your tax and legal documents (in most states). However, most business owners do not want to deal with all that paperwork and the responsibility of always being online for important emails.
ZenBusiness can handle all correspondence with the Secretary of State and other state agencies, so you don’t have to worry about missing any legal or tax paperwork. It will also scan and upload documents on your behalf and mail out any important legal matters.
If that isn’t enough, it can even help you change your registered agent, service of process (SOP), and mail correspondence. But if you only need a Registered Agent, click here.
DBA (Doing Business As)
ZenBusiness only supports DBAs in certain states. Additionally, it can only file DBA names for existing domestic LLCs and corporations in good standing.
Employer ID Number (EIN)
ZenBusiness EIN service is super easy to use and affordable. For just $99, you can secure your own 9-digit EIN (also known as the Tax Number) from the IRS.
ZenBusiness Money Pro
The ZenBusiness money pro service includes the following features:
- Send custom invoices
- Manage clients
- Accept online payments
- Track revenue and expenses
- Tag tax deductions
- Get tax prep tools
- Uncover Insights
- Track mileage
Accounting and Bookkeeping packages:
- Quick Start: $50/month (includes monthly bookkeeping, support from a CPA via email or chat, 5 invoices, and 20 bank transactions)
- Up and Running Package: $100/month (includes unlimited transactions and invoices, as well as a quarterly 1-2 hours teleconference with a CPA)
- Grow and Scale Package: $200/month (provides you with a dedicated CPA and a monthly 3-5 hour teleconference with your CPA)
Additional services
- Business email address: $25/year (includes an address book, calendars, and 5GB of cloud storage)
- New York LLC Certificate of Publication: $200 (plus publication fees)
ZenBusiness review: Customer service
In 2024, ZenBusiness won the Silver Stevie® Award for Sales & Customer Service in Front-Line Customer Service Team Category. It’s easy to get in touch with customer service, ask questions and resolve issues since you can connect with the ZenBusiness’ customer service team.
Additionally, you can connect with them via chat, email, and phone during business hours. You can also find useful FAQs on their website and a blog where you can read updates on regulations and news.
Is ZenBusiness Legit?
ZenBusiness secured $200 million in a Series C funding round, and a $1.7 billion valuation. This illustrates the potential that investors see in the platform. It has also served over 250,000 businesses around the world. These developments make ZenBusiness compelling. It’s not just another startup trying to make it big on hype alone—it’s already a success.
Additionally, the developers are launching new features that make it even more powerful for entrepreneurs. They aim to create a tailored, guided path for each customer so they can make their first dollar faster. The goal is to create an integrated platform that can address different financial needs from categorizing expenses using AI to issuing invoices for free.
“We handle the ‘business stuff’ so our customers can focus on their passion and build the life they want, stress-free and without sacrificing their well-being,” said Ross Buhrdorf, Founder and CEO of ZenBusiness.
ZenBusiness review: Verdict
ZenBusiness is the smart choice for business owners who want to set up their company quickly and effortlessly. With just one click, you get everything a new LLC needs: LLC processing, business formation documents, registered agent services, and compliance solutions – all backed by a 100% accuracy guarantee.
In terms of price and convenience, we found that ZenBusiness outshines its competitors. With an average Excellent 4.8-star rating from over 10,000 TrustPilot reviews, it’s clear why so many entrepreneurs trust this service.
We especially like the Worry-Free Compliance option, offering business owners peace of mind by handling compliance and paperwork with expert precision. ZenBusiness makes launching your business simple, stress-free, and highly efficient.
ZenBusiness Reviews summary (2024)
Pricing:
Starts at $0