Swyft Filings and LegalZoom are both popular online platforms that offer LLC formation services, but they have some differences in terms of pricing, features, customer support, and user experience. Here's a comparison of the two services to help you decide which one might be the better choice for your specific needs:
Pricing:
- Swyft Filings tends to offer more competitive pricing compared to LegalZoom. Swyft Filings often has lower base package costs for LLC formation services, making it a cost-effective option for budget-conscious entrepreneurs.
- LegalZoom offers more expensive LLC formation packages, and additional services can quickly add to the overall cost. While LegalZoom may provide more features in some of its packages, these come at a higher price point.
Features and Services:
- Both Swyft Filings and LegalZoom offer a range of services beyond just LLC formation, such as EIN (Employer Identification Number) acquisition, operating agreements, and registered agent services. However, LegalZoom typically offers a more extensive menu of services.
- LegalZoom may be a better choice if you require additional legal services beyond LLC formation, such as trademark registration, wills, legal documents, and more. Swyft Filings is more focused on business formation services.
Customer Support:
- Swyft Filings is known for its excellent customer support, with many users praising their responsiveness and helpfulness. They provide phone and email support during business hours.
- LegalZoom offers customer support through phone and email, but their customer service can be hit or miss. Some users have reported long wait times and less-than-helpful interactions with LegalZoom's support team.
Ease of Use:
- Both platforms are user-friendly and have straightforward processes for LLC formation. Swyft Filings and LegalZoom provide step-by-step guides to help you navigate the process.
Turnaround Time:
- Swyft Filings often provides quicker turnaround times for LLC formation documents compared to LegalZoom, but this can vary depending on the state and the specific package you choose.
Satisfaction Guarantees:
- Swyft Filings offers a satisfaction guarantee, which means that if you're not happy with their service, they will either refund your fees or fix the issue at no additional cost.
- LegalZoom also has a satisfaction guarantee, but it's essential to read the terms and conditions as they may be more restrictive than Swyft Filings'.
Basic LLC Package:
Swyft Filings: The Basic Package
Swyft Filings' basic package includes several essential features to help you get your LLC up and running. With this package, you can expect:
- Business Name Check: Swyft Filings will verify the availability of your chosen business name, ensuring it complies with state regulations.
- Statement of Organizer: This service will assist you in preparing and filing the necessary Articles of Organization, a crucial step in the LLC formation process.
- Tax Consultation: Swyft Filings offers a tax consultation as part of their basic package to help you navigate tax matters related to your new business.
- ComplianceGuard Alerts: This feature keeps you informed about important compliance deadlines and requirements, helping you stay on top of legal obligations.
- Free Business Domain Name: Swyft Filings includes a free business domain name, making it easier to establish an online presence for your new company.
It's important to note that Swyft Filings' basic package does not include a year of Registered Agent service. If you require a registered agent, you can opt for this service for an additional fee of $149.
LegalZoom: The Basic Service ("Basic")
LegalZoom offers a basic package called "Basic" for LLC formation, which focuses on the core formation process. In the "Basic" package, you can expect:
- LLC Formation Filing: LegalZoom will assist you with the preparation and submission of the necessary documents for your LLC formation, helping you get your business off the ground.
Similar to Swyft Filings, LegalZoom's basic package does not include a year of Registered Agent service. If you need a registered agent for your LLC, this service can be added for an additional fee of $249.
In summary, Swyft Filings is generally a more affordable and customer-friendly option for LLC formation services, making it a solid choice for entrepreneurs on a budget. LegalZoom, on the other hand, offers a broader range of legal services and may be a better fit if you need more comprehensive legal support beyond LLC formation, although it comes at a higher price point. Your choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and budget.