Active Filings vs LegalZoom

Comparing two popular LLC formation services to help you choose the right one for your business.

🏆 Quick Verdict

LegalZoom is our overall winner based on value, features, and customer satisfaction.

✓ Best Price: LegalZoom ($0)
✓ Highest Rating: LegalZoom (4.2★)
✓ Fastest Service: Active Filings

Active Filings

Traditional Service
Rating
3.8
Starting Price $199
Processing Time 5-10 days
Registered Agent ✓ Free 1st Year

Pros

  • ✓ Free registered agent for first year
  • ✓ Rush processing available (2 days +$100)
  • ✓ Phone and email support

Cons

  • ✗ Higher starting price than competitors
  • ✗ Operating agreement costs extra (+$99)
  • ✗ No mobile app

LegalZoom

Best for Legal Support
Rating
4.2
Starting Price $0
Processing Time 5-14 days
Registered Agent $249/yr

Pros

  • ✓ Attorney support available
  • ✓ Comprehensive legal forms library
  • ✓ Rush processing available (1 day +$99)

Cons

  • ✗ Registered agent costs $249/year
  • ✗ Operating agreement costs extra (+$99)
  • ✗ EIN service expensive (+$159)

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Feature Active Filings LegalZoom
Starting Price $199 + state fees $0 + state fees
Customer Rating 3.8/5 4.2/5
Processing Time 5-10 days 5-14 days
Expedited Processing
2 days
+$100
1 day
+$99
Registered Agent
✓ Free Year 1
Then $119/yr
$249/year
EIN Service $70 $159
Operating Agreement $99 $99
Customer Support Phone, Email Phone, Chat
Mobile App - -
Attorney Access - ✓

Bottom Line

Choose Active Filings if:

Traditional businesses preferring established service providers

Choose LegalZoom if:

Businesses that need ongoing legal support and established credibility

  • ✓ You want the lower starting price
  • ✓ Customer satisfaction is your priority
  • ✓ You want attorney support

Ready to Form Your LLC?

Both services are reputable options. Our recommendation: LegalZoom for most businesses based on value and features.