Incfile Review 2023: Pros & Cons (Is It The Best LLC Service?)

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Who is IncFile & What They’re All About?

IncFile was founded in 2004 in Houston, Texas, with the goal of reducing the workload and costs faced by the customers when forming a corporation. The company is well-known for ensuring superior service at a relatively lower cost.

They were able to streamline the business formation process and establish a group of experts by integrating their experience with technology, making it faster and more efficient to initiate and maintain a start-up into an entire firm.

They have supported over 500,000 startups and small company owners to begin and build their businesses, fulfilling their pledge to remain useful and dependable by providing a simple yet outstanding and modern solution at an unbeatable value.

What sets them apart?
There are a lot of companies in this industry that help people establish new businesses, and each one has its very own set of features and bundles. To give you an idea how distinct IncFile is, some of the defining characteristics that set them apart from other businesses are listed below.

Value
Their baseline rate for forming a new organization is $0 plus state filing fees, and while you may encounter services advertising to do it for less, you should be conscious that many of these providers merely create the forms and deliver them to you, as opposed to their service, which is end-to-end. They will compile your paperwork, submit them with the state, and only send them to you once the firm has been registered.

Free Registered Agent Service
A free year of registered agent service is included in each of their three packages. Although, you are not required to use IncFile as your registered agent if you do not require it, and you may name yourself or anybody you prefer.

Transparency
IncFile has invested a significant deal of time and effort to ensure that you are conscious of not only the overall cost of your formation all throughout the order process, but also any additional post-filing costs that the state may impose after the formation is fulfilled.

Notifications
IncFile’s packages all feature lifetime email alerts. You will receive email alerts reminding you of critical compliance dates for your business. These emails will be delivered on a regular basis to remind you when an annual report or company tax report is required, so you do not overlook critical deadlines.

Internal Documents
For corporations, IncFile prepares custom Operating Agreements, bylaws, and organizational meeting minutes, as well as other custom papers like the Statement of the Organizer / Incorporator and banking resolutions. If any of these files require revisions, they can be offered to customers in digital format, which can be edited whenever necessary.

Electronic Copies
IncFile understands that even the most meticulous individuals can miss or forget essential documents, so they make sure to maintain digital backups of all filings in case you need them in the long run.

Privacy
You can always trust that your personal information will be kept private. They do not sell or share your information with anyone or any outside party. Despite the fact that they have partnerships that they urge their clients to utilize, the only information they will share is your contact details if you opt-in. They also do not save any credit card information in their system and remove any other sensitive data from their website as soon as the order is processed.

Experience
IncFile has withstood the recurring business cycles that many businesses face and is still here today because of sheer determination. They have founded over 500,000 businesses, and the major portion of their employees have been with them since the founding of the company. You can trust that your paperwork will be treated by professionals with extensive experience in filing corporate entities and a thorough understanding of the intricacies of all 50 states.

Humility
You may be confident that they will go above and beyond to guarantee that you are a happy customer who has had a satisfying experience. Despite the fact that their team is limited in number, they are committed to providing the most value at the lowest possible cost and the highest possible customer service quality.

Tired Reading? – Here’s a Quick Video Review of IncFile

Silver Package – $0 + State Fee

See their Silver package on Incfile.com.

For a price of $0 for Incfile’s starting Silver package, it is hard to get a better price for incorporation services. For this entry-level product, you will receive a basic incorporation service with the filing of your Articles of Organization in your state of formation. But, what really stands out about this service is the entire year of registered agent services it comes with.

Normally a registered agent service costs more than $100 and sometimes up to $300. With Incfile, you can receive an entire year of this service for free, and then after the year is up, it will cost $119 annually, which, as we just showed you is not a bad price.

This plan is ideal if you want to organize your LLC immediately and for the least money possible, as other providers ask hundreds of dollars as much for the same offerings. Also, if you do not mind investing a little extra time and effort in drafting an Operating Agreement and obtaining your Employer Identification Number (EIN), this is for you.

Here is everything this package offers:

Gold Package – $149 + State Fee

See their Gold package on Incfile.com.

The company also provides two more packages, and the next one up after the free option is the Gold package which costs $149. Now, this is a steep increase in price over the former free option, but it does offer some pretty nice additional features that can make it easier to actually get your LLC running after formation.

This includes an operating agreement, banking resolution, and IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN) filing. All of these are things that you honestly are going to want after formation, whether you get them from Incfile or not, so this package is definitely worth a look, and given the price is still lower than most incorporation services or even just registered agent services alone it is still a good value.

This is perfect if you are worried about committing inaccuracies in your LLC files, particularly if you would prefer to entrust EIN registration to someone else. The Operating Agreement and Banking Resolution Agreements are very suitable for new business owners. But even so, you can save far more money by purchasing the Silver bundle and the documents as an add-on or by just downloading free templates online.

In addition to everything in the Silver package, Gold includes:

Platinum Package – $299 + State Fee

Check out their Platinum package on Incfile.com.

The final package Incfile offers is the Platinum package. This includes some useful features, including a domain name for a business website arranged through another service. This package also offers expedited service, which is obviously great if you are in a particular hurry to get your business started.

This suits you well if you are aiming for the quickest business registration time, more relevant documentation, and a corporate website that is hosted and developed by a third-party vendor.

Overall each package has something to offer; for many, this will particularly be the case for the Silver package. For those on a budget, it is hard to beat only paying the required state fees. It really is hard to beat this company for value. In addition to everything included in the previous packages, the Platinum package includes:

IncFile Customer Reviews | Our Rating: 9/10

• IncFile has a 2.4/5 rating on TrustPilot based on 214 reviews (see their Truspilot profile here).
• IncFile has an A+ profile on BBB (Better Business Bureau) — see their BB profile here.
• They have a whopping 4.8/5 rating on ShopperApproved.com based on 29,000+ reviews (see IncFile’s ShopperApproved profile here).
• IncFile has a 3.9/5 rating on BestCompany.com based only on 59 testimonials (see their profile here).
• Reviews about Incfile on Reddit are quite scattered around, so you’ll have to read a lot (see one thread on Reddit here).

Here are a few examples from the customer review aggregate Trustpilot:

Let’s also look at a negative example:

Customer Support | Our Rating: 8/10

IncFile’s Ease of Use | Our Rating: 8/10

Fortunately, Incfile makes their service easy to use, and the process can be done in only a few minutes if you are prepared. Ordering Incfile’s services will take you through a process individualized to your chosen state of formation and the business type you are trying to form. Nearly every entry has a little question mark next to it that explains more about the step if you want to know more.

There are a few upsells along the way, but they are clearly labeled and really don’t push them very hard. If you do choose to add an additional service that is not in the formation package you have chosen, the price is instantly updated on-screen, so you will know.

Turnaround Time of IncFile | Our Rating: 8/10

After the documents are submitted, it is up to the state how long the processing will take. However, if you want to speed up this process, Incfile does offer expedited processing with the state for an extra fee or included with the Platinum package. This can help a lot if your state of formation offers expedited filing.

Overall, compared to other formation services, Incfile offers a good turnaround time.

Additional Services That IncFile Offer

Perhaps you are looking for an incorporation service that offers a particular feature. Though LLC formation is the primary service Incfile provides, they do provide several more, some of which are provided in their higher tier packages. Here are the additional services that Incfile can provide your business.

EIN Registration – $70

As we discussed earlier, an Employer Identification Number or EIN is a critical tax identification number the IRS provides. Generally, this serves as a social security number for your business.

This is needed for hiring employees for certain tax filings and for opening most business bank accounts. Plus, sometimes certain states just require it, so in short, you will probably want one.

However, this does not mean you have to get it from Incfile. It is actually quite easy to file for an EIN online through the IRS website, by fax, or by mail. If you would like this service, it is included in the Gold and Platinum packages, or you can pay $70 separately for Incfile to acquire an EIN for you.

Registered Agent Service With IncFile – $119 Annually

All LLCs are required to designate a registered agent at their formation and to keep one as long as they exist thereafter. A registered agent will receive official correspondence on behalf of your business, including service of process.

For this reason, a registered agent must maintain a street address in every state they operate in, and this agent must be present at the given address and ready to receive service of process during all ordinary business hours. The name and address of the registered agent will also be publicly available for all to see.

You can choose to act as your own registered agent if you meet these qualifications and want to, but most business owners would rather not. Luckily, a registered agent service like Incfile can act as your LLC’s registered agent, so you don’t have to worry about any of this.

Incfile will receive any official correspondence and then simply forward it to you. The first year is free with any formation plan, and after this, it is only $119 per year.

Operating Agreement – $40

Operating agreements are a core component of running an LLC and are required in some states. These documents set out the basic structure of the business and the rules for running it.

An operating agreement should outline the ownership percentages of members, how the company will be run, how profit and loss will be distributed, how members can exit and enter the company, and many more topics, including ones that apply only to running your business.

This makes running a business much easier and safer for everyone involved, so an operating agreement is something that should never be skipped. However, with all of the things that need to be included, it can be a chore to craft one on your own. This is why Incfile’s customized operating agreements can be a really nice service which is included in the Gold and Platinum packages but can be added onto the Silver for $40.

Annual Report – $99

LLCs are required in most states to file an annual report with the Secretary of State in the locations where they operate. Generally, these reports contain basic information about the business, including names and addresses of members and managers as well as the name of the business.

When these reports are due varies from state to state, sometimes it will be a fixed date for all businesses that are required to file, and other times it will be the anniversary of your LLC’s formation. One thing that nearly all states have in common is charging a filing fee along with the report.

Though annual reports can be a hassle, particularly remembering them, they are also necessary for most states, and your business may face a variety of repercussions, including fines, being dissolved, or both if you fail to file.

However, you can have Incfile deal with your LLC’s annual report for you saving you some time and bother. This service will cost $99, and after the report is accepted, Incfile will let you know.

S Corporation Tax Election – $50

An S-corp is a term meaning a small business corporation. It is really quite similar to an LLC in most ways except that it provides some additional tax benefits in certain instances.

This tax election is not good for everyone. The best way to tell if it would be good for your business is to discuss your situation with a tax professional. If you don’t elect this tax status, you can select it later. If you do choose this option, Incfile can do the paperwork you need to file for the S-corp election for $50.

Business License Research – $99

Once you form your LLC, it’s important to get any licenses or permits you need. It will vary what permits or licenses you may need according to where your business is located, what industry you’re in, and even the structure and size of your business.

This can make it difficult to tell what you really need, and if you don’t get all the licenses and permits you need, you could find yourself in legal trouble. But, it doesn’t need to be difficult; you can pay Incfile to do a Business License Search. After you tell them about your company, they will do the research to find out all of the tax registrations, permits, and licenses you’ll need. They will even give you the necessary application forms.

Keep in mind that though Incfile’s business license search will tell you what you need and supply you with the necessary documents and information on how to fill them out, it still comes down to you to fill out the forms and submit them, Still not having to go out and do the research to find out what licenses you will need is definitely a great deal for many new entrepreneurs and can save a lot of time.

Foreign Qualification – $149

If you want to do business in a state other than where your LLC was formed, you will need a foreign qualification. Once you file for the foreign qualification, you should get a Certificate of Authority. This certificate allows you to operate in a state other than the one you formed your LLC in. If you want your LLC to operate in several states, you will need to get a foreign qualification in every new state you want your LLC to do business in. You can have Incfile file these certificates for you for $149.

Amendments and Name Changes – $99

You may find you want to make changes to your Articles of Incorporation at some point, and the way to do this is to file an amendment. You would need to do this to make changes, such as changing your LLC’s address, name, or adding any new members to your LLC. If you need some help with this, Incfile will file the necessary documents with the state after you fill in the changes you want. After this, it may take a few weeks to receive confirmation of the changes.

Certificate of Good Standing – $49

A Certificate of Good Standing is a document issued by the state that lets other businesses and people know that your business is up to date on any state requirements. You do not have to have this document, but some clients may ask if you have one, so it could be good for business. If you would like, Incfile can file this certificate for you for $49.

DBA (Doing Business As Name) – $99

A DBA is a fictitious name or a trading name that your business operates under other than its legal name. Businesses use these names for a variety of reasons, such as better name recognition, privacy, or a change or expansion in the business. A business may want to use a name that better reflects its business. You’ll need to check if your state allows a DBA, but if it does, you can have Incfile file for your DBA for $99.

Trademark Registration – $199

A trademark is something that distinguishes your company from other businesses, such as a symbol, a trademark, or words. You can register a trademark so that no other business or organization can use it as long as you continue to use it.

If you don’t want to file for the trademark yourself, Incfile will handle it for you. It will take approximately three to seven days to file for the trademark and around three to four months for the federal government to approve the trademark.

Incfile Bookkeeping and Accounting – Pricing Varies

Incfile has bookkeeping and accounting services which they offer, although you need to call in for a consultation to get a price. All of the packages come with unlimited tax consultations, the filing of one state and federal tax return, and quarterly bookkeeping. This can be a useful service. It’s vital to ensure your taxes are done correctly to avoid trouble with the IRS. You’ll also need to hire someone to do your bookkeeping if you don’t have the time or ability to do it yourself. It’s important to keep good records not only for tax purposes but to help ensure your business is doing the best it can.

Articles of Dissolution – $149

You may eventually decide to dissolve your LLC, and if you do, there will be some paperwork involved. One of the things you’ll need to do is file your Articles of Dissolution with the state in which your LLC is located. The purpose of filing the Articles of Dissolution is to inform the state that you will no longer be in business. One thing to remember when preparing to dissolve your LLC is that you may not be able to dissolve your LLC if it is not in good standing with the state. So, before trying to dissolve your LLC, it may be best to make sure it is in good standing. Once you’ve dissolved your LLC, you’ll want to inform the IRS of its status.

Incfile Pros and Cons

Pros

So, this has been a lot of information to take in, and you may be feeling a little overwhelmed. Let’s just take a quick look at the pros of using Incfile for your incorporation needs.

Cons

Now that you have considered the pros of choosing Incfile let’s look at the cons.

Is IncFile the Best Choice for You?

Is IncFile the best choice for you? Despite the fact that it may not be appropriate for every company’s demands, IncFile offers services that may be appropriate for you if you take into account the following scenarios in which you could or could not utilize IncFile for incorporation:

When TO USE IncFile…

• If you want to register an LLC but do not have a great deal of budget; and

• If you want a bundle with major benefits like a free year of registered agent service and free unlimited compliance reminders, look no further.

When NOT to USE IncFile…

• If you expect a high volume of customer assistance requests;

• If the incorporation of your LLC involves a complicated legal situation; and

• If your company needs extra resources or paperwork to form an LLC in a state that has particular requirements.

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Recommended IncFile Alternatives

If Incfile doesn’t seem right for you, that’s okay! There are a number of LLC formation services out there, and these are two of the best Incfile alternatives.

#1 Alternative: ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness has very reasonable prices and gets excellent customer reviews. They provide some great features with all of their packages, such as a free operating agreement and filing your annual report for you if you want. They’ll also give you 25% off registered agent service with any of their packages.

We also recommend taking a look at our extended ZenBusiness review here.

#2 Alternative: Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a very well-respected LLC formation service that has been in business for over 20 years. They offer excellent customer service provided through their corporate guides. You can even ask to have the same corporate guide if you call again for your issue. They only have one package, but this package provides a year of free registered agent service along with some other great features.

We also recommend taking a look at our extended Northwest Registered Agent review here.

Final Thoughts

So, is Incfile the best LLC service? If not, they are certainly close. With a $0 option and incredible features such as a free year of registered agent service that pretty much every LLC will need, it is really hard to beat them.

Their downside, however, is that their service alternatives are fairly limited, particularly in terms of legal services. They will not draft you any legal documents or provide you legal assistance, which you might need in certain circumstances in the years ahead.

Incfile, still, is definitely worth a look if you are interested in business formation and compliance, and it is honestly difficult to go wrong with them. After all, beyond the state fee, which you will be paying anyways, you aren’t losing anything. You can trust Incfile with your business formation because they are near the top of the list, and we are positive that you will be impressed with every service they deliver.

So if you need to incorporate your business, it is really hard to go wrong with Incfile. After all, beyond the state fee, which you will be paying anyways, you aren’t losing anything. So you can be confident in choosing Incfile for your business formation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs About IncFile)

Start An LLC With IncFile For FREE Today!

IncFile is great for new business just because it has a superb $0 formation fee option for it’s entry package. So don’t wait and start registering your LLC with IncFile today!

Not Sure About IncFile? Check Out Our Other LLC Reviews