Updated October 29, 2026
FileNow is an online LLC formation service that starts at $49 plus state fees, with a free EIN and one year of registered agent service (then $119/yr) included in the $199 Premium package.
By Jon Morgan · Fact-checked by Jon Tobin, Business Attorney · How we testAfter reviewing over 30 formation services and anonymously testing FileNow's full filing process, I'll walk you through its pricing, turnaround times, and core features so you can decide if it fits your needs.
Still comparing? Read to the end to see why we rate Northwest Registered Agent above FileNow for most first LLCs.
FileNow is an excellent option for entrepreneurs forming a new business, particularly those looking for a straightforward, fast LLC formation service with essential features included in their base packages.
The service has built a reputation as one of the fastest formation services in the industry, despite being a newer company.
While FileNow excels at core formation services with a stellar 4.3/5 overall rating, it does have fewer add-on services compared to competitors like ZenBusiness, which may not suit all business needs.
However, its pricing structure, which includes valuable features like free EIN registration, and its efficient same-day filing option make it an excellent choice for entrepreneurs who prioritize speed and value.
FileNow offers straightforward pricing with two main LLC formation packages plus additional à la carte services. All packages include core formation essentials while providing options to scale services based on business needs.
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Starter LLC Formation Package | $49 (Plus State Fees) | • Error-free guarantee • Company name search • Email/chat support • Compliance alerts • Order tracking • Electronic document delivery • EIN available for $75 |
| Premium LLC Formation Package | $199 (Plus State Fees) | • All Starter features • One-day processing • Federal tax ID (EIN) • Free registered agent service for a year • LLC kit • Contract templates • Banking resolution document |
| Registered Agent Service | $119 first year, then $119/yr | • Free for first year with the Premium package • Renews at $119 annually |
| Same-day filing | $75-$150 | • Expedited processing |
| EIN acquisition | $75 | • Included free in the Premium package |
| Company kit | $99 | • Organization materials |
| Certificate of good standing | $49 | • Official verification document |
| Operating agreement | $50 | • Legal business structure document |
| Banking resolution document | $50 | • Required for business banking |
| Contract templates | $100 | • Ready-to-use legal documents |
*As of May 2025
FileNow offers exceptional value with its inclusion of a free EIN and registered agent service in its Premium package.
The $49 starter package plus state fees is competitively priced when compared to major competitors, especially considering it includes features others charge extra for.
Verdict: 4.3/5
| Service Package | FileNow |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $49 | $39 | $0 | $0 |
| Premium | $199 | Higher price | Similar price | Higher price with extra fees |
*As of May 2025
Both ZenBusiness and FileNow offer LLC formation services.
While ZenBusiness and Bizee offer $0 entry packages, FileNow's $199 Premium includes a free EIN, which these competitors charge extra for.
FileNow's process and turnaround time are quicker than both Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness, making it ideal for entrepreneurs requiring fast business formation.
FileNow provides a user-friendly interface with a clear, step-by-step process.
Venture Smarter's methodology involved anonymously engaging with the service, testing their business formation capabilities, and evaluating the insights provided by the independent review team.
The interface is designed for simplicity, making LLC formation accessible even to first-time business owners. Navigation is straightforward, with well-structured dashboards for easy management.
The step-by-step process guides users through each stage of business formation, from entity selection to document completion.
Filing with FileNow is remarkably quick, with options for both standard processing and expedited same-day filing. The ordering process is simple and efficient, without unnecessary complications that might delay formation.
Verdict: 4.5/5
FileNow offers a responsive website that works well across desktop and mobile devices. The user-friendly interface features a clear, step-by-step process with a well-structured dashboard for easy management.
While FileNow doesn't explicitly mention a dedicated mobile app, their website is optimized for mobile use, allowing customers to track order status and access documents on the go.
| Feature | Desktop | Mobile Web |
|---|---|---|
| Order Placement | ✓ | ✓ |
| Document Access | ✓ | ✓ |
| Support Access | ✓ | ✓ |
| Order Tracking | ✓ | ✓ |
FileNow's formation process is streamlined for efficiency while maintaining accuracy. Their system offers error-free guarantees, company name availability searches, compliance alerts, and electronic document delivery.
The entire process can be completed quickly, with same-day filing options available for an additional fee.
Based on Venture Smarter's testing, FileNow has gained considerable experience despite being newer to the market, demonstrating expertise in dealing with formation requirements across all states.
Verdict: 4.3/5
FileNow excels in document preparation with their error-free guarantee. The service handles all necessary paperwork, ensuring compliance with state requirements while saving customers time and potential legal complications.
Documents are delivered electronically for immediate access, with physical options available as needed.
Verdict: 4.3/5
FileNow includes a year of free registered agent service with its Premium package, renewing at $119 annually thereafter.
This service ensures businesses remain compliant with state requirements for receiving legal and tax documents. Their registered agent services are available nationwide with professional handling of all official correspondence.
Verdict: 4.3/5
FileNow offers several valuable add-on services, including:
While FileNow offers fewer add-ons compared to some competitors, they include essential services like EIN registration free with the Premium package.
FileNow does not offer annual report filing service and its compliance support is limited to alerts system, which notifies you of upcoming deadlines.
Verdict: 4.4/5
While specific security features aren't detailed in the review, FileNow maintains professional standards for handling sensitive business information, including secure electronic document delivery and storage.
Their professional team of attorneys and tax professionals suggests adherence to appropriate security protocols for legal and financial data.
FileNow provides electronic document delivery as a standard feature, allowing for easy access and storage of formation documents.
Their system includes compliance alerts to help businesses stay on top of deadlines and requirements. The company also offers a physical company kit option ($99) for businesses preferring traditional document organization.
Verdict: 4.4/5
FileNow offers multiple support channels with a responsive and professional customer service team. Support is accessible via phone, email, and live chat, with quick issue resolution.
The customer support team has earned a 4.8/5 rating across 553 verified reviews on ShopperApproved, reflecting consistently positive feedback on responsiveness and professionalism.
Former customers particularly praise the support team's helpfulness in answering questions and guiding them through the package selection process.
The team's responsiveness and expertise in helping new business owners through the formation process is frequently mentioned in testimonials.
Verdict: 4.3/5
Venture Smarter compared FileNow to its biggest competitors: ZenBusiness, Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee. Here’s what we’ve concluded.
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It costs $49 plus state fees to form an LLC with FileNow. Keep in mind that the actual cost varies depending on how much your state fee is.
On average, it normally takes seven to ten business days for FileNow and the state to process your LLC. Of course, that time frame varies by state and if the state is behind on applications or understaffed.
No, FileNow doesn't help with taxes. Other businesses like ZenBusiness help with some essential tax filing assistance, but most LLC formation companies don't offer tax services.
FileNow is an online LLC formation service with a free EIN and one year of registered agent service (then $119/yr) included in the $199 Premium package.
They have a stellar reputation, excellent customer service, the ability to customize their plans, and a favourable refund policy.
Beyond FileNow, our overall pick for a first LLC is Northwest Registered Agent. You pay $39 plus the state fee, a full year of registered agent service is included, and it renews at $125 a year from year two.
Your home address stays off the public filing (Privacy by Default), and a basic operating agreement is included.
Domain, website, business email and phone line come at no charge while the agent service is active. We formed a real LLC with Northwest in June 2026 for $289 all in ($39 plus Alaska's $250 state fee). Forming yours costs $39 plus the state fee.
Our verdict
$39 + state fee with the first year of registered agent service (then $125/yr) and business identity tools included. 90-day money-back guarantee.
Prices checked October 29, 2026. State filing fees are extra.