When starting a business, one of the first steps you’ll take is choosing the right partner to help you with LLC formation and ongoing business compliance. Two prominent names in this field are Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee (formerly known as Incfile). Both companies offer similar services, but with distinct features, pricing, and customer experiences.
In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the key differences between these two providers, including their services, pricing, customer support, and more. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which company is better suited for your business needs.
1. Company Overview
Before diving into their service offerings and pricing, let’s take a look at the background of both Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee.
Northwest Registered Agent
Founded in 1998, Northwest Registered Agent has built a solid reputation for its personalized customer service and commitment to privacy. The company specializes in LLC formation and registered agent services, offering a hands-on approach where each client gets a dedicated Corporate Guide. Northwest is well-known for its strong stance on data privacy and customer-focused service, which makes it stand out in an industry often criticized for automated, impersonal service.
Bizee (Formerly Incfile)
Bizee, formerly known as Incfile, has been around since 2004. Over the years, Bizee has expanded its range of services to include not just LLC formation, but also a wide variety of business tools designed to help entrepreneurs at different stages of their business journey. The company is especially popular for offering cost-effective solutions and has now positioned itself as a one-stop-shop for LLC formation, business licenses, trademarks, and more.
2. Service Offerings Comparison
Both Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee offer a range of services, but the scope and quality of these services vary.
Northwest Registered Agent: Key Services
Registered Agent Service:
Northwest Registered Agent provides a high-quality registered agent service, which includes mail forwarding, compliance reminders, and privacy protection. One of the main features is that Northwest shields your personal contact information from public records, offering a higher level of privacy than many of its competitors.
LLC Formation:
Northwest’s LLC formation package is straightforward and designed to make the process as easy as possible. Services include EIN (Employer Identification Number) registration, Operating Agreement creation, and reminders for annual report filings. It’s ideal for those who need a solid foundation for their business with a focus on compliance.
Compliance Tools:
Northwest provides annual report reminders and access to a library of legal forms. They ensure that you stay on top of state compliance requirements.
Additional Services:
- VoIP Business Phone: For $9/month, you can get a business phone line with advanced features.
- Virtual Office: For $49/month, Northwest offers a virtual office service for businesses that need a physical address.
Bizee: Key Services
Registered Agent Service:
Bizee offers a standard registered agent service, which includes mail forwarding and compliance alerts. However, Bizee is not as focused on privacy protection as Northwest, and it may not offer the same level of privacy safeguards.
LLC Formation:
Bizee offers three distinct LLC formation packages:
- Basic: Free + state fees (includes business name search and LLC filing).
- Standard: $149 + state fees (includes an Operating Agreement and EIN).
- Premium: $299 + state fees (includes advanced services like business license searches and tax consultation).
Compliance Tools:
Like Northwest, Bizee offers lifetime compliance alerts and access to business resources. However, these features are bundled into the higher-tier packages, which may be unnecessary for many startups.
Other Services:
- Trademark Filing: $199 for trademark registration.
- Business License Search: $99 to help you identify the necessary business licenses.
3. Pricing and Value for Money
Pricing is often one of the most important considerations for entrepreneurs, especially those starting out. Here’s a breakdown of the costs for both Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee.
Northwest Registered Agent Pricing
- LLC Formation: $39 + state filing fees
- Registered Agent Service: Free for the first year, then $125/year after that
- EIN Application: $50
- Operating Agreement: Included
- Annual Report Filing: $100
- VoIP Business Phone: $9/month
- Virtual Office: $49/month
Pros of Northwest’s Pricing:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Straightforward costs for LLC formation and registered agent services.
- Personalized service included in the price.
Cons of Northwest’s Pricing:
- Registered agent service is more expensive than some competitors after the first year.
- Additional services, such as the virtual office and VoIP business phone, can increase costs.
Bizee Pricing
- LLC Formation:
- Basic: Free + state fees
- Standard: $149 + state fees
- Premium: $299 + state fees
- Registered Agent Service: Free for the first year, then $119/year
- EIN Application: $70
- Operating Agreement: $40
- Business License Search: $99
- Trademark Filing: $199
Pros of Bizee’s Pricing:
- The Basic package is free, which is ideal for businesses on a tight budget.
- Affordable pricing for LLC formation compared to other services in the market.
- Offers flexibility in choosing a package that suits your business needs.
Cons of Bizee’s Pricing:
- The Standard and Premium packages can be more expensive when you factor in the additional services included.
- Some of the higher-tier features may not be necessary for all businesses.
4. Turnaround Time
The speed at which your LLC is formed is critical when you’re eager to get your business running. Here’s how each company stacks up in terms of turnaround time:
- Northwest Registered Agent: Northwest promises to complete your LLC formation within 1-2 business days. This is a quick turnaround, ensuring that you don’t have to wait too long to officially establish your business.
- Bizee: Bizee claims to process LLC formations within 1 business day, but some customers report occasional delays, especially during peak seasons. Although they have a reputation for fast processing, there is a bit of variability.
5. Customer Support
Customer support can make or break your experience with a service provider. Here’s a look at the support each company offers.
Northwest Registered Agent Customer Support
- Known for its exceptional customer service, Northwest assigns each client a dedicated Corporate Guide to assist with LLC formation and ongoing compliance. This personalized approach ensures that you have an expert available to answer your questions, making it easier to navigate the business formation process.
- Support Channels: Phone and email.
- Response Times: Typically quick, with knowledgeable staff available to help.
Bizee Customer Support
- Bizee offers phone and email support, but response times can vary. Some users report slow response times, particularly when trying to reach a live representative during peak periods.
- While Bizee does offer support, its level of service isn’t as personalized as Northwest’s, which could be a drawback for those seeking hands-on assistance.
6. Pros and Cons Summary
Here’s a quick summary of the key pros and cons of each company:
Northwest Registered Agent Pros:
- Exceptional customer service with dedicated Corporate Guides.
- Focus on privacy and data protection.
- Straightforward and transparent pricing.
- Fast LLC formation and compliance management.
Northwest Registered Agent Cons:
- Registered agent service can be more expensive after the first year.
- Extra services (like VoIP and virtual office) can increase overall costs.
Bizee Pros:
- Affordable pricing, especially for the Basic LLC formation package.
- Variety of services, including trademark filing and business license searches.
- Flexible packages tailored to your business’s needs.
Bizee Cons:
- Customer support may be slower during peak times.
- Higher-tier packages might include unnecessary services for small businesses.
- Registered agent fees are slightly higher than some competitors after the first year.
Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee comes down to your priorities as an entrepreneur:
- If you value personalized customer service, data privacy, and hands-on support, Northwest Registered Agent is likely the better choice for you. Their straightforward pricing and privacy-focused approach make them an excellent option for entrepreneurs who need a reliable partner to navigate business formation and ongoing compliance.
- On the other hand, if you’re looking for affordable options and want the flexibility to scale your services as your business grows, Bizee could be a great fit. Their cost-effective entry-level packages and variety of additional services make them a suitable choice for entrepreneurs who need a broader range of tools and don’t mind handling customer support through less personalized channels.
In the end, both companies are highly reputable and have their unique strengths. The right choice depends on what aspects of service matter most to your business’s long-term success.
FAQ’s
What extra services does Northwest Registered Agent offer?
Northwest offers VoIP phone lines and virtual office services.
What extra services does Bizee offer?
Bizee offers trademark filing, business license searches, and tax consultations.
Is there a money-back guarantee with Northwest Registered Agent?
Northwest does not explicitly offer a money-back guarantee, but their customer support is highly regarded.
Is there a money-back guarantee with Bizee?
Bizee offers a satisfaction guarantee, but terms vary by service package.
Does Northwest Registered Agent prioritize privacy?
Yes, Northwest emphasizes privacy protection and keeps client information off public records.