I'm starting a small handmade soap business and was looking at Inc Authority to form my LLC. Half the reviews I find say they're great and free, the other half say it's a nightmare with hidden fees. Can anyone share their actual experience? I'm on a tight budget and just want to get this done without a huge headache.
LLC Formation
I found conflicting reviews about Inc Authority and need some advice
The 'free' LLC is just a hook. They make their money on the upsells and registered agent service. If you can resist all that, it's fine. If you cant, you'll end up paying more than you would with a budget lawyer or a straightforward service like Northwest.
I used them last year. No hidden fees if you actually read what you're signing up for. The free option is barebones, but it got my LLC filed. Just be ready for a ton of phone calls trying to sell you stuff.
Thanks, thats a relief. I can ignore pushy calls. Did either of you have any issues with the filing itself? Like, did it go through without delays?
Filing was fine. The constant emails and calls are the real cost. My sanity is still recovering.
I went with them for my candle company. Honestly, I wish I'd just filed directly with the state. It took them two weeks to submit my paperwork because they kept 'reviewing' it. In that time I could have done it myself for $50. If youre on a tight budget, that's something to consider tbh.
Two weeks is nothing. My sister used them and it took a month. But she didn't pay for any upgrades, so maybe that's why. Still, you get what you pay for.
I've heard the 'free' filing is basically a loss leader. They're hoping you'll forget to file your annual report or need their registered agent so they can charge you. Not illegal, just business.
OP,if you do use them, set a reminder for your annual report. They won't do it for you unless you pay, and the state will fine you.
Okay, so the consensus seems to be: file directly with the state or use a cheap service, and avoid the upsells. I think I'll just do it myself. Thanks everyone!