Starting a business is an exciting but complex process, and choosing the right LLC formation service and registered agent is a critical step. Two of the most popular companies in this field are Northwest Registered Agent and Bizee (formerly Incfile). While both companies offer similar services, they differ significantly in terms of customer experience, privacy protection, service quality, and support.
Northwest Registered Agent has built a strong reputation over the years for providing comprehensive and highly personalized services. Since its founding in 1998, Northwest has prioritized customer support and privacy, offering not just the basic LLC formation and registered agent services, but also advanced features like dedicated Corporate Guides for each client.
Their commitment to protecting clients’ personal information by using their own address on public records further sets them apart from many competitors. Northwest’s approach is centered on providing top-notch service to clients, which is why they charge higher fees compared to other service providers. However, for entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy, exceptional support, and comprehensive compliance assistance, the additional cost is often well worth it.
Bizee (Formerly Incfile), founded in 2004, has become known for its affordable services, especially with its free basic LLC formation package. While this price tag is attractive for new business owners looking to minimize upfront costs, it comes at the expense of more personalized service and robust features. Bizee offers the basics—LLC formation, registered agent services, and EIN application—but lacks the in-depth support, privacy, and compliance offerings that Northwest provides.
In this comparison, we’ll break down each aspect of these two companies, explaining why Northwest Registered Agent stands out as the better choice for most entrepreneurs, especially those seeking privacy, superior support, and long-term business success.
Northwest Registered Agent
Northwest Registered Agent, founded in 1998, is a well-established player in the business formation and registered agent space. They’re known for their focus on privacy, excellent customer service, and personalized business formation solutions. Unlike many competitors, Northwest doesn’t focus on mass marketing or offering cheap, stripped-down services. Instead, they prioritize quality and customer support, making them the go-to choice for entrepreneurs who want more than just a basic LLC formation.
Bizee (Formerly Incfile)
Bizee, previously known as Incfile, has been around since 2004 and has made a name for itself by offering affordable LLC formation services. While they also provide registered agent services, Bizee is mainly known for their entry-level packages, including a free basic plan. The company’s focus has largely been on providing budget-friendly options, but it’s important to consider whether this affordability comes at the expense of quality and long-term value.
Pricing Comparison
Northwest Registered Agent Pricing
Northwest Registered Agent’s pricing is straightforward and transparent. The core services are priced as follows:
- LLC Formation: $39 + state filing fees
- Registered Agent Service: $125 annually
- Additional Services: There may be extra fees for additional services like compliance reminders, document scanning, and mail forwarding.
Although Northwest’s prices are higher than Bizee’s free plan, they offer exceptional value with top-tier services that you won’t find in cheaper alternatives. It’s an investment in your business that pays off with personalized service and privacy protections that are second to none.
Bizee Pricing
Bizee has built its reputation around offering cheap services, starting with a free basic LLC formation package (excluding state fees). However, the free plan often lacks the comprehensive support and features that many entrepreneurs need to succeed in the long term. Here’s a breakdown:
- Free Basic Package: $0 + state filing fees (includes one year of free registered agent service)
- Standard Package: $199 + state filing fees
- Premium Package: $299 + state filing fees
Bizee’s pricing structure is appealing to those on a strict budget, but there’s a catch. After the first year, their registered agent services cost $119 annually. Additionally, the free package lacks key features such as privacy protection, dedicated support, and other compliance services that Northwest offers as part of their core services.
Why Northwest Wins in Pricing:
Even though Bizee’s free plan is attractive for first-time entrepreneurs, Northwest provides more value for your money. The price may be slightly higher, but you get far more for what you pay, including a dedicated support team, privacy protection, and reliable compliance reminders. For entrepreneurs who are serious about protecting their business and ensuring long-term success, the value from Northwest’s services far outweighs the initial cost savings from Bizee.
Services Offered
Northwest Registered Agent Services
Northwest Registered Agent excels at offering a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of entrepreneurs:
- LLC Formation – Northwest helps you set up your LLC by preparing and filing all necessary documents with the state. They guide you through choosing the right business structure and state for your company.
- Registered Agent Services – Their registered agent service ensures that all legal documents are forwarded to you securely and promptly. This service is crucial for maintaining good standing with the state.
- Privacy Protection – One of the standout features of Northwest is their privacy protection. They use their address on public records, which helps shield your personal contact information from being listed. This is particularly important for small business owners who want to keep their personal lives private.
- Compliance Reminders – Northwest sends you annual compliance reminders, so you never miss important filing deadlines. They also help you stay on top of other state requirements.
- Document Scanning – Northwest scans all important legal documents and uploads them to your online account, ensuring that you always have access to your business records.
- Premium Customer Support – As mentioned earlier, Northwest assigns a dedicated Corporate Guide to every client. This personalized service ensures you always have an expert available to help with business formation, legal matters, and any other concerns that arise.
Bizee Services
Bizee also offers a range of LLC formation and registered agent services, but they come with some significant limitations:
- LLC Formation – Bizee offers basic LLC formation services similar to Northwest, but they don’t provide the same level of personalized attention or guidance.
- Registered Agent Services – Bizee includes one year of free registered agent services with their free plan, but after that, the cost increases to $119 annually.
- EIN Application – Bizee offers assistance with obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is helpful for starting a business.
- Operating Agreement – Bizee provides a customizable operating agreement template, which is a useful tool for organizing your LLC’s structure.
- Business Alerts – Bizee sends business alerts to remind you of upcoming filing deadlines and important documents.
Why Northwest Wins in Services Offered:
Northwest Registered Agent doesn’t just meet the basic requirements of business formation and registered agent services; they go above and beyond. Their privacy protection is a major differentiator, and their personalized customer support ensures that you’re not just another account number. Bizee’s services may be sufficient for basic needs, but they don’t offer the same level of protection, personalized support, or compliance assistance that Northwest provides. For those who value privacy and ongoing support, Northwest’s comprehensive approach is unbeatable.
Customer Support
Northwest Registered Agent Customer Support
Customer support is where Northwest really shines. Here’s why:
- Dedicated Corporate Guide – Every customer is assigned a dedicated Corporate Guide, someone who knows your business and is available to assist with anything you need. This level of personalization ensures that you get fast, expert help when you need it most.
- Multiple Communication Channels – Northwest offers phone, email, and live chat support, and they are known for their fast response times and knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re dealing with a technical issue or need advice on business compliance, the support team is always available.
- 24/7 Support Availability – Though their official business hours are during the week, Northwest offers a high level of support during those hours, ensuring that no matter when you reach out, you’ll get the help you need.
Bizee Customer Support
Bizee also provides customer support through phone, email, and live chat. However, the quality of support has received mixed reviews, particularly in regard to response time:
- Response Time Issues – While Bizee offers support via multiple channels, some customers have reported slow email responses, which can be frustrating if you’re in a time-sensitive situation.
- Standard Support – Bizee’s customer support is adequate, but it’s not as personalized as Northwest’s service. They don’t offer the same level of one-on-one guidance that Northwest provides through their Corporate Guides.
Why Northwest Wins in Customer Support:
Northwest’s customer support is unmatched. The dedicated Corporate Guide ensures that you receive tailored assistance that’s hard to find elsewhere. While Bizee offers support, it simply cannot match the high-quality, responsive, and personalized service Northwest provides.
Turnaround Time
Northwest Registered Agent Turnaround Time
Northwest typically processes LLC formation documents within 1-2 business days. While the state’s processing time varies, their fast internal processing means your paperwork is in the system quickly. Plus, the company doesn’t cut corners, so you can rest assured that everything is filed accurately and promptly.
Bizee Turnaround Time
Bizee generally processes LLC formation documents within 1 business day, which may seem faster than Northwest. However, Bizee’s speed sometimes comes at the expense of accuracy, with some customers reporting delays or errors in the filing process.
Why Northwest Wins in Turnaround Time:
While Bizee might be slightly faster on the initial filing, Northwest’s attention to detail and commitment to getting your formation correct the first time ultimately saves you time in the long run. Accuracy and quality are just as important as speed, and Northwest consistently excels in both areas.
Conclusion
When it comes to LLC formation and registered agent services, Northwest Registered Agent is the clear winner in every aspect. From their comprehensive services to their personalized customer support and privacy protection, Northwest offers exceptional value that far surpasses what Bizee provides.
While Bizee might appeal to entrepreneurs who are looking for a budget-friendly solution, Northwest’s higher pricing is justified by the superior level of service, privacy, and support they provide. Whether you’re a first-time business owner or a seasoned entrepreneur, Northwest Registered Agent is the best choice for ensuring your business is set up correctly and is compliant for the long term.
FAQ’s
What makes Northwest better than Bizee?
Northwest excels in customer support, privacy protection, and comprehensive services. Their dedicated Corporate Guide ensures a personalized experience that Bizee lacks.
Is Northwest worth the extra cost?
Yes, the extra cost is justified by the premium services, expert support, and privacy protection you receive. If you value privacy and ongoing business support, Northwest is the better choice.
Which company has faster processing times?
Bizee is faster in processing LLC filings initially. However, Northwest ensures a higher level of accuracy and long-term reliability, which makes their processing times more valuable.
Which company is better for privacy?
Northwest provides superior privacy protection by using their address on public records instead of yours. This helps keep your personal information secure.
Is Northwest’s customer support really better?
Yes, Northwest offers dedicated, personalized support through a Corporate Guide, something that Bizee does not provide. Their response times are quicker and more helpful.