If you’re dreaming of launching your own business but feel overwhelmed by the paperwork, you’re not alone. Forming an LLC or corporation online has become super popular, and two big players in this space are Swyft Filings and LegalZoom. Both promise to make the process easier, but which one is right for you?
In this in-depth review, I’ll break it down step by step, comparing everything from pricing to customer vibes. We’ll chat like friends over coffee—simple, straightforward, and honest. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which service fits your needs. Let’s dive in!
1. Company Background and Focus
Swyft Filings
Picture this: It’s 2015, and a group of folks in Houston, Texas, decide to shake up the business formation world. That’s how Swyft Filings was born. They’ve helped over 300,000 businesses get off the ground, focusing on making paperwork painless so you can focus on what you love—like turning your side hustle into a full-time gig.swyftfilings.com Their main jam is LLC and corporation formations, but they also handle compliance tools and growth resources. Think of them as the speedy, no-frills option for small business owners who want quick results without the fluff.
LegalZoom
Now, LegalZoom has been around way longer—over 20 years, in fact. Founded in 2001, they’ve powered through millions of legal milestones for folks just like you.legalzoom.com Based in California, they’re all about blending tech with legal smarts. While business formation is a big part of what they do, they cast a wider net: wills, trademarks, divorces—you name it. If you’re looking for a one-stop legal shop with attorney backups, this is your spot. They’ve got that big-brand trust, but sometimes it comes with a bit more complexity.
In a nutshell, Swyft Filings is like your efficient local mechanic—fast and focused—while LegalZoom is the full-service dealership with all the extras.
2. Pricing and Packages
Pricing can make or break your decision, right? Both offer tiered packages, but Swyft Filings edges out as the budget-friendly champ. Note: These are base prices plus state filing fees (which vary by state, usually $50–$500).
Swyft Filings
They keep it simple with three packages:
- Basic: $0 + state fees. Covers name checks, filing articles, and lifetime support. Great for bootstrappers.
- Standard: $199 + state fees (currently $149 with promo—score!). Adds EIN, custom bylaws, and electronic delivery.
- Premium: $299 + state fees (currently $249). Throws in same-day filing, expedited shipping, legal contracts, and ComplianceGuard for ongoing alerts.swyftfilings.comventuresmarter.com
Add-ons like registered agent service run about $199/year. No sneaky upsells here; it’s straightforward.swyftfilings.com
LegalZoom
Their setup is similar but pricier:
- Basic: Often $0–$99 + state fees, including name checks and filing.
- Pro: Around $249 + fees, with EIN, operating agreement, and some legal advice.
- Premium: $299–$349 + fees, adding rush processing and attorney consults.bizreport.comventuresmarter.com
Registered agent? $299/year. They bundle more legal perks, but watch for add-ons that can inflate the bill.swyftfilings.com
Mid-Tier and Premium
Mid-tier (Standard/Pro) is where Swyft shines at $149 (promo) vs. LegalZoom’s $249. For premium, Swyft’s $249 beats LegalZoom’s $299+, especially if you don’t need heavy legal hand-holding.venturesmarter.comllcuniversity.com If you’re on a tight budget, Swyft wins; for broader legal needs, LegalZoom’s extras justify the cost.
3. Turnaround Time
Time is money, especially when you’re itching to launch. Swyft Filings lives up to its name with faster processing:
- Basic: 10 business days.
- Standard: 5 days.
- Premium: Same-day filing.swyftfilings.comzenbusiness.com
LegalZoom? It’s solid but slower—basic can take 7–10 days, pro up to a week, and premium 2–3 days with rush options.zenbusiness.comsmbguide.com State processing adds 2–4 weeks for both, but Swyft’s expedited edge makes it ideal for go-getters.
4. Core Features Compared
Both cover the basics, but let’s zoom in on key ones.
Federal EIN
Swyft includes it in Standard and Premium; LegalZoom does too in mid-tier up. No big difference—both get your tax ID sorted seamlessly.swyftfilings.comlegalzoom.com
Operating Agreement
Swyft bundles custom bylaws and minutes in Standard+; LegalZoom offers a tailored operating agreement in Pro+. LegalZoom’s feels more comprehensive if you’re detail-oriented.swyftfilings.com
Registered Agent Service
Both provide this (someone to handle legal mail), but Swyft is cheaper at $199/year vs. LegalZoom’s $299.swyftfilings.com Swyft’s service includes privacy perks.
Compliance Alerts
Swyft’s ComplianceGuard (Premium) sends reminders for reports and amendments. LegalZoom’s similar alerts come in higher packages or as add-ons—both keep you compliant, but Swyft integrates it better for free in top tiers.swyftfilings.com
Digital Corporate Kit vs Traditional Binder
Swyft goes digital with a 24/7 dashboard and electronic docs—modern and eco-friendly.swyftfilings.com LegalZoom offers a mix: digital access plus optional physical binders. If you hate paper, Swyft; for tangibles, LegalZoom.
Overall, features are neck-and-neck, but Swyft feels more streamlined.
5. Customer Experience
Website and Ordering
Swyft’s site is clean and quick—fill out a form in minutes. LegalZoom’s is robust but can feel overwhelming with options. Both are user-friendly, but Swyft wins for simplicity.trustpilot.comtrustpilot.com
Customer Reviews
Swyft Filings:
4.6/5 on Trustpilot (7K+ reviews). Folks rave about helpful reps like Dane and fast service, but some gripe about billing surprises.trustpilot.com
LegalZoom:
4.5/5 on Trustpilot (22K+ reviews). Praise for knowledgeable support (shoutout to Anthony), but complaints about hidden fees and upsells.trustpilot.com
On X, Swyft gets promo buzz; LegalZoom has mixed user stories, like ease for startups but frustration with charges.
6. Legal Services Availability
Access to Attorneys
LegalZoom stands out here with a network of attorneys (average 17 years experience) for consults in higher plans.legalzoom.com Swyft offers attorney-crafted docs and access in Premium, but it’s not as deep.swyftfilings.com If you need ongoing legal advice, LegalZoom; for basic formation, Swyft suffices.
7. Customer Support and Reputation
Tracking Overall Ratings
Both hover around 4.5–4.6 on Trustpilot and BBB (Swyft A-, LegalZoom A+ in past data, but confirm locally).trustpilot.comtrustpilot.com Swyft’s lifetime phone/email support is a hit; LegalZoom offers quick specialist chats.swyftfilings.comlegalzoom.com
User Feedback Highlights
Swyft: “Prompt and supportive!” but “Watch subscriptions.” LegalZoom: “Made everything easy,” yet “Unexpected costs.”trustpilot.comtrustpilot.com Reputation-wise, LegalZoom’s brand power draws more volume, but Swyft’s niche focus builds loyalty.
8. Registered Agent: A Closer Look
This service is crucial for privacy and compliance. Swyft’s $199/year includes address privacy and alerts—affordable and reliable.swyftfilings.com LegalZoom’s $299/year adds attorney ties and broader scanning, but it’s pricier.swyftfilings.com Users say Swyft is faster; LegalZoom more comprehensive. Choose based on budget vs. extras.switchonbusiness.com
9. Pros and Cons Summary
Swyft Filings
Pros: Cheaper, faster turnaround, simple interface, great for basics.howtostartanllc.comventuresmarter.com Cons: Less attorney access, occasional billing hiccups.trustpilot.com
LegalZoom
Pros: Broad legal services, attorney network, trusted brand.howtostartanllc.comswitchonbusiness.com Cons: Higher costs, potential upsells, slower in spots.trustpilot.com
10. Who Should Choose Which Service?
Swyft Filings
If you’re a solo starter or small biz owner wanting quick, affordable formation without extras. Perfect for speed demons on a budget.
LegalZoom
Go here if you need full legal support, like trademarks or advice. Ideal for complex setups or long-term needs.
11. Real-World User Scenarios
Scenario 1: Side Hustle Owner
You’re turning your Etsy shop into an LLC on a shoestring. Swyft’s Basic package gets you filed fast for free (plus fees), with easy support. Save the cash for inventory!
Scenario 2: Fast-Growth Startup
Tech founder needing EIN and compliance quick? Swyft Premium’s same-day filing keeps momentum; add registered agent for privacy as you scale.
Scenario 3: Brick-and-Mortar Local Business
Restaurant owner wanting operating agreements and alerts? LegalZoom’s Pro package offers attorney tweaks, ensuring local compliance without headaches.
Scenario 4: Serial Entrepreneur
Launching multiple ventures? LegalZoom’s ecosystem handles formations, trademarks, and more in one place—efficiency for pros.
FAQ’s
Q: Which is cheaper for basic LLC formation?
A: Swyft Filings at $0 + fees, hands down.
Q: Do both offer refunds?
A: Yes, but check policies—Swyft has a satisfaction guarantee; LegalZoom similar.
Q: Can I switch registered agents later?
A: Absolutely, but it’s easier to start with one you like.
Q: Are there hidden fees?
A: Both can have add-ons; read fine print. Swyft is more transparent.
Q: How long until my business is official?
A: Depends on state, but Swyft speeds it up internally.
Q: Is attorney access worth it?
A: For simple stuff, no; for complex, yes—favoring LegalZoom.