Northwest Registered Agent vs. LegalZoom

Starting a business involves several key steps, and among them is the decision to select a registered agent service.

Both Northwest Registered Agent and LegalZoom are well-known names in the industry, offering services that go beyond just registered agent offerings.

Here’s a detailed comparison between the two to help you make an informed choice.

1. Overview

Northwest Registered Agent:

• Founded in 1998, Northwest Registered Agent is known for its personalized services.
• Specializes in registered agent services, but also offers business formation and other compliance services.

LegalZoom:

• Established in 2001, LegalZoom offers a wide range of legal solutions for businesses and individuals.
• While they provide registered agent services, their offerings span a broad spectrum, including estate planning, trademarks, and more.

2. Services Offered

Northwest Registered Agent:

• Business formation (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
• Registered Agent services
• Annual report filing
• Mail forwarding
• Virtual office

LegalZoom:

• Business formation (LLC, Corporation, Non-profit, etc.)
• Registered Agent services
• Trademark registration
• Copyright application
• Estate planning (wills, trusts)
• Personal legal services (divorce, name change)

3. Pricing

Northwest Registered Agent:

• Offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
• Registered agent services start at $125 per year.
• Business formation services include a year of registered agent services for free.

LegalZoom:

• Pricing can vary greatly depending on the service.
• Registered agent services start at $299 per year.
• Business formation packages come at various price points, with the basic package not including registered agent services.

4. Customer Support

Northwest Registered Agent:

• Known for its stellar customer support, where clients receive personalized assistance.
• Uses a “Corporate Guide” system where each client has a dedicated support person.

LegalZoom:

• Provides a toll-free number and email support.
• Response times and reviews on customer service are mixed, with some users reporting delays.

5. User Experience

Northwest Registered Agent:

• The website is straightforward and user-friendly.
• Focuses on educating the client, offering a wealth of free guides and information.

LegalZoom:

• The platform is user-friendly but can be overwhelming due to the vast array of services.
• Offers an extensive learning center with articles and resources.

6. Unique Selling Points

Northwest Registered Agent:

• Offers local scanning of every document, ensuring clients receive all their mail timely.
• Maintains a personalized approach, ensuring that clients can always speak to their designated Corporate Guide.

LegalZoom:

• One of the most recognized names in the online legal service industry.
• Offers a comprehensive range of services, making it a one-stop shop for many legal needs.

7. Reviews and Reputation

Northwest Registered Agent:

• Generally receives positive reviews, especially regarding customer service and transparent pricing.
• Users appreciate the personalized approach and the educational resources available.

LegalZoom:

• Being larger and catering to a broader audience, reviews are more varied.
• Some users praise the convenience, while others highlight issues with customer service or pricing.

ALSO SEE: Northwest Registered Agent vs CT Corporation

Conclusion:

When it comes to selecting between Northwest Registered Agent and LegalZoom, the decision often boils down to individual needs.

If you’re looking for a dedicated registered agent service with a personalized touch, Northwest might be the better choice.

However, if you need a wider range of legal services beyond just business formation and registered agent services, LegalZoom offers a comprehensive suite that can cater to various needs.

Always consider your specific requirements, budget, and desired level of customer support when making a decision.

LegalZoom vs Northwest Registered Agent : FAQs

1. What is a registered agent service?

• A registered agent service receives official papers and legal documents on behalf of your business. Both Northwest Registered Agent and LegalZoom offer this service.

2. When were Northwest Registered Agent and LegalZoom founded?

• Northwest Registered Agent was founded in 1998, while LegalZoom was founded in 2001.

3. Do both companies help with business formation?

• Yes, both companies offer business formation services including setting up LLCs, corporations, and more.

4. What’s the starting price for registered agent services with each company?

• Northwest Registered Agent starts at $125 per year. LegalZoom starts at $299 per year.

5. Do I get a dedicated support person with Northwest Registered Agent?

• Yes, they use a “Corporate Guide” system where each client gets a dedicated support individual.

6. Can I get legal advice from these companies?

• While both companies offer legal services, it’s always recommended to consult with an independent attorney for specific legal advice.

7. Do they offer any guarantees?

• Service guarantees vary, but both companies have customer protection and satisfaction policies. Check with each for specifics.

8. Can I use these services if I’m outside the U.S.?

• Both companies primarily cater to U.S. businesses, but international clients can use them to set up U.S.-based entities.

9. Are there hidden fees with Northwest Registered Agent or LegalZoom?

• Northwest Registered Agent prides itself on transparency with no hidden fees. LegalZoom has various price points; always check details before purchasing.

10. Do both companies offer mail forwarding?

• Northwest Registered Agent offers mail forwarding. LegalZoom offers registered agent services, which include mail receipt, but check specifics for broader mail forwarding.

11. Which company offers estate planning services?

• LegalZoom offers estate planning services, including wills and trusts.

12. Can I change my registered agent to one of these companies if I used another service to form my business?

• Yes, both companies allow you to change your registered agent service to them.

13. How do I contact customer support for each company?

• Both have phone and email support, but response times may vary.

14. Do either of the companies handle state compliance requirements?

• Yes, both offer services related to state compliance, such as annual report filings.

15. Can I handle international trademarks with LegalZoom?

• LegalZoom handles U.S. trademarks. For international trademarks, it’s best to consult with them directly.

16. What educational resources do they offer?

• Both companies have resources and articles online. Northwest Registered Agent focuses on business education, while LegalZoom offers a broader range of topics.

17. Is there a trial period for their services?

• Typically, there’s no trial period, but both companies have refund policies under certain conditions.

18. How long does business formation take with each company?

• Formation times vary by state and service. Both companies expedite services for an additional fee.

19. Can I get a virtual office through Northwest Registered Agent?

• Yes, they offer virtual office services.

20. Are the companies accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?

• Both companies have BBB profiles, but it’s always a good idea to check current ratings and reviews.

21. Which company is larger?

• LegalZoom is larger in terms of clientele, given its broader range of services.

22. Can I get help with taxes from these companies?

• LegalZoom offers business tax services. Northwest Registered Agent focuses on formation and compliance; direct tax services might not be offered.

23. Do I need to renew my registered agent service annually?

• Yes, registered agent services are typically annual and require renewal.

24. What are the cancellation policies?

• Policies can vary. It’s best to consult directly with the company before purchasing.

25. Which company is better for small businesses?

• Both cater to small businesses, but the best choice depends on specific needs.

26. Can I use these services for personal legal needs?

• LegalZoom offers personal legal services. Northwest Registered Agent is more business-focused.

27. Are there any discounts for startups?

• Promotions vary. It’s wise to check with each company for current offers.

28. Do they offer services in all 50 states?

• Yes, both companies offer services in all U.S. states.

29. Can I get a custom operating agreement with my business formation?

• Both companies offer customizable operating agreements with their business formation packages.

30. How are they handling the increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic?

• Service demands and response times can vary, so it’s best to check directly with the companies.

31. What payment methods do they accept?

• Both companies accept major credit cards, and LegalZoom also accepts PayPal.

32. Do they offer nonprofit formation?

• Yes, LegalZoom offers nonprofit formation services.

33. Can I track my order online with both companies?

• Yes, both offer online tracking for orders.

34. Do they offer copyright registration?

• LegalZoom offers copyright registration services.

35. Is there a mobile app for either company?

• As of the last update, neither company had a dedicated mobile app, but their websites are mobile-friendly.

36. Can I get assistance with foreign qualifications?

• Yes, both companies can assist with foreign qualifications for doing business outside your formation state.

37. What’s the duration for the registered agent service included in the business formation package with Northwest Registered Agent?

• They offer one year of registered agent service with their business formation packages.

38. Can I get a legal consultation through LegalZoom?

• Yes, LegalZoom offers legal consultations through their network of attorneys for a fee.

39. Do they offer annual compliance services?

• Yes, both offer annual compliance and report filing services.

40. Can I get assistance with dissolving my business through these companies?

• Yes, both offer business dissolution services.

Remember, while both Northwest Registered Agent and LegalZoom provide extensive services, it’s essential to consult directly with them or a legal professional to address specific needs and concerns.