When choosing between BusinessAnywhere and LegalZoom for U.S. business formation, your decision largely depends on your business needs:
- BusinessAnywhere is ideal for digital nomads, international entrepreneurs, or remote-first businesses seeking a simple, virtual-first solution. Its focus includes LLC formation, registered agent services, virtual mailboxes, and online notary services – all managed through a single dashboard. Pricing is straightforward, with a registered agent service at $147/year (first year free) and virtual mailbox plans starting at $20/month.
- LegalZoom caters to businesses needing broader legal services beyond formation, such as intellectual property protection, wills, or compliance assistance. LLC formation starts at $0 + state fees, but additional services like registered agent support cost $249/year. LegalZoom also offers tiered LLC packages (Basic, Pro, Premium) with varying levels of attorney assistance.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | BusinessAnywhere | LegalZoom |
|---|---|---|
| Business Formation | LLC, Corporation (all 50 states) | LLC, Corporation, Nonprofit, DBA |
| Registered Agent | $147/year (1st year free) | $249/year |
| Virtual Mailbox | $20/month (unlimited scanning) | Available with mail forwarding |
| Online Notary | $37/session | Not offered |
| Pricing Structure | Transparent annual billing | Tiered pricing with upsells |
| Customer Reviews | Trustpilot: 4.6 | Trustpilot: 4.6 |
Choose BusinessAnywhere for simplicity, affordability, and location-independent tools. Opt for LegalZoom if you need extensive legal support or more service variety.
BusinessAnywhere Overview
Launched in 2021 by Bobby Casey, BusinessAnywhere provides virtual solutions for US business formation and compliance. It’s a game-changer for digital nomads, international entrepreneurs, and US-based business owners who want a US presence without needing to reside there. Let’s break down its core services and standout features.
Core Services
BusinessAnywhere simplifies US business formation and compliance with four key services:
- US Business Registration: Starting at $0.00 (plus state fees), the platform supports LLC and corporation registration across all 50 states.
- Registered Agent Service: Free for the first year, then $147 annually. This ensures the proper receipt and forwarding of legal documents, making it easier to stay compliant.
- Virtual Mailbox: Starting at $20.00 per month, this service provides a physical US address for business correspondence. Currently, it’s available in Wyoming, New Mexico, and Arizona.
- Remote Online Notary: Entrepreneurs can access online notary services for $37.00 per session, offering convenience and flexibility.
By covering these essentials, BusinessAnywhere makes it simple to establish and maintain a US business presence.
Key Features
The platform’s modern features cater to today’s entrepreneurs. A centralized dashboard offers unlimited mail scanning, remote access to correspondence, and automation for compliance tasks like renewals – helping businesses avoid penalties and stay in good standing.
Customer reviews often praise the platform’s transparent pricing and reliable support. Roman Massey shared, "BusinessAnywhere set up my WY LLC quickly and affordably. Support is excellent, and pricing is transparent".
BusinessAnywhere also boasts strong customer satisfaction ratings: 5/5 stars on Google (based on 25+ reviews) and 4.6/5 stars on Trustpilot (from 5+ reviews). Additionally, its digital-first approach reduces paper usage and physical document storage, appealing to entrepreneurs who prioritize eco-friendly practices.
LegalZoom Overview
Established in 1999, LegalZoom has become a well-known name in the legal services industry, helping form over 4 million businesses to date. While BusinessAnywhere focuses on virtual business formation, LegalZoom offers a much broader array of legal services.
LegalZoom serves a diverse clientele, with nearly 60% of its users being first-time entrepreneurs.
Main Services
LegalZoom provides a wide range of legal services that extend well beyond business formation. Its formation services cater to LLCs, corporations, and nonprofits, with pricing starting at $0 plus state filing fees for LLCs. For corporations, pricing begins at $149 plus state fees, while nonprofits start at $99 plus state fees.
The platform also offers legal solutions such as wills, trusts, intellectual property protections (trademarks, copyrights, patents), and registered agent services. Additionally, it supports businesses with compliance needs, including obtaining licenses and permits.
LegalZoom’s LLC packages range from basic filing services to premium options that include attorney assistance.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| LLC Formation | Assists in structuring businesses to safeguard personal assets |
| Corporation Formation | Ideal for businesses planning to issue shares or go public |
| Nonprofit Formation | Tailored for organizations with public or social benefit goals |
| DBA | Enables businesses to operate under a trade name without forming an LLC or corporation |
This extensive service lineup strengthens LegalZoom’s position in the market, as outlined below.
Market Position
With 25 years in the industry and its 2025 acquisition of Formation Nation, LegalZoom has broadened its offerings for small businesses.
Research shows that 48% of business owners prioritize limiting personal liability when forming an LLC, while 50% aim to enhance their business’s legitimacy to foster growth and attract capital. LegalZoom aligns its services with these needs, as evidenced by market trends and customer experiences.
Customer reviews frequently highlight the platform’s dependability and cost-effectiveness. For instance, Karen Yoo, a LegalZoom customer, shared:
"We’ve used LegalZoom for quite a few things over the years, and overall it’s gone very smoothly. They’ve been easy to work with and very affordable."
LegalZoom also emphasizes accessibility and convenience. Erin Mrozek, Senior Director of Product Marketing, Research & Insights, noted:
"We’re seeing a remarkable shift in how people approach entrepreneurship, with more individuals than ever finding innovative ways to turn their passions into sustainable enterprises. LegalZoom is committed to not only helping launch your business, but to also serving as the one-stop-shop for your compliance and legal needs."
The platform has benefited from favorable timing, as small business growth in the first quarter of 2024 increased by 50% compared to the same period in 2019. Notably, about 30% of new businesses are typically formed in the first quarter of the year. These factors highlight LegalZoom’s strengths as a leader in the legal services space, setting the stage to compare its features and pricing.
Feature Comparison
When deciding between BusinessAnywhere and LegalZoom for business formation, it’s essential to understand how their features compare. BusinessAnywhere offers an all-in-one solution for U.S. business formation, combining services like company registration, registered agent support, a virtual mailbox with unlimited scanning, and remote online notary – all accessible through a single dashboard. This streamlined setup allows entrepreneurs to handle key business tasks in one place, promoting what the company refers to as "location freedom".
LegalZoom, on the other hand, provides a broader array of business formation options, covering LLCs, corporations (S corp and C corp), nonprofits, and DBA registrations. Beyond formation, they offer compliance services, annual report filings, and registered agent services, along with a suite of legal support options.
Key Differences in Service Integration
One of the standout distinctions lies in how these platforms integrate their services. BusinessAnywhere simplifies operations with features like digital mail management, giving users easy online access to all mail. LegalZoom, while offering virtual mailbox services, pairs this with tiered LLC formation packages – Basic, Pro, and Premium – that include varying levels of attorney assistance.
When it comes to compliance and document management, BusinessAnywhere incorporates compliance alerts directly into its dashboard, helping users stay on top of deadlines. LegalZoom, meanwhile, handles compliance documents as part of its larger legal service offerings, with business compliance and annual report filing available as separate services. LegalZoom also expands its capabilities through partnerships with third-party providers.
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | BusinessAnywhere | LegalZoom |
|---|---|---|
| Business Formation | Available in all 50 U.S. states | LLC, Corporation, Nonprofit, DBA |
| Registered Agent Service | Included with dashboard access | Available as a separate service |
| Virtual Mailbox | Unlimited scanning and storage | Available with mail forwarding |
| Online Notary | Remote online notary services | Not specifically offered |
| Document Management | Centralized dashboard | Part of broader legal services |
| Compliance Alerts | Integrated notifications | Business compliance coverage |
| Service Integration | Single platform approach | Multiple service packages |
| Attorney Support | Not specified | Included in Premium packages |
Strategic Partnerships and User Experience
LegalZoom stands out with its strategic partnerships, such as collaborations with Wix.com for website creation and Square for payment processing, offering users additional tools and exclusive deals. These integrations enhance its appeal to businesses looking for a more comprehensive ecosystem.
In contrast, BusinessAnywhere focuses on simplifying core business operations. Its unified dashboard enables users to manage business formation, mail handling, document notarization, and compliance tracking – all without switching between platforms.
Ultimately, the choice between these two platforms depends on your priorities. BusinessAnywhere emphasizes a streamlined, centralized experience, while LegalZoom provides a wider range of services, bolstered by legal support and third-party integrations. Both cater to different needs, offering unique approaches to business formation and compliance management.
Pricing and Value
When comparing the pricing models of BusinessAnywhere and LegalZoom, it’s clear that these platforms take very different approaches to business formation costs and service delivery. Each has its own way of structuring fees and delivering value, which reflects their distinct philosophies.
BusinessAnywhere Pricing
BusinessAnywhere offers a straightforward annual billing system with three tiers tailored to its virtual mailbox service. Here’s the breakdown:
- Basic plan: Costs $20 per month (billed annually), allowing up to 2 mail recipients. This includes unlimited mail handling, package processing, and document scanning.
- Premium plan: Priced at $30 per month (billed annually) for up to 5 mail recipients.
- Advanced plan: Costs $65 per month (billed annually) and supports up to 20 mail recipients.
All plans come with unlimited scanning and storage, ensuring no extra fees for document processing, no matter the volume. The clear annual billing helps businesses keep costs predictable, and the only variable is how many mail recipients are required. Next, let’s dive into LegalZoom’s pricing to see how it compares.
LegalZoom Pricing
LegalZoom takes a service-specific pricing approach, with costs varying based on the services selected. For LLC formation, the company offers three main packages:
- Basic plan: Starts at $0 plus state filing fees, covering articles of organization, a name check service, and a tax consultation.
- Pro plan: Costs $249 plus state filing fees, adding an operating agreement, EIN, business license guide, and specialist consultations.
- Premium plan: Priced at $299 plus state filing fees, offering expedited processing.
For corporations, LegalZoom provides additional tiered options. The Economy package includes standard processing and a free website, while the Express Gold package offers 1–2 day processing with expedited shipping. Beyond formation services, extras like registered agent support cost $249 per year, and attorney services range from $259 to $1,399 as one-time fees. However, LegalZoom’s pricing structure is often criticized for its complexity, with frequent upsells and layered fees making it harder to estimate the total cost upfront.
Price Comparison Table
| Feature | BusinessAnywhere (Basic) | LegalZoom (Basic LLC) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $20/month (annual billing) | $0 + state filing fees |
| Primary Service | Virtual mailbox and business formation | LLC formation documents |
| Mail Recipients | Up to 2 | Not applicable |
| Document Scanning | Unlimited | Not included |
| Annual Cost | $240 | Varies by state fees (~$50–$500) |
| Additional Services | Integrated in dashboard | Priced separately |
| Billing Structure | Annual commitment | One-time plus ongoing fees |
The pricing philosophies of these two platforms highlight their value differences. BusinessAnywhere’s $240 annual fee for the Basic plan includes a virtual mailbox, unlimited document scanning, and integrated tools for managing business needs. On the other hand, LegalZoom’s free Basic LLC formation may seem appealing at first, but the need for add-ons – like registered agent support ($249 annually) – can quickly increase costs.
For entrepreneurs who prioritize predictable pricing, BusinessAnywhere offers transparency and simplicity. Meanwhile, LegalZoom’s modular pricing provides flexibility but often results in higher overall expenses when multiple services are bundled. Bobby Casey, the founder of BusinessAnywhere, specifically designed the platform to offer modern, straightforward business solutions without hidden fees.
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Ease of Use and Customer Support
When it comes to forming a business and staying compliant, having a smooth setup process and reliable customer support can make all the difference.
Setup Process and User Experience
BusinessAnywhere simplifies the setup process, typically completing it within 1–2 weeks. With a single, integrated dashboard, it centralizes compliance alerts and document management, making everything easily accessible in one place. This approach ensures a streamlined experience for users who value efficiency and simplicity.
LegalZoom, on the other hand, takes about 7–10 days to complete the setup for new customers. While slightly longer, this difference reflects the distinct onboarding process each platform offers. Both aim to provide a user-friendly experience, but the timelines and methods vary.
Customer Support Options
BusinessAnywhere provides around-the-clock access to its platform, ensuring users can manage their needs at any time. However, details about LegalZoom’s customer support options are less clear, leaving room for further exploration when comparing the two services.
RAG Source
Best Fit for Different Business Types
This section breaks down which types of entrepreneurs are best suited for each platform. Each service is tailored to meet the needs of specific business profiles.
When to Choose BusinessAnywhere
BusinessAnywhere works best for entrepreneurs looking for a digital-first, location-independent solution. It’s a great option for digital nomads, real estate investors, and remote-first businesses that require a U.S. presence without the hassle of physical paperwork. With business formation services available in all 50 U.S. states and a virtual mailbox feature, it’s particularly helpful for those frequently on the move or operating overseas.
The platform’s virtual mailbox and affordable registered agent service, priced at $147 per year, make it especially appealing for startups watching their budgets. Its efficiency and user-friendly approach have earned it a Trustpilot rating of 4.6 out of 5.
When to Choose LegalZoom
LegalZoom is a solid choice for businesses that need more than just formation services – it’s built for entrepreneurs who require comprehensive legal support. Beyond setting up various types of business entities, LegalZoom offers a wide range of legal services that can scale as your business grows.
For entrepreneurs focused on expansion, LegalZoom provides services like intellectual property protection, compliance assistance starting at $69 annually, and document reviews priced between $39 and $219. This makes it a versatile option for businesses with evolving legal needs. Backed by a Trustpilot rating of 4.6 out of 5, LegalZoom is a reliable partner for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
Choosing between BusinessAnywhere and LegalZoom ultimately comes down to your business needs and priorities. Both platforms provide reliable business formation services, but they cater to different types of entrepreneurs.
BusinessAnywhere is an excellent option for entrepreneurs who value flexibility and simplicity, particularly those who run location-independent businesses. With a clear "no hidden fees" policy and a customizable à la carte pricing model, you only pay for the services you need. Its all-in-one dashboard – offering company formation, registered agent services, a virtual mailbox, and online notary services – makes it especially appealing for digital nomads and remote business owners.
On the other hand, LegalZoom is better suited for businesses focused on growth and those that may require additional legal services beyond formation. Whether you need help with trademarks, copyrights, or estate planning, LegalZoom offers a range of options to meet these needs.
The pricing models also reflect their different approaches. BusinessAnywhere prioritizes transparent and predictable costs, while LegalZoom offers tiered pricing with various service bundles. BusinessAnywhere’s straightforward pricing can help avoid unexpected fees, which is a common concern with some services.
Both platforms will get your business up and running, but the real difference lies in how they support you after formation. Take the time to evaluate your goals, budget, and specific requirements to determine which platform aligns best with your entrepreneurial journey.
FAQs
How does BusinessAnywhere differ from LegalZoom in terms of services offered?
BusinessAnywhere specializes in affordable business formation services designed with entrepreneurs and small business owners in mind. Their offerings include free business registration, first-year registered agent services, and customizable packages that adapt to individual needs. This approach makes it a smart pick for those prioritizing flexibility and budget-friendly options.
In contrast, LegalZoom provides a broader array of legal and business services, but these often come with steeper prices and less clarity about extra charges. For those who value straightforward pricing, ease of use, and overall cost-effectiveness, BusinessAnywhere emerges as a strong choice for launching and managing a business.
How does BusinessAnywhere’s pricing compare to LegalZoom’s for entrepreneurs starting a business?
BusinessAnywhere offers a free business formation service, which also includes the first year of registered agent services. This setup can save new entrepreneurs a good chunk of money during their early stages. On the other hand, LegalZoom’s LLC formation packages start at $0 (plus state fees) for the basics. However, if you need additional services like registered agent support, you could end up paying as much as $299 per year, making it a pricier choice for those wanting more comprehensive assistance.
For entrepreneurs focused on keeping expenses low while still covering the essentials, BusinessAnywhere stands out with its more straightforward and cost-effective pricing.
Is BusinessAnywhere a good choice for business owners focused on sustainability and working remotely?
BusinessAnywhere stands out as a smart option for entrepreneurs who prioritize eco-conscious practices and the convenience of remote work. With its virtual mailbox services, business owners can handle their mail entirely online, cutting down on paper use and promoting environmentally friendly habits. These services are tailored for professionals who work from anywhere, offering the freedom to manage your business globally while ensuring compliance with U.S. business regulations.
