Starting a business can be both exciting and overwhelming. Choosing the right service to help with the formation of your LLC, corporation, or other business entities is one of the first steps.
ZenBusiness and Swyft Filings are two of the most popular services in the business formation industry, each offering a range of plans, features, and services to suit different needs.
In this detailed comparison, we’ll look at both companies to help you determine which one is best for you.
1. Overview of ZenBusiness and Swyft Filings
ZenBusiness Overview
ZenBusiness was founded in 2015 with a mission to simplify the process of forming and managing businesses. The company offers a variety of services, not just business formation.
ZenBusiness is aimed at entrepreneurs who are looking for a long-term partner to help them maintain compliance, manage paperwork, and stay on top of business requirements.
Their platform provides a wide range of tools, such as registered agent services, compliance monitoring, and annual report filing.
Swyft Filings Overview
Swyft Filings, also founded in 2015, specializes in providing fast and affordable business formation services.
Unlike ZenBusiness, which offers a more comprehensive set of tools for business management, Swyft Filings focuses primarily on quickly setting up LLCs, corporations, and other business entities.
They also provide a range of add-ons like registered agent services and compliance tools, but they are more suited to entrepreneurs who want a simple and efficient service for their business formation needs.
2. Pricing Comparison: Which Service Offers Better Value?
Pricing is a critical factor when selecting a business formation service. Both ZenBusiness and Swyft Filings offer multiple pricing plans with varying features.
ZenBusiness Pricing Plans
ZenBusiness operates on a subscription-based model, offering three main pricing tiers:
- Basic Plan (Free + State Fees)
The Basic plan costs $0, but you’ll still need to pay state filing fees. This plan includes the essential service of LLC formation, which includes filing the Articles of Organization. However, it does not include other services like registered agent support or an operating agreement. These can be purchased separately.
- Pro Plan ($199 + State Fees)
The Pro plan includes everything from the Basic plan, plus additional services like registered agent service for one year, a customized operating agreement, and business compliance tools. This plan is ideal for those who need more support as they set up their business.
- Premium Plan ($349 + State Fees)
The Premium plan includes everything from the Pro plan, as well as expedited filing, a free business website, and a business email address.
This plan is best for entrepreneurs who want a hands-off approach with more tools and faster service.
Registered Agent Service:
ZenBusiness includes registered agent service with the Pro and Premium plans. If you choose the Basic plan, you can add this service for an additional $99 per year.
Swyft Filings Pricing Plans
Swyft Filings offers a more straightforward, one-time payment structure. Their pricing plans are:
- Basic Plan ($0 + State Fees)
The Basic plan is the most affordable option. It includes LLC formation and filing the Articles of Organization.
However, it does not include additional services like a registered agent or operating agreement, which must be purchased separately.
- Standard Plan ($169 + State Fees)
The Standard plan adds a registered agent service for one year and an operating agreement. It’s a solid choice for those who need more than just the basic LLC formation.
- Premium Plan ($269 + State Fees)
The Premium plan includes everything from the Standard plan, along with expedited filing, a free business website, and other tools. This plan is perfect for those who want a faster setup and additional features.
Registered Agent Service:
Swyft Filings charges an additional $149 per year for registered agent services. This service is included with the Standard and Premium plans.
Verdict on Pricing
Swyft Filings generally has lower starting prices, particularly for those who only need basic LLC formation.
However, ZenBusiness offers more value at higher price points, especially for entrepreneurs who want a bundle of services like compliance management and registered agent support included in their plan.
3. Services and Features Comparison
ZenBusiness and Swyft Filings both offer LLC and corporation formation, but ZenBusiness provides more in-depth services for ongoing business management.
ZenBusiness Services
ZenBusiness is known for its comprehensive set of services that extend beyond business formation. Key features include:
- LLC Formation: Includes the preparation and filing of Articles of Organization.
- Registered Agent Service: Included in the Pro and Premium plans, ZenBusiness offers registered agent services to handle legal documents and state communications on your behalf.
- Operating Agreement: ZenBusiness provides a customizable operating agreement with the Pro and Premium plans. This agreement is vital for establishing your LLC’s structure and management.
- Compliance Tools: ZenBusiness offers compliance management services that include reminders for filing annual reports and other necessary state filings. This helps you avoid penalties for missing deadlines.
- Business Website & Email: With the Premium plan, ZenBusiness provides a free business website and email address, which can be very useful when launching your business online.
Swyft Filings Services
Swyft Filings offers a more basic set of services that focuses on forming your business and helping you get started. Key features include:
- LLC Formation: Includes the filing of your Articles of Organization to create your LLC or corporation.
- Registered Agent Service: Available as an add-on service for $149 per year, or included in the Standard and Premium plans.
- Operating Agreement: Provided with the Standard and Premium plans, this is a key document for your LLC’s internal structure.
- Expedited Filing: The Premium plan includes expedited filing to speed up the processing time.
- Business Website & Email: The Premium plan includes a free business website, though it’s not as comprehensive as the one offered by ZenBusiness.
Verdict on Services
If you need more than just business formation and want additional support for running your business, ZenBusiness is the better choice.
Its Pro and Premium plans offer more value with tools for ongoing compliance, a business website, and support for maintaining good standing with state regulations.
Swyft Filings is a great option for quick, straightforward formation services, but it doesn’t provide the same range of features unless you pay extra.
4. Customer Support and User Experience
Customer support is a crucial factor, especially if you encounter issues during the business formation process. Both ZenBusiness and Swyft Filings offer support, but their approach differs.
ZenBusiness Customer Support
ZenBusiness is well-known for providing excellent customer support. Their team is available 24/7 through chat, email, and phone.
Customers generally report a positive experience with ZenBusiness, especially for more complex questions related to business management and compliance.
ZenBusiness provides proactive support and guidance, which is beneficial for entrepreneurs who need help after their business is formed.
Swyft Filings Customer Support
Swyft Filings offers customer support via phone and email, but their hours are more limited compared to ZenBusiness.
While many users report friendly and helpful service, some have noted long wait times when calling for assistance.
Swyft Filings does not offer the same level of proactive support that ZenBusiness provides, which could be a drawback if you need help with compliance or other ongoing tasks.
Verdict on Customer Support
ZenBusiness has the edge in customer support, offering more comprehensive and accessible help. Their 24/7 availability and ongoing support for business management set them apart from Swyft Filings.
5. Turnaround Time: How Quickly Can You Get Your Business Formed?
Turnaround time is important, especially if you’re on a tight schedule and need your LLC or corporation formed quickly.
ZenBusiness Turnaround Time
ZenBusiness typically processes LLC formations in about 7-10 business days, depending on the state.
For an additional fee, they offer expedited filing services that can reduce processing time to 1-2 business days. This makes ZenBusiness a flexible option if you need faster service.
Swyft Filings Turnaround Time
Swyft Filings is known for its quick turnaround times. Their standard processing time is typically 1-3 business days.
If you need even faster service, their Premium plan offers expedited processing, which speeds up the filing process.
Verdict on Turnaround Time
Swyft Filings takes the lead when it comes to turnaround time. If you need your LLC or corporation formed quickly, Swyft Filings offers faster processing times, especially with their expedited filing options.
6. User Feedback and Reviews
When evaluating these services, looking at user reviews can give you a better understanding of what to expect.
ZenBusiness Reviews
ZenBusiness generally receives positive feedback for its user-friendly interface, excellent customer support, and comprehensive range of services. Many users appreciate the ease of use and the convenience of having ongoing support.
Some users have mentioned that the subscription model can be confusing, especially if they weren’t aware of recurring fees for services like registered agent support.
Swyft Filings Reviews
Swyft Filings also has positive reviews, with users praising its fast service and low cost. Customers like the straightforward process and the affordability of the Basic plan.
However, some users have expressed frustration with upselling during the checkout process and the additional fees for add-ons like registered agent services.
Verdict on Reviews
Both services have generally positive reviews, but ZenBusiness tends to receive higher praise for its comprehensive support and the additional services provided with its higher-tier plans.
Swyft Filings is highly rated for its simplicity and affordability, but it doesn’t offer the same depth of services without paying extra.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose ZenBusiness If:
- You need a comprehensive business formation service with ongoing support.
- You want tools for compliance management, registered agent services, and a business website.
- You are willing to pay a little more for added convenience and long-term business support.
Choose Swyft Filings If:
- You want an affordable, straightforward solution for forming your LLC or corporation.
- Speed and simplicity are your top priorities, and you don’t mind paying extra for add-ons.
- You don’t need a lot of ongoing support and are just looking to get your business formed quickly.
In conclusion, ZenBusiness is ideal for those who want a full-service solution with ongoing support, while Swyft Filings is perfect for entrepreneurs who need a quick, cost-effective way to form their business.
Both are excellent options depending on your needs, so consider what features and support are most important to you before making a decision.
FAQs
What is the difference between ZenBusiness and Swyft Filings?
ZenBusiness offers more comprehensive services, including ongoing support and compliance tools. Swyft Filings is simpler and faster, focusing mainly on LLC formation with optional add-ons.
Which service is more affordable, ZenBusiness or Swyft Filings?
Swyft Filings is generally more affordable, starting at $49 for basic LLC formation. ZenBusiness has higher starting prices but includes more services in its plans.
Do both services offer registered agent services?
Yes, both offer registered agent services, but ZenBusiness includes it in its Pro and Premium plans, while Swyft Filings charges extra for it.
How fast are ZenBusiness and Swyft Filings at processing LLC formations?
Swyft Filings is faster, typically processing in 1-3 business days, while ZenBusiness takes around 7-10 business days, unless expedited.
Which service offers better customer support?
ZenBusiness has 24/7 customer support and more comprehensive ongoing help, while Swyft Filings has limited hours and less proactive support.