Inc Authority Review
IncAuthority is a leading online service provider that specializes in business formation, helping entrepreneurs establish LLCs, corporations, and other business entities. With decades of experience, the company has built a strong reputation for offering reliable, cost-effective services, especially appealing to small businesses and startups.
One of the standout features of IncAuthority is its free LLC formation service, which requires clients to only pay the state filing fees. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to start a business on a tight budget. In addition to formation, they offer various paid services, including registered agent services and tax consultation.
The platform is designed to be user-friendly, guiding users through the formation process with ease. Coupled with strong customer support, IncAuthority provides a straightforward way for business owners to navigate the complexities of setting up and maintaining a business.
While the free formation service is a major draw, some users may find the upselling of additional services a bit pushy. However, overall, IncAuthority is well-regarded for its reliability, affordability, and comprehensive support for new business owners.
4.5
Pricing
Free LLC ₹0
Starter Business Bundle ₹43995
Fast Track Business Bundle ₹60597
Key Features
Free plan ✓
Expedited option ✓
Registered Agent service ✓
EIN application ✓
Operating Agreement draft ✓
Ranked 7 from 17 LLC services
Performance: |4.9| 
IncAuthority is a top-rated online business formation service known for its free LLC setup, requiring only state fees, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious entrepreneurs. With decades of experience, it offers a user-friendly platform and strong customer support, guiding clients through the complexities of forming and maintaining their businesses. While its free service is a major attraction, some users may find the upselling of additional services somewhat assertive, but overall, it remains a reliable and affordable option for new business owners.
Uptime: |4.9|
IncAuthority maintains a high level of reliability with consistent uptime, ensuring that its online platform is readily accessible for users to form and manage their businesses at any time. This reliability is crucial for entrepreneurs who need uninterrupted access to business formation services and compliance tools, making IncAuthority a dependable choice for those looking to start and sustain their businesses without delays.
Customer Service: |4.8|
IncAuthority is known for its strong customer service, offering personalized support to guide users through the business formation process. Their team is accessible via phone, email, and live chat, providing timely and knowledgeable assistance to address questions and concerns. This high level of support helps customers feel confident as they navigate the complexities of setting up and maintaining their businesses, contributing to the company’s positive reputation.
Pricing: |4.7|
IncAuthority is well-regarded for its competitive pricing, particularly its free LLC formation service, where users only pay the mandatory state filing fees. While the basic formation service is free, the company offers a range of optional add-ons, such as registered agent services, operating agreements, and tax consultations, which are available for additional fees. While some users appreciate the flexibility to choose these extras, others may find the upselling approach a bit aggressive. Nonetheless, IncAuthority’s pricing structure remains attractive, especially for startups and small businesses looking for cost-effective business formation solutions.
Overview
| Free plan? | ✔ |
| LLC filing time on entry-level plan | 1 – 4 weeks |
| Expedited option? | ✔ |
| One-off fees, annual subscription-based, or both? | Both |
| Customer support | Live US-based support by phone, email and chat during business hours 6 am – 5 pm M-F (PST) |
| Services Offered | LLC Formation, Corporation Formation , Non-Profit Formation , Registered Agent Services , EIN Application , Operating Agreements , Business License Research and Filing |
| Reputation | Positive reviews for customer service and ease of use , Known for providing free basic services , Mixed reviews on upselling of additional services |
What Is Inc Authority?
Inc Authority is a business formation service that helps individuals and entrepreneurs establish and manage business entities, such as Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), corporations, and non-profits. They provide a range of services aimed at simplifying the process of starting and maintaining a business, including registered agent services, EIN (Employer Identification Number) application, and compliance support.
How Inc Authority Works?
1. Choosing a Business Structure:
Step 1: Visit the Inc Authority website and select the type of business entity you want to form (e.g., LLC, corporation, non-profit).
Step 2: Provide the necessary information about your business, such as name, address, and details about the owners.
2. Formation Process:
Step 3: Inc Authority processes your business formation paperwork based on the information you provide.
Step 4: They submit the required documents to the appropriate state authorities to officially form your business entity.
3. Additional Services:
Step 5: You can opt for additional services such as registered agent services, which provide a legal address for receiving official documents.
Step 6: Inc Authority can also assist with obtaining an EIN, creating operating agreements or bylaws, and conducting business license research.
4. Compliance and Support:
Step 7: Inc Authority offers ongoing support to ensure your business remains compliant with state regulations.
Step 8: They provide access to resources and support for maintaining your business, including renewal reminders and compliance assistance.
5. Customer Service:
Step 9: Throughout the process, Inc Authority provides customer support via phone, email, and live chat to assist with any questions or issues.
Inc Authority aims to streamline the business formation process, making it accessible and straightforward for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Great for the Essentials, but Be Aware of Additional Costs
Inc Authority provides a solid foundation for forming LLCs, S-corps, C-corps, and nonprofits, offering a range of services to get your business up and running. The sign-up process is straightforward, using an intuitive and responsive online form that guides you through each necessary step.
While many essential features are included at no cost, be mindful that some important services require additional fees, so it’s important to keep an eye on costs as you select add-ons.
Inc Authority has a long-standing history and maintains a strong reputation, with accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers several customer support options, including live phone support, and my experience with their live chat support was very responsive and helpful.
I thoroughly reviewed Inc Authority’s website and analyzed hundreds of online reviews to assess the quality of their services. Continue reading to determine if Inc Authority is the right fit for your business needs.
FEATURES |4.7|
What Are the Best Inc Authority Features?
Although the primary service provided by Inc Authority is LLC formation, new business owners can also benefit from a number of additional services. Inc Authority wants to serve as a one-stop shop for all the necessities for a proper startup setup.
1. Free Basic Formation Services:
Inc Authority offers free business formation services for LLCs and corporations, which includes the essential steps needed to establish your business entity. This makes it an attractive option for entrepreneurstform provides a range of compliance services to help keep your business in good standing with state regulations. This includes registered agent services, EIN application assistance, and ongoing compliance reminders, which are crucial for maintaining legal and operational status.
3. LLC Formation:
Inc Authority offers a free LLC formation service. Inc Authority will compile and submit the required documentation to the appropriate secretary of state’s office, with free expedited processing offered.
9+ Services:
The mission of Inc Authority is to offer clients the necessary business planning services—such as firm formation, website design, trademark registration, and business plan preparation—that they require to launch their ventures.
1. Name Availability Search
Verify the availability of the name before registering a business. As part of its business formation services, Inc Authority will conduct a free search to determine the availability of a business name.
2. Formation Service
Inc Authority advertises that it offers corporations and LLCs free business formation services. While Inc Authority does not charge for its services, clients are required to pay any applicable filing costs levied by the state.
3. Registered Agent Services
As part of its “free LLC services,” Inc Authority provides registered agent services in addition to completing the firm formation forms and doing a name availability search.
4. Online Document Access
Online document access is available through the Client Portal provided by Inc Authority. Access to its premium services, which include licensing, logos, payroll services, taxes, trademarks, trusts, websites, accounting, business compliance, business credit, business funding, and company planning, is also available.
5. Articles of Organization
Using Inc Authority’s “free LLC services,” the business will submit articles of organization or incorporation to the relevant secretary of state, based on whether it is organized as a corporation or an LLC.
6. Website and Marketing Services
Marketing and a user-friendly website are frequently essential to a business’s success, particularly for startups.
7. Business Plan Preparation
An executive summary, goals, a mission statement, a marketing and demographic analysis, and a comprehensive financial strategy are all included in the business plan. Inc Authority will pay no additional fees for any revisions or alterations to the business plan made during the first three months of development.
8. Trademark Services
A thorough search of the USPTO’s records and state trademark databases to verify the trademark’s availability is part of the trademark services package. Additionally, Inc Authority provides 24-hour rapid electronic filing of the application, which is drafted by a trademark expert.
9. Additional Services
For a surcharge, Inc Authority provides business credit and financing services. For an extra cost, it also offers revocable living trust services to help with long-term financial planning.
What Is the Price of an Inc Authority LLC?
With the exception of any state filing costs, using Inc Authority’s LLC filing service is completely free. As your firm expands and grows, you can purchase premium services to receive extra assistance.
When you’re speaking with Inc Authority over the phone, try not to make snap decisions. After you’ve given yourself some time to consider your options, call back and request a breakdown of the various packages and costs.
When compared to other LLC formation services, Inc Authority is on the less expensive side. Both ZenBusiness and LegalZoom offer a free LLC incorporation service with their Starter packages, as well as their Basic packages. But remember that each of these free LLC formation products has a different set of features. For example, the only company that offers free registered agent services for a year is Inc Authority.
Clearly Outlined Free Plan – But Comes with Numerous Paid Add-ons
Inc Authority provides a free LLC formation plan, though you’ll still need to cover the standard state fees. Like other providers with a “free” option, they offer various paid add-ons and packages, making these services an integral part of their business model.
You can file your LLC in any of the 50 states, as well as in Washington D.C. Inc Authority also accommodates non-US residents looking to establish a business in the US.
Importantly, the free LLC package includes a Registered Agent service for the first year. Beyond that, their “premium service bundles” offer everything in the free plan, plus a broader selection of additional services.
Free Plan Includes a Registered Agent for the First Year.
Every LLC is required to appoint a Registered Agent, a person or entity responsible for receiving legal documents during business hours. While many companies charge for this service or include it only in their premium plans, Inc Authority offers it free for the first year with all plans. This can be a significant advantage if you want to focus on running your business rather than dealing with paperwork and legal matters.
However, it’s important to note that although the free Registered Agent service is a great benefit, you’ll need to pay for it annually after the first year unless you choose to take on this responsibility yourself or hire someone else to do it.
Inc Authority Will Handle Your EIN Application
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is an IRS-issued tax identifier essential for businesses with employees and often required for opening a business bank account, which is recommended to separate personal and business finances.
Inc Authority will apply for an EIN on your behalf with its paid plans. If you’re using the free plan, you’ll need to pay extra for this service, though Inc Authority occasionally offers a free EIN application as part of a limited-time promotion.
Obtain an Operating Agreement (If Needed)
For an additional fee, Inc Authority can provide an LLC Operating Agreement, which is valuable for business management and planning, defining important procedures. Some banks and lenders require an Operating Agreement to open a business bank account, and it is mandatory in certain states.
Digital Business Services at Your Convenience
The Inc Authority free plan includes digital document storage and access, ensuring your data remains private and not shared with third parties.
Premium plans offer additional features, such as a website domain name and five email addresses. However, website design and hosting are not included.
Popular LLC Services
PROS AND CONS OF INC AUTHORITY
Pros of Inc Authority
1. Free Basic Formation:
Provides free LLC and corporation formation services, making it a budget-friendly option for entrepreneurs.
2. Comprehensive Support:
Offers valuable services such as registered agent support and compliance reminders to help maintain business status.
3. User-Friendly Interface:
The online platform is easy to navigate, with clear instructions and a straightforward process for setting up a business.
4. Flexible Service Packages:
Allows customization with various add-ons like expedited processing and operating agreements, catering to different business needs.
5. Accessible Customer Service:
Provides support through multiple channels including phone, email, and live chat, ensuring assistance is available when needed.
Cons of Inc Authority
State Fees Not Included:
While the basic formation service is free, state filing fees are additional and not covered in the offer.
2. Aggressive Upselling:
Users might experience upselling of premium services and packages, which can increase the overall cost.
3. Mixed Feedback on Additional Services:
Some customers report dissatisfaction with the upselling practices and additional charges for services not initially included.
4. Limited Free Features:
The free service may lack some of the features and protections available in paid packages, which might be necessary for some businesses.
5. Processing Times Variability:
Standard processing times can be longer compared to expedited services, potentially causing delays in business setup.
Why You Should Consider Inc Authority?
Here’s a table summarizing reasons why you should consider Inc Authority:
EASY OF USE |4.9|
Inc Authority is designed to be user-friendly, with a straightforward online platform that simplifies the business formation process. The website offers a step-by-step guide that walks users through the essential tasks of setting up an LLC or corporation. The intuitive interface helps you easily enter your information, select services, and track your application status without confusion.
Additionally, Inc Authority’s customer support is readily available to assist with any questions or issues that may arise. Their comprehensive FAQs and live chat options further enhance the ease of use, ensuring that you have the support needed to navigate the business formation process smoothly.
An Intuitive, User-Friendly Website – But No Pricing Details Available
The sign-up process with Inc Authority is straightforward, starting with a simple sign-up link. The website features a step-by-step guide tailored to each state, allowing you to review specific requirements. After registering your business with your chosen state, you’ll gain access to an online dashboard.
You can expedite Inc Authority’s filing process by paying a one-time fee or selecting the Fast Track Business Bundle. However, the overall processing time varies by state. For instance, New York typically processes LLC documents within a week, while Delaware may take three to four weeks. The turnaround time can also be influenced by the volume of requests the state receives.
One significant drawback is the lack of pricing information for the premium Business Bundles on the website. This information is not available through live chat either, meaning you’ll need to call Inc Authority or start the sign-up process without knowing the costs upfront. If you’ve already spoken with customer service, you’ll have this information before you begin.
Getting Started With Inc Authority
To start the process, you’ll need to select a business entity and the state where you want to file. Once you’ve chosen your state, you’ll be guided through a series of questions.
They then led me to a screen where I provided information about my business type and whether I’ll have employees. Additional questions addressed business details and accepted payment methods. Overall, it only takes a few minutes to reach the payment screen.
Easy-to-Use Account Dashboard
After signing up and having your documents processed by the state, you’ll gain access to the account dashboard. The Inc Authority dashboard is well-organized and simple to navigate.
Create a Account with Inc Authority
1. Visit the Inc Authority Website:
Go to Inc Authority’s website.
2. Choose Your Service:
Select the type of business entity you want to form (e.g., LLC, corporation, non-profit) and choose whether you want the free basic formation or a paid package with additional features.
3. Start the Formation Process:
Click on the relevant option to start the business formation process. This will take you to a form so you can fill it out.
4. Create an Account:
Provide your email address and create a password to set up your Inc Authority account. You can track your application and get support by doing this.
5. Fill Out the Required Information:
Complete the online form with necessary information about your business, such as the business name, address, and owner details.
6. Review and Submit:
Review all the information you’ve provided, make any necessary corrections, and then submit your application. Inc Authority will process your information and keep you updated on the status of your business formation.
Once your account is created and your application is submitted, you can log in anytime to check the status or access additional services.
SUPPORT |4.6|
Inc Authority offers robust customer service and support to assist users throughout the business formation process. Their support team is accessible through multiple channels, including phone, email, and live chat, ensuring that you can get help in the way that’s most convenient for you. They provide assistance with a range of topics, from navigating the platform and completing forms to addressing specific questions about services and compliance.
In addition to direct support, Inc Authority features a comprehensive FAQ section and a resource library on their website. These resources offer valuable information and guidance on common issues and business formation topics, allowing users to find answers and solutions quickly. This combination of direct support and self-help resources helps ensure that you have the assistance you need to successfully establish and manage your business.
Review:
PRICING |4.7|
Free Plan Is Limited, and Premium Plans Are Expensive
Inc Authority offers a basic free plan with optional one-time fees, along with a couple of subscription-based service bundles. You can stick with the free plan and add essential features like an EIN, or opt for one of the paid plans. However, the pricing isn’t transparent – I had to contact support to get accurate price quotes.
The free plan is particularly appealing because of the included Registered Agent service for the first year. Other valuable features in the free plan include a business name check to ensure your chosen name is available, and support from real, live representatives during business hours.
However, Inc Authority tends to upsell important services like obtaining an EIN and drafting an Operating Agreement—services that are often included in the paid plans of other vendors, which are generally more affordable. While it’s easy to decline these add-ons during sign-up, you might find yourself needing or wanting them.
The premium Starter Business Bundle offers several additional services not included in the free plan, such as an Operating Agreement draft, EIN application, ownership certificates, and access to a personal consultation with tax experts. My concern with this mid-level plan is that it’s priced higher than many competitors, and yet expedited filing is not included.
The Fast Track Business Bundle builds on the Starter package by adding access to a banking specialist and personalized business advice, with expedited filing included. However, this plan is priced significantly higher than similar offerings from competitors.
A major drawback with all plans is that after the first year, you’ll need to pay $179 annually to maintain the Registered Agent service, even if you’re on one of the premium Business Bundles. That said, if you plan to act as your own Registered Agent after the first year, this won’t be an issue for you.
Inc Authority
FREE LLC
₹0
/year
Filing Speed: 1-4 weeks
Registered Agent Service: Free for 1 year
App or Online Dashboard: Web-based account dashboard
Inc Authority
STARTER BUSINESS BUNDLE
₹43995
/year
Filing Speed: 1-4 weeks
Registered Agent Service: Free for 1 year
EIN Application: Included
Creative or Digital Services: 5 emails and website included, add-on packages for branding and graphic design
App or Online Dashboard: Web-based account dashboard
Inc Authority
FAST TRACK BUSINESS BUNDLE
₹43995
/year
Filing Speed: 1-4 weeks
Registered Agent Service: Free for 1 year
EIN Application: Included
Creative or Digital Services: 5 emails and website included, add-on packages for branding and graphic design
App or Online Dashboard: Web-based account dashboard
Inc Authority
FREE LLC
₹0
/year
Filing Speed: 1-4 weeks
Registered Agent Service: Free for 1 year
App or Online Dashboard: Web-based account dashboard
Inc Authority
STARTER BUSINESS BUNDLE
₹43995
/year
Filing Speed: 1-4 weeks
Registered Agent Service: Free for 1 year
EIN Application: Included
Creative or Digital Services: 5 emails and website included, add-on packages for branding and graphic design
App or Online Dashboard: Web-based account dashboard
Inc Authority
FAST TRACK BUSINESS BUNDLE
₹60597
/year
Filing Speed: 1-4 weeks
Registered Agent Service: Free for 1 year
EIN Application: Included
Creative or Digital Services: 5 emails and website included, add-on packages for branding and graphic design
App or Online Dashboard: Web-based account dashboard
Inc Authority Alternatives
Frequently Asked Question.
Inc Authority is a business formation service that assists individuals and entrepreneurs in creating and managing LLCs, corporations, and non-profit organizations. They offer free basic business formation services with additional paid options.
Yes, Inc Authority offers free basic LLC and corporation formation services. However, state filing fees and additional services like registered agent support or expedited processing are not included and will incur extra costs.
Inc Authority provides services such as business formation, registered agent services, EIN application, operating agreements, business license research, and ongoing compliance support.
Inc Authority earns revenue through the sale of additional services, such as premium packages, registered agent services after the first year, and other business-related add-ons.
State filing fees are the mandatory charges imposed by each state for the formation of a business entity. These fees vary by state and are separate from Inc Authority’s free formation service.
A registered agent is a person or service that receives legal documents on behalf of your business. Most states require a registered agent, and Inc Authority provides this service, with the first year often included for free.
The time it takes to form an LLC can vary depending on the state’s processing times. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
Yes, Inc Authority can assist with obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS, which is necessary for tax purposes and hiring employees.
The free service includes the preparation and filing of the Articles of Organization. Additional services like operating agreements, EIN application, and registered agent services are available at extra cost.
Inc Authority provides customer support via phone, email, and live chat. Many users find their support helpful, although experiences can vary.
Yes, you can upgrade to a premium package or add additional services at any time during or after the formation process.
Refund policies vary, and it’s best to contact Inc Authority directly for specific refund requests. Typically, fees for services already rendered are non-refundable.
Yes, Inc Authority provides business formation services in all 50 U.S. states.
Inc Authority is known for offering a free basic formation service, which is a major advantage over competitors. However, competitors may offer more comprehensive legal services or different pricing structures that might better suit different needs.