Northwest Registered Agent is a Business Identity Service. Start and run your business the right way. In 10 minutes and 10 clicks you can get your LLC, Address, Mail Scanning, Phone Line, Professional Email, Domain Name, Web Hosting, Registered Agent, and ongoing business filings set up with Privacy By Default®.
Privacy By Default
- Business address included
- Free mail forwarding
- We never sell your data. Ever.
Corporate Guides
- Our business experts guide you through starting & maintaining a business.
- Lifetime guide service for whenever you need help.
It All Begins with Registered Agent Service
Starting a business right begins with a registered agent—so that’s where we began. We started our journey offering services in every state, growing into the top national registered agent service with offices across the nation. This gave us the ability to better protect your privacy with use of our business address on your public documents. As an established registered agent, we started handling the state filings. We began developing free legal forms to provide extra support after formation. We even began buying our own buildings, allowing us to add more privacy-focused services, like mail forwarding and virtual office. We now offer domains, web hosting, email, and phone service so you can create a complete business identity from scratch.
But we couldn’t offer the privacy protection or the services we do without first being a registered agent service. It’s who we are. Just read Our Manifesto.
What a Registered Agent Is
A registered agent is an individual or company that accepts service of process—lawsuits—on behalf of the business. Every state and US jurisdiction outlines registered agent requirements for businesses in state statutes. These state laws typically require businesses such as LLCs, corporations, nonprofits and registered partnerships to appoint and maintain a registered agent.
Registered agents must:
- Have a physical address in the state where they’ve been appointed.
- Be available at that address during normal business hours.
- Accept service of process on behalf of the business.
Ideally, however, your registered agent should do much more.
What a Registered Agent Should Be
At Northwest Registered Agent, we value the investment you make in us. In turn, we invest in privacy, software, forms, and in-house experts and filers. Whether you hire us for service in just one state or in all 50, you’ll be provided with top-of-the-line tools and services, including:
- Free website domain
- Business website & hosting with SSL security
- Business email address
- Business phone line on iOS or Android app
- Privacy by Default®
- Corporate Guides® to answer your toughest business questions
- Our custom-built, back-end software
- Business maintenance tools
- State compliance filing
- Access to every state form, with pre-filled settings for fast and simple filing
- A secure online account where you’ll receive every document we accept on your company’s behalf minutes after we receive them
When we say you get more with a registered agent, we mean it.
State by State Registered Agent Information
Alabama
Alaska
Arkansas
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
DC
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
lowa
Inidiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
New Maxico
North Carolina
North Dakata
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
South Carolina
Vermont
Virgina
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Puerto Rico
USA Agent
National Agent
When You Want More
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Northwest Registered Agent ®
We’re Just Not Annoying ®
509-768-2249
NorthWest
Northwest Registered Agent Review (2025)
Starting a business is exciting, but the paperwork? Not so much. That’s where services like Northwest Registered Agent come in, promising to handle the legal nitty-gritty so you can focus on building your dream. As a family-owned company with over two decades of experience, Northwest has earned a solid reputation for its registered agent and LLC formation services. But is it really worth your time and money? I’ve scoured the web, dug into customer reviews, and analyzed their offerings to bring you an in-depth, no-fluff review. Let’s break it down and see if Northwest Registered Agent is the right fit for your business.
What Is Northwest Registered Agent?
Northwest Registered Agent, founded in 1998 and headquartered in Spokane, Washington, is a business formation and registered agent service provider. They specialize in helping entrepreneurs form LLCs, corporations, and nonprofits while acting as a registered agent to handle legal documents like service of process (lawsuits) and state notices. With offices in all 50 states and a team of over 200 “Corporate Guides,” Northwest prides itself on personalized customer service, privacy protection, and transparent pricing.
Their motto, “We’re Just Not Annoying®,” reflects their commitment to straightforward service without pushy upsells or hidden fees. They also emphasize data security, promising never to sell your personal information—a big deal in today’s world. But how do they stack up in practice? Let’s dive into their services, pricing, pros, cons, and what real customers are saying.
Services Offered: What Can Northwest Do for You?
Northwest offers a range of services designed to simplify starting and managing a business. Here’s a breakdown of their core offerings:
1. LLC Formation
Northwest makes forming an LLC a breeze with a 100% online process. For $29 (plus state fees), they handle filing your Articles of Organization, provide a free year of registered agent service, and offer a template for your operating agreement. Their Corporate Guides walk you through the process, ensuring you don’t miss any steps. If you’re in a hurry, they offer expedited filing for an additional fee, with turnaround times as fast as one day in some states.
2. Registered Agent Service
As the second-largest registered agent provider in the U.S., Northwest excels in this area. For $125 per year (free for the first year with LLC formation), they act as your business’s point of contact for legal documents. They scan and upload documents to your online portal, ensuring you stay compliant without your personal address appearing on public records. This is a huge plus for home-based businesses or anyone prioritizing privacy.
3. Additional Services
Northwest goes beyond the basics with add-ons like:
- EIN Application: $50 to obtain your Employer Identification Number (though you can do this for free through the IRS).
- Annual Report Filing: $100 per year to keep your business in good standing.
- Virtual Office and Mail Forwarding: Starting at $9/month, available in select states, for a business address and mail handling.
- Trademark Service: $249 (plus a $250 USPTO fee) to protect your brand.
- Business Identity Bundle: Includes a business address, website, email, and phone number for $9/month after a free trial.
- Compliance Tools: Free templates for legal forms and reminders for filing deadlines.
Unlike competitors who bundle services into tiered packages, Northwest lets you pick and choose, keeping things flexible but potentially pricier if you need multiple add-ons.
Pricing: Is Northwest Worth the Cost?
Northwest’s pricing is straightforward, but it’s not the cheapest option out there. Here’s a quick look at their main costs:
- LLC Formation: $29 + state fees (exclusive discount via some partners; otherwise $39 or $100 in some packages).
- Registered Agent Service: Free for the first year, then $125/year per state (or $100/year for 5+ states).
- EIN Application: $50.
- Annual Report Filing: $100/year.
- Virtual Office: $9–$49/month, depending on the state.
- Trademark Service: $249 + $250 USPTO fee.
Compared to competitors like ZenBusiness ($0 + state fees for basic LLC formation) or LegalZoom ($79 + state fees), Northwest’s base price is competitive but not the lowest. However, their free year of registered agent service (valued at $125) adds significant value. For businesses needing ongoing compliance support, their $225 “Pay in Full” package includes LLC formation, registered agent service, and an EIN, which can save money compared to LegalZoom’s similar offerings.
The catch? Add-ons like EIN filing or annual reports can add up, and competitors often include these in higher-tier plans. If you’re on a tight budget, you might find cheaper alternatives, but Northwest’s transparent pricing—no hidden fees or aggressive upsells—makes it easier to know what you’re paying for upfront
Pros: Why Choose Northwest Registered Agent?
Northwest has a lot going for it, especially if you value customer service and privacy. Here are the standout benefits based on my research and customer feedback:
1. Top-Notch Customer Support
Northwest’s customer service is a major selling point. Their Corporate Guides are real people, not chatbots, and they’re available via phone (509-435-9053 or 509-768-2249) or email (support@northwestregisteredagent.com) from 6 AM to 5 PM Pacific, Monday through Friday. Customers rave about their responsiveness, with emails often answered the same day and voicemails returned within two hours. One Trustpilot reviewer said, “Michele Parker transformed a cumbersome FinCen form into an effortless experience,” highlighting the personalized help you get.
On Reddit, users praise Northwest’s knowledgeable staff: “Paul answered my rapid-fire questions patiently and with specificity,” said one entrepreneur. Another BBB review called their agent “highly capable, professional, and a tremendous asset.” This human touch sets Northwest apart from competitors like LegalZoom, where you might deal with automated systems or less experienced reps.
2. Privacy Protection
Northwest takes privacy seriously. They use their own business address on public filings to keep your personal address off the record, a must for home-based businesses. They also have a strict no-data-selling policy, which is rare in an industry where customer info is often shared with third parties. A Trustpilot user running an acupuncture studio noted, “I started using NW for their address service, which gave me more privacy.” This focus on security resonates with customers who want peace of mind.
3. Free Year of Registered Agent Service
The free year of registered agent service with LLC formation is a game-changer. Most competitors charge $100–$200 annually for this, so Northwest’s offer saves you money upfront. Reviewers on LLC University called it “a clear win” and “the best-priced registered agent service on the market.” Even after the first year, their $125/year fee is competitive, especially for multi-state businesses.
4. Fast and Reliable Filing
Northwest’s filing process is speedy, with same-day filing in many cases and state processing times as low as 1–3 days with expedited service. Venture Smarter’s test LLC was formed in just 9 minutes, with documents like the Operating Agreement and EIN readily accessible in their portal. Customers on Google Reviews appreciate the quick turnaround: “They do it with 1 or 2 day turnaround, for FREE, whereas LegalZoom charges HUNDREDS.”
5. Transparent Pricing
No one likes surprise fees, and Northwest delivers with clear, upfront pricing. Their website breaks down costs, including state fees, so you know exactly what you’re paying. Forbes Advisor noted, “Northwest might be the most transparent with what it charges,” and customers on Trustpilot echo this, appreciating the lack of “no-pressure upsells.”
6. User-Friendly Portal
Northwest’s online portal is intuitive, letting you manage documents, track compliance deadlines, and communicate with your Corporate Guide. A Trustpilot reviewer called it “easy to navigate and intuitive,” while Venture Smarter praised its clear instructions for LLC setup. This is especially helpful for first-time entrepreneurs who might feel overwhelmed by legal requirements
Cons: Where Does Northwest Fall Short?
No service is perfect, and Northwest has its drawbacks. Here’s what to watch out for:
1. Higher Costs for Add-Ons
While their base LLC formation price is reasonable, add-ons like EIN filing ($50) or annual report filing ($100) can make Northwest pricier than competitors. ZenBusiness, for example, includes EIN filing in some plans, and you can get an EIN for free directly from the IRS. A Venture Smarter review pointed out, “EIN application costs $50, which is high considering it’s free on the IRS website.” If you need multiple services, costs can snowball.
2. No Mobile App for LLC Formation
Northwest offers a mobile app for their VoIP phone service, but there’s no app for managing LLC formation or registered agent services. In a world where mobile access is king, this feels like a missed opportunity. Management.org noted, “The LLC formation services cannot be accessed via a mobile app,” which could be a hassle for busy entrepreneurs.
3. Not the Cheapest Option
If you’re on a shoestring budget, Northwest’s $29–$100 LLC formation fee (plus state fees) might sting compared to ZenBusiness’s $0 plan or Incfile’s free formation (excluding state fees). LLC Buddy mentioned, “Due to the fact that many competitors offer free LLC formation, Northwest might not be chosen by entrepreneurs with small budgets.”
4. Occasional Processing Delays
While most reviews praise Northwest’s speed, some customers report longer-than-expected processing times, especially during peak seasons like January when IRS and state agencies are swamped. A Trustpilot user complained about delays in EIN applications without a Social Security number, though Northwest responded that this can take up to 120 days due to IRS backlog.
5. Mixed Reviews on Free Docs
Some users felt misled by Northwest’s “free legal forms,” expecting full access without creating an account. A Trustpilot reviewer called it “absolutely a scam,” claiming the forms were hard to access. Northwest clarified that they’re a legitimate business and resolved the issue, but this suggests their marketing could be clearer to avoid confusion.
Customer Reviews: What Are People Saying?
Northwest enjoys strong customer feedback across platforms, though there are some naysayers. Here’s a snapshot:
- Trustpilot: 3.0/5 stars from 119 reviews. Positive reviews highlight excellent support and privacy features, like Michele Parker’s help with FinCen forms. Negative reviews mention delays or confusion over free forms, but Northwest responds promptly to address concerns.
- BBB: A+ rating with 4.55/5 stars, despite 35 complaints over three years (low for their size). Customers praise agents like “****** B” for professionalism, though one user called them “scammers” over lost documents, a claim Northwest refuted with evidence of refunds and follow-ups.
- Google Reviews: Highly positive, with users like Carlos Augusto saying, “They do just as good a job as LegalZoom for much cheaper.” Speed and support are common themes.
- Reddit: Users on r/smallbusiness commend Northwest’s privacy focus and reliability across multiple states, though some warn about Google My Business (GMB) issues with virtual addresses.
Overall, Northwest’s reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an emphasis on their customer service and privacy protections. Negative feedback often centers on cost or isolated errors, but their proactive responses show they take criticism seriously.
How Does Northwest Compare to Competitors?
To see how Northwest stacks up, let’s compare it to two popular alternatives: ZenBusiness and LegalZoom.
| Feature | Northwest Registered Agent | ZenBusiness | LegalZoom |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLC Formation Cost | $29–$100 + state fees | $0–$349 + state fees | $79–$799 + state fees |
| Registered Agent | Free for 1 year, then $125/yr | $199/yr | $249/yr |
| EIN Filing | $50 (optional) | Included in some plans | $79 (optional) |
| Customer Support | Phone, email; highly praised | Phone, email; good but slower | Phone, email; mixed reviews |
| Privacy Protection | Strong; no data selling | Moderate | Moderate |
| Turnaround Time | 1–15 days (expedited available) | 2–20 days | 7–30 days |
| Best For | Privacy, customer service | Budget-conscious startups | Established businesses |
ZenBusiness is ideal for cost-conscious entrepreneurs, with free LLC formation and lower add-on costs, but their registered agent fee ($199/year) is pricier, and support isn’t as personalized. LegalZoom offers more comprehensive legal services but at a higher cost, with slower turnaround and less focus on privacy. Northwest strikes a balance, excelling in support and privacy but falling short on free inclusions.
Northwest is a great choice for:
- Privacy-Conscious Entrepreneurs: If you run a home-based business or want to keep your personal address private, Northwest’s address protection and no-data-selling policy are top-notch.
- First-Time Business Owners: Their Corporate Guides and user-friendly portal make the process less daunting for newbies.
- Multi-State Businesses: With offices in all 50 states and discounts for 5+ states, Northwest is perfect for businesses operating across multiple jurisdictions.
- Those Valuing Customer Service: If you want real human support over chatbots, Northwest’s responsive team is a big draw.
It might not be the best fit for:
- Budget-Conscious Startups: If you’re pinching pennies, ZenBusiness or Incfile’s free plans might be more appealing.
- Businesses Needing Comprehensive Legal Services: LegalZoom offers more legal tools, like contracts and attorney consultations, which Northwest lacks.
Final Verdict: Should You Choose Northwest Registered Agent?
After diving into Northwest Registered Agent’s services, pricing, and customer feedback, it’s clear they’re a standout in the business formation space. Their commitment to privacy, exceptional customer service, and transparent pricing make them a trusted partner for entrepreneurs. The free year of registered agent service and fast filing times are major perks, especially for small businesses prioritizing compliance and security.
However, their add-on costs can add up, and they’re not the cheapest option for bare-bones LLC formation. If you’re on a tight budget or need a one-stop shop for legal services, you might look elsewhere. But for those who value personalized support and privacy—and don’t mind paying a bit more for it—Northwest is hard to beat.
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