Who said all registered agent services are the same? That assumption could cost a small business owner thousands in hidden state fees, compliance mishaps, or missed service of process. CorpNet and Northwest may seem interchangeable—but the differences run deeper than their websites suggest.
Northwest Registered Agent includes a free registered agent for one year and charges $39 for an LLC formation service, while CorpNet’s basic package starts at $79 plus state filing fees. One leads with transparency, the other builds its margins on extras and upsells buried in the fine print.
Some service providers focus on document handling, others on customer support—but what happens when peace of mind hinges on both? From turnaround time and EIN registration to how each handles annual reports and business license compliance, this comparison goes beyond the surface. We’ll dive into the real-world differences in service quality, from CorpNet’s track record with small business owners to Northwest’s personalized, compliance support-oriented model. In business formation, choosing wrong isn’t just inefficient—it’s like building a house with the wrong blueprint.
| Feature | Northwest Registered Agent | CorpNet |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Formation Base Price | $39 + state fee | $79 + state fee |
| Registered Agent Service | $125/year (included 1st year with formation) | $149/year (60-day free trial) |
| Privacy Protection | Premium privacy protection included | Basic protection |
| Customer Support | US-based Corporate Guides® with business expertise | Standard customer service team |
| Formation Turnaround Time | Varies by state (standard and expedited options) | Varies by state (slightly faster in some states) |
| Publication Requirements | Provides detailed instructions | Handles publication on your behalf (additional fee) |
| Operating Agreement | Custom-tailored to your business | Template document |
| Online Dashboard | Intuitive compliance calendar and document storage | Basic portal for documents |
| Multi-State Support | Flat $125 fee per state | Tiered pricing structure |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 60 days | 100% satisfaction guarantee |
Overview of Northwest Registered Agent and CorpNet
Wondering which business formation service will better protect your company's future? Choosing between Northwest Registered Agent and CorpNet involves comparing their service quality, pricing structures, and specialized features designed for new entrepreneurs. To see how CorpNet truly measures up, read our detailed CorpNet review for insights on hidden fees and support quality.
What is Northwest Registered Agent?
Founded in 1998, Northwest has built a solid track record as a premium service provider in the business formation industry. They've established a reputation for exceptional privacy protection and personalized attention to client needs.
Their core offering revolves around comprehensive formation services with an emphasis on transparency and avoiding upsells. Northwest particularly stands out for their in-house customer support team of Corporate Guides who provide expert assistance throughout the business formation process. Many entrepreneurs rely on Northwest LLC reviews to make an informed decision before forming their company.
What is CorpNet?
Established in 1997 by entrepreneur Nellie Akalp, CorpNet offers a wide array of business formation and compliance solutions aimed at both startups and established companies. The company positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to attorney services while providing a complete package of business establishment tools.
- LLC and corporation formation filing services
- Registered agent representation in all 50 states
- Business license and permit acquisition
- Annual report filing and compliance alerts
Which service offers the best customer experience?
When examining customer service methodologies, Northwest emphasizes quality over quantity by providing dedicated support representatives who develop familiarity with your specific business entity. Their representatives undergo extensive training in business formation procedures and offer consistent support throughout your relationship. CorpNet, meanwhile, focuses on accessibility with extended support hours and multiple contact channels.
Reviews on the Better Business Bureau reveal Northwest maintains an impressive star rating and customer satisfaction metrics. By comparison, Trustpilot reviews show CorpNet has developed strong customer feedback especially regarding their responsiveness and willingness to address issues quickly.
Core Services Compared: LLC Formation and Registered Agent Offerings
Examining the details in business formation services can mean the difference between smooth operations and costly complications. Before making your decision, it's essential to compare how each provider handles document handling, compliance monitoring, and ongoing support services.
Business Formation Packages and Inclusions
Both providers offer tiered packages with varying levels of feature inclusion, but their approaches to package construction differ significantly. Northwest maintains a transparent pricing model with fewer upsells, while CorpNet utilizes a more feature-segmented approach to their formation package options.
*Note: Northwest no longer markets “Standard” or “Deluxe” plans. Prices shown reflect optional add-ons (EIN, annual compliance, mail forwarding) to its single Basic package.
For a broader perspective, check out our guide to the best LLC service to compare top formation providers across all budgets.
Registered Agent Services: Features and Differences
Every limited liability company requires a registered agent to maintain good standing with state authorities. This critical role ensures your business receives legal notices and remains compliant with state regulations. If you need local feedback in the capital region, explore our Washington DC registered agent LLC reviews for provider ratings and user experiences.
Northwest distinguishes itself by offering local scanning of all documents in every state, not just government documents. Their registered agent service includes unlimited mail scanning and forwarding. Their privacy focus ensures your personal information stays protected from public records. When forming in the nation’s capital, using a dedicated LLC in Washington DC service ensures you meet unique district requirements.
CorpNet's registered agent offering emphasizes their compliance management system which provides automated notifications about upcoming filing deadlines and requirements. They operate through a network of registered agents nationwide but centralize document processing through their California headquarters. CorpNet charges $149 per year for registered-agent service. For businesses based in New York, leveraging the right LLC service in New York can simplify state filings and annual reports.
For more information about registered agent requirements, visit the Small Business Administration resource center.
State Compliance and Ongoing Support
Both services provide mechanisms to keep your business in good standing, though their approaches to corporate compliance differ. Northwest employs a proactive notification system that alerts you to upcoming filing deadlines and compliance requirements well in advance, allowing sufficient preparation time.
- Annual report filing requirements
- State-specific compliance regulations
- Tax filing deadlines
- License renewal requirements
- Corporate record maintenance
CorpNet's BizAlerts system takes a more comprehensive approach to compliance support with automated monitoring across multiple jurisdictions and personalized notifications about changing regulations that might affect your operations. Their team also provides consulting services to help navigate complex compliance scenarios. For companies on the West Coast, compare providers in our Washington LLC service overview to find the best local support.
Additional Business Services (EIN, Operating Agreement, Amendments)
Beyond formation and registered agent services, both companies offer supplementary business solutions that can streamline your entrepreneurial journey. These additional services save time and ensure proper documentation throughout your business lifecycle.
- EIN registration: Both providers offer federal tax ID obtainment services
- Operating agreement preparation: Northwest offers a customizable template; CorpNet creates state-specific documents
- Business amendments: Both handle filing for company changes
- Annual report preparation and filing: Automated services from both providers
- Dissolution filing: Complete business closure documentation
- Certificate of Good Standing obtainment: Available from both services
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Pricing Breakdown: How Much Do They Really Cost?
Advertised rates rarely tell the complete story about formation costs. Beyond the package prices, understanding the inclusion of state fees and potential add-ons is crucial for an accurate budget. Before comparing, review your state's filing fee schedule for baseline costs. To get a sense of real-world performance, read our roundup of best online LLC formation service reviews and see which providers consistently earn top marks.
Total Costs and State Fees Explained
Northwest employs a straightforward pricing structure with their formation service starting at $39 plus state filing fees. Their registered agent service costs $125 annually after the first year, which is included free with any formation package. They clearly separate state fees from their service costs, providing transparency about where your money goes.
CorpNet's pricing begins at $79 plus state fees for their basic formation package, with their registered agent services billed at $149 annually after any promotional period. Their pricing page details both their service fees and the specific state fee for each jurisdiction, allowing you to calculate your total expense before checkout.
| State | Total Cost – Northwest (Basic Plan) | Total Cost – CorpNet (Basic Plan) |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $149 ($39 + $110 state fee) | $189 ($79 + $110 state fee) |
| California | $109 ($39 + $70 state fee) | $149 ($79 + $70 state fee) |
| New York | $244 ($39 + $205 state fee) | $284 ($79 + $205 state fee) |
| Florida | $164 ($39 + $125 state fee) | $204 ($79 + $125 state fee) |
| Texas | $339 ($39 + $300 state fee) | $379 ($79 + $300 state fee) |
If you prefer the Granite State, our guide to New Hampshire LLC formation covers everything from fees to filing timelines.
Are There Any Hidden Charges?
Northwest prides itself on transparent pricing with few surprises. They don't charge extra for features like mail forwarding or phone service that some competitors treat as premium add-ons. However, Northwest’s internal rush handling is $100; state expedite fees are always pass-through.
CorpNet's pricing structure includes potential surcharges for rush filing, document retrieval beyond the standard storage period, and their premium compliance monitoring service. Some customers have reported unexpected charges for services like obtaining an identification number (EIN) which comes included in higher-tier packages but costs $79 as a standalone service.
Turnaround Time and Service Efficiency
When launching a new venture, timing often means everything—whether you're racing to secure funding or trying to open before a competitor. The turnaround time for forming your company can vary dramatically between service providers and largely depends on their internal processes and relationships with state agencies. To budget accurately, review the LLC renewal fee for each state where you operate.
Formation Speed by State
Both services offer estimates based on state processing times, but their handling procedures affect how quickly your documents enter the state queue. Northwest processes your formation documents within 24 hours of receiving your order, sending them directly to the state without delay. For entrepreneurs in the Cornhusker State, check out the best Nebraska LLC formation service to compare speed and cost.
- Delaware: Northwest (2-3 business days), CorpNet (3-5 business days)
- California: Northwest (3-5 business days), CorpNet (5-7 business days)
- New York: Northwest (1-2 weeks), CorpNet (1-3 weeks)
- Texas: Northwest (3 business days), CorpNet (5 business days)
- Florida: Northwest (5-7 business days), CorpNet (7-10 business days)
If you’re starting up in New England, here’s exactly how to open LLC Vermont with step‑by‑step guidance.
Privacy-first formation with real support
Northwest offers expert guidance, no upsells, and in-house registered agent services.
Registered Agent Setup Time
The implementation of registered agent representation happens concurrently with your business formation filing for both services. Northwest activates your registered agent account immediately upon purchase, providing instant access to your online portal even before your business registration is complete. CorpNet similarly establishes your registered agent designation simultaneously with your formation filing, though some customers report a slightly longer wait for portal access credentials.
Document Delivery and Notifications
Both services digitally deliver formation documents upon state approval, but their notification systems function differently. Northwest scans all received documents locally and uploads them to your account portal within hours, sending immediate email alerts when new documents arrive.
- Physical vs. digital delivery options
- Document accessibility timeframes
- Mobile access capabilities
- Notification customization
CorpNet centralizes their process handling service through their headquarters, potentially adding 1-2 days before documents reach their digital system. However, they offer a more comprehensive notification system with text alerts, email, and dashboard notifications to ensure you never miss important communications. And if timing is critical, find out how long does it take to get LLC approved so you can plan your launch accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Northwest Registered Agent vs CorpNet
Many entrepreneurs struggle with choosing the right formation service for their specific needs. These frequently asked questions address the most common points of confusion when comparing these popular providers.
Yes, CorpNet qualifies as a commercial registered agent in most states where this designation exists. This official status means they've registered with the Secretary of State as a professional registered agent service, which can provide additional legitimacy. Their commercial status also allows them to represent multiple businesses without additional registration requirements in states that distinguish between commercial and non-commercial agents.
Northwest has established itself as the industry's best registered agent service for privacy concerns. They offer unique features like local scanning offices in every state and a corporate address for public documents to keep your personal information protected. Their Privacy by Default® policy extends throughout their services, limiting data sharing and emphasizing information security beyond what CorpNet currently provides.
Transitioning your registered agent designation requires filing specific forms with your state's business division. While neither service charges cancellation fees, you'll need to submit a Change of Registered Agent form and pay the associated state filing fee. Northwest simplifies this process by preparing the necessary paperwork and only charging the state fee, making the switch relatively straightforward for most business owners. If you need to open a business in different state, follow our tips to maintain compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
For entrepreneurs creating their first business entity, Northwest offers advantages with their simplified pricing structure and comprehensive educational resources. Their approach focuses on providing clarity throughout the form your LLC process while minimizing upsells and confusing options.
- Learning resources and knowledge base depth
- Ease of package selection and clarity
- Ongoing support for new entrepreneurs
Both services offer volume discounts, though their structures differ. Northwest provides a 10% discount for forming multiple entities simultaneously or filing in multiple states, with the discount applied automatically at checkout. CorpNet offers more substantial savings through their Enterprise Services division for high-volume clients, providing customized pricing for multiple filings rather than a standard percentage discount.
When evaluating CorpNet and Northwest against major competitors like ZenBusiness and LegalZoom, several distinctions emerge. Northwest offers more personalized support than these larger competitors, while maintaining stricter privacy practices. ZenBusiness undercuts both on entry-level pricing, while LegalZoom provides a broader range of legal services. Harbor Compliance and Rocket Lawyer offer different specializations—comprehensive compliance management and legal document access respectively—that might be worth considering depending on your specific needs.
Compliance-focused service for serious entrepreneurs
Northwest is ideal for complex filings, multi-state entities, and full regulatory support.
