Northwest vs MyCompanyWorks: Complete LLC Formation Comparison 2025

Northwest Registered Agent and MyCompanyWorks are two of the most popular LLC formation services for new business owners — but their value differs dramatically depending on your needs. Both companies offer affordable entry points, but if you don’t dig into what’s actually included, you may end up paying more for essentials like registered agent service, operating agreements, and compliance tools.

Northwest is better for entrepreneurs who want one flat formation package price, lifetime customer support, and privacy protections from day one – their $39 business formation plan includes a full year of registered agent services with no hidden fees, no upsells. MyCompanyWorks offers a low basic package price, but adds fees for EIN applications, annual alerts, and documents that other services include upfront.

This side-by-side guide compares every key factor — pricing, features, customer experience, and turnaround time. Whether you're looking to start your LLC in 2025 or switch to a more reliable partner, this LLC formation service breakdown will help you choose confidently and avoid unexpected costs.

Quick Verdict: The Winner for Most People in 2025 

Both Northwest and MyCompanyWorks offer strong value, but their strengths differ. Northwest is better for those who prioritize privacy, lifetime support, and no upsells. MyCompanyWorks works well for entrepreneurs who want extra features at a low upfront cost. For most, Northwest wins on long-term value and customer experience — especially if you want a hassle-free LLC formation service that puts support first.

Pricing, Packages, and Overall Value: A Detailed Cost Analysis 

When choosing an LLC formation service, transparency about total costs matters just as much as the sticker price. Some providers offer flashy low rates but bury essential features behind upsells. In this section, we’ll break down exactly what you get at each package price point — and compare which service delivers better long-term value and fewer financial surprises.

MyCompanyWorks Pricing: One Plan, Multiple Add-Ons

MyCompanyWorks now offers a single flat-rate formation plan for $79 + state fees, replacing its former tiered model. This base plan includes:

• Unlimited business name searches
• Articles of Organization filing
• Free LLC handbook & startup checklist
• Compliance alerts
• Lifetime phone/email support

However, core services like registered agent service ($119/year), EIN filing ($49), and DBA filing ($99 + state fee) are sold separately as à la carte add-ons. This offers flexibility for some, but costs can climb quickly if you need full coverage.

Northwest Registered Agent's Straightforward Pricing Model 

Northwest keeps it simple with a flat $39 + state fees pricing model that includes one full year of registered agent service — a $125 value bundled in from day one. There are no surprise upsells or confusing upgrade paths. You won’t pay extra to access essentials like filing documents, business name checks, or responsive customer support. Everything is included in a single plan. For small business owners who want honest, all-in pricing without the fine print, Northwest stands out. To see how it compares to another top-tier provider, read our Northwest vs CorpNet comparison for a side-by-side breakdown on pricing and service level.

Which Service Is Truly Cheaper for Long-Term Compliance? 

At first glance, both Northwest and MyCompanyWorks offer entry-level pricing under $100. But once you look past the initial sticker price, Northwest becomes the more cost-effective option—especially for maintaining compliance over the long term.

With Northwest, your $39 formation fee includes a full year of registered agent service (valued at $125). After year one, the service renews annually for $125. That’s it—no fine print, no bundled surprises.

MyCompanyWorks, on the other hand, charges $79 for LLC formation, but registered agent service costs an additional $119/year and isn’t included by default. Over time, that adds up.

Here’s a simplified comparison of 3-year costs, excluding state fees:

This doesn’t even factor in extras like EIN filing or compliance alerts, which Northwest either includes or actively supports. If you want predictable costs and fewer moving parts, Northwest wins decisively on long-term affordability. If budget is your top concern, we also reviewed the best low-cost LLC formation providers that still deliver real value.

Are There Any Hidden Fees or Aggressive Upsells to Avoid? 

Northwest is known for its no-nonsense approach — the price you see is the price you pay, with no surprise renewals or forced bundles. In contrast, MyCompanyWorks promotes a low entry price but introduces several optional add-ons during checkout. These extras can add up fast, especially if you assume they're included in the base plan or don’t carefully review the order summary. If you're not paying attention, your actual cost can easily double before you're done.

Common additional fees to watch for:

• Registered agent service: $119/year
• EIN filing: $49
• DBA filing: $99 + state fee
• Annual report service: $59 + state fee

If you’re price-sensitive, be sure to review what's actually included versus what’s pushed as an optional “deal” or convenience upgrade. With Northwest, you’ll rarely be surprised at checkout — and that simplicity saves money, reduces decision fatigue, and builds trust over time. For example, if you’re considering a “free” option like Inc Authority, be aware that many of those savings are offset by aggressive upsells and renewal charges — as we highlight in our full review of Inc Authority.

Head-to-Head Feature Comparison 

Your choice of LLC formation service can impact everything from how quickly you launch to how well you stay compliant. While the differences might seem minor, certain features — like custom alerts or operating document support — can significantly affect your long-term success. If you’re still comparing your options, check out our full LLC service provider comparison guide for insights into eight of the most popular providers — including how they stack up in real-world support, pricing, and ease of use.

In this section, we break down how MyCompanyWorks and Northwest compare feature-by-feature so you can make the most informed choice for your business goals.

Core LLC Formation and Filing Services 

Both Northwest and MyCompanyWorks cover the basics of LLC formation, but their execution differs. Northwest files your articles of organization quickly and accurately, while offering a seamless internal process handled by their in-house team — not outsourced labor. This gives them an edge in filing reliability and compliance accuracy, especially if you’re forming in a state with strict paperwork rules.

MyCompanyWorks, on the other hand, provides a helpful formation package that includes a startup wizard and templated tools, but their processing is less consistent across states. Their filing system relies more on automation and third-party coordination, which may affect turnaround time or state-specific accuracy.

What’s Included in the Base LLC Package.
Compare which features come standard with each provider’s base plan — no upgrades or add-ons required.

While both services handle the core LLC filing essentials, Northwest builds more into its single plan, especially around privacy and compliance support. MyCompanyWorks gives users access to practical startup tools like a checklist and handbook, but important elements like registered agent service and EIN filing come at added cost.

Northwest also stands out for its Corporate Guides®, who offer direct, U.S.-based guidance throughout your formation and beyond. In contrast, MyCompanyWorks provides standard support that’s friendly and functional but lacks personalized continuity.

If you value peace of mind from the start—and don’t want to sort through upsells to stay compliant—Northwest delivers more included value without complexity.

Registered Agent Service: Privacy vs. Perks 

Northwest includes a full year of registered agent service in its $39 formation plan — no strings attached. This is not just a checkbox feature. Their registered agent network is fully in-house, which means every legal notice or compliance document is received, scanned, and handled directly by their trained staff in your filing state. You’re not relying on third-party middlemen, and your data isn’t passed around. This gives Northwest an edge in speed, reliability, and — critically — privacy.

Privacy is a core value at Northwest. They never sell or share your information, and they don’t upsell “protection” features because those protections come standard. If discretion and data security matter to you, Northwest delivers it by default — not as a paid upgrade.

MyCompanyWorks, in contrast, does not include registered agent service in its base $79 plan. If you want this coverage, it’s a separate add-on costing $119 per year. While the service itself is functional and meets legal requirements, it doesn’t come with the same in-house infrastructure or data safeguards that Northwest provides. For founders prioritizing privacy, that’s a meaningful difference.

If you're a first-time business owner or someone who wants one less thing to track every year, Northwest’s all-inclusive model makes registered agent compliance one less item on your to-do list — while keeping your contact info out of public databases. Curious how Northwest stacks up against other providers? We’ve reviewed the best value registered agent services for privacy, price, and performance.

How Do They Help With Operating Agreements and Compliance? 

Forming an LLC is only step one — staying compliant is what keeps your business running smoothly. That’s why it’s important to know whether your formation service helps with operating agreements, annual filings, and state-specific obligations.

MyCompanyWorks includes free compliance alerts and access to a helpful LLC handbook and startup checklist. These are useful tools for DIY entrepreneurs who want a roadmap but don’t need ongoing support. However, they no longer include an operating agreement template by default — it’s now a paid add-on. And deeper compliance assistance, like report filings or deadline tracking, must also be purchased separately.

Northwest, by contrast, focuses less on downloadable templates and more on real-time support. Their Corporate Guides® offer personalized assistance for meeting state-level compliance requirements, and their system includes automatic reminders for important deadlines. While Northwest doesn’t include an operating agreement template either, they walk you through the legal obligations your LLC needs to meet — and they stay available even after you’ve formed. If you're considering forming an LLC in a state like Vermont, where compliance rules can vary, it's worth reviewing what’s included by default — as outlined in our Vermont LLC formation guide.

If you want more than just startup documents — if you want a formation partner who helps keep your business compliant year after year — Northwest provides hands-on help and fewer paywalls.

What Additional Business Services Do They Offer? 

If you’re looking beyond basic LLC filing, both Northwest and MyCompanyWorks offer additional services — but their priorities and delivery models are very different.

MyCompanyWorks has moved away from bundling marketing tools like website builders or business loans. Instead, their add-on services now focus strictly on official filings and compliance. These include:

• Registered agent service ($119/year)
• EIN filing ($49)
• DBA registration ($99 + state fee)
• Annual report filing ($59 + state fee)

This à la carte setup allows you to customize your formation package depending on what you actually need. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs who want flexibility and are comfortable managing their own tools and systems.

Northwest, meanwhile, stays focused on core legal services. They don’t offer extras like banking or websites — and that’s intentional. Their strength is delivering legal compliance and privacy support without the clutter of bundled perks. You’ll never pay for services you don’t use, and they won’t push optional upgrades disguised as must-haves.

Optional Add-Ons & Advanced Business Services
See which services are available for extra fees — from EIN filings to DBA registrations and compliance tools.

Customer Support and Ease of Use 

When forming an LLC, the complexity of the platform and the quality of customer support can make or break your experience. A confusing interface or slow response times often lead to filing errors, delays, or frustration — especially for first-time business owners. In this section, we’ll evaluate how Northwest and MyCompanyWorks handle support, usability, and overall platform experience to help you choose the smoother path.

What Kind of Customer Support Can You Actually Expect? 

Northwest stands out with its personalized model — every customer gets access to a dedicated Corporate Guide® for consistent, knowledgeable help. Their US-based team provides phone and email support, and responses are typically fast and detailed. You’re not shuffled between reps or forced to re-explain your issue, which builds trust and saves time.

MyCompanyWorks offers solid standard support, including phone and email channels, as well as live chat. However, you won’t get a dedicated rep, and support is handled on a rotating basis. While response times are reasonable, the experience can feel less consistent if your issue spans multiple touchpoints.

Support Channels Comparison:

• Phone & Email Support: Northwest (Included) | MyCompanyWorks (Included)
• Live Chat: Northwest (Not offered) | MyCompanyWorks (Included)
• Dedicated Representative: Northwest (Yes — Corporate Guides®) | MyCompanyWorks (No — rotating agents)
• Response Time: Northwest (~1 business day) | MyCompanyWorks (~1–2 business days)
• AI Bots or Outsourcing: Northwest (None) | MyCompanyWorks (May use chat automation)

Platform Usability: Which Website Is Easier to Navigate? 

Northwest keeps things clean and efficient. Their dashboard is minimal, focused on essential tasks like checking filing status, accessing scanned documents, and managing registered agent service. It’s intentionally simple — no flashy widgets, just clarity and speed. For users who prefer direct access over guided workflows, it works extremely well.

MyCompanyWorks provides a more feature-rich dashboard, with startup wizards, document libraries, and compliance tools embedded in the interface. It’s great for users who want more visual structure or built-in prompts, but the interface can feel crowded if you’re just trying to complete one task quickly. It’s a trade-off between guidance and simplicity.

How Do Real Customer Reviews and Online Ratings Compare? 

Across platforms like Trustpilot, BBB, and Google, Northwest consistently earns high marks for its customer support, simplicity, and transparency. Customers frequently mention fast responses, helpful representatives, and peace of mind from not being bombarded with upsells. Their average rating hovers around 4.7 out of 5.

MyCompanyWorks also enjoys strong reviews, especially for responsiveness and educational tools. Some customers mention occasional upsells or inconsistent rep quality, but overall, the company maintains a positive reputation with an average rating close to 4.4 out of 5. Both score well overall, but Northwest wins more praise for delivering exactly what’s promised — no more, no less.

Curious how Northwest compares with major providers like LegalZoom? Check out our full head-to-head review of Northwest and LegalZoom for an in-depth look at support, usability, and pricing differences.

Turnaround Time: How Fast Is the Formation Process? 

Turnaround time can make a big difference when launching your business. Whether you're racing to meet a client deadline or just eager to start operations, faster processing means you’re up and running sooner. In this section, we’ll break down how quickly Northwest and MyCompanyWorks handle standard and expedited filings — and what that means for your formation process.

Comparing Standard and Expedited Processing Speeds 

Northwest typically processes standard LLC filings within 3–5 business days, depending on the state. They also offer expedited service in most states, which can reduce turnaround to 1–2 days for an additional fee, clearly disclosed at checkout. Since their filing team is in-house, delays from third-party vendors are minimal.

MyCompanyWorks now offers same-day processing as their standard — if you submit your order by 3 PM Eastern Time, your documents are processed that day. While state processing times still vary, this gives new business owners a head start without needing to pay extra for speed. It’s a major benefit if you want fast filing without chasing rush options or premium tiers.

Final Verdict: Should You Choose Northwest or MyCompanyWorks? 

Choosing between Northwest and MyCompanyWorks comes down to priorities. If you value long-term simplicity, strong privacy, and dependable customer support, Northwest offers a no-fuss experience that’s especially ideal for first-time business owners. But if you're focused on bundled features and a guided startup process at a modest entry cost, MyCompanyWorks might be a better fit. In the sections below, we break down the best use case for each LLC formation service.

Choose Northwest If You Prioritize Privacy, Data Protection, and Expert Support 

Northwest is built for founders who want to form and grow a business without dealing with hidden charges, upsells, or data sharing. Their pricing is transparent, and their in-house filing and support teams are among the best in the industry. You’ll always deal with real people, not chatbots or outsourced reps. If you're the type of entrepreneur who wants responsive help, clean workflows, and long-term peace of mind, Northwest delivers with consistency and trust.

This is especially important if you’re starting your first business and want a formation partner that stays reliable year after year.

Here’s where Northwest stands out:

• Industry-leading privacy — they don’t sell or share your data
• Dedicated Corporate Guides® with personalized customer support
• One flat formation package with no upsells
• Strong reputation backed by consistently high customer reviews

You can also read our in-depth review of Northwest Registered Agent for a complete breakdown of their pricing, policies, and real customer feedback.

Choose MyCompanyWorks If You Want More Features in an Affordable Basic Package 

MyCompanyWorks is a good fit if you want essential startup tools bundled into an affordable plan — without being locked into ongoing commitments. Their $79 formation package includes unlimited name searches, a startup checklist, and free compliance alerts, giving DIY-minded entrepreneurs a strong foundation from day one.

Need more? You can selectively add services like registered agent support, EIN filing, or DBA registration during checkout — no need to upgrade into a bigger tier. That flexibility works well if you want to control your budget and only pay for what your business actually needs.

However, keep in mind that some essentials (like operating agreement templates or annual report filings) require separate fees. If you're comfortable managing filings and prefer a guided dashboard experience with built-in tools, MyCompanyWorksoffersgreat utility in a lean, customizable format. For a deeper breakdown of their features and user feedback, check out our in-depth MyCompanyWorks review.

Northwest vs MyCompanyWorks FAQ: Essential Questions Answered 

Still unsure which provider fits your needs best? These frequently asked questions cover key concerns around legal coverage, business types, DIY costs, and what happens if your filing gets rejected. Whether you're forming your first LLC or switching from another provider, these answers will help clarify the formation process and give you confidence to move forward with the right service.

Romain Gouraud

Romain Gouraud is a versatile writer specializing in business formation, legal structures, and entrepreneurial guidance. With a strong background in business development, Romain has authored numerous articles on topics such as LLC formation, S Corporations, and startup strategies. His work is featured on platforms like Boost Suite, where he provides clear and actionable advice to help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of starting and managing businesses. Romain's commitment to delivering accurate and up-to-date information makes him a trusted resource for business owners seeking to make informed decisions.

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