Starting a business can be a thrilling experience, but navigating the complexities of legal paperwork can often feel overwhelming. That’s where services like Swyft Filings come in—providing entrepreneurs with a way to easily form their LLC, corporation, or nonprofit organization online.
In this in-depth review, we’ll cover the key features, pricing, pros and cons, and more to help you decide if Swyft Filings is the right fit for your business needs.
Our Verdict
Swyft Filings is a user-friendly platform that offers a wide array of services designed to simplify the process of forming and maintaining a business. The service stands out for its affordable starting package, clear pricing, and fast processing times. However, some users may find that the additional costs for necessary add-ons, such as an EIN or a registered agent service, can add up quickly.
Pros:
- Affordable Initial Package: The Basic plan is free, requiring only state filing fees.
- User-Friendly Interface: Swyft Filings has an intuitive platform that is easy to navigate, even for first-time entrepreneurs.
- Lifetime Customer Support: Access to customer support via phone and email for the lifetime of your business.
- Transparent Pricing: The service provides a clear breakdown of costs, making it easy to see what you’re paying for and why.
Cons:
- Add-Ons Can Get Expensive: Essential services such as the EIN (Employer Identification Number) and LLC Operating Agreement are not included in the Basic plan, and these add-ons can quickly make the service more costly than expected.
- Registered Agent Service Not Included: Unlike some competitors, Swyft Filings charges separately for the registered agent service at $149 per year.
- Auto-Renewal Issues: Services like ComplianceGuard automatically renew unless manually canceled, which may lead to unexpected charges if you’re not careful.
What Is Swyft Filings?
Swyft Filings is an online service that helps individuals form legal business entities, such as Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), corporations, and nonprofits. Founded in 2015, the company aims to provide an affordable and straightforward process for entrepreneurs who want to handle their business formation digitally. Swyft Filings allows you to complete all necessary paperwork online, eliminating the need for you to navigate complex legal processes or hire a lawyer.
The platform also offers various add-on services, like obtaining an EIN, filing for a registered agent, and even providing an LLC Operating Agreement to ensure your business is legally compliant.
Pros of Swyft Filings
- Multiple Business Types: You can form LLCs, corporations, nonprofits, and DBAs (doing business as), making Swyft Filings a versatile choice for different business needs.
- Fast Turnaround Times: Swyft Filings prides itself on processing applications quickly, offering expedited filing services for those who need their business formed in a rush.
- Comprehensive Dashboard: The platform features a centralized dashboard where you can easily track the status of your filings and manage all your business-related documents and services.
Cons of Swyft Filings
- No Free Registered Agent Service: Unlike some competitors, Swyft Filings does not offer free registered agent services, which could be an issue for businesses that need this service.
- Extra Charges for Essential Services: While the Basic plan is free, you’ll need to pay extra for critical services, such as obtaining an EIN or an LLC Operating Agreement, which are necessary for many entrepreneurs.
How Swyft Filings Works
Getting started with Swyft Filings is simple. The platform is designed to be intuitive, allowing even first-time business owners to navigate through the formation process with ease. Here’s a general breakdown of how the process works:
1. Choose Your Plan
When you visit the Swyft Filings website, the first step is selecting a plan. You can choose from three main plans—Basic, Standard, and Premium—depending on the level of service you need. Each plan offers different features, so it’s essential to select the one that best fits your business’s needs.
2. Provide Your Business Information
Once you’ve chosen your plan, you’ll need to enter your business name, select your state of formation, and fill out a few other basic details. This is where you’ll decide what type of business entity you want to form (LLC, corporation, nonprofit, etc.).
3. Add Services
After entering your business details, you’ll be presented with a list of optional add-on services. This is where the costs can start to add up, as services such as obtaining an EIN, getting a registered agent, or securing an LLC Operating Agreement are not included in the free plan. You can choose as many or as few add-ons as you like.
4. Review and Pay
Once you’ve selected your services, the next step is reviewing your order. This is important because, as mentioned earlier, some of the additional services can significantly increase the overall cost of your formation. After reviewing your selections, you’ll proceed with payment.
5. Filing Process
Once your payment is processed, Swyft Filings takes care of filing the necessary paperwork with your state’s Secretary of State office. This includes submitting your Articles of Organization (for LLCs) or Articles of Incorporation (for corporations). You’ll be notified once your business formation is complete.
Legal Services For Businesses
One of the key benefits of using Swyft Filings is the variety of legal services they offer. Here’s a breakdown of what you can get beyond just business formation:
Name Availability Search
Before you start the formation process, you’ll want to make sure your business name isn’t already taken. Swyft Filings offers a name availability search to check if your desired business name is available in your state. This helps you avoid any future issues when it comes to branding and trademarking.
Articles of Organization
Once you’ve confirmed that your business name is available, Swyft Filings will prepare and file your Articles of Organization (for LLCs) or Articles of Incorporation (for corporations). This is the foundational legal document that establishes your business as a separate legal entity.
Business Registration Service
Swyft Filings will handle the registration of your business with the Secretary of State’s office, ensuring that your formation paperwork is properly submitted and filed.
Registered Agent Services
Swyft Filings offers registered agent services for $149 per year. A registered agent is a person or business that acts as your business’s official point of contact for receiving legal documents. It’s important for LLCs and corporations to have a registered agent, as it’s a requirement in most states.
Online Document Access
Once your business is formed, Swyft Filings provides you with digital access to your business documents, making it easy to track and manage your paperwork. You can view, download, and print any of your official documents from the platform at any time.
Obtain Federal Tax ID Number (TIN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An EIN is necessary if you plan to hire employees, open a business bank account, or file taxes for your business. Swyft Filings can help you apply for an EIN, though it’s an add-on service that costs extra. The EIN is often required to operate your business legally.
LLC Operating Agreement
If you’re forming an LLC, an operating agreement is essential. It outlines how your business will be managed, how profits and losses will be distributed, and the rights and responsibilities of each member. While it’s not always legally required, it’s highly recommended. Swyft Filings offers an add-on service to help you draft a customized LLC Operating Agreement.
LLC Organizational Minutes
Swyft Filings can also assist you with preparing LLC Organizational Minutes. These minutes are official records of your LLC’s first meeting and can be essential when it comes to opening business bank accounts or handling other legal matters.
Customized Digital LLC Kit
For an additional cost, Swyft Filings offers a customized digital LLC kit. This kit includes your company’s seal, stock certificates, and an ownership ledger, all of which are useful for managing the formalities of your LLC.
Seller’s Permit
If your business involves selling goods or services, you may need a seller’s permit. Swyft Filings can help you apply for this permit, depending on the requirements in your state.
Business Licenses
Depending on your business type and location, you may need specific licenses or permits to legally operate. Swyft Filings can help identify what licenses you may need and assist with the application process.
Pricing and Plans
Swyft Filings offers three primary pricing plans: Basic, Standard, and Premium. Below is a detailed look at what each plan offers:
Basic Plan – $0 + State Filing Fees
- Business Name Availability Search
- Preparation and Filing of Articles of Organization
- Lifetime Customer Support
- ComplianceGuard Company Alerts (to help you stay compliant with state laws)
This plan is ideal if you’re just getting started and want to form your business without the frills. However, it does not include additional services like obtaining an EIN or an LLC Operating Agreement.
Standard Plan – $149 + State Filing Fees
- Everything in the Basic Plan, plus:
- Federal Tax ID (EIN)
- Custom LLC Operating Agreement
- Custom Banking Resolution
- Custom Organizational Minutes
This plan is designed for entrepreneurs who want to ensure they have the basic legal documents in place for their LLC or corporation.
Premium Plan – $299 + State Filing Fees
- Everything in the Standard Plan, plus:
- Expedited Filing and Shipping
- Electronic Delivery of Documents
- Customized Digital LLC Kit
- Free Business Website and 3 Months of Hosting
The Premium Plan is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to get their business set up quickly and need additional tools like a website and hosting services.
Getting Started With Swyft Filings
Getting started with Swyft Filings is simple. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Website: Head to the Swyft Filings homepage to get started.
- Choose a Plan: Select the package that best fits your business needs.
- Fill Out the Form: Provide basic information about your business, including its name and the state in which it will operate.
- Add Services: Choose any additional services you need, such as an EIN or a registered agent.
- Review and Pay: Check your selections, and make sure you’re aware of any additional fees.
- Wait for Confirmation: After payment is processed, Swyft Filings will handle the necessary filings and send you the confirmation once your business is officially formed.
Customer Service and Support
Swyft Filings offers lifetime customer support through phone and email. Many users report positive experiences with the support team, noting that their questions were answered quickly and professionally. However, there are some complaints about upselling during the checkout process and automatic renewals for services like ComplianceGuard, which could lead to unwanted charges.
3 Alternatives and How They Compare
Swyft Filings vs. ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness also offers LLC formation services and includes features like a free year of registered agent service. They also provide a free plan, which makes it a compelling alternative to Swyft Filings. However, Swyft Filings is slightly more affordable upfront, especially with its free plan.
Swyft Filings vs. Incfile
Incfile offers a free package as well, including a free year of registered agent service. Swyft Filings charges separately for its registered agent service, which may make Incfile a better choice for entrepreneurs looking for a more inclusive plan.
Swyft Filings vs. Inc Authority
Inc Authority offers a free LLC formation service, with essential add-ons like EIN and Operating Agreement available for an additional charge. Swyft Filings’ free plan is more basic, requiring additional costs for services that are included in Inc Authority’s premium options.
Who Is Swyft Filings Best For?
Swyft Filings is a great option for entrepreneurs looking for a straightforward, no-fuss way to start a business. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals who:
- Prefer a simple, online business formation service.
- Want to select and pay for only the services they need.
- Are comfortable managing their business formation independently, without relying on lawyers or traditional agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Swyft Filings offer a free plan?
Yes, the Basic plan is free, but you’ll still need to pay state filing fees. However, important services like an EIN and LLC Operating Agreement are add-ons.
Are there hidden fees with Swyft Filings?
While Swyft Filings is transparent about its pricing, users have reported additional costs for add-on services that were not included in the Basic plan.
How long does it take to form an LLC with Swyft Filings?
Processing times vary by state, but Swyft Filings offers expedited processing if you need your LLC formed quickly.