Introduction

Starting a business has never been easier, thanks to a new wave of innovative tools launched since 2019. These platforms streamline company formation, reduce legal complexity, and save entrepreneurs time and money. Selecting the right tool can mean the difference between a smooth launch and a bureaucratic nightmare.

This article reviews the seven most impactful business formation services released in the last few years. We examine their core features, pricing, ease of use, and overall value. Rankings are based on user feedback and expert analysis.

Each tool brings something unique to the table, catering to different business needs. Whether you’re forming an LLC, corporation, or nonprofit, these platforms are setting new standards for efficiency and clarity.

1. ZenBusiness (Launched Revamped 2019)

ZenBusiness redesigned its platform in 2019 to offer a user-friendly, all-in-one business formation experience. The streamlined dashboard guides users step-by-step, making legal jargon manageable. Its affordable pricing includes registered agent services, a notable value.

The platform excels in customer support, offering expedited processing options and compliance alerts. Its comprehensive suite addresses everything from EIN registration to operating agreements. For startups on a budget, ZenBusiness strikes a perfect balance of cost and quality.

Most users praise the intuitive interface and transparent pricing. However, some advanced compliance features require upgrades. ZenBusiness ranks highly for small and medium businesses seeking simplicity and reliability.

2. Stripe Corporate (Launched 2020)

Stripe Corporate debuted in 2020, extending the Stripe ecosystem into business formation. It integrates banking, payments, and company registration into a seamless workflow. Entrepreneurs can form an entity, open accounts, and receive funding all within one platform.

This tool is best for tech-savvy founders who want a fast, digital-first setup with minimal paperwork. The onboarding is rapid, with Stripe automating many backend steps. It currently supports US-based LLCs and C-Corps with plans to expand.

The major strength is the integration with financial services, reducing friction in initial capital management. The downside is limited jurisdiction coverage. Stripe Corporate is ideal for startups prioritizing speed and fintech integration.

3. Atrium (Established Pivot 2019)

Atrium reimagined its approach in 2019, shifting focus to software-driven legal services for startups. Its business formation module pairs AI-powered document drafting with human legal review. Entrepreneurs receive tailored filings suitable for rapid growth environments.

The hybrid model results in higher costs but adds peace of mind through attorney involvement. Atrium also offers post-formation legal support, making it a holistic partner rather than a simple filing service. Its tech-driven interface further simplifies complex legal workflows.

Users who value legal expertise alongside automation find Atrium compelling. It’s not the cheapest option, but the added accuracy and support justify the price for well-funded startups. Atrium ranks high in reliability and trustworthiness.

4. Clerky (Significant Updates 2020)

Clerky, originally launched earlier, underwent major expansions in 2020 tailored to Silicon Valley startups. It specializes in legal paperwork for entity formation, fundraising, and compliance with a focus on venture-backed companies.

Its key advantage is document quality and precision, optimized to satisfy strict investor and regulatory scrutiny. The platform automates cap table management and securities filings, reducing manual errors significantly.

While Clerky can be pricier and complex for non-VC startups, it is unmatched for companies pursuing financing rounds. Its emphasis on legal rigor earns top marks among high-growth tech enterprises.

5. Gust Launch (Expanded Features 2019)

Gust Launch revamped its services in 2019 to become a comprehensive startup platform integrating formation, fundraising, and equity management. The tool targets founders needing end-to-end administrative support.

The platform excels in handling cap tables dynamically, with real-time updates linked to formation documents and investment rounds. It also offers tax and compliance assistance, easing regulatory burdens post-formation.

Gust Launch caters to startups expecting rapid investor engagement and growth. It requires some onboarding effort but rewards with scalability. This makes it a favorite for accelerators and incubator programs.

6. LegalZoom Business Formation Plus (Refreshed 2021)

LegalZoom updated its Business Formation Plus package in 2021, blending traditional legal service reputation with modern usability improvements. It remains one of the most recognized names for online business formation.

The service offers standard features like EIN acquisition, operating agreements, and registered agent services. The update focused on simplifying the user interface and speeding up filing times.

LegalZoom's brand trust and broad service range appeal to conservative entrepreneurs seeking a safe, familiar option. Pricing is moderate, reflecting its established support infrastructure. It is ideal for those valuing name recognition and dependable assistance.

7. IncFile Platinum Package (Launched 2019 Updates)

IncFile revamped its Platinum Package in 2019 to include added compliance alerts, business website creation, and tax consultations. This upgrade transformed it from a basic formation provider to a more full-featured startup companion.

The platform remains affordable and includes free registered agent services for one year, a standout benefit in this price range. Its automated compliance reminders reduce the risk of costly penalties down the line.

IncFile is best suited for new entrepreneurs seeking value without sacrificing essential services. Its comprehensive approach streamlines many post-formation tasks often overlooked by less detailed competitors.

8. Rocket Lawyer Business Formation (New Features 2021)

Rocket Lawyer expanded its business formation tools in 2021, emphasizing legal convenience and membership benefits. The platform provides document templates, legal consultation, and incorporation services under one subscription.

This integration appeals to entrepreneurs who want ongoing legal support beyond mere filing. Monthly membership allows access to a legal team, making it a good choice for startups expecting evolving compliance needs.

Rocket Lawyer's blend of incorporation and accessible legal advice ranks it highly for first-time business owners needing consistent guidance. It strikes a balance between affordability and professional support.

Conclusion

Since 2019, business formation tools have evolved rapidly to meet the needs of diverse startup models. From all-in-one solutions like ZenBusiness and Stripe Corporate to legal-centered platforms like Atrium and Clerky, there's an option for every entrepreneur.

Key factors for selection include pricing, jurisdiction coverage, legal support, and integration with ongoing business services. Startups must weigh immediate costs against long-term compliance and growth benefits.

These seven platforms represent the frontier of formation technology and service quality — empowering founders to launch confidently and efficiently in today's competitive market.

Sources

1. ZenBusiness official platform updates, 2019–2023
2. Stripe Corporate launch press release, 2020
3. Atrium pivot analysis, LegalTech Times, 2019
4. Clerky user reviews and platform updates, 2020
5. Gust Launch feature expansion blog, 2019
6. LegalZoom product refresh announcement, 2021
7. IncFile service upgrade details, 2019
8. Rocket Lawyer membership expansion report, 2021