Best California S Corp Formation Services
We've researched and compared the top S Corporation formation services to help you make the best choice for your California business. Expert reviews, transparent pricing, and honest recommendations.
ZenBusiness
Outstanding value with comprehensive features, excellent customer service, and transparent pricing. Perfect for most California S Corporations.
Why ZenBusiness?
- ✓ Best value for comprehensive service
- ✓ Industry-leading customer support
- ✓ Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
- ✓ Free registered agent for 1 year
ZenBusiness
Our #1 Recommendation
What's Included (Starter Plan)
- ✓ Standard Filing
Articles of incorporation filed with California SOS
- ✓ 100% Accuracy Guarantee
Error-free filing with corrections if needed
- ✓ Worry-Free Compliance
1 year free, then $199/year
- ✓ Business Dashboard
Online access to documents and reminders
- + Add-ons Available
EIN (+$99), Bylaws (+$99), Fast filing (+$79)
Why We Recommend ZenBusiness
🏆 Best Overall Value
Comprehensive service at competitive pricing with excellent support.
📞 Outstanding Support
Industry-leading customer service with real human support.
💎 Premium Features
Business dashboard, compliance tracking, and lifetime support.
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LegalZoom
Established Brand with Premium Options
What's Included (Economy Plan)
- ✓ Articles of Incorporation preparation and filing
- ✓ Name check service
- ✓ Digital welcome packet
- ✓ 30-minute attorney consultations (30-day trial)
- ✓ Chat and phone support
- + Premium plans: $329 Standard, $349 Express Gold
Pros & Cons
Bizee
Budget-Friendly Option
What's Included (Basic Plan)
- ✓ Preparing & Filing Articles of Incorporation
- ✓ FREE 1st Year Registered Agent Service
- ✓ Banking Resolutions & Statement of Organizer
- ✓ Online Access Dashboard
- ✓ IRS Form 2553 (S Corp Election)
- + Add-ons: EIN (+$70), Bylaws (+$30), Fast filing (+$50)
Best For
Northwest Registered Agent
Privacy-Focused Service
What's Included
- ✓ Articles of Incorporation filing
- ✓ Free registered agent service (1 year)
- ✓ Privacy protection focus
- ✓ Fast processing
- ✗ Limited additional services
Special Features
Our Recommendation Summary
🏆 ZenBusiness is Our Top Choice for California S Corps
After analyzing features, pricing, customer service, and user reviews, ZenBusiness consistently delivers the best overall value for California S Corporation formation.
Best Value
Comprehensive service starting at $0 with no hidden fees and excellent included features.
Outstanding Support
Industry-leading customer service with lifetime support and worry-free compliance.
Proven Track Record
Thousands of satisfied customers and 4.9/5 rating with transparent business practices.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission from ZenBusiness referrals. This helps us provide free content while maintaining our editorial independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you recommend ZenBusiness over other free options?
While both ZenBusiness and Bizee offer free formation plans, ZenBusiness provides significantly better value with comprehensive features, superior customer support, and included services like compliance tracking and business dashboard management. Their free plan includes worry-free compliance (1 year free), and their premium plans offer faster processing and additional features.
Do you earn commissions from these recommendations?
Yes, we may earn affiliate commissions from some service providers. However, our recommendations are based on thorough research, customer reviews, and actual service quality. We only recommend services we genuinely believe provide excellent value to our readers.
Can I form my California S Corporation myself without a service?
Yes, you can file directly with the California Secretary of State. However, formation services provide valuable guidance, handle paperwork accurately, and often include beneficial services like registered agent and compliance support that would cost more if purchased separately.