What’s the Easiest and Cheapest Way to Set Up an LLC Online in 2025?

Hey — Eli Mercer here. 👋 Solopreneur, AI strategist, and someone who’s spent way too much time untangling business formation nightmares so you don’t have to.

If you’re anything like me when I started out, the idea of legally forming your business sounds like a mess. Articles of organization? EIN numbers? State-by-state requirements? It’s enough to stall your entire startup dream.

So let’s cut through the noise.

If you’re looking for a no-headache, low-cost way to create an LLC in 2025 without getting buried under paperwork or legal terms — there is a better way.

And in this post, I’m going to walk you step-by-step through it.

We’re talking:

• How to set up your LLC in less than an hour
• What it really costs (DIY vs services)
• Which tool gives you the most bang for your buck (hint: it’s not LegalZoom)
• And how to do it all without messing up compliance or paying a lawyer $1,000+

Let’s build that business the smart way — starting now.

Why Even Form an LLC in 2025?

Before we dive into the tools, let’s be real — not everyone needs an LLC…

But if you:

• freelance under your own name
• run a side hustle on Etsy or Shopify
• plan to scale your business and keep it legit
• want to protect your personal assets from business liability…

Then forming an LLC is one of the smartest (and easiest) business decisions you can make.

• ✅ It limits your legal liability
• ✅ It makes you look more professional
• ✅ It unlocks access to business banking, deductions, and funding

And thanks to online LLC formation services, you no longer have to hire a lawyer or read 200 pages of legal code to do it.

The Old Way (DIY) vs The Smart Way (Online Setup Tools)

I’ve been through both. The first time, I tried to file my LLC with my state manually. Two weeks later, I was still trying to decode the difference between a registered agent and a member-managed structure.

The second time, I used an automated platform called Setup LLC and was done in under 30 minutes — EIN, operating agreement and all.

Here’s why Setup LLC has become my go-to recommendation:

🚀 Why Setup LLC is the Best Way to Form Your LLC in 2025

Setup LLC is built for entrepreneurs, solo business owners, and side hustlers who just want to turn their dream into a real, legal business — fast.

👉 Try Setup LLC today and get started in minutes →

Key Features That Actually Matter:

1. Step-by-Step Guidance
   Walks you through everything: business name, state filing, EIN, and operating agreement. No jargon. No guesswork.
2. Auto Compliance Tracking
   You’ll never miss an annual report or renewal. Setup LLC gives you friendly reminders and does the tracking for you.
3. Bank & Tax Integrations
   Instantly creates bank-ready documents and directs you to business checking options after filing.
4. Document Vault
   All your formation docs in one place. Easy access for taxes, banking, or business loans.
5. Customizable Ownership + Operating Agreements
   Perfect for solopreneurs or multi-founder setups. Something most budget services don’t include.
6. Human Support That Doesn’t Suck
   No bots. Real people help you along the way (especially helpful if this is your first business).

🔧 Want to see it for yourself?

💵 How Much Does Setup LLC Really Cost?

Let’s break it down — because price matters, and you shouldn’t overpay.

• Basic Setup: Starts around $49 (plus your state’s filing fee)
• Add-ons: Extras like Registered Agent services or EIN can be added during checkout
• Average Total Cost: ~$140–250 depending on your state and add-ons

Compared to LegalZoom ($79–$349 plus upsells), or Incfile (free filing but pricey add-ons), Setup LLC hits the sweet spot:

• → Better support than Incfile
• → More automation and ease-of-use than LegalZoom
• → Total transparency — no surprise fees

🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Set Up an LLC with Setup LLC

Want the 1–2–3?

1. Choose Your State & LLC Name
   Setup LLC checks if your business name is available.
2. Answer a Few Questions
   About your business type, members, address, etc.
3. Add Optional Services
   Like filing your EIN, creating an operating agreement, or hiring a registered agent.
4. Hit Submit
   Setup LLC takes over from there — handling your state filings and documentation.
5. Get Your Docs + EIN
   Once your state approves it (usually 5–10 business days), your documents are delivered right to your email and dashboard.

🙌 Real Users Say It Best

You don’t have to take my word for it. Here’s what people are saying:

“Setup LLC made the whole thing dead simple. What would’ve taken me hours, they did in 20 minutes.”
– Trustpilot Review

“Honestly, this saved me from weeks of confusion. I’m a first-time founder and it made everything clear and fast.”
– Reddit User

“Super organized, quick turnaround, excellent support. I recommend it to all my clients now.”
– Small Business Coach

Want to see for yourself?
👇

🤔 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Forming Your LLC

How long does it take to form an LLC online in 2025?

Usually between 5–10 business days depending on your state. Expedited options are available.

Is Setup LLC safe and legit?

Yes. It’s fully licensed to file with state agencies and uses encrypted systems for your data.

Do I need a registered agent service?

Most states require a registered agent. You can either be one yourself, or let Setup LLC handle it for a low annual fee.

Can I get an EIN through Setup LLC?

Yup. They’ll handle the EIN application with the IRS for you.

Can I set up an LLC in a different state?

You can, but make sure it makes sense for your business. For most folks, filing in the state where you live and work is the simplest.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got a Business to Build — Don’t Let Paperwork Stop You

If you’re serious about making your side hustle official, protecting your personal liability, or just taking that next big step toward being your own boss… setting up your LLC is where it all starts.

In 2025, doing it the hard way makes no sense.

Let a proven, expert-built tool like Setup LLC handle the boring (but important) stuff — so you can get back to building what matters.

🤝 I only recommend tools I’ve used and tested myself. Setup LLC is one of them. It’s fast, legit, and beginner-friendly without cutting corners. If you have any questions, drop them below. Let’s build something that lasts.