Firstbase vs ZenBusiness: Side-by-Side Comparison
Side-by-side comparison across 11 dimensions. Data is approximate and for informational purposes only.
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| Dimension | Firstbase | ZenBusiness |
|---|---|---|
| Entity Types | LLC, C-Corp | LLC, C-Corp, S-Corp, Nonprofit |
| Setup Fee | $399–$599 | $0 + state fees |
| Annual Fee | $299/yr | $199–$349/yr |
| Timeline | 1–3 business days | 2–3 weeks (standard) |
| States Available | Delaware, Wyoming, Florida + others | All 50 states |
| EIN Filing | Included | Add-on |
| Registered Agent | Included | Included |
| Banking Integration | Mercury, Relay | None |
| Compliance Support | Full | Partial |
| Non-Resident Support | Full | Limited |
| Platform Type | Full-service | Guided DIY |
Key Notes
Firstbase
Built specifically for non-US founders. Includes US address, mail forwarding, annual report filing, and compliance reminders. Dashboard tracks all ongoing obligations.
ZenBusiness
Free basic formation (pay only state fees). Registered agent included for first year. Annual report service and compliance alerts in paid tiers. Primarily designed for US residents.
What Real Users Say
Anonymized and paraphrased observations from founder communities, review platforms, and forums.
ZenBusiness is another domestic-first service. Their non-resident process exists but it is not their core audience. Firstbase was built specifically for international founders.
Source: Reddit r/smallbusinessZenBusiness formation speed is fast (often same-day in most states). Firstbase is comparable. The difference is in what happens after formation.
Source: G2 reviewsZenBusiness renewal pricing increases significantly after year 1. The $0 formation is a loss leader. Check the annual renewal before committing.
Source: Trustpilot reviewsFrequently Asked Questions
How We Compared
We collected pricing, included services, non-resident support levels, and formation timelines from each provider's public website. Costs are compared at initial setup and annual renewal rates.
Disclaimer: All data on this page is approximate and for informational purposes only. Pricing, features, and availability change frequently. This is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Verify all figures directly with each provider before making decisions. Data reflects conditions as of early 2026.
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