Best Sole Proprietorship Services

Compare top-rated Sole Proprietorship services to find the best fit for your business

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Staff Writer

Arorix Editorial Team

Updated: June 14, 2025

1

9.8

EXCELLENT

Best for Budget Filing

2

9.0

EXCELLENT

Best for Long-Term Tools

3

8.8

EXCELLENT

Best for Private Support

4

8.5

EXCELLENT

Best for Hands-On Guidance

5

8.0

EXCELLENT

Best for Brand Recognition

6

7.8

EXCELLENT

Best for Branding-Focused Setup

Looking for a Complete All-in-One Solution?

9.9

Best Overall Business Launch Solution

 

Our Top 3 Services

Northwest Registered Agent

Private, Simple, Done Right

3

Best for Private Support

8.8

EXCELLENT

4

Best for Hands-On Guidance

8.5

EXCELLENT

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Reviews

Looking for a Complete All-in-One Solution?

Starting a sole prop is simple—filing services make it smoother. They help register your DBA, get your EIN, and handle local requirements. Many include name checks, compliance alerts, and branding tools so you can launch fast and look professional from day one.

Sole proprietors don’t need to file with the state—unless you want to use a business name. That’s where a DBA comes in.

What’s Included:

  • DBA Registration: Run your business under a brand name, not your own

  • EIN Filing: Needed for business banking or hiring

  • Business Tools: Some services include logos, websites, or compliance alerts

Why It Matters:
Filing a DBA makes your business official to customers, banks, and agencies—so most services focus on DBA-based packages.

Why Sole Proprietorship Services Focus on DBA Filings

What is a Sole Proprietorship?

The simplest business type—just one owner, no legal separation from the business.

No formation paperwork is required to start. But to use a brand name or open a business bank account, you’ll likely need a DBA and an EIN.

Tax Differences: Sole Proprietorship vs. Other Formations

  • Sole Proprietorship

    • Income is reported on your personal tax return (Schedule C)

    • Subject to self-employment tax

    • No separate business tax filings

  • LLC (Single-Member)

    • Same pass-through taxation as a sole prop

    • Can elect S-Corp taxation for potential savings

  • S Corporation

    • Pass-through taxation

    • Owners pay themselves a salary + take distributions

    • Salary is subject to payroll taxes; distributions are not

  • C Corporation

    • Pays corporate tax (21% federal rate)

    • Shareholders also pay tax on dividends (double taxation)

    • Can deduct more benefits, like health insurance

Sole Proprietorship Filing Fees and Costs

  • DBA Registration: $10–$100 (varies by state/locality)

  • EIN (Employer Identification Number): Free via IRS, or $50–$100 through a service

  • Business Licenses/Permits: Varies by industry and location

  • Optional Services: Logo, website, compliance tools — $0–$300+ depending on provider

  • Filing Service Packages: $0–$150+ based on features and add-ons

Tip: Using a formation provider can help you avoid missed steps and stay legally compliant.

Why Startups and Solo Entrepreneurs Use Filing Services

  • Simplifies DBA Registration: Get your business name filed fast and correctly

  • EIN Assistance: Easily set up for banking or hiring needs

  • Local Compliance Help: Stay on top of city/state requirements

  • Professional Launch: Many services include logos, domains, and startup tools

  • Saves Time & Hassle: Avoid paperwork errors and get started quickly

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Sole Proprietorship

  • Skipping DBA Registration: Needed if you’re not using your legal name

  • Not Getting an EIN: Required for business banking or hiring employees

  • Mixing Personal & Business Finances: Hurts credibility and legal clarity

  • Ignoring Local Licenses/Permits: Can lead to fines or shutdowns

  • No Business Plan or Branding: Makes growth and marketing harder

  • Missing Tax Obligations: Sole props still owe income and self-employment taxes

How to Pick the Right Sole Proprietorship Filing Service

  • DBA Registration Included: Core service—make sure it’s offered and state-compliant

  • EIN Filing Option: Helpful if you need a business bank account or plan to hire

  • Clear, Upfront Pricing: Avoid hidden fees or upsells

  • Local Compliance Support: Helps with licenses, permits, and state rules

  • Startup Tools: Look for extras like logo, domain, or website setup

  • Positive Reviews: Choose a provider with proven reliability and customer support

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Reviews

ZenBusiness Review

Northwest Registered Agent Review

LegalZoom Review