Create Your Operating Agreement With Confidence
Compare top operating agreement services to find the best fit for your business
Staff Writer
Arorix Editorial Team
Updated: June 14, 2025
1
9.8
EXCELLENT
Best for Free Compliance Docs
- $0 (with LLC filing)
- Custom operating agreement
- State-specific templates
2
8.0
EXCELLENT
Best for Privacy + Service
- $39 (w/ LLC package)
- Operating agreement + RA
- No data sales, direct support
3
8.5
EXCELLENT
Best for Ongoing Compliance
- $199/year Pro plan
- Auto-updating agreement
- Compliance tools included
4
9.0
EXCELLENT
Best for Brand + Structure
- $199 Elite plan or add-on
- Operating agreement + EIN
- Brand builder + legal setup
5
7.8
EXCELLENT
Best for Legal Review Access
- $99 standalone
- Attorney-reviewed templates
- Legal advisor add-on optional
6
8.8
EXCELLENT
Best for Fast Turnaround
- Part of Deluxe/Complete plans
- Quick delivery + doc filing
- Legal docs prepared in-house
Looking for a Complete All-in-One Solution?
9.9
Best Overall Business Launch Solution
- EIN, docs, & custom branding included
- Access to Arorix OSâ„¢ business dashboard
- Website, CRM, and automation tools built-in
Our Top 3 Services
1
Best for Free Compliance Docs
- $0 (with LLC filing)
- Custom operating agreement
- State-specific templates
9.8
2
Best for Privacy + Service
- $39 (w/ LLC package)
- Operating agreement + RA
- No data sales, direct support
8.0
EXCELLENT
3
Best for Ongoing Compliance
- $199/year Pro plan
- Auto-updating agreement
- Compliance tools included
8.5
4
Best for Brand + Structure
- $199 Elite plan or add-on
- Operating agreement + EIN
- Brand builder + legal setup
9.0
EXCELLENT
5
Best for Legal Review Access
- $99 standalone
- Attorney-reviewed templates
- Legal advisor add-on optional
7.8
EXCELLENT
6
Best for Fast Turnaround
- Part of Deluxe/Complete plans
- Quick delivery + doc filing
- Legal docs prepared in-house
8.8
EXCELLENT
Looking for a Complete All-in-One Solution?
Best Overall Business Launch Solution
- EIN, docs, & custom branding included
- Access to Arorix OSâ„¢ business dashboard
- Website, CRM, and automation tools built-in
9.9
What is an Operating Agreement?
An Operating Agreement is an internal document that outlines how your LLC is run. It covers ownership, roles, voting rights, profit splits, and what happens if a member leaves. While not always legally required, it’s essential for protecting your business, avoiding disputes, and proving your LLC’s legitimacy.
Operating Agreements and Taxes
While an Operating Agreement doesn’t get filed with the IRS, it plays a key role in how your LLC handles taxes. It can outline how profits and losses are split, who’s responsible for filing, and whether the LLC is taxed as a sole prop, partnership, or elects S-Corp status. It helps keep tax responsibilities clear and protects your pass-through status.
Operating Agreement Filing Fees and Costs
Included with Formation Packages (Most Affordable):
Bizee: $0 + state fees – Free Operating Agreement included
Northwest: $39 + state fees – Includes a custom agreement
CorpNet: Included in $149+ plans
Standalone Purchase (Moderately Priced):
LegalZoom: $99 flat fee
Tailor Brands: Part of $199 Elite Plan or as an add-on
ZenBusiness: Included in $199/year Pro Plan
Attorney-Drafted (Highest Cost):
Custom Legal Drafting: $500–$2,000+
Best for complex or high-value LLCs—overkill for most small businesses.
Tip:You don’t need to file your Operating Agreement with the state—but keep signed copies safe. All LLC members should have access, and you may need it for banks, investors, or legal purposes later.
Extras to Look For with Operating Agreements
Editable Templates: Customize for single- or multi-member LLCs
Legal Review: Some services offer optional attorney consultations
Compliance Reminders: Stay up-to-date with state requirements
Bundled Formation: Save by including it in your LLC package
Brand + Legal Tools (Tailor Brands): Great for building your brand and legal foundation together
Why an Operating Agreement Matters
-
Defines Ownership & Roles: Prevents disputes and keeps responsibilities clear
-
Protects Liability Shield: Proves your LLC operates separately from you
-
Essential for Multi-Member LLCs: Covers profit splits and decision-making
-
Often Required by Banks: Needed to open accounts or secure funding
Common Operating Agreement Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping It Entirely: Even single-member LLCs should have one
Using a Generic Template: May not meet your state’s rules or reflect your structure
Not Updating When Things Change: Ownership, roles, or profit splits should always be current
Failing to Get Signatures: An unsigned agreement may not hold up legally
Poor Storage: All members should have access—don’t lose the only copy
How to Look for the Right Operating Agreement
Check What’s Included: Make sure it covers roles, ownership, voting, and profit splits
Look for Editable Templates: So you can tailor it to your structure (solo or multi-member)
Ensure State Compliance: Confirm it aligns with your state’s LLC laws
See if It’s Bundled: Often free or discounted when included in formation packages
Consider Legal Review: Some platforms offer attorney add-ons if you want extra peace of mind