How to get out of ZenBusiness?

Open your account settings, then cancel each subscription before its renewal date. Cancelling does not dissolve your LLC with the state.

Is ZenBusiness good for starting an LLC?

Yes. The guided registration process, EIN filing, and compliance alerts suit first-time owners who want minimal official paperwork.

What are the steps to start an LLC with ZenBusiness?

Check your name, choose a package, add a registered agent, pay state fees, then approve the articles of organization for filing.

Which one is better, LegalZoom or ZenBusiness?

ZenBusiness wins on entry price and ongoing compliance services. LegalZoom wins if you want attorney consultations bundled with formation.

How does ZenBusiness work?

You answer questions about your business, ZenBusiness prepares the official paperwork, files it with your state, then tracks deadlines afterward.

Can I upload my own logo to ZenBusiness?

Yes. Upload your logo in the branding settings, and it appears on invoices and any site built with the AI website builder.

How to Use ZenBusiness Step by Step — 2026 Tutorial

by Fahim Joharder | Last updated Aug 2, 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every ZenBusiness feature:

Getting Started — Create your account and finish basic setup
How to Use EIN for Beginners — Get your Employer ID Number filed without touching confusing IRS website forms
How to Use Registered LLC Agent — Keep a physical address on file so official paperwork never gets missed
How to Use AI Business Assistant — Ask plain questions and get instant answers about running your own business
How to Use Dedicated Personalized Agent — Talk to a real expert who already knows your business formation history
How to Use Business LLC Filing — Submit articles of organization to your state website through one guided flow
How to Use Expense Tracker — Split personal expenses from business costs and surface tax deductions faster
How to Use Banking Solutions — Open a business bank account through Thread Bank without a branch visit
How to Use Payments and Invoicing — Send invoices and collect customer payments straight from the dashboard
How to Use Velo AI — Launch a website and business domain name with the AI website builder

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I have used ZenBusiness for eight months and tested every feature covered here.

This tutorial comes from real hands-on experience, not vendor screenshots.

ZenBusiness is one of the best known business formation services available today.

But most small business owners only ever touch the filing step.

This guide shows you how to use zenbusiness end to end.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

ZenBusiness Tutorial

This complete ZenBusiness tutorial walks through every feature, from your first filing to daily business banking.

ZenBusiness

Start an LLC without the official paperwork headache. ZenBusiness files in all 50 states, adds a registered agent, and keeps you in good standing. The starter package costs $0 plus state fees.

TRY ZENBUSINESS NOW →

READ FULL REVIEW →

Getting Started with ZenBusiness

Before using any feature, finish this one-time setup.

It takes about three minutes.

Here is my personal experience with the setup flow:

Now let us walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to the ZenBusiness website and click Start Now.

Enter your email and create a password.

✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for a confirmation email.

Step 2: Access Your Dashboard

ZenBusiness runs in any browser, so there is nothing to download.

Use the zenbusiness login page on desktop or mobile.

On a phone, tap the close mobile icon to dismiss the menu overlay.

Here is what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see your formation checklist.

Step 3: Complete Initial Setup

Answer the onboarding questions about your state and industry.

This tells ZenBusiness which business licenses your new business may need.

ZenBusiness includes compliance alerts on every paid plan.

That lets you focus on customers instead of paperwork.

✅ Done: You are ready to use any feature below.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness EIN for Beginners

EIN for Beginners lets you handle the Employer ID Number application without decoding the IRS website yourself.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open the EIN Task

An EIN application is included in the Pro and Premium packages.

Step 2: Confirm Your Details

Check the name and physical address pulled from your LLC formation file.

Here is what this looks like:

What is an EIN? Starting Your Business for Beginners with ‪@GeorgeVlasyev‬

✓ Checkpoint: Your EIN status changes to pending inside the dashboard.

Step 3: Submit and Wait

Submit the form and watch for the confirmation email.

✅ Result: Your Employer ID Number is filed and ready for business banking.

💡 Pro Tip: Apply before your bank visit, because no bank opens an account without an EIN.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness Registered LLC Agent

Registered LLC Agent lets you put a real physical address on file for legal documents.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Add the Registered Agent Service

Open the add on services menu and select registered agent coverage.

A registered agent receives official legal and government correspondence as required by state law.

Step 2: Assign Your State

Pick the state where you formed your limited liability company.

ZenBusiness offers compliance services in all 50 states.

Here is what this looks like:

What is an LLC? Starting Your Business for Beginners with @GeorgeVlasyev

✓ Checkpoint: The agent address replaces your home address on public records.

Step 3: Turn On Mail Alerts

Enable email alerts so scanned official paperwork reaches you same day.

✅ Result: Every state notice now lands in one tracked inbox.

💡 Pro Tip: The registered agent service costs $199 annually, cheaper than most mailbox rentals.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness AI Business Assistant

AI Business Assistant lets you ask questions about your own business and get an answer in seconds.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open the Assistant

Click the search icon at the top of your dashboard.

Step 2: Ask a Real Question

Type something specific, like whether you need business licenses in your state.

Vague prompts return generic answers, so name your state and industry.

Here is what this looks like:

ZenBusiness Velo® - Your Personalized AI Business Assistant with @GeorgeVlasyev

✓ Checkpoint: The assistant returns search results tied to your formation state.

Step 3: Save the Answer

Copy useful replies into your business plan notes.

✅ Result: You have answers without waiting on a support queue.

💡 Pro Tip: Tap the clear search icon between questions, so old search results stop interfering.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness Dedicated Personalized Agent

Dedicated Personalized Agent lets you reach a human who already has your file open.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Find Your Contact

Look for the ringing phone icon in the support panel.

ZenBusiness offers both chat and phone customer support.

Step 2: Book a Call Slot

Pick a time that fits around your day job.

Here is what this looks like:

Get ZenBusiness Registered Agent Service for Your LLC or Corporation

✓ Checkpoint: A confirmed call slot appears on your dashboard timeline.

Step 3: Bring Your Questions

List your business taxes and compliance questions before the call starts.

ZenBusiness has excellent phone support with knowledgeable representatives.

✅ Result: You get direct answers instead of generic help articles.

💡 Pro Tip: Chat support answers promptly and correctly, so use it for quick checks.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness LLC Filing

Business LLC Filing lets you file the articles of organization that legally create your limited liability company.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Name Your Company

Run a name check before you commit to anything.

A taken name stalls the whole registration process.

Step 2: Choose Your Package

Pick the starter package or a paid tier, then pay state filing fees.

ZenBusiness handles LLC formation filings in all 50 states.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your filing status shows as submitted, not draft.

Step 3: Approve and File

Review the form, then let ZenBusiness send it to the state.

Customer reviews report ZenBusiness filed documents in 2 business days or less.

✅ Result: Your LLC formation is with the state and tracking toward approval.

💡 Pro Tip: Rush processing costs an extra $79, and the pro package already includes 1-day processing.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness Expense Tracker

Expense Tracker lets you keep personal expenses out of your books and catch tax deductions early.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Connect Your Bank Account

Link the bank account your business actually spends from.

Step 2: Tag Each Transaction

Mark every charge as business or personal in the Money Pro view.

Money Pro bookkeeping learns your tags and starts sorting expenses for you.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Untagged expenses drop to zero on the summary card.

Step 3: Export at Tax Time

Download the yearly report before you file taxes.

✅ Result: Your deductions are documented instead of guessed.

💡 Pro Tip: Tag weekly, not yearly, because month-old expenses are much harder to remember correctly.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness Banking Solutions

Banking Solutions lets you open business banking without walking into a branch or faxing anything.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Confirm Your EIN

Banking needs your approved Employer ID Number on file first.

Step 2: Apply Through Thread Bank

Complete the application inside the banking tab.

Accounts are held with Thread Bank, a real partner bank, not a wallet app.

Here is what this looks like:

Small Business Banking Solutions with ZenBusiness Banking

✓ Checkpoint: Your account number and routing number appear in the banking tab.

Step 3: Move Your Billing Over

Point subscriptions and customers at the new account.

✅ Result: Business money is fully separate from personal money.

💡 Pro Tip: Separate accounts protect personal assets, which is the entire point of limited liability.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness Payments and Invoicing

Payments and Invoicing lets you invoice customers and get paid without buying separate accounting services.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Build Your First Invoice

Add your logo, business email, and payment terms.

Step 2: Add Line Items

List each service with its own price and quantity.

Clear line items cut payment disputes dramatically.

Here is what this looks like:

Small Business Payments and Invoicing with ZenBusiness

✓ Checkpoint: The invoice status updates the moment your client opens it.

Step 3: Send and Track

Send it, then watch the status change from viewed to paid.

✅ Result: Payments land in your business bank account automatically.

💡 Pro Tip: Set reminders at seven and fourteen days so late invoices chase themselves.

Try ZenBusiness now

How to Use ZenBusiness Velo AI

Velo AI lets you build an online business presence with the AI website builder in one sitting.

Here is how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Describe Your Business

Tell Velo AI what you sell and who buys it.

Step 2: Pick a Business Domain Name

Choose a website domain name that matches your registered company name.

A matching business domain name builds trust with first-time visitors.

Here is what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your website loads on its own domain, not a preview link.

Step 3: Publish the Site

Review the layout, then publish.

✅ Result: Your new business has a live site customers can find.

💡 Pro Tip: Add your business email on the contact page, because generic inboxes lose leads.

Try ZenBusiness now

ZenBusiness Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After eight months of testing, here are my best ZenBusiness tips.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Action	Shortcut
Open dashboard search	/ (forward slash)
Jump between browser tabs	Ctrl + Tab
Save an invoice draft	Ctrl + S
Refresh filing status	Ctrl + R

Hidden Features Most People Miss

Operating agreement template: Sits in the business documents library and settles ownership splits early.
Compliance alerts: Warn you before each annual report deadline so you keep good standing.
Business document templates: Included with Premium and cover contracts, notices, and the operating agreement.
Money Pro exports: Hand your accountant a clean file instead of a shoebox of receipts.

Try ZenBusiness now

ZenBusiness Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Treating the Starter Package as Free Forever

❌ Wrong: Assuming $0 covers everything and skipping the state fees line.

✅ Right: Budget for state filing fees, which vary by state and are always additional.

Mistake #2: Mixing Personal and Business Money

❌ Wrong: Running personal expenses through the business bank account for convenience.

✅ Right: Keep accounts split so personal assets stay protected by limited liability.

Mistake #3: Ignoring the Annual Report

❌ Wrong: Filing once and assuming the paperwork is finished forever.

✅ Right: Many states require annual reports, so track deadlines or add worry free compliance.

Try ZenBusiness now

ZenBusiness Troubleshooting

Problem: Your Business Name Was Rejected

Cause: Another company already registered that name in your state.

Fix: Search the state website for availability, then resubmit with a new name.

Problem: The EIN Has Not Arrived

Cause: The IRS website processes applications on its own schedule.

Fix: Wait a full week, then contact support before filing a second application.

Problem: An Unexpected Renewal Charge

Cause: Add on services renew yearly, including registered agent service at $199.

Fix: Open your subscription page and cancel anything you no longer use.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact ZenBusiness support.

Try ZenBusiness now

What is ZenBusiness?

ZenBusiness is a business formation platform that helps entrepreneurs start, manage, and grow companies.

Think of it like a filing clerk, a compliance calendar, and a bookkeeper sharing one dashboard.

Plenty of people search for zen business as two words.

The brand sells ongoing llc services, not a single one-off filing.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

EIN for Beginners: Files your federal tax ID so you can open a business bank account
Registered LLC Agent: Receives legal notices at a real street address on your behalf
AI Business Assistant: Answers formation and compliance questions inside the dashboard
Dedicated Personalized Agent: Gives Premium members a named human contact for account questions
Business LLC Filing: Prepares and files your formation paperwork in all 50 states
Expense Tracker: Sorts transactions so deductions are ready before you file taxes
Banking Solutions: Business banking built into the same dashboard as your filings
Payments and Invoicing: Creates branded invoices and accepts card payments online
Velo AI: Generates a working site plus a matching business domain

For a full review, see our ZenBusiness review.

Try ZenBusiness now

ZenBusiness Pricing

Here is what ZenBusiness costs in 2026:

Plan	Price	Best For
Starter	$0 + State Fees	Owners who only need the filing done
Pro	$199 + State Fees	Faster filing plus an EIN application
Premium	$349 + State Fees	Documents, agent, and a website

Every llc formation package covers the filing itself.

You pay extra for rush processing, add on services, and yearly renewals.

The worry free compliance service costs $199 annually after the first year.

It covers annual report filing plus two amendments each year.

Free trial: No trial, but the starter package is $0 plus state fees.

Money-back guarantee: Yes, a 100% satisfaction guarantee covers the first 60 days.

💰 Best Value: Pro package — it adds the EIN filing and 1-day processing most owners need.

Try ZenBusiness now

ZenBusiness vs Alternatives

How does ZenBusiness compare? Here is the competitive landscape:

Watch this comparison:

Tool	Best For	Price	Rating
ZenBusiness	Everyday LLC formation	$0 + state fees	⭐ 4.1
Doola	Non-US founders	From $297/year	⭐ 4.4
Firstbase	Funded startups	From $399	⭐ 4.3
Clerky	Fundraising paperwork	From $799	⭐ 4.2
Stripe Atlas	Internet companies	Custom	⭐ 4.6
LegalZoom	Attorney access	From $99	⭐ 4.6

Quick picks:

Best overall: ZenBusiness — filing, compliance, and banking in one place
Best budget: ZenBusiness Starter — $0 plus state fees
Best for beginners: ZenBusiness — the guided flow explains every field
Best for fundraising: Clerky — built around investor paperwork

🎯 ZenBusiness Alternatives

Looking for ZenBusiness alternatives? Here are the top options:

🚀 Doola: Handles LLC formation plus bookkeeping for founders living outside the United States.
🏢 Firstbase: Built for startups that want Delaware incorporation and post-formation tooling in one place.
🔧 Clerky: Legal-grade paperwork for startups planning to raise venture capital soon.
💼 Stripe Atlas: Formation bundled with payments infrastructure for global internet companies.
⭐ LegalZoom: Long-established brand offering formation plus attorney access at higher price points.

For the full list, see our ZenBusiness alternatives guide.

⚔️ ZenBusiness Compared

Here is how ZenBusiness stacks up against each competitor:

ZenBusiness vs Doola: Doola suits non-US founders better, while ZenBusiness wins on price and support depth.
ZenBusiness vs Firstbase: Firstbase targets funded startups, but ZenBusiness costs far less for a simple LLC.
ZenBusiness vs Clerky: Clerky is stronger on fundraising documents, though ZenBusiness is friendlier for solo owners.
ZenBusiness vs Stripe Atlas: Stripe Atlas fits internet startups, while ZenBusiness covers ongoing compliance far better.
ZenBusiness vs LegalZoom: LegalZoom offers more legal add ons, but ZenBusiness beats it on entry price.

Try ZenBusiness now

Start Using ZenBusiness Now

You learned how to use every major ZenBusiness feature:

✅ EIN for Beginners
✅ Registered LLC Agent
✅ AI Business Assistant
✅ Dedicated Personalized Agent
✅ Business LLC Filing
✅ Expense Tracker
✅ Banking Solutions
✅ Payments and Invoicing
✅ Velo AI

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Business LLC Filing.

It takes less than five minutes.

Try ZenBusiness now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ZenBusiness actually free?

The starter package costs $0, but state filing fees still apply. Add on services like registered agent service and worry free compliance cost extra each year.

How much does it cost to start an LLC with ZenBusiness?

Plans run $0, $199, or $349 plus state fees. State fees vary widely, so check your state website before you pay.

Does Mark Cuban own ZenBusiness?

No. Mark Cuban is an early investor in ZenBusiness, not the owner. The company was founded by Ross Buhrdorf in Austin.

How quickly does ZenBusiness form an LLC?

Customers report filed documents in two business days or less. The pro package includes 1-day processing, and rush processing costs $79 extra.

Is ZenBusiness a good way to start an LLC?

Yes for most small business owners. It handles LLC formation in all 50 states, files annual reports, and keeps you in good standing.