Harvard Business Services is a business formation company that helps entrepreneurs establish limited liability companies (LLCs) and corporations in Delaware and all 50 states. The company specializes in Delaware business formation and also provides registered agent services, business document preparation, foreign qualification assistance, and ongoing administrative support.
For entrepreneurs starting a business in the United States, choosing the right formation service can make the registration process easier. However, the lowest advertised price does not always represent the lowest long-term cost. Business owners must also consider state filing fees, registered agent renewals, annual taxes, and compliance requirements.
Harvard Business Services has operated since 1981 and specializes in Delaware business formation. Its services are particularly relevant to entrepreneurs who want to establish a Delaware LLC or corporation without handling every filing themselves.
But is Harvard Business Services worth considering? How much does it cost? Does it work with international entrepreneurs? And how does it compare with other formation providers?
This comprehensive guide explains the company’s services, pricing, formation process, advantages, disadvantages, customer reviews, and important legal considerations.
What Is Harvard Business Services?
Harvard Business Services, Inc. is a private business formation and registered agent company based in Lewes, Delaware. Founded by Richard H. Bell II in 1981, it operates through DelawareInc.com and specializes in Delaware LLC and corporation formation.
The company reports helping establish more than 500,000 businesses since its founding.
Its main services include:
- LLC and corporation formation.
- Delaware registered agent services.
- Business name availability checks.
- Operating agreements and corporate documents.
- Foreign qualification.
- Certificates of good standing and apostille services.
- Mail forwarding and annual tax assistance.
How Does Harvard Business Services Work?
Harvard Business Services simplifies business formation by preparing and submitting documents to state filing authorities.
The process generally involves:
- Choose a business structure: Select an LLC or corporation.
- Check name availability: Verify your preferred business name.
- Select a package: Choose a formation package based on your needs.
- Submit information: Provide the required company and ownership details.
- Appoint a registered agent: Arrange the required registered agent service.
- Complete payment: Pay formation and applicable filing fees.
- Receive documents: Obtain approved formation records after state processing.
The company advertises same-day electronic filing for Delaware formations, although state approval may take longer.
What Services Does Harvard Business Services Offer?
Harvard Business Services provides business formation, registered agent, and administrative services for entrepreneurs and established companies.
1. LLC Formation
Harvard Business Services helps entrepreneurs form Delaware LLCs by preparing and filing the Certificate of Formation.
Its services include:
- Business name availability checks.
- Formation document preparation.
- State filing submission.
- Registered agent services.
- Digital formation documents.
LLCs may suit freelancers, consultants, online businesses, and small-business owners seeking flexible management and limited liability protection.
2. Corporation Formation
The company helps establish Delaware corporations by preparing and filing the Certificate of Incorporation.
Corporations may suit startups seeking investors, businesses with multiple shareholders, and companies planning to issue shares.
Harvard Business Services also provides supporting corporate documents based on the selected package.
3. Registered Agent Services
Harvard Business Services advertises Delaware registered agent services for $50 annually, with the first year included in its formation packages.
A registered agent helps businesses:
- Receive legal notices and government correspondence.
- Maintain a qualifying Delaware registered agent address.
- Receive service-of-process documents.
- Keep personal addresses separate from registered agent records.
The company advertises a lifetime price guarantee for its Delaware registered agent renewal fee.
4. Business Name Search
Harvard Business Services helps entrepreneurs check whether their preferred business name is available in Delaware.
However, state name availability does not guarantee trademark rights. Business owners should also check for potential trademark conflicts.
5. Operating Agreements and Corporate Documents
Depending on the package, the company provides business document templates, including:
- LLC operating agreements.
- Corporate bylaws.
- Membership and stock certificates.
- Banking and organizational resolutions.
- Corporate recordkeeping documents.
These documents help businesses organize ownership, management, and internal records. Complex arrangements may require customized legal advice.
6. Foreign Qualification
Harvard Business Services assists companies registering to operate in additional states.
For example, a Delaware LLC expanding into Texas may need foreign qualification depending on its business activities.
This service can help businesses expanding across state lines.
7. Additional Administrative Services
The company also provides services for ongoing business maintenance.
| Service | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Good Standing | Confirms a company’s state status |
| Certified Copies | Provides certified business documents |
| Apostille Service | Authenticates documents for international use |
| Mail Forwarding | Forwards business correspondence |
| Company Name Change | Assists with name amendment filings |
| Stock Amendment | Updates corporate stock information |
| LLC Cancellation | Assists with closing a Delaware LLC |
| Franchise Tax Assistance | Helps with Delaware tax payments |
Harvard Business Services also advertises mail forwarding starting at $29 through its Basic 12 Service, which includes 12 credits for eligible mail handling services.
Mail forwarding plans have specific limits and restrictions. A forwarding address should not automatically be treated as a registered agent address or physical business location.
These additional services allow entrepreneurs to manage business records and administrative requirements beyond initial formation.
Harvard Business Services Pricing: How Much Does It Cost?
Harvard Business Services offers three Delaware formation packages: Green, Basic, and Standard, with different features and pricing.
| Package | Price | Main Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Green | $229 | Formation, state fees, first-year registered agent |
| Basic | $279 | Green features, physical documents, digital templates |
| Standard | $379 | Basic features, corporate kit, seal embosser |
The Green package includes applicable Delaware filing fees and first-year registered agent service. Prices may vary based on optional services and filing requirements.
Green Package – $229
Designed for entrepreneurs seeking basic LLC or corporation formation.
Includes:
- Business name check and document preparation.
- Delaware filing fees and electronic submission.
- First-year registered agent service.
- Digital documents and customer support.
Best for: Entrepreneurs who prefer affordable, digital-only formation.
Basic Package – $279
Includes Green features, plus physical formation documents, priority shipping, operating agreement or bylaws templates, and digital certificates.
Best for: Business owners needing physical and digital records.
Standard Package – $379
Includes Basic features, plus a deluxe corporate kit, seal embosser, meeting minute book, certificates, and recordkeeping materials.
Best for: Entrepreneurs who prefer comprehensive physical company records.
Registered Agent Renewal Cost
Harvard Business Services advertises $50 annual Delaware registered agent renewal, with the first year included.
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| First-year registered agent | Included |
| Annual registered agent renewal | $50 |
| Delaware LLC annual tax | $400 |
The registered agent fee and Delaware LLC tax are separate expenses.
Additional Costs to Consider
| Expense | Cost or Details |
|---|---|
| Delaware filing fee | Included in eligible packages |
| Mail forwarding | Starts at $29 |
| Express filing | Additional charges |
| Foreign qualification | Varies by state |
| Certified copies and apostille | Additional fees |
Does Harvard Business Services Form Companies Outside Delaware?
Yes. Harvard Business Services offers LLC and corporation formation and registered agent services across all 50 states, including Texas, California, Florida, and New York.
However, filing fees, processing times, and compliance requirements vary by state.
For example, someone operating entirely in Texas may save money by forming a Texas LLC instead of establishing a Delaware LLC and registering it separately in Texas.
Before choosing a state, compare:
- Formation and filing fees.
- Registered agent expenses.
- Annual taxes and reporting requirements.
- Foreign qualification costs.
International entrepreneurs should also review separate international formation pricing.
How to Form an LLC Through Harvard Business Services
Harvard Business Services simplifies business registration through an online formation process.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Decide whether an LLC or corporation suits your business, ownership structure, and future plans.
Step 2: Select Your State
Choose Delaware or another state based on your business location, operations, and compliance needs.
Step 3: Check Business Name Availability
Search for your preferred business name and check for potential trademark conflicts.
Step 4: Choose a Formation Package
Compare Green, Basic, and Standard based on pricing, included documents, and services.
Step 5: Submit Business Information
Provide your company name, contact details, and other required formation information.
Step 6: Complete Payment and Filing
Harvard Business Services prepares and submits the documents. It advertises same-day electronic submission for Delaware formations.
Step 7: Receive Formation Documents
Once the state approves your filing, you receive the official documents needed for business administration and banking.
Step 8: Complete Post-Formation Requirements
After formation, you may need to:
- Obtain an EIN from the IRS.
- Prepare an operating agreement or bylaws.
- Open a business bank account.
- Register for applicable taxes and licenses.
- Maintain required business and ownership records.
- Complete foreign qualification where necessary.
How Long Does Harvard Business Services Take?
Harvard Business Services advertises same-day electronic filing for Delaware formation packages. However, filing submission and state approval are different processes.
Standard Delaware processing typically takes five to seven business days, while expedited options start at $75 and may offer same-day or next-day processing.
Processing times depend on:
- Document accuracy and completeness.
- Business name availability.
- Delaware’s processing workload.
- Selected filing speed.
- Additional documentation requirements.
Confirm current processing times before ordering if you have a specific deadline.
Delaware LLC Annual Tax and Compliance Requirements
Delaware businesses have ongoing tax and compliance obligations beyond initial formation costs.
Delaware LLC Annual Tax
As of November 2026, Delaware LLCs must pay a $400 annual tax by June 1. They do not need to file an annual report.
Late payments incur a $200 penalty plus 1.5% monthly interest on unpaid tax and penalties.
| Expense | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Delaware LLC annual tax | $400 |
| Registered agent renewal | $50 |
| Total | $450 |
These costs exclude optional services, additional registrations, and applicable taxes.
Delaware Corporation Annual Requirements
Domestic Delaware corporations generally must:
- File an annual report by March 1.
- Pay a $50 annual report fee (non-exempt corporations).
- Pay franchise tax.
- Maintain a registered agent.
The minimum franchise tax is generally $175 under the Authorized Shares Method or $400 under the Assumed Par Value Capital Method. Actual costs depend on the corporation’s structure.
Harvard Business Services for International Entrepreneurs
Harvard Business Services helps international entrepreneurs establish U.S. LLCs and corporations. However, foreign business owners should consider several requirements.
1. Registered Agent
Delaware companies must maintain a registered agent with a physical Delaware address. International owners can use an eligible registered agent service.
2. EIN Application
The IRS issues Employer Identification Numbers (EINs). Foreign applicants who cannot apply online may need alternative IRS application procedures.
3. U.S. Banking
Forming a U.S. company does not guarantee a bank account. Banks may require identification, formation documents, an EIN, and ownership information.
4. Tax Reporting
Foreign-owned U.S. LLCs may have additional reporting obligations. Certain foreign-owned single-member LLCs must file Form 5472 with a pro forma Form 1120, even when no federal income tax is owed.
5. Beneficial Ownership Reporting
Under FinCEN’s current rule, companies formed under U.S. state law are exempt from federal Corporate Transparency Act beneficial ownership information reporting.
Certain foreign-formed entities registered in the United States may still have reporting obligations.
Harvard Business Services vs. Other LLC Formation Companies
Harvard Business Services competes with several LLC formation providers. The best choice depends on pricing, services, and ongoing business needs.
| Provider | Main Strength | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard Business Services | Delaware formation expertise | $50 annual registered agent renewal |
| Northwest Registered Agent | Privacy-focused services | Formation and registered agent support |
| ZenBusiness | Formation and compliance | Digital tools and service plans |
| Bizee | Budget-friendly formation | Low-cost entry-level options |
| LegalZoom | Business and legal services | Broader legal support options |
Harvard Business Services stands out for its $50 annual Delaware registered agent renewal fee, which may offer long-term savings compared with providers charging higher renewal rates.
However, competitors may offer lower initial formation costs, advanced compliance tools, or additional legal services.
Tip: Compare formation fees, registered agent renewals, optional services, and ongoing compliance costs before choosing a provider.
Advantages of Harvard Business Services
Harvard Business Services offers several benefits for entrepreneurs forming LLCs and corporations.
1. Extensive Experience
Established in 1981, the company reports helping form over 500,000 businesses.
2. Affordable Registered Agent Service
Its Delaware registered agent service costs $50 annually, with a lifetime price guarantee.
3. Same-Day Filing
The company offers same-day electronic submission for eligible Delaware formation orders.
4. Flexible Formation Packages
Green, Basic, and Standard packages provide different documentation and service options.
5. Nationwide Services
Harvard Business Services offers business formation and registered agent services across all 50 states.
6. Additional Business Support
Services include mail forwarding, document ordering, foreign qualification, and administrative assistance.
Disadvantages of Harvard Business Services
Despite its benefits, Harvard Business Services has some limitations.
1. Higher Initial Costs
Its Green package costs $229, including Delaware filing fees and the first year of registered agent service. Some competitors offer lower starting prices.
2. Delaware Annual Tax
Delaware LLCs must pay a $400 annual state tax, even with limited business activity.
3. Additional Service Fees
Optional services such as mail forwarding and expedited filing can increase overall expenses.
4. No Personalized Legal Advice
Harvard Business Services provides formation assistance but does not replace professional legal or tax advice.
5. Delaware May Not Suit Every Business
Businesses operating in other states may face additional registration fees and ongoing compliance costs.
Harvard Business Services Customer Reviews
Harvard Business Services has a generally positive reputation and holds an A+ BBB rating.
Positive customer feedback commonly highlights:
- Helpful customer support.
- Simple business formation procedures.
- Responsive communication.
- Assistance with Delaware filings.
However, customer experiences vary, and ratings can change. Before choosing Harvard Business Services, review recent customer feedback, complaints, refund policies, and renewal terms.
Is Harvard Business Services Legitimate?
Harvard Business Services is an established business formation provider with a long operating history.
It was founded in 1981, reports more than 500,000 companies formed, and is listed as an accredited business by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.
These are useful indicators of business history and reputation, but they do not guarantee that every customer will have the same experience.
Before purchasing, review the service agreement, package details, renewal terms, and cancellation conditions.
You can also compare customer feedback across independent review platforms rather than relying entirely on testimonials published by the company.
Harvard Business Services Contact Information
Entrepreneurs who have questions about formation packages, registered agent services, or existing business filings can contact Harvard Business Services directly.
Its published contact information includes:
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | DelawareInc.com |
| Toll-Free Phone (U.S.) | 1-800-345-2677 |
| Direct Phone (U.S.) | 1-302-645-7400 |
| International Phone | +1-302-645-7400 |
| info@delawareinc.com | |
| Office Address | 16192 Coastal Highway, Lewes, Delaware 19958, USA |
| Live Chat | Available through its website |
The company lists office hours as:
- Monday through Thursday: 9 AM to 5 PM Eastern Time.
- Friday: 9 AM to 4 PM Eastern Time.
International customers can use the international telephone number or email for assistance.
Office hours are subject to change. Check the company’s contact page for the latest contact information and operating schedule before calling.
Harvard Business Services FAQs
1. Is Harvard Business Services a legitimate company?
Yes. Harvard Business Services was established in 1981 and is an authorized Delaware registered agent. It also holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
2. How much does Harvard Business Services cost?
Harvard Business Services advertises formation packages starting at $229 for Green, $279 for Basic, and $379 for Standard, including applicable Delaware filing fees. Prices may change.
3. Is Harvard Business Services worth it?
Harvard Business Services may be worth it for entrepreneurs seeking LLC formation, registered agent services, and business support. Its advertised $50 annual Delaware registered agent fee makes it a competitive option.
Final Thoughts
Harvard Business Services is an established business formation provider with over four decades of experience. Its key advantages include Delaware formation expertise, same-day filing submission, flexible packages, and an affordable $50 annual registered agent fee.
Its Green package starts at $229, including applicable Delaware filing fees and first-year registered agent service. However, entrepreneurs should consider ongoing taxes, renewal fees, and compliance costs before choosing a package.
Overall, Harvard Business Services is worth considering for LLC and corporation formation. Compare Delaware’s requirements with those of your home state to choose the most suitable and cost-effective option for your business.
