What Is SunDoc Filings?
SunDoc is a nationwide filing and document retrieval company based in California. It stands out from other filing services as it caters to both professional companies in the legal and financial industries as well as entrepreneurs interested in forming their own corporation or LLC.
Many attorneys, escrow companies and certified public accountants (CPAs) rely on SunDoc for all their document filing and retrieval needs. SunDoc’s comprehensive network of select companies acts as its correspondents in all 50 state capitals, ensuring that they can provide services nationwide.
Pros
- SunDoc is located just minutes from the capitol building in Sacramento, its California location gives anyone filing in California a significant advantage in terms of fast turnaround times. They often make three trips a day to the secretary of state, expediting the filing process further.
- SunDoc has received high ratings from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) as well as Trustpilot with superb customer reviews and testimonials.
- SunDoc advisors are real people who are helpful and knowledgeable. They are always there to answer your questions and provide guidance.
- SunDoc offers comprehensive document search and retrieval services for state Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) liens, state and federal tax liens, bankruptcy filings, documents of good standing, formation documents, annual reports and judgment searches, among others.
Cons
- SunDoc Filings only provides registered agent services for businesses in California, Delaware and Nevada. While businesses in other states can also choose SunDoc Filings as their registered agent, all document filings and retrievals will be conducted under the address of its company partner, NRAI
- No free formation services. Basic plan starts at $79 and only includes very minimal services. It also does not include registered agent services as some other companies do.
- If you decide to cancel your order, there will be a cancellation fee of $25, including any additional charges that the company has already incurred in processing your order.
- SunDoc Filings cannot file on your behalf in Oklahoma. Filing must be done directly.
Featured Partners
1
ZenBusiness
$0 + State Fees
Varies By State & Package
2
LegalZoom
$0 + State Fees
Varies By State & Package
3
Northwest Registered Agent
$39 + State Fees
Varies By State & Package
How SunDoc Works
Whether you prefer to prepare your own documents or have them prepared by the professionals at SunDoc Filings, it will ensure that your filings are submitted accurately and efficiently. SunDoc Filings provides instant corporation and LLC filing preparation so you can upload custom articles easily and access your account history to download invoices, search reports and retrieve documents from the past several years.
Its management system is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring efficient and error-free processing. It also provides reliable estimates for turnaround times, which are regularly updated to avoid any surprises.
Creating a SunDoc Filings account is a simple process. Give the company a call at (888) 595-2747 and its customer support team will assist you in setting up your account. SunDoc’s service team members are very knowledgeable and are available during business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time to assist you. Team members are there to answer your questions, place an order for you or walk you through the online ordering process.
SunDoc Services
Incorporate a Business
SunDoc Filings offer professional assistance with incorporating a business in all 50 states. It offers formation filing for corporations, LLCs, partnerships and nonprofits. Whether you require a regular or rush service, SunDoc Filings will accommodate your needs. It also offers add-on services, such as a federal tax ID number (TIN) or employer ID number (EIN), operating agreement, name search, good standing certificate and much more. SunDoc will provide you with everything necessary to launch your business successfully. In addition, SunDoc submits articles for filing within 24 hours.
Registered Agent Services
SunDoc Filings provides nationwide registered agent services in all 50 states, offering volume discounts for multiple states and entities. The registered agent will handle important legal and tax documents on behalf of incorporated companies.
Foreign Qualification
If you are looking to expand your company operations in a state other than where it was initially formed, it is necessary to file a corporate qualification or foreign registration in each state where you plan to do business. SunDoc Filings offers detailed instructions online to qualify a foreign entity in any state.
Annual Report
Annual reports are usually required yearly or biennially. This includes details, such as the registered agent, officers/directors and members’ names and addresses. This filing requirement applies to both the state where your company is incorporated or organized as well as any states where your company is authorized to conduct business (foreign qualified). SunDoc Filings will help you file an annual report or statement of information in multiple states with expedited service available.
Amendment
If you need to file a certificate of amendment or restated articles of incorporation, including corporate name change, SunDoc Filings will file this for you with the secretary of state on an expedited basis. This can be done for any entity type in any state.
Dissolution
SunDoc Filings offers a convenient service to dissolve or cancel any existing entity, whether it is a corporation, LLC, partnership, for-profit or nonprofit, in any state. It provides a straightforward process to guide you through the dissolution or cancellation of your entity.
Conversion
SunDoc Filings offers the service of changing any legal entity type in California specifically. Whether you need to convert an LLC to a corporation, a corporation to an LLC, an S corporation (S corp) to a limited liability partnership (LLP) or any other type of conversion, SunDoc can assist you. It will act as your liaison with the secretary of state and ensure a prompt and efficient filing. The team is also experienced in filing any conversion documents with the California Secretary of State on an expedited basis.
Revive/Reinstatement
If your corporation or LLC has been suspended by the state of California, it typically means that you have not filed a statement of information, have unpaid taxes or penalties or a combination of these issues. SunDoc Filings can assist you in reviving or reinstating your company with the state of California. If you have any questions regarding the reinstatement process or need guidance on how to proceed, SunDoc’s knowledgeable team is available to help.
SunDoc Pricing & Plans
| Basic Plan | Key Plan | Premier Plan | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Starting Price
|
$79
|
$99
|
$279
|
|
Courier
|
✔
|
✔
|
✔
|
|
Business License Summary
|
✔
|
✔
|
✔
|
|
Emailed Documents
|
✔
|
✔
|
✔
|
|
Federal TIN or EIN
|
$70
|
✔
|
✔
|
|
State Name Availability
|
$29
|
✔
|
✔
|
|
LLC Kit and Seal
|
$114
|
–
|
✔
|
|
LLC Kit Upgrade (Royal)
|
$54
|
–
|
–
|
|
Priority Filing (5-7 Business Days)
|
$50
|
–
|
–
|
|
Rush Filing
|
$100
|
–
|
–
|
|
Certified Copies of Articles
|
$29
|
$29
|
$29
|
|
Good Standing Certificate
|
$39
|
–
|
$39
|
|
Operating Agreement and Minutes on CD
|
$69
|
$69
|
$695
|
|
File Statement of Information
|
$69
|
$69
|
$69
|
|
FedEx Overnight
|
$39
|
$39
|
$39
|
|
State Filing Rush
|
Varies by state
|
Varies by state
|
Varies by state
|
Basic Plan
The Basic Plan, priced at $79, includes routine filing, courier service to the state, a business license summary and the documents sent to you via email, mail or FedEx. With routine filing, the state will file and return your documents within five to 15 business days depending on the state you reside in. SunDoc Filings will also keep you updated on the filing times as the workload of the state may vary affecting processing times. For those in need of faster processing, you have the option to pay extra for priority or rush service.
Additionally, the Basic Plan includes courier service to the secretary of state, sending a runner at 9:30 a.m. PT, 1 p.m. PT and 3 p.m. PT. Lastly, a business license summary is also provided as part of the Basic Plan which includes an overview of the various licenses, permits and certifications that are required to legally operate your business in a single location issued by federal, state and local governments.
It’s important to note, this plan does not include registered agent services for the first year, unlike some of its competitors. Additionally, many competitors offer more value with their basic filing at a much lower cost.
Key Plan
The Key Plan, priced at $99, offers a package that includes all the features of the basic plan. This includes routine filing, courier service to the state, a business license summary and the option to receive documents via email, mail and FedEx. However, the additional $20 for this plan provides an extra service: state name availability.
Before submitting the filing, SunDoc Filings will check the availability of your desired business name with the secretary of state. This will ensure your chosen business name is available and not already in use, avoiding any potential conflicts or confusion with existing businesses.
Take note, most states provide an online entity name search on their website, which is typically a free service. SunDoc Filings, on the other hand, charges a fee for this service. This may be helpful for a business owner who doesn’t have time to do the footwork.
Premier Plan
The premier plan, priced at $279 offers a package that includes all the features of the key plan. This includes routine filing, courier service to the state, a business license summary, documents via email, mail or FedEx and state name availability. However, the additional $180 for this plan provides two highlighted features: an EIN and an LLC kit and seal.
The EIN is used for tax purposes to identify a business entity. It is a requirement for those who want to open a bank account for their business. This ensures that your business is fully equipped to handle tax-related matters. In addition to the EIN service, the premier plan includes an LLC kit and seal. This personalized kit is a professional binder containing vital documents, such as formation paperwork, bylaws, licenses, resolutions and meeting minutes. It also comes with a corporate seal embosser and 20 customized stock certificates.
Take note, you can file for an EIN for free through the official website of the IRS. The additional cost through SunDoc Filings is not for the EIN itself, but for the assistance and convenience provided by SunDoc Filings in obtaining the EIN on your behalf.
Getting Started With SunDoc Filings
Starting with SunDoc is a simple and hassle-free process that can be completed in a few steps. To get started with SunDoc you can call its customer support team at (888) 595-2747 during business hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT and get set up with an account. The knowledgeable team members will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Once your account is set up, you have two options for filing your paperwork with the secretary of state’s office. You can choose to file the paperwork yourself or can opt for SunDoc to handle the filing on your behalf. Both options are available online, making the process convenient and accessible.
To ensure a smooth filing process, SunDoc Filings provides a comprehensive guide to the Incorporating process on their website. These Doc Guidance articles contain all the necessary information you need to know, saving you valuable time and effort that would otherwise be spent on research.
In addition to the online resources, SunDoc Filings offers helpful customer advisors who are available during business hours to address any queries, provide guidance and assist with placing orders. You can also email them any questions at feedback@sundocfilings.com.
SunDoc Customer Service and Support
SunDoc takes pride in its exceptional customer service and support. It ensures that its knowledgeable and friendly customer service team is readily available to assist customers. It understands the importance of direct human interaction and ensures that the staff is readily available to answer phones and assist customers promptly. This level of service sets them apart from other online document companies that may lack accessible customer support.
The knowledgeable SunDoc Filings customer service team not only offers guidance and information but also goes the extra mile to review pre-submission documents and identify any potential errors. This attention to detail saves time and money for their clients, ensuring a smooth and accurate process.
SunDoc service team members are available during business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT for any inquiries or assistance. Whether you have questions that need answers, want to place an order over the phone or receive guidance through the online ordering process, the dedicated team is there to cater to your needs.
SunDoc also values customer feedback and is continuously striving to enhance the user experience. SunDoc Filings has a 4.8 rating on Trustpilot, proving reviews to be nothing short of exceptional. Most recent reviews state:
“Very easy to place the order and very fast turnaround”
“They are very prompt in responding to the requests, I usually get what I requested the same day or the day after.”
“Love the efficiency and communication with their staff and website. GREAT SERVICE!!! I will use them again!”
Overall, SunDoc Filings is committed to customer satisfaction and strives to exceed expectations by providing exceptional customer service, expert guidance and a personalized approach to support. SunDoc Filings ratings certainly speak for itself.
SunDoc Additional Services Worth Noting
Apostille/Authentication Services:
SunDoc Filings also obtains California Apostille and California authentications for various documents, such as birth certificates, notarized documents, notarized transcripts and legal documents. It ensures prompt processing by submitting your documents to the California Secretary of State on the same day they are received.
Order a SunDoc Search Online:
You can order a California UCC search, tax lien, bankruptcy, judgment and court records online and receive results within three business days. Confirmations and search results will be sent via email and some searches will be available the same business day.
File California Fictitious Business Name
SunDoc offers doing business as (DBA) filing in California, providing an easy-to-use online form to help you prepare your DBA document. Its experienced team will take care of the rest on your behalf, ensuring that your DBA is processed accurately and in compliance with California regulations.
SunDoc Alternatives & How They Compare
| SunDoc Filings | Inc Authority | LegalZoom | Bizee (powered by Incfile) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Rating
|
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Pricing
|
$79 to $279
|
$0
|
$0 to $299
|
$0 to $299
|
|
Free LLC Filing
|
No
|
Yes, plus state fee
|
Yes, plus state fee
|
Yes, plus state fee
|
|
Registered Agent Services
|
$159 per year
|
$0 for first year
|
$249 per year
|
$0 for first year
|
|
Legal Services
|
No
|
No
|
Yes
|
No
|
|
TIN/EIN Fee
|
$70
|
Free
|
–
|
Included in Gold or Platinum plans
|
|
Business name check
|
$29 Add-on or included in Key and Premier plan
|
Free
|
Free
|
Free
|
|
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
No
|
|
Trustpilot Rating
|
4.9
|
4.8 | 4.6 | 4.7 |
|
Learn More
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Read Review
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SunDoc Filings vs. Bizee (Incfile)
SunDoc Filings and Incfile differ in terms of pricing and services provided. SunDoc Filings has a basic plan starting at $79, with additional costs for an EIN, registered agent services and a business name check. Bizee, on the other hand, offers an LLC filing, EIN, business name check and registered agent services for free for the first year. Despite SunDoc Filings receiving a slightly higher Trustpilot rating, Bizee follows closely behind and its unbeatable package plan is highly appealing for entrepreneurs on a budget.
SunDoc Filings vs. LegalZoom
While LegalZoom does provide free basic filing services, its package plans and registered agent services are priced higher than SunDoc Filings. LegalZoom also distinguishes itself by offering legal services, making its premium package more expensive at $299. This higher price may deter some budget-conscious entrepreneurs.
In contrast, SunDoc Filings follows close behind in price, offering a premium plan without legal services or additional offerings at $279. This distinction makes SunDoc Filings a more streamlined option for businesses that do not require legal guidance or other supplementary offerings. SunDoc Filings also offers registered agent services starting at $159 per year, making it a much affordable option compared to legal zoom at $249 per year.
SunDoc Filings vs. Bizee (formerly Incfile)
Incfile stands out with its free LLC filing services, which include unlimited name search and free registered agent services for the first year. However, its most popular plan is the Gold plan priced at $199. This comprehensive package includes unlimited name search, an EIN, operating agreement, IRS form 2553 and more. The package price covers the creation, preparation and filing of all necessary legal paperwork for your new business entity.
In comparison, SunDoc’s Key package starts at $99 and offers the basic essentials, such as name search, courier service and a business license summary. While SunDoc Filings provide a more affordable starting option, Incfile’s Gold plan offers a more comprehensive package for entrepreneurs looking for additional services and support.
Who Is SunDoc Filings Best For?
SunDoc Filings is best for small business owners, particularly those based in California. The company has received excellent customer reviews and is known for its fast and efficient filings with the California Secretary of State. While it may not be the top service for forming an LLC overall, SunDoc Filings is highly recommended for California-based clients. So, if you are looking to form an LLC in California, SunDoc Filings would be a suitable choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an LLC?
An LLC is a type of United States business entity that combines the limited liability protection of a corporation with the flexibility and simplicity of a partnership or sole proprietorship. It is a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) due to its ease of formation and management.
Can I file an LLC on my own?
Yes, you have the option to personally create and file the LLC on your own with the secretary of state in your state. Alternatively, you can choose to use a professional formation provider to handle the filing for you. While a professional formation provider may involve additional costs, it ensures a simplified and stress-free filing process.
Do I need a registered agent for an LLC?
While each LLC is required to have a registered agent, it is possible to act as your own agent or appoint an LLC member to the role. Otherwise, you may hire an individual or company to act as your agent.
What are some benefits to using an incorporation service?
Using an incorporation service offers benefits, such as expert guidance, time savings, streamlined processes, compliance assurance and peace of mind. These services provide professional assistance in navigating the complexities of business formation, ensuring accurate and efficient completion of all necessary documents and filings. This saves time, simplifies the process and reduces the risk of penalties or legal issues.
