doola vs Firstbase

Which formation service is better for non-US founders? Here's our data-driven comparison.

Last verified: June 12, 2026

TL;DR — Quick Verdict

Choose doola if:

  • You want lower upfront cost ($297 vs $399)
  • You want bookkeeping/tax filing bundled
  • You prefer doola's approach and support

Choose Firstbase if:

  • You want state fees included (not extra)
  • You prefer Firstbase's approach and support
  • You prefer Firstbase's approach and support

Side-by-Side Comparison

DimensiondoolaFirstbase
First Year Cost$297 + state fees$399
Processing Time1-5 days1-7 days
Non-Resident SupportYesYes
EIN HandlingIncludedIncluded
Crypto PolicyFriendlyFriendly
Founded20202017
HQ CountryUSUS
State FeesExtra (passthrough)Included
Verified Claims6 verified3 verified

Pricing Comparison

doola starts at $297 plus state fees, while Firstbase starts at $399.

The key pricing difference is whether state filing fees are included or charged separately. For non-US founders, the total first-year cost matters more than the headline price.

Features for Non-Residents

Both doola and Firstbase support non-US residents, but their approach differs. Check the comparison table above for specific features like EIN handling, processing time, and crypto policy.

Who Should Use Which?

doola is better if you prioritize: you want lower upfront cost ($297 vs $399), you want bookkeeping/tax filing bundled.

Firstbase is better if you prioritize: you want state fees included (not extra), you prefer firstbase's approach and support.

Our Take

For most non-US founders, both options are viable. The decision often comes down to your specific needs: budget constraints, whether you need additional services like bookkeeping, and your comfort level with the setup process.

We recommend reading our individual reviews for doola and Firstbase before making a decision.

Consider a Third Option?

If budget is your top priority ($39 + state fees), Northwest is the cheapest credible option

Read our Northwest Registered Agent review →