California · 7 steps · updated
How to start an LLC in California
California charges $70 to file an LLC. That fee is the same whoever files it, including you. Below are the seven steps in order, with the official California links, so you can do it yourself or have us file it.
With us: $123.75 + California's $70 = $199.85 due today, card processing fee included, operating agreement included.
- Agent: Registered Agents Inc
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The 7 steps to form a California LLC
- 1
Check that the name is available
The name must be distinguishable from every company already on the California register and include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company". Search the official record at the California Secretary of State, or use our California name search guide.
- 2
Name a registered agent
Every California LLC must keep a registered agent with a California street address, available in business hours, to accept legal papers. You can be your own agent, but then your home address is on the public record. Ours, through our partner Registered Agents Inc, is $74.25 a year, the same every year. California registered agent rules.
- 3
File the formation document with the state
Most states call it the Articles of Organization; some use another name, such as a Certificate of Formation. It is filed with California's business filing office and the state fee is $70. Check the current form, filing options and any extra requirements on California's official site.
- 4
Sign an operating agreement
Most states do not file it, but it is the document that shows the LLC is run as a separate business: who owns what, who decides, what happens if someone leaves. Banks often ask for it. Every formation we file includes one.
- 5
Get an EIN from the IRS
The EIN is the company's federal tax ID. It is free from the IRS at irs.gov, or $41.25 through us if you have an SSN.
- 6
Open a bank account and get local licenses
Keep business money in a business account from day one; mixing it with personal money is the most common way owners lose the LLC's protection. Licenses depend on the business and the city or county; start at CalGold. If you sell taxable goods or services, register for sales tax at CDTFA.
- 7
Keep the LLC in good standing
The California annual LLC tax (Franchise Tax Board) is due April 15 every year, with a state fee of $800. California annual report details and free reminders.
What it costs to start an LLC in California
| Cost | File it yourself | With Vermilion Vitez |
|---|---|---|
| California filing fee (paid to the state) | $70 | $70 |
| Filing service, operating agreement included | $0 | $123.75 |
| Registered agent, per year (optional) | $0 if you serve yourself | $74.25 |
| California annual LLC tax (Franchise Tax Board) | $800 | $800 |
| California state fees over 5 years (filing + yearly reports) | $4,070 | $4,070 |
State fees: California filing fee as charged at our checkout; yearly fee from our annual-report table, verified . Card processing fee is added at checkout and shown before you pay. Filing it yourself is a reasonable choice if you are comfortable with the state site; what you pay us for is getting it right in one pass.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in California?
California charges $70 to file. If we file it, our fee is $123.75 on top, with the operating agreement included. A registered agent is $74.25 a year if you use ours.
Do I need a registered agent in California?
Yes. Every California LLC must keep a registered agent with a California street address, available during business hours. You can serve yourself if you have a California address and are there in business hours.
Does California require an annual report?
Yes. The California annual LLC tax (Franchise Tax Board) is due April 15 every year, state fee $800.
Can I form a California LLC myself?
Yes. You can file directly with California's business filing office and pay only the $70 state fee. Use the steps above and the official links on this page.
Do I need an operating agreement?
Most states do not require you to file one, but it is what shows the LLC is run as a separate business, and banks often ask for it. Every formation we file includes one.
Is this legal advice?
No. This page is general education about the filing steps. For your own situation, talk to a licensed attorney or CPA, or book a free call with us.
Comparing nearby states?
Forming in a state where you do not operate usually means registering in your home state too. Best state to form an LLC compares all 51.
Ready when you are
Have your California LLC filed right the first time.
$123.75 + California's $70, operating agreement included, and the full total before you pay. Talk to Ray or Vinny first if you like.
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