How to start an LLC in California

The cost

State fees only. Each part is labeled.

Filing fee$70

Paid to the state when you file. Source

First year state cost$90

Plus the $20 Statement of Information due within 90 days, shown as its own line. The $800 franchise tax is listed below and is not in this total.

Filing fee$70

Statement of Information$20

First year state cost$90

Registered agent fees are not included.

Form, office and method, from the official instructions.

Form: Form LLC-1, Articles of Organization
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Filing office: California Secretary of State
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Filing method: Online with bizfile Online or by mail with the LLC-1 form
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Processing time: Online filings: 5 days or less. Paper forms: 10 or more days.
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Due dates and amounts after the LLC is formed.

Within 90 days$20

Due within 90 days of initial registration. After that it is filed every two years.

Every year$800

Most businesses pay a minimum franchise tax of $800 each year. The Franchise Tax Board collects it.

Every figure on this page comes from these official pages.

Secretary of State, domestic LLC forms and feeshttps://sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/forms/limited-liability-companies-california-domestic
Secretary of State, business entities FAQhttps://www.sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/faqs