Business Formation in California
LLC & Corporation formation in California.
California formation requirements, filing fees, registered agent rules, and ongoing compliance — for both LLCs and corporations, on one page.
Formation Overview
LLC Formation in California
California LLCs file Articles of Organization and are subject to an annual minimum franchise tax.
Corporation Formation in California
California corporations file Articles of Incorporation and a yearly Statement of Information.
Key Filing Requirements
- Filing agency
- California Secretary of State
- LLC formation document
- Articles of Organization
- Corporation formation document
- Articles of Incorporation
- LLC state filing fee
- $70
- Corporation state filing fee
- $100
- Annual / periodic report
- California LLCs file a Statement of Information every two years; corporations file annually.
- Annual report fee
- $20 Statement of Information; LLCs also owe an annual franchise tax of $800
- Registered agent requirement
- A registered agent (agent for service of process) with a California address is required.
- Official state source
- Official Agency Website
Ongoing Compliance
Pay the annual $800 minimum franchise tax (LLCs), file the Statement of Information, and maintain a registered agent.
LLC Management
Member- or manager-managed per the operating agreement.
Corporation Directors & Officers
At least one director; officers as required.
Foreign Qualification
Foreign entities register with the California Secretary of State.
Learn about foreign qualificationExplore Other States
California Formation
Ready to form your company in California?
Initial formation is $495 plus California state filing fees. Ongoing maintenance through Nationwide begins the following year at $495 plus applicable state fees. Call 1-888-498-5402.