California at a glance. The state fee is $70: 12 other jurisdictions charge less to form an LLC and 38 charge more. Keeping it active costs about $810 a year in state costs: the annual report is $20 / 2 yrs. Timing: Every two years, in the month the LLC registered.
What it costs to form an LLC in California
The state fee to form an LLC in California is $70. That is $55 less than Florida's $125.
This is the amount charged by the state itself. It does not include a registered agent, a service company's fee, local business licenses or income taxes.
California annual report and yearly costs
The report costs $20 every two years. Timing: Every two years, in the month the LLC registered.
- Other state costs: Minimum franchise tax of $800 every year, paid to the Franchise Tax Board.
Counting the annual report and any flat yearly tax, the state-only cost after the first filing is about $810 per year.
Corporation in California
The state fee to form a corporation in California is $100.
This is a flat fee in California. Coral Filings files every corporation with up to 500 authorized shares.
- Annual report: The report costs $25 every year. Timing: Statement of Information within 90 days of incorporation, then every year.
- Other state taxes and costs: $800 minimum franchise tax to the Franchise Tax Board every year; a newly incorporated corporation is exempt in its first taxable year. The state charges a $250 penalty if the Statement of Information is not filed.
Coral Filings can form your California corporation, as a C-Corporation or with an S-Corporation election planned (you file IRS Form 2553 yourself, and individuals who are not US residents cannot own S-Corporation stock). Start your California corporation. Read what a C-Corp is and what an S-Corp is.
How to form an LLC in California, step by step
- Choose a name that follows California's rules and check that it is available in the state's business search.
- Appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in California. Coral Filings can act as yours.
- File the formation document with the state's filing office and pay the fee. Use the official portal linked below.
- Request an EIN from the IRS.
- Put the annual report deadline on your calendar so the LLC stays in good standing.
Let Coral Filings handle it
You can usually form an LLC in the state where you do business. Coral Filings can form your California LLC for you and act as your registered agent in California (or you can name your own). The state fee is charged at cost. Start your California LLC. We are not a law firm and do not give legal or tax advice.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in California?
The state fee is $70. Registered agent, local licenses and service company fees are extra.
Does California require an annual report for an LLC?
The report costs $20 every two years. Timing: Every two years, in the month the LLC registered.
How much does it cost to form a corporation in California?
The state fee is $100, a flat fee.
Can I form an LLC in California if I live in another country?
In most states you can, as long as you have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. Coral Filings can act as your registered agent in the states it sells.
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. For your specific situation, talk to a licensed attorney or CPA.