How to Start an LLC in California
Forming an LLC in California costs $70 in state filing fees, paid to the California Secretary of State. Here is the full process, the real costs and the California-specific rules most guides skip.
What it costs
| Item | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee (California Secretary of State) | $70 | Yes, one time |
| Annual report | $800 franchise tax + $20 report every 2 years | Yes, recurring |
| Registered agent service | $100–$200 / year | Optional (you can be your own) |
| EIN from the IRS | Free | Yes, for banking and taxes |
| Operating agreement | Free–$200 | Required by state law |
Step by step
Choose and check your LLC name
Your name must be distinguishable from existing California entities and include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company". Search availability for free on the California Secretary of State website before you fall in love with a name.
Appoint a registered agent
Required by law: a person or company with a physical street address in California, available during business hours to receive legal mail. You can be your own agent if you live in the state; most founders who value privacy or don't live there use a service ($100 to $200 per year).
File your formation documents ($70)
File Articles of Organization (in some states called a Certificate of Formation) with the California Secretary of State. Standard processing: about 5-8 business days online. This is the step that legally creates the LLC.
Get your EIN from the IRS (free)
The Employer Identification Number is your LLC's federal tax ID, needed for bank accounts, hiring and taxes. Apply directly at irs.gov, it takes minutes and costs nothing. Never pay a service just for an EIN.
Create an operating agreement
California law requires LLCs to have an operating agreement, so this step is not optional here.
Handle ongoing compliance
California requires an annual report of $800 franchise tax + $20 report every 2 years. Calendar it the day your LLC is approved, missing it risks late fees and eventually administrative dissolution.
California LLC: frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in California?
The state filing fee is $70, paid to the California Secretary of State. Ongoing state cost: $800 franchise tax + $20 report every 2 years. Optional costs include a registered agent service (typically $100 to $200 per year) if you don't act as your own.
How long does it take to form an LLC in California?
Standard processing is: about 5-8 business days online. Many states offer paid expedited options if you need the LLC approved faster. The clock starts when the California Secretary of State receives your filing.
Do I need a registered agent in California?
Yes. Every California LLC must continuously maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in the state to receive legal and official mail. You can serve as your own agent if you have a California address and are available during business hours, or hire a commercial registered agent service.
What happens if I miss the California annual report?
The report costs $800 franchise tax + $20 report every 2 years and missing the deadline typically triggers late fees, loss of good standing and eventually administrative dissolution of the LLC. Reinstatement is possible but costs more than filing on time.
Not sure whether California fits your situation?
Before you choose a filing package, talk through your business, location and goals with a real setup specialist. Get a clear formation roadmap at no cost and with no purchase obligation.
Request my free setup callLaunch.llc is free. If a formation partner fits and you choose to move forward, the partner may pay us a referral fee.
Compare with other states
Fees and rules last reviewed July 2026. State fees change; always confirm with the California Secretary of State before filing. This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice.