2026 Guide

How to Start an LLC in California

The complete guide to filing fees, Secretary of State forms, and requirements.

The American LLC Research Team

Formation, Compliance and Tax Research

Last reviewed September 2026

Filing Fee

$70

Processing Time

5–10 business days

Compliance

Annual Report

California expedite fee and annual report fee verified September 2026 against California Franchise Tax Board: LLC annual tax. Other fees on this page are being re-verified; confirm them on the official fee schedule before you file.

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Step 1: Choose Your Business Type

Select your industry to see a custom guide for California.

Home Improvement & Construction

Handyman→Electrician→Plumbing→HVAC→Roofing→Solar Panel→Construction→Painting→Fencing→Flooring→

Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning→Pressure Washing→Car Detailing→Pool Cleaning→Pest Control→Landscaping→Home Inspection→Junk Removal→

Digital & Technology

Web Design→App Development→Cybersecurity→Digital Marketing→Graphic Design→Freelance Writing→Virtual Assistant→Dropshipping→YouTuber→

Professional & Business

Real Estate→Accounting→Bookkeeping→Consulting→Notary Public→Logistics→Trucking→Travel Agency→Airbnb→

Food, Retail & Events

Food Truck→Catering→Bakery→Coffee Shop→Vending Machine→Clothing Brand→Candle Making→Event Planning→Photography→

Personal Care & Education

Personal Training→Gym→Life Coaching→Daycare→Tutoring→Dog Walking→Interior Design→

1Name Your California LLC

The first listing requirement is ensuring your business name is unique. It must be distinguishable from other entities registered with the Secretary of State. You must also include a designator like "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to comply with state statutes.

2Assign a Registered Agent

Every California LLC must appoint a Registered Agent. This individual or business entity agrees to accept legal documents (Service of Process) on behalf of your company. They must have a physical street address in California (not a P.O. Box) and be available during regular business hours.

3File Articles of Organization

To officially create your entity, you must file the Articles of Organization with the state. The filing fee is $70. This fee is non-refundable. Most entrepreneurs choose to file online for faster approval, which typically takes 5–10 business days.

4Get Your EIN & Bank Account

Once your LLC is approved, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. This nine-digit number is required to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. Keeping your business finances separate from personal accounts is critical for maintaining your liability protection.

California LLC Cost Breakdown

The cost to open an LLC in California includes both the initial filing fee and ongoing compliance fees. Here is the breakdown:

ItemEstimated Cost
State Filing Fee (LLC)$70
Annual Report Fee$800 (min)
Report Due Date15th of 4th Month
Notes & Hidden CostsFranchise Tax $800/yr (even if $0 profit)

* Fees are payable to the Secretary of State and are subject to change.

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Common Questions in California

How much does it cost to start an LLC in California?
The state filing fee for a California LLC is $70, paid once to the Secretary of State. If you use a formation service, you pay this state fee plus the service's own charge.
How long does it take to get an LLC in California?
Standard processing in California takes about 5–10 business days, though it varies with filing volume. Expedited processing (24 hours) is available for an extra $350.
Does California require an Annual Report?
Yes. California LLCs file a Statement of Information every two years ($20) and pay the $800 minimum annual franchise tax, due by the 15th day of the fourth month of the tax year — even in the first year and even with no revenue.
Is there a minimum annual tax or fee for California LLCs?
California's $800 annual franchise tax applies from your first year of operation, even if your LLC earns $0. Revenue over $250,000 triggers an additional graduated fee up to $11,790.
Do I need to file a BOI report with FinCEN for my LLC?
No — not if your LLC was formed in the United States. FinCEN's interim final rule of March 2025, made permanent by a final rule on August 14, 2026, exempts all U.S.-created companies, including LLCs, and their U.S. owners from Beneficial Ownership Information reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act. Only entities formed under foreign law that register to do business in a U.S. state must still report. Be wary of mailers or emails demanding a BOI filing fee.
View all California FAQs & Legal Data →

Sources

California expedite fee and annual report fee verified September 2026 against California Franchise Tax Board: LLC annual tax. Other fees on this page are being re-verified; confirm them on the official fee schedule before you file.

Cost ranges for startup, insurance, job rates and revenue are estimates, not figures from these sources. Fees change; confirm with the agency before you file.