How to Start an LLC in California (2026): Cost, Steps & Timeline
Forming an LLC in California costs $70 in state filing fees, paid to the California Secretary of State. Processing takes about 5–8 business days for online filings. FilingsHQ prepares and files everything for $0 in service fees — you pay only the state fee.
What a California LLC costs
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee | $70 | Paid to the California Secretary of State; required |
| Expedited processing | Varies | Expedited handling available through the Sacramento office for an additional fee |
| Statement of Information | $20 | Within 90 days of formation, then every two years |
| Annual franchise tax | $800 | Paid to the Franchise Tax Board every year |
| Registered agent | $0–$199/yr | Free if you serve as your own; $199/yr with FilingsHQ |
| FilingsHQ service fee | $0 | Starter package — preparation, review, and submission included |
Answer a few questions; we prepare, review, and file with the state.
Step-by-step: forming your California LLC
1. Choose a name
Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing California businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”. Check availability using the California Secretary of State’s business search before you file — a rejected name means starting over.
2. Appoint a registered agent
California requires every LLC to name a registered agent: a person or company with a physical street address in the state (no P.O. boxes) available during business hours to receive legal documents. You can be your own agent, but your address becomes public record — many owners use a professional service to keep their home address private.
3. File the Articles of Organization
The formation document in California is the Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1), filed with the California Secretary of State (online via bizfile Online). The filing fee is $70. About 5–8 business days for online filings. Expedited handling available through the Sacramento office for an additional fee.
4. Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number is your LLC’s federal tax ID — you’ll need it to open a business bank account and hire employees. The IRS issues EINs for free at irs.gov; FilingsHQ’s Pro and Premium packages handle the application for you.
5. Create an operating agreement
California doesn’t require you to file an operating agreement, but every LLC should have one — it documents ownership, profit splits, and what happens if a member leaves. Banks and investors routinely ask for it.
6. Stay compliant
File your statement of information ($20) — due within 90 days of formation, then every two years. Missing it can lead to late fees or administrative dissolution. California charges every LLC an $800 annual franchise tax, due to the Franchise Tax Board — this is the biggest ongoing cost of a California LLC and applies even if the business makes no money.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in California?
The California state filing fee is $70. With FilingsHQ's Starter package the service fee is $0, so $70 is the total to form your LLC. Note that California charges every LLC an $800 annual franchise tax, due to the Franchise Tax Board — this is the biggest ongoing cost of a California LLC and applies even if the business makes no money.
How long does it take to form an LLC in California?
About 5–8 business days for online filings. Expedited handling available through the Sacramento office for an additional fee.
Do I need a registered agent in California?
Yes. Every California LLC must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in the state to receive legal and government documents. You can serve as your own agent, appoint someone you know, or use a professional service like FilingsHQ ($199/yr).
Does California require an annual report?
Yes. Statement of Information (Form LLC-12): $20, due within 90 days of formation, then every two years.
Where do I file my LLC in California?
LLC formations in California are filed with the California Secretary of State, using the Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1). Online filings go through bizfile Online. FilingsHQ prepares and submits this filing for you.
California LLC for $0 + the $70 state fee. Every cost shown before you pay.
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FilingsHQ is a private document filing service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal or tax advice. Fees and processing times are set by the California Secretary of State and may change — always confirm current figures with the state. Last verified July 2026.