California · LLC Formation

California LLC Formation

Form your California LLC online with LLC Pro. We prepare and file your Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1) with the California Secretary of State so you can launch your business with confidence.

Start My LLC

$70 California state filing fee

State Filing Fee

$70

Paid directly to the state.

Processing Time

5–10 business days

1–3 business days with Express Filing

Annual Compliance

$800 annual franchise tax + Statement of Information ($20) due within 90 days of formation, then every two years

Requirements

What you need to form a California LLC

  • ✓Unique LLC name ending in "LLC" or "L.L.C." that complies with California naming rules
  • ✓California registered agent with a physical street address in the state
  • ✓Principal office or business address
  • ✓Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)
  • ✓Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1) filed with the California Secretary of State

Questions

California LLC FAQs

How much does it cost to form an LLC in California?+

The California state filing fee is $70, paid directly to the state. LLC Pro does not charge an additional service fee for California LLC formation.

How long does it take to form a California LLC?+

Standard processing in California is typically 5–10 business days. 1–3 business days with Express Filing is available for faster turnaround.

Do I need a registered agent in California?+

Yes. Every California LLC must designate a registered agent with a physical California street address available during normal business hours.

Does California require an annual report for LLCs?+

$800 annual franchise tax + Statement of Information ($20) due within 90 days of formation, then every two years

Can I form a California LLC if I live in another state?+

Yes. You do not need to be a California resident to form a California LLC. LLC Pro handles the full filing online — no in-person trip required.

Start your business today

Ready to form your California LLC?

Fast, Secure & Professional · $70 state filing fee

Contact

Questions about your California LLC?

Our formation specialists are here to help with California-specific filing questions, registered agent service, and next steps after formation.

Response within 1 business day · Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm ET