THE LLC GUIDE
How to Start an LLC in California
Tips From CA Business Attorney Chris Jackson
Follow These Steps to Start an LLC in California:
Step 1: ▶ Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Step 2: File Your California LLC Online
Use the only LLC formation service I recommend with $0 + state fee:
Step 3: Confirm Your LLC Name Availability
Before filing, confirm your LLC name is available and not already in use in California:
Learn from a 25+ year California business attorney how simple it is to start an LLC in California online in just minutes. In this video, you’ll follow the exact same process used to form real LLCs for clients with clear, step-by-step guidance.
There's no reason to struggle through the State of California filing website when the recommended LLC formation service below handles everything for you quickly, easily, and at $0 + the state filing fee, with several valuable bonuses included.
Depending on your package, you’ll receive:
✅ Filed Articles of Organization (expedited or regular)
✅ California Registered Agent Service (1 Year Free)
✅ EIN (Tax ID) for Your LLC
✅ LLC Business Address (with optional Virtual Office — 1st month free)
✅ Customizable Operating Agreement (Word format)
✅ S Corp Election Filing
✅ Business Bank Account Offer
✅ Free Tax Consultation
✅ Business Phone (1 Year Free)
✅ 25+ Additional Legal Templates (editable in Word)
✅ Compliance Alerts and more!
Start your California LLC today →
Califorina LLC Filing Details
When you form an LLC in California, Bizee (formerly Incfile) files your Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1) with the California Secretary of State on your behalf.
The state filing fee is $75, and expedited processing is available.
California also requires every new LLC to file an Initial Statement of Information (Form LLC-12) within 90 days of formation, with a $20 filing fee.
All California LLCs must pay the $800 annual franchise tax and file an annual Statement of Information to remain in good standing.
Bizee will automatically send compliance reminders if you have alerts enabled (included with the Standard and Premium packages), and for an additional fee, Bizee can file the required reports for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does it cost to start an LLC in California?
Bizee’s Basic package starts at $0 + the $75 state filing fee. You only pay the state fee, and Bizee files your Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State for you. The Standard and Premium packages cost $199 and $299 respectively (plus the state fee) and include everything referenced in the video.
Unlike many competitors, Bizee’s packages are one-time setup fees, not recurring annual charges.
How long does it take to form a California LLC?
Bizee’s Premium package includes 4-day expedited filing, while the Basic and Standard packages typically take about 4 weeks for state approval.
Do I need to file the paperwork myself?
No. When you use Bizee, their team prepares and files all your LLC documents directly with the California Secretary of State. You simply review and approve the details before submission.
Do I need a registered agent in California?
Yes. Every California LLC must have a registered agent. Bizee provides one free year of Registered Agent service in every package.
Are there any ongoing California LLC fees or reports?
Yes. New California LLCs must file an Initial Statement of Information within 90 days of formation (fee $20). Each year after that, you’ll file an Annual Statement of Information.
The initial $800 annual franchise tax to the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) is due by the 15th day of the 4th month after your LLC is formed. After that, the annual $800 tax is due by April 15 of each calendar year for as long as the LLC remains active, even if it has no income.
Bizee’s compliance dashboard and lifetime alerts (included in the Standard and Premium packages) help you track these deadlines, and for an additional fee, Bizee can handle the filings for you.
Step 4: What to Do After You Form Your California LLC
Once your LLC is approved, there are a few important next steps to make it official and compliant.
Visit our LLC Operations & Next Steps guide to learn how to manage your LLC, get your EIN, open your business bank account, and pay yourself properly.
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