How to Start an LLC in California
California LLC Formation
$99 our flat service fee · $70 California state filing fee · Articles of Organization formation document
Starting an LLC in California means filing the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State and paying the state's $70 filing fee. Once California approves it, your LLC exists as a separate legal entity. Rapid Registered Agent handles that filing for a flat $99, the same price we charge in every state, with no packages and no upsells.
File my California LLC – $99 + $70 state fee
California LLC filing facts
- Formation document: Articles of Organization
- State filing fee: $70, paid to the state
- Filing office: Secretary of State
- Our service fee: $99 flat
- Registered agent: required in California; use ours at $10/month or act as your own
- Operating agreement: California law requires a written operating agreement (we include a free template)
What else California requires
California charges an $800 minimum annual franchise tax and requires a Statement of Information within 90 days of formation ($20).
How to form your California LLC
- Choose and check the name. It must be distinguishable from other California businesses on record and include an LLC designator. We run the check before filing.
- Name a registered agent. California requires a registered agent with a physical address in the state. Add ours for $10/month or name your own.
- File the Articles of Organization. We prepare it, list your registered agent, submit it to the Secretary of State, and pay the $70 fee. If California rejects anything, we fix and refile at no charge.
- Handle the follow-ups. Get a free EIN from the IRS, adopt an operating agreement, open a business bank account, and calendar any initial or annual report.
California registered agent
Every California LLC must keep a registered agent with a California street address who is available during business hours. If you would rather not put your own address on the public record, our California registered agent service is $10 per month, listed on your filing from day one, with same-day scanning of anything the state or a court sends.
California LLC formation FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in California?
The California state filing fee is $70, paid to the state. Rapid Registered Agent adds a flat $99 to prepare and file the Articles of Organization. Registered agent service, if you add it, is $10 per month.
What is the California LLC formation document called?
California calls it the Articles of Organization. You file it with the Secretary of State.
Do I need a registered agent for a California LLC?
Yes. California requires every LLC to name and maintain a registered agent with a physical address in California. You can be your own, or use our service for $10 per month.
How long does a California LLC take?
It depends on California's current processing queue and whether the filing goes in online or by mail. We tell you the current turnaround before you order, and your LLC is not formed until California approves the filing.