How to Form an LLC in California (2026): $70 Filing Fee
$70 2026 state filing fee. 5–10 business days to process. Step-by-step guide to forming your California LLC.
Forming an LLC in California costs $70 in state filing fees and takes 5–10 business days. Annual maintenance costs $20 per 2 years for the required report. California LLCs must pay an $800 minimum annual franchise tax regardless of revenue.
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California LLC Filing Fee (2026): $70
The California Secretary of State charges $70 to file your Articles of Organization. This is a one-time fee paid at formation. Standard processing takes 5–10 business days. After that, plan for a $20 biennial report fee to keep your LLC active.
State Filing Fee
$70
One-time cost
Processing Time
5–10
Business days (standard)
Ongoing Report Fee
$20
Every 2 Years
Form Your California LLC Online
These services file your California LLC paperwork and include registered agent service, which is required by state law.
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Free LLC formation service (you pay only the $70 state fee). Includes first year of registered agent, EIN, and business bank account setup.
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How to Form an LLC in California: Step by Step
Choose a Name for Your LLC
Your LLC name must be unique in California and include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company." Check availability on the California Secretary of State website before filing. You can also reserve a name for a small fee (typically $10–$25) if you're not ready to file.
Appoint a Registered Agent
California requires every LLC to have a registered agent — a person or company with a physical California address who can receive legal documents on your behalf. You can be your own registered agent or use a service ($100–$300/year) for privacy and reliability.
File Articles of Organization
File your LLC formation documents (Articles of Organization) with the California Secretary of State. The 2026 state filing fee is $70. Standard processing takes 5–10 business days. You can file online at the California Secretary of State website or through a formation service.
Create an Operating Agreement
An operating agreement outlines how your LLC is managed, how profits are distributed, and what happens if a member leaves. While not always legally required in California, it's strongly recommended — especially if you have multiple owners. Many banks require it to open a business account.
Get an EIN from the IRS
Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) at IRS.gov. You'll use it to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file your business taxes. The IRS issues EINs immediately online.
File Annual Reports & Maintain Compliance
California requires an biennial report to keep your LLC in good standing. The report fee is $20. Missing the deadline can result in late fees or administrative dissolution of your LLC.
You Might Also Need
Most people forming an LLC are starting or growing a business. These tools answer the questions that come right after formation.
Self-Employment Tax Calculator
As an LLC owner, you pay 15.3% SE tax on net income. See your quarterly payment amounts.
Startup Cost Estimator
Budget what it costs to open your doors — one-time and monthly costs by business type and city.
Break-Even Calculator
Find how many units to sell — or revenue to generate — before your business starts making money.
Employee Cost in California
If you plan to hire: see total employer cost including SUTA, workers' comp, and benefits in California.
Can I Afford to Start a Business?
Enter your savings, financing, and monthly expenses to see if you have enough to cover startup costs and a cash reserve.
Should I Start a Business in Los Angeles?
Viability score for starting a business in Los Angeles — factors in startup costs, LLC fees, labor taxes, and market size.
Total Cost to Form an LLC in California
| Cost | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee (Articles of Organization) | $70 | One-time |
| Registered agent service | $0–$300 | Annual |
| Operating agreement (attorney or service) | $0–$200 | One-time |
| Annual report fee | $20 | Every 2 Years |
| Business bank account (varies) | $0–$35/mo | Monthly |
| Year 1 Total (estimated) | $70–$1,010 | First year |
California note: All California LLCs must pay an $800 minimum annual franchise tax to the California Franchise Tax Board, regardless of revenue. This is in addition to the Secretary of State fees listed above.
California Tax Environment for LLCs
State Income Tax
Yes
LLC income flows through to your personal state tax return.
SUTA Rate (Employer)
3.4%
State Unemployment Tax on first $7,000 of wages per employee.
As an LLC owner, you'll also pay self-employment tax (15.3% on net business income up to $184,500 in 2026) unless you elect S-Corp status. If you hire employees, see the full employer cost breakdown for California.
LLC Formation in Other States
Ready to Start Your Business?
Get startup cost estimates, licensing requirements, and tools for your specific business type.
Browse Startup Guides by Business Type →Also Need a Business License in California?
Forming an LLC is separate from getting a business license. See the full cost breakdown for California business licenses, local fee ranges, and what you need to apply.
California Business License Cost Guide →After You Form Your LLC
Check Your Grant Eligibility in California
Many grant programs require an active LLC. See which California and federal grants your new business qualifies for.
Compare California LLC Costs vs Other States
See how California's $70 filing fee compares to the most popular LLC formation states:
Get the California LLC formation checklist
We'll send you a step-by-step guide to forming your LLC in California, including filing links, registered agent options, and license requirements.
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