Form a California LLC: $0 Service Fee + $70 State Fee
California requires a $70 filing fee. Inc Authority files your LLC for a $0 service fee, so $70 is the minimum you pay to file.
Start My California LLCTakes a few minutes online. Full fee breakdown below.
What it costs to form an LLC in California
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Formation service fee (Inc Authority) | $0 |
| California Articles of Organization (filed online), paid to the state | $70 |
| Registered agent, first year (included by Inc Authority) | $0 |
| Minimum total to file your LLC | $70 |
| Required within 90 days: Statement of Information | +$20 |
| Required yearly: California minimum franchise tax (Franchise Tax Board) | $800 |
| Optional add-ons (operating agreement, legal documents, etc.) | Your choice |
Filing fees from the California Secretary of State; annual tax from the California Franchise Tax Board. Budget about $890 for your first year ($70 + $20 + $800).
How it works
- Answer a few questionsYour LLC name, who runs it, and your addresses.
- Pay the $70 state feeInc Authority prepares and files your formation document with the California Secretary of State.
- Get your approved documentsOnce California approves the filing, your LLC exists and you can open a business bank account.
What you need before you file
- A unique name that isn't already in use by a California business on file.
- An agent for service of process: an individual who lives in California or a registered corporate agent. Your LLC can't be its own agent. Inc Authority covers this for the first year.
- Who runs the LLC: whether it is managed by its members or by one or more managers.
- A business address and mailing address for the LLC.
- A plan for the Statement of Information: it's due within 90 days of forming your LLC, then every two years.
After your LLC is formed
Common questions
Is forming a California LLC really free?
No one can make it fully free, because California charges a $70 state filing fee. "Free" here means Inc Authority charges $0 for its formation service, so $70 is the minimum you pay to file.
How long does it take?
Filling out the online form takes a few minutes. Inc Authority says completion usually takes 2–5 business days, depending on the state's processing. Processing time depends on the Secretary of State's current workload.
Do I need an EIN?
You'll need one to open a business bank account or hire employees. You can get an EIN directly from the IRS at no cost. Inc Authority also offers to handle it for you.
What about a registered agent after the first year?
Inc Authority includes agent service for the first year. Check the renewal terms during checkout. In California, an individual agent must live in the state, or you can use a registered corporate agent.
Is there really an $800 tax every year?
Yes. California charges most LLCs a minimum $800 franchise tax each year, separate from the $70 filing fee. It is due even if your LLC doesn't do any business.
Do I have to buy any add-ons?
No. Operating agreements, legal document packages and other extras are optional. You can file your LLC by paying only the $70 state fee.
Ready to form your California LLC?
$0 formation service fee. You pay the $70 California filing fee.
Start My California LLC