How to Register an LLC in California
The main requirement to register a limited liability corporation (LLC) in the state of California is to file articles of organization with the Secretary of State. Within 90 days of filing, you will also need to complete a statement of information. To do this, you need to be able to locate the appropriate documents you will need to be on your way to operating an LLC in California.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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1
Click on the "California Business Search" link in the Resources section. Type the name of the LLC that you would like to register in the "LP/LLC" box, and click the "Search" button. If there is already an LLC that is registered with your business name, you will have to choose another name.
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2
Click on the "Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1)" link in the Resources section to download Form LLC-1, which is required by the Secretary of State to register a limited liability company.
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3
Read the instructions for Form LLC-1 carefully, as there are a few important points to keep in mind. For example, your company name must end with the words "limited liability company," or the appropriate abbreviation for these words (LLC) as indicated in the form's instructions.
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4
Complete the form and mail it to the Secretary of State at the address indicated on the form. You must also include the $70 filing fee. The form can also be delivered in person to the office of the Secretary of State for expedited processing, but this comes with an additional handling fee of $15.
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5
Write an operating agreement with your business partners. If you are the only owner, this agreement is between you and the business. An operating agreement is required under the California Business Code but does not need to be filed with the state. There is no formal criteria for this agreement, but you should include some basic information: how and when meetings will be held, the management structure, the financial requirements of each member and the allocation of any profits or losses.
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Click on the "Statement of Information (Form LLC-12)" link in the Resources section to download Form LLC-12, which is required to be filed within 90 days of submitting the articles of organization.
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Complete the form, and return it to the Secretary of State with the $20 filing fee.
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Tips & Warnings
The instructions in this article do not include other steps required to run a business in California. These steps may include filing for federal, state and local country or city taxes and other regulatory obligations. The California Business Search database is not the definitive reference to LLC names in California. If you want a complete search, you will need to file additional paperwork with the Secretary of State prior to filing the articles of organization.
