Everything you need to know about forming and maintaining a business entity in California.
Annual Report Due
Anniversary
Processing Time
5-7 business days
Annual Report State Filing Fee
$100
Registered Agent
Required
| Filing Type | Due Date | CLS Fee | State Processing Time | State Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formation | N/A | $100 | 5-10 days | $100 |
| Annual Report | Anniversary | $50 | 5-10 days | $20 |
| Franchise Tax | April 15 | — | N/A | From $800 |
| Amendment | N/A | $100 | 5-10 days | $30 |
| Dissolution | N/A | $100 | 7-10 days | Free |
| Foreign Qualification | N/A | $100 | 7-10 days | $100 |
* State fees are subject to change. Contact the Secretary of State for current fee schedules.
Franchise Tax Applies
Minimum $800 annual franchise tax for LLCs and corporations
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Common questions about forming and maintaining a business in California.
Yes. California requires all LLCs and corporations to pay a minimum $800 annual franchise tax regardless of income. New LLCs are exempt for their first year only.
The Statement of Information is California's version of an annual report. The first one is due within 90 days of filing your articles. After that, corporations file every year and LLCs and nonprofits every two years. Each filing is due by the last day of the month your articles were filed, and can be filed any time in the six months up to then. The Secretary of State mails a reminder about three months before that date. Filing a statement late, or amending one, does not change the schedule: it stays tied to the month your articles were filed.
No. California requires a physical street address for your registered agent. The address must be in California where someone can accept service of process during normal business hours.
Content reference: CCP-F9684A793237