Forming an LLC in California costs $70 to file with the state. Ongoing, you file: Statement of Information ($20), within 90 days then biennial. Separately, $800 minimum LLC tax + gross-receipts fee, ~April 15. The $800 minimum annual tax makes California costly; usually avoid for non-residents unless you truly operate there.
California LLC at a glance
| State filing fee | $70 |
| Processing time | ~1-2 weeks; expedited available |
| Annual/biennial report | Statement of Information ($20), within 90 days then biennial |
| Franchise / annual tax | $800 minimum LLC tax + gross-receipts fee, ~April 15 |
| State income tax | Yes |
| State sales tax | 7.25% |
| Sales-tax economic nexus | $500,000 |
| Registered agent | Required (in-state address) |
| Publication requirement | No |
| Anonymous ownership | Not available (ownership is on record) |
Research snapshot last checked 2026-07-21. Fees and deadlines change - confirm on the California Secretary of State and tax authority before filing.
Does California fit your situation?
California puts ownership on the public record, so it is not the choice if you need anonymity. It levies a state income tax. The $800 minimum annual tax makes California costly; usually avoid for non-residents unless you truly operate there.
If you do not live or operate in California, remember that forming here while working elsewhere can create a second state registration (foreign qualification) and a second set of fees. For most non-residents the decision comes down to banking acceptance and total cost - see the best-state comparison.
Steps to form in California
- Check name availability and appoint a California registered agent.
- File the Articles of Organization ($70) with the state.
- Get an EIN from the IRS (Form SS-4 by fax or phone if you have no SSN).
- Confirm banking and payment eligibility for your residence country.
- Put the report on a calendar: Statement of Information ($20), within 90 days then biennial.
Generate your California deadline calendar · Check your US tax obligations
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
How much does an LLC cost in California?
The state filing fee is $70. Ongoing you file statement of information ($20), within 90 days then biennial. $800 minimum LLC tax + gross-receipts fee, ~April 15.
Does California require an annual report?
Yes: Statement of Information ($20), within 90 days then biennial.
Is California a good state for a non-resident LLC?
The $800 minimum annual tax makes California costly; usually avoid for non-residents unless you truly operate there. Base the decision on where you actually operate, banking acceptance and total cost, not only the filing fee.