How to Form an LLC in California Yourself (2026 Costs and Steps)

Quick answer

The cost to file an LLC in California is $70. You can file the Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State, Business Entities. As of September 15, 2026, the Secretary of State was reviewing online LLC formation requests received 09/10/2026.

Step 1: Check that your LLC name is available

Search the California Secretary of State's business name records to ensure your desired name is available before filing.

Step 2: Choose a registered agent

You may choose an individual who resides in California or a registered corporate agent as your agent for service of process. The business entity itself cannot be its own agent. The individual agent's name and physical street address become public record.

Step 3: File your Articles of Organization (Formation - Articles of Organization, filed online in bizfile Online)

File the Articles of Organization online through the Secretary of State's bizfile Online portal. The filing fee is $70. This is the total state cost to file online. You may also pay an additional fee for expedited processing if needed:

• 24-Hour Filing Service (Class C): $350. Available online; filing response guaranteed within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.
• Same Day Filing Service (Class B): $750. Available online; document must be received by 9:30 a.m., response by 4:00 p.m. the same day.

Step 4: Create an operating agreement

Create an operating agreement that covers ownership, roles, voting procedures, and what happens if a member leaves.

Step 5: Get your EIN from the IRS

Get your Employer Identification Number for free from the IRS at https://www.irs.gov/ein.

Step 6: Keep your LLC in good standing

File a Statement of Information with the Secretary of State. The initial report is due within 90 days of initial registration and costs $20. Subsequent reports are due every two years after the initial filing, in the month of registration (even or odd years based on the year of registration), and also cost $20. All Statement of Information filings are online only. You must file a new one when your agent for service of process resigns or is no longer valid.

You must pay an LLC Annual Tax to the California Franchise Tax Board. The amount is $800, regardless of profit. This tax is due on or before the 15th day of the 4th month after the beginning of the taxable year. A separate LLC fee (based on total income) is due by the 15th day of the 6th month of the taxable year for LLCs that owe it.