California LLC Name Search & Entity Availability
Verify legal availability against the California Secretary of State (bizfile Online) database, review statutory requirements, and secure your brand across domains and social networks.
Scan Your Proposed California Business Name
Instant real-time checks across DNS domains, major social handles, and federal trademark databases.
California LLC Formation Cost & Fee Breakdown
Statutory fees and ongoing compliance requirements for California.
| Fee Type | Cost | Authority / Schedule | Mandatory? |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Filing Fee (Articles of Organization) | $70 | California Secretary of State (bizfile Online) | Yes (One-time) |
| Annual / Biennial Compliance Fee | $800 annual franchise tax + $20 Statement of Info (biennial) | Annual / Biennial Schedule | Yes (Recurring) |
| Registered Agent Service | $0 - $39/yr (Northwest) | Commercial Agent or Self | Yes (Required) |
| Federal EIN (Tax ID) | $0 (Free) | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) | Recommended |
California LLC Naming Rules & Guidelines
Official statutory naming constraints administered by the California Secretary of State (bizfile Online).
Must contain 'Limited Liability Company', 'LLC', or 'L.L.C.'. Cannot use 'bank', 'trust', 'trustee', 'incorporated', 'inc.', 'corporation', or 'corp.'.
How to Form an LLC in California (Step-by-Step)
Choose a Compliant California LLC Name
Your business name must contain a statutory designator such as "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company". It must be distinguishable from all other registered active entities on file with the California Secretary of State (bizfile Online).
Appoint a Registered Agent in California
You must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in California (P.O. Boxes are not permitted). The agent accepts service of process and official legal notices during standard business hours.
File Formation Documents & Pay $70
Submit your official Articles of Organization to the California Secretary of State (bizfile Online). The standard state filing fee is $70 with an estimated processing time of 1-3 business days.
Draft an LLC Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement outlines internal governance, voting thresholds, equity percentages, and profit disbursements. Having an executed operating agreement protects corporate liability separation in court.
Obtain a Free Federal EIN from the IRS
Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) acts as your business's Federal Tax ID. It is required for business checking accounts, merchant services, and hiring staff.
Maintain Annual Compliance & Reports
Stay in continuous good standing with California by filing your required statutory reports: $800 annual franchise tax + $20 Statement of Info (biennial).