How do I register an LLC in Los Angeles?

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Let's dive in.
  1. DECIDE ON A BUSINESS NAME.
  2. FILE A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME (FBN) FOR YOUR LOS ANGELES BUSINESS.
  3. DETERMINE YOUR BUSINESS ADDRESS.
  4. SELECT A BUSINESS ENTITY FOR YOUR BUSINESS.
  5. REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE.
  6. DRAFT YOUR OPERATING AGREEMENT, PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT OR BYLAWS.



Herein, how do I set up an LLC in Los Angeles?

Starting an LLC in California is Easy

  1. STEP 1: Name Your California LLC.
  2. STEP 2: Choose a Registered Agent in California.
  3. STEP 3: File the California LLC Articles of Organization.
  4. STEP 4: File the Initial Statement of Information.
  5. STEP 5: Create a California LLC Operating Agreement.
  6. STEP 6: Get an EIN for your California LLC.

Furthermore, how do I register an LLC in California? How to Form an LLC in California
  1. Choose a Name for Your California LLC.
  2. File Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State.
  3. Choose a Registered Agent.
  4. Decide on Member vs.
  5. Prepare an Operating Agreement.
  6. File a Statement of Information With the Secretary of State.
  7. Pay Your California State Tax Obligations.

Beside this, how much does it cost to set up an LLC in California?

An LLC is formed in California by filing Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State and paying a $70 filing fee. Most businesses must also pay an $800 franchise tax. In addition, within 90 days of filing the Articles of Organization, the LLC must file a Statement of Information and pay a $20 fee.

Do you have to pay the $800 California LLC fee the first year?

All LLCs in California must file Form 3522 and pay the $800 Annual Franchise Tax every year, regardless of revenue or activity. Said another way, there's no way to avoid this fee. The first $800 payment is due the “15th day of the 4th month” after your LLC is approved.

38 Related Question Answers Found

Why do I need a business license?

Licenses are required for three main purposes: To identify your business and make sure you are accountable for your actions. To protect the public health and safety. To keep track of your finances for tax purposes.

Should I form an LLC in California?

Only some LLCs must pay the Estimated Fee for LLCs (Form 3536). The Annual LLC Franchise Tax is $800 and is filed with Form 3522. The Annual LLC Franchise Tax is a kind of “prepay” tax.

You can download Form 568 here:
LLC estimated income Fee
$5,000,000 or more $11,790

Do I need a business license in Los Angeles County?

Obtaining a Business License. Not all businesses must apply for licenses to operate in unincorporated areas of the County. Generally, a business is required to be licensed if it is subject to County health or safety regulations.

What is an LLC 12?

Form LLC-12 helps the state to track changes in addresses, agents, managers, and members of Limited Liability Companies. The form, formerly called LLC-12R, is also known as the Statement of Information, or SOI, form. The California Secretary of State requires all LLCs to submit this form every two years.

Is an LLC the best way to start a business?


The simple answer is, no, you don't need an LLC to start your own business, although you may decide you want one. An LLC, or limited liability company, provides personal liability protection and a formal business structure, but you can also get those things by forming a corporation or other type of business entity.

How do I know if my LLC is active?

To check an LLC's status, you can request a copy of its Certificate of Standing. A company that is in good standing will have a current Certificate of Good Standing. You can do this for every state.

How do I check the status of my LLC in California?

To check the status of the limited liability company, go to BusinessSearch.sos.ca.gov. Use Form LLC-4/7 to cancel the Articles of Organization [for California limited liability companies] or the Certificate of Registration [for registered foreign limited liability companies].

How do I close an LLC in California?

You can dissolve your LLC by filing both a Certificate of Dissolution (Form LLC-3) and Certificate of Cancellation (Form LLC-4/7). However, if all members (owners) of an LLC choose to dissolve, you need only file a Certificate of Cancellation (Form LLC-4/7).

Do LLCs pay taxes in California?

State Business Tax
By default, LLCs themselves do not pay federal income tax, only their members do. California imposes an $800 annual tax on typical LLCs (those not electing to be taxed as corporations). In some cases, the owners of an LLC choose to have their business treated like a corporation for tax purposes.

Do I need a business license in California?


In California, if you operate ANY type of business you need a general California city business license. While there is no California state busienss license, if you are in business in any city in California, no matter how small, you need to apply for a business license in your city.

Does a single member LLC need to file a California tax return?

Single member LLCs classified as disregarded entities (SMLLC) generally do not report their own income separately from their owners. LLCs that elect to be classified as an association (taxable as a corporation) for federal purposes generally determine their California income under corporation tax law.

How much does an LLC cost per year?

The average LLC annual fee in the US is $101. The LLC annual fees have been recently reviewed and are up-to-date as of August 2019. Important: Just because certain states have lower fees does not mean you should form there!

How long does it take to get a business license in California?

Review and investigation of a completed license application may take up to 45 days for a General Business License.

How do members of a LLC get paid?

A member of an LLC can be paid wages or compensation for one-time services provided to the company. Lending the company capital qualifies as such a service. Guaranteed payments are deducted from the company's profit as a cost of business, and reported by the member as taxable income from self-employment.

How long does it take for LLC approval?


Depending on how fast the state processes business filings, it can generally take between a week to ten business days. In some states, once your intake information is received, the state agency often issues approval for the limited liability company within only three business days.

What do LLC lawyers charge?

Attorneys charge $100-$300 or more an hour to guide you through the legal niceties of setting up an LLC, for a typical total cost of $1,000-$3,000 or more depending on your location, the number of LLC members and the complexity of the arrangements.

How do I expedite an LLC formation in California?

Click "Get It Filed"
Our form helps you file your prepared Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State on an expedited basis. SAME DAY AND 24 HOUR RUSH services are available for Limited Liability Companies also. Fees: $70 for a routine filing or $125 for expedited filing.