Company

Registration in California

Start your company registration in California online at just INR 39,999/- only.

Ebizfiling guides you through every step of business incorporation, licensing, and compliance in California.

Header
Register Now

Fast | Compliant | Trusted

Company Registration in California

About Our Service

California for Company Registration

California is one of the largest and wealthiest states in the USA. It is a home for major industries like the blooming technology market in the form of Silicon Valley to the ever growing entertainment industry in the form of Hollywood to agriculture and farming businesses and millions of small businesses, California has it all. California is said to be the largest economy in the States of America. If we count the state alone, it would stand as 5th largest economy in the world.

Facts to know before starting a California Company / Business

  • California in the race for Startups and Top Corporations, is 31st on the list of Forbes Best States for Business.
  • California is considered to be a bit more complicated state to operate business in.
  • The Economy of California consists of various sectors from finance, business services to governmental and manufacturing units.
  • Most of the economic and business activities are centered in the significant trade hubs such as Los Angeles, The San Francisco Bay Area and San Diego, which are coastal cities.
  • California is a Business Center for a few major companies of the world such as Google and Apple.

Build-Your-Dream-Company-in-California

California LLC vs California Corporation

California LLC

California Corporation

The name of California LLC shall contain the words “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviation “L.L.C.” or the designation “LLC”.

The California Corporation must have a name ending with “Incorporated,” “Corporation,” “Company,” or an abbreviation of like import from other languages.

At least one person is required as a manager/member for LLC.

A corporation must have at least three directors, unless there are less than three shareholders.

 

Additional Requirements:

  • California LLC and Corporation must have a physical address in California to receive legal and tax documents for the business.

  • Federal tax identification number (EIN): If the company has employees, EIN is required. Moreover, it is necessary to open a business bank account in California.

Informative Read: LLC Operating Agreement in USA

Why should you choose Ebizfiling as your service provider for Company formation in California, USA?

Ebizfiling is a group of intellectuals. The entire team of Ebizfiling consists of Highly qualified CA, CS, Lawyers and business administrators. Ebizfiling runs its operations all over the world seamlessly. Ebizfiling will be one stop solution for your Company formation in California. We provide a number of services which are required not only for starting a business but also for running the business successfully without any default or mistakes. From India we provide services like Company Registration in USACompany Registration in Delaware, EIN Registration and Annual Compliance in Florida as well and many more. You may get in touch with our compliance manager on 09643203209 or email info@ebizfiling.com for free consultation and to know more about the services provided by us.

Cost of Company Registration in California, USA

Choose your Package

Essential

39999/-

(All Inclusive)

  • LLC Formation
  • Registered Agent for one year

Enhanced

59999/-

(All Inclusive)

  • LLC Formation
  • Registered Agent for One Year
  • Article of Organization
  • Operating Agreement
  • EIN Number

Ultimate

89999/-

(All Inclusive)

  • LLC Formation
  • Registered Agent for One Year
  • Registered Office Address for one year
  • Article of Organization
  • Operating Agreement
  • EIN
  • ITIN
  • Virtual Bank Account Opening

Benefits of Starting a Company in California, USA

Points to make your decision easy

  • Tax Flexibility: There is a huge leverage on the important tax advantages, whether you register a corporation or an LLC in California.
  • Capital Gains Exemption: For the shares of small business corporations the capital gains exemption is applicable when they qualify for the same.
  • Small Business Tax: Access to corporate small business tax rates is possible after one registers a new company in California
  • Transparency & Accountability Enforcement: If the shareholders of a California Corporation have investment in the stock of the corporation then only they can be held accountable.
  • Providing Anonymity To The Owner: A California corporation provides anonymity to the owner.

Documents required for company registration in California

Quick Checklist

  • A Certified Copy of Passport
  • Existing Foreign Tax Id Number (Pan Card)
  • Original Voter I’D and Driving License (Incase Certified Passport is not available)

How to register a company in California, USA?

 

Company Registration in California Process in 5 steps

1

Fill in the simple check list

2

Registration of Business name

3

Filing of AOA

4

Employer Identification number

5

Sales Tax Permit

What Ebizfiling Does for Company Registration in California ?

  • We help you choose the right California business structure, such as an LLC or Corporation, based on your expansion goals and regulatory requirements.

  • We prepare and file your Articles of Organization or Articles of Incorporation with the California Secretary of State to officially form your company.

  • We arrange a California Registered Agent service, which is mandatory for receiving state notices, tax letters, and legal documents.

  • We assist you in obtaining your EIN from the IRS so your California company can open a U.S. bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.

  • We draft your Operating Agreement or Corporate Bylaws to clearly define ownership, member roles, and internal management rules.

  • We guide you on California specific tax requirements such as franchise tax, state income tax registration, and sales tax obligations.

  • We help you prepare the documents needed to open a U.S. business bank account and support coordination with banking partners.

  • We provide ongoing compliance support, including Statement of Information filing, franchise tax payment, and annual federal and state filings to keep your company in good standing.

FAQ

FAQs on Company Registration in California 

Get answers to all your queries

  • What are the main business structures available in California?

    In California, you can register your business as an LLC (Limited Liability Company), Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp), Partnership, or Sole Proprietorship. LLCs and Corporations are the most common structures for legal protection and tax benefits.

  • How do I register a company in California?

    To register a company, you must file the Articles of Organization (LLC) or Articles of Incorporation (Corporation) with the California Secretary of State (SOS). Once approved, you receive a registration certificate that legally establishes your business.

  • What is the cost of company registration in California?

    The registration cost depends on the entity type. For an LLC, the filing fee is $70, and for a Corporation, it is $100. Additionally, California requires an $800 annual franchise tax fee for most entities.

  • Do I need a business name approval before registration?

    Yes, the business name must be unique and not identical to any existing California business. You can check name availability through the California SOS business search portal before filing your registration.

  • What is a Registered Agent, and is it mandatory?

    Yes, every California company must have a Registered Agent with a physical address in the state. The agent receives legal notices, tax documents, and compliance correspondence on behalf of your company.

  • How long does it take to register a company in California?

    Typically, online filings are processed within 5 to 10 business days, depending on the workload at the California Secretary of State office. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.

  • Is a business address in California mandatory?

    Yes, a California-based physical address is required for all business entities, including LLCs and Corporations, to receive government and legal correspondence.

  • Do I need an EIN for my California company?

    Yes, every business that hires employees, opens a bank account, or pays federal taxes must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

  • What is the difference between a California LLC and a Corporation?

    A California LLC offers flexible management and limited liability, requiring at least one member. A Corporation, on the other hand, must have at least three directors and follows a stricter governance structure, suitable for investors and larger businesses.

  • Can a foreigner or non-resident register a company in California?

    Yes, non-residents and foreign nationals can register a company in California. However, they must appoint a local Registered Agent and have a U.S. mailing address for official communication.

  • What are the annual compliance requirements in California?

    Every company must file a Statement of Information (Form LLC-12 or Form SI-550) within 90 days of registration and then every year. Additionally, companies must pay the $800 franchise tax fee to the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB).

  • Do I need business licenses after company registration?

    Yes, most California businesses require city or county-specific business licenses. The type of license depends on your industry and location, which must be applied for separately after registration.

  • What taxes does a California company have to pay?

    California businesses must pay state income tax, franchise tax, and employment taxes. Corporations and LLCs also pay a minimum franchise tax of $800 annually, even if they do not operate actively.

  • Can I register my business online in California?

    Yes, you can register online through the California Secretary of State’s bizfile Online Portal, where you can file, pay, and track your company registration status.

  • Do I need to draft an Operating Agreement for my LLC?

    Yes, California requires all LLCs to maintain an Operating Agreement, even if it’s not filed with the state. This document outlines member roles, capital contributions, and profit distribution.

  • What is the Statement of Information for California companies?

    The Statement of Information is an annual or biennial report that updates the state on your company’s address, management, and Registered Agent details. Failing to file may lead to penalties or suspension.

  • How can I close or dissolve a company in California?

    To close a company, you must file a Certificate of Dissolution with the California SOS and clear all tax dues with the Franchise Tax Board (FTB). LLCs can file Form LLC-3 or LLC-4/7 to terminate their registration.

  • What penalties apply for not filing annual reports or taxes?

    If you fail to file your Statement of Information or pay franchise tax, the company may incur a $250 penalty and risk suspension by the California SOS or FTB.

  • Can I open a business bank account in California after registration?

    Yes, once your company is registered and you have obtained an EIN, you can open a U.S. business bank account to manage your company’s financial transactions.

  • How does Ebizfiling assist with company registration in California?

    Ebizfiling manages the entire registration process, including name reservation, document filing, EIN application, and compliance setup. We ensure your company meets California’s legal, tax, and operational requirements efficiently.

Reviews

  • AJIMAL A.S

    AJIMAL A.S

    26 Sep 2025

    Nice experience i got my LLP registration by the help of Evizfiling,my LLP name rejected somany times and after approval of they done it as quick as possible... thank you very much for your support and service 🙏.

  • Ebizfiling

    Akanksha Kakwani

    19 Nov 2021

    It was a great experience with Anitha from ebizfiling who guided me for doing the IEC renewal.

  • Ebizfiling

    Ajay K

    04 Apr 2022

    Highly professional Team. Good service and the prices are also very reasonable Kudos to the team for incorporating my Company and special thanks to Shubham , pulkit and also Aaron for designing professional Logo for my company Thanks and Regards

Hi, Welcome to EbizFiling!

Hello there!!! Let us know if you have any Questions.

Thank you for your message.

whatsapp