How To Form A Llc In California Step By Step

File form llc 12 statement of information.

How to form a llc in california step by step. To form a limited liability company llc in california you need to take the following steps. This statement must provide all requested information including the name and address of any. If you are a us citizen with a social security number obtaining an ein may be easy for you. Starting a business in california is no small task. The limited liability company also known as an llc.

Name your california llc. Form an operating agreement. Be sure to choose a name that complies with california naming requirements and is easily searchable by potential clients. The first step to form a california llc is to choose a business name. Having this document in place will also give you all something to return to if a dispute or lawsuit arises.

Create a california llc operating agreement. Creating a california llc operating agreement is the only way for you and your members to fully define your roles and lock down your llc s management and ownership structure. To keep things as straightforward as possible we re going to focus on one of the most common types of small business in california. This is a legal document outlining the ownership and operating. Form 568 limited liability company return of income.

Choosing a company name is the first and most important step in starting your llc. Under california law llcs cannot choose a name that s so similar to another business s name that it would cause confusion among the public. You must complete irs form ss 4 to request your ein. All california llcs are also required to file an initial statement of information form llc 12 with the california secretary of state within 90 days of forming your llc. It s a multi step process that requires lots of attention to detail and plenty of patience.

All llcs in california will need to file form 568 as well as additional 568 schedules and forms with the ftb depending on how income is earned. Within 90 days of filing form llc 1 all llcs registered in california must file a statement of information form llc 12 available on the secretary of state s website and pay a 20 filing fee. For more information on how to form an llc in any state see nolo s article how to form an llc. An operating agreement is required when forming an llc in california. We strongly recommend that you work with an accountant to properly file your federal state and local taxes.