California LLC Cost Calculator 2026
Real filing and annual fees for forming a California LLC — including hidden franchise taxes, annual report costs, and publication requirements.
Interactive California LLC Calculator
LLC Cost Calculator
See your true first-year and multi-year LLC costs — including hidden fees.
5-Year Total Cost
$0
Cost Breakdown
| Fee Item | Amount | Frequency |
|---|
Year-by-Year Cost
Disclaimer: FreeLLCCalculator.com is an educational utility and does not provide legal or tax advice.
California LLC Fee Breakdown
| Fee Item | Amount | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $70 | One-time | Paid to California Secretary of State |
| Annual / Biennial Report | $20 | Every 2 years | Keeps LLC in good standing |
| State Franchise / Privilege Tax | $800 | Annual | Applies regardless of revenue |
| Registered Agent | $125 | Annual | Commercial RA estimated avg. |
| 5-Year Total (est.) | $735 | 5 years | Includes all above items |
How to Form an LLC in California: Step-by-Step
Choose a unique LLC name
Must end in "LLC", "L.L.C.", or "Limited Liability Company" and be distinguishable from existing California entities.
Designate a Registered Agent
Appoint a registered agent with a physical California address to receive legal documents.
File Articles of Organization
Submit to the California Secretary of State. Filing fee: $70.
File Online →Obtain an EIN (Employer ID Number)
Apply free from the IRS at irs.gov/ein. Required for banking and taxes.
Open a Business Bank Account
Keep personal and business finances separate to protect your liability protection.
File Annual Reports / Pay State Fees
Due every 2 years. Fee: $20.
California LLC Compliance Notes
- Biennial Statement of Information due every 2 years ($20)
- Under current California FTB rules, the previous AB 85 first-year exemption has expired; the $800 annual minimum franchise tax is due in Year 1 (within 3.5 months of formation via Form 3522) and annually thereafter.
- Additional annual fee based on gross receipts over $250,000
California LLC FAQ
How much does it cost to form an LLC in California?
California LLC formation costs $70 for the Articles of Organization, plus $800/year in franchise tax and a $20 biennial Statement of Information.
What is the California $800 franchise tax?
California charges every LLC $800/year as a minimum franchise tax, due by the 15th day of the 4th month after formation, and every April 15 after that.
Is the first-year California franchise tax waived?
Under current California FTB rules, the previous AB 85 first-year exemption has expired; the $800 annual minimum franchise tax is due in Year 1 (within 3.5 months of formation via Form 3522) and annually thereafter.
Does California have annual LLC fees?
Yes. California has both a $20 biennial Statement of Information fee and an $800/year minimum franchise tax.