Start an LLC in California

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If you’re thinking about starting a business in California, it’s worth considering forming an LLC. Starting an LLC offers many benefits including versatile tax systems, adaptable operating structures, and enhanced legal protection for owners. Often seen as a more flexible option than forming a corporation, there are various types of LLCs you can start, ensuring that you create the perfect business setup for your specific needs.

It may seem daunting to start an LLC in California but working with the Corporate Creations team streamlines the process, ensuring a seamless formation from start to finish.

Why form an LLC in California with Corporate Creations?

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Online LLC formation in California

Forming an LLC in California with Corporate Creations allows you to take the process online, saying goodbye to tedious paperwork filing so you can enjoy a seamless digital process.

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Reduced workload

With so much paperwork filing required to form an LLC in California, working with Corporate Creations enables you to conveniently reduce your workload so you have time to focus on other priorities as you build your business.

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California LLC formation experts

By working with Corporate Creations, you’ll partner with experts who know exactly what’s involved when filing to start an LLC in California. You’ll also be able to ask questions and get clarity instantly from our team, who are well versed in all areas of LLC formations in California; from costs to timeframes.

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A trusted partner

Entrusting Corporate Creations to help you with your LLC formation in California, ensures you’re working with a reliable partner who understands your needs and can help fulfil them.

How to start an LLC in California

Forming an LLC in California is a complex process with many steps, which is why many businesses opt for professional help. Below are the key steps to follow.

1. Decide on a company name

The first thing to do when forming an LLC in California is decide upon a company name, and ensure it is available in California before reserving it with the Secretary of State. If you want a domain under the same name, make sure to research web address availability as well. If your first name choice is unavailable, you can always opt for a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name, meaning you can do business under a name diffśerent than your registered company name. As your California LLC filing service, Corporate Creations can assist with all areas of name formation; from reserving a name through to helping you make a DBA filing.

Decide on a company name
Find an LLC organizer<

2. Find an LLC organizer

You’ll need to designate an “LLC organizer” on your Articles of Organization form, who can sign the application form. If you opt to work with Corporate Creations, we’ll handle this for you.

3. Get a registered agent

It is a legal requirement for all businesses in the U.S. to appoint a registered agent who can receive legal notifications, such as Service of Process, on their behalf. While you can act as your own registered agent, it is advisable not to do so (learn more about what a registered agent is).

Get a registered agent
Decide on California LLC structure

4. Decide on California LLC structure

You’ll need to decide upon an ownership and management structure for your California LLC. Our guide to LLC member vs manager structure can help you understand the differences between the two, so that you can choose the best structure for your business needs.

5. Draw up an operating agreement

If you register an LLC in California, then you need an operating agreement. The operating agreement is a contract that outlines key aspects of your business, such as the management structure, financial rules, and roles and responsibilities, and is essential for effective governance.

Draw up an operating agreement
File Articles of Organization

6. File Articles of Organization

The final step to starting your LLC in California is filing your Articles of Organization. In this document the following information will be stated:

  • Company name and address 
  • Your LLC organizer 
  • Your registered agent 
  • Your management structure

Once this document has been accepted, your company is officially created.

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LLC Formation California FAQs

If your business is based in California, then it makes sense to form there. If you’re a small business, or a single member LLC, you may not benefit greatly from forming your company out-of-state, since the tax benefits of registering in states like Delaware are usually more beneficial for large corporations.

You don’t necessarily need a lawyer in order to start your LLC in California, but it’s a good idea to get legal advice when drafting up your operating agreement. In doing so, you can ensure that the agreement protects you and your business interests.

You can form various types of LLCs in California including single-member, multi-member, member-managed, domestic, and foreign LLCs.

Talk to one of our California LLC experts today

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