LLC Cost in California (2026)
Official formation and recurring fees for a domestic LLC in California. Figures are linked to the primary government source and marked with the verification date. Always re-check the current schedule before filing.
Formation fee
$70
One-time state filing
Recurring / annual
$20
Biennial report
Estimated multi-year state cost
Approximate total of formation fee + recurring state charges. Does not include registered agent, publication, local licenses, or professional fees.
| Horizon | Est. state cost |
|---|---|
| Year 1 (formation only) | $70 |
| Est. yearly ongoing | $820 |
| Est. 5-year total | $4,170 |
Important notes for California
Articles of Organization (LLC-1) $70. Statement of Information $20 every two years. Minimum annual franchise tax $800 to Franchise Tax Board (even if no income).
Official source
California Secretary of State · Verified 2026-10-20. Always re-check the current fee schedule before filing or budgeting.
What else affects total cost?
- •Registered agent — required in every state. You can often serve as your own if you have a qualifying in-state address, or use a commercial service ($50–$300/year typical).
- •Publication — required in a few states (notably New York, and sometimes Arizona/Nebraska). Can add hundreds of dollars in year one.
- •Local licenses — city or county business licenses are separate from state formation fees.
See the full overview on Hidden Costs of Forming an LLC.
Related tools
- LLC Cost Calculator — project 1 / 3 / 5 year totals with optional registered agent
- Cheapest States to Form an LLC
- Most Expensive States
- Annual Report Requirements by State
- All states comparison table
Educational information only. Not legal or tax advice. State fees and rules change; confirm every figure on the official California Secretary of State website before filing or making decisions.