LegalCostCalculator
Updated May 2026 California

California LLC Formation Cost (2026)

Complete breakdown of California LLC costs — from the initial filing fee to annual report fees, publication requirements, and ongoing taxes.

LegalCostCalculator Editorial Team Data sourced from official government websites  ·  Last reviewed:
$70
Filing Fee
One-time
$820
Annual Report
Recurring
None
Publication Cost
$870+
Est. Year-1 Total
Excl. annual fee

LLC Formation Cost Calculator

Select your state to see filing fees, annual report costs, and formation gotchas.

· Filing: · Est. Year 1:
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Forming an LLC in California: Full Cost Breakdown

To form an LLC in California, you file Articles of Organization (sometimes called a Certificate of Formation or Certificate of Organization) with the California Secretary of State. The state filing fee is $70.

Standard processing time is 5. Expedited processing is available: 1.

California LLC Franchise / Privilege Tax

Mandatory $800 minimum annual franchise tax — even in year 1 after the first-year waiver.

Watch out: California charges $800/year minimum franchise tax regardless of income. This makes CA one of the most expensive states to maintain an LLC.
Pro tip: World's 5th largest economy — unbeatable market access if you operate here.

Source: California Secretary of State ↗

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Frequently Asked Questions — California LLC

How much does it cost to form an LLC in California?
California LLC formation costs vary by state. Use our calculator above to find the exact amount for your state. Fees are updated regularly from official state and court sources.
What is the LLC filing fee in California?
California LLC formation costs vary by state. Use our calculator above to find the exact amount for your state. Fees are updated regularly from official state and court sources.
Does California require an annual report for LLCs?
California LLC formation rules vary by state. See our complete state-by-state breakdown above for the most current information, sourced directly from official court and government websites.
Does California require LLC publication?
California LLC formation rules vary by state. See our complete state-by-state breakdown above for the most current information, sourced directly from official court and government websites.
What is the California LLC franchise tax?
What is the California LLC franchise tax is an important aspect of California LLC formation. Requirements and limits vary by state. Our state-by-state data above covers the key figures you need, sourced from official government websites.
How do I form an LLC in California?
Eligibility requirements for California LLC formation depend on your state's specific rules. Our calculator provides the key thresholds and requirements by state. For legal advice on your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.

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