California LLC - How to Start an LLC in California in 2025 (Updated Step by Step Guide)

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How to Start an LLC in California - In this updated step by step guide we give you all the details on starting an LLC in the state of California on your own! Alternatively we also share recommendations and insight on the benefits of hiring a service to do this for you. Forming an LLC a great way to structure your small business and protect your personal assets.

📙 California LLC Formation Page
howtostartanllc.com/california-llc

📄 Free LLC Operating Agreement Template
howtostartanllc.com/free-operating-agreement-templ…

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TIMESTAMPS

0:21 1 Choose a Name
1:19 2 Appoint an Agent for Service of Process
2:40 3 File Articles of Organization
3:25 4 Create an Operating Agreement
4:01 5 Get an EIN
4:46 6 File BOI Report
5:18 Post Formation Steps

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🎯 Key Topics Covered

• Choosing Your LLC Name (0:21)
Learn the critical naming requirements for California LLCs, including required suffixes and restrictions. The video explains how naming issues are the primary cause of LLC filing rejections and provides guidance on conducting free name searches through the California portal online. Includes instructions for optional 60-day name reservation.

• Agent for Service of Process (1:19)
Detailed explanation of California's registered agent requirements, including the option to serve as your own agent or use a professional service. The video highlights that 65% of viewers choose professional services for privacy protection and convenience, with specific recommendations for service providers offering first-year free options.

• Filing Articles of Organization (2:40)
Step-by-step guide to filing Form LLC-1, including three filing methods (mail, in-person, or online) and associated costs ($70 filing fee + potential $15 handling fee). Covers processing times and requirements for foreign LLCs using Form LLC-5.

• Operating Agreement (3:25)
Though not legally required in California, this section explains why an operating agreement is crucial for banking relationships and internal organization. The video provides access to free operating agreement templates and business plan generators through their website.

• EIN Registration (4:01)
Instructions for obtaining your free Employer Identification Number through the IRS website, with important warnings about avoiding scam sites charging fees. Explains the necessity of an EIN for banking and tax purposes.

• Beneficial Ownership Information Report (4:46)
New requirement starting January 2024 requiring LLC owners to file BOI reports with FinCEN within 90 days of formation. Includes warnings about potential $500/day penalties for non-compliance.

• Post-Formation Requirements (5:18)
Overview of ongoing compliance tasks including the Statement of Information filing ($20, due within 90 days and every 2 years after), annual $800 franchise tax, revenue-based fees, and recommendations for business insurance and asset separation.

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Other Resources:

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Get an EIN
   • What is an EIN? - Employer Identifica...  

Important Steps AFTER forming an LLC
howtostartanllc.com/after-forming-llc

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