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Start a business in California.

Get state-specific filing instructions, fees, and licensing requirements — generated for you by AI.

Official California filing links

Direct links to the agencies you'll actually file with. All links open on official .gov sites.

Heads up — the links below take you to official government websites. We'll ask you to confirm before leaving Founder.
Search business names in California
Make sure your name is available before filing.
Opens official .gov site
File formation documents (California Secretary of State)
File Articles of Organization (LLC) or Incorporation (Corp) online.
Opens official .gov site
California Secretary of State
Main filing agency homepage.
Opens official .gov site
Franchise Tax Board ($800 min tax)
Opens official .gov site
CalGold permit assistance
Opens official .gov site

Federal filings (apply to every state)

Heads up — the links below take you to official government websites. We'll ask you to confirm before leaving Founder.
Apply for an EIN (IRS)
Free federal tax ID. Required for banking, payroll, and taxes.
Opens official .gov site
File BOI report (FinCEN)
Beneficial Ownership Information — required for most US entities.
Opens official .gov site
SBA — Small Business Administration
Federal guides, loans, and local resources.
Opens official .gov site
USPTO — Trademark search & filing
Search and register your business name or logo as a trademark.
Opens official .gov site
USDOT / FMCSA registration
Required for trucking and motor carriers.
Opens official .gov site

California at a glance

Fees and timelines reviewed for 2025. Always confirm on the official site before filing.

LLC filing fee
$70
Processing time
5–8 business days
Annual report
Statement of Information $20 every 2 yrs + $800 min Franchise Tax
Registered agent
Agent for service of process — CA address
DBA / trade name
Fictitious Business Name at the county clerk
State tax overview
Income tax 1–13.3%; sales tax 7.25% state

Recommended tools & services

Trusted third-party platforms founders in California use to file, bank, build, and grow. Founder isn't affiliated with these companies — they're listed because beginners ask about them most.

These open external (non-government) websites. We'll ask you to confirm before leaving Founder.