Provider prices checked October 21, 2026 · state fees checked October 20, 2026
California LLC cost in 2026: the $800 tax and formation services
The filing fee is only $70 (Articles of Organization, Form LLC-1). But in year 1 a California LLC also pays the $800 annual LLC tax to the Franchise Tax Board and $20 for its initial Statement of Information, due within 90 days. That's $890 in year 1.
After that, it's $800 a year in tax, plus $20 every two years for the Statement of Information. LLCs with total California income of $250,000 or more also owe a separate, graduated LLC fee to the FTB. It isn't included here.
Over 10 years that's $8,170 in state fees alone, ranked 50th (1 = cheapest) in our LLC Annual Fees 10-Year Cost Index. For due dates, late penalties and official sources, see the California LLC annual report page.
What you'd pay: three ways to form a California LLC
Every California LLC needs an agent for service of process with a California address. You can be your own. The table assumes you hire a registered agent, except in the do-it-yourself column. Prices checked October 21, 2026 on each provider's own pages; confirm at checkout. This page contains no affiliate links.
| Do it yourself (you're your own agent) | Northwest Registered Agent | ZenBusiness Starter + registered agent | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service fee | $0 | $39 | $0 |
| Registered agent, year 1 | $0 (you) | Included | $199 |
| CA state fees + tax, year 1 | $890 | $890 | $890 |
| Year 1 total | $890 | $929 | $1,089 |
| Year 2: annual tax | $800 | $800 | $800 |
| Year 2: registered agent | $0 | $125 | $199 |
| Year 2 total | $800 | $925 | $999 |
The next $20 Statement of Information comes due about two years after you register, so it isn't in year 2.
What the table leaves out:
- Northwest annual report service: if you hire Northwest as your registered agent, you're automatically enrolled in its annual report service, $100 plus state fees, charged when it files. You can cancel it. The year-2 figures assume you file the report yourself.
- ZenBusiness Worry-Free Compliance: Starter includes it free for the first year, then it renews at $199 a year unless you cancel. The year-2 figures assume you don't keep it.
- Speed: ZenBusiness Starter takes about 7 to 10 business days; rush is $79 more. Pro ($199, renews at $199 a year) and Premium ($299, renews at $299 a year) include 1-day processing. Northwest advertises same-day processing.
- EIN: you can get one free directly from the IRS. ZenBusiness charges $99 for it unless you're on Pro or Premium.
The cheapest way
The $800 tax dwarfs every service fee, so the gap between options is small in percentage terms. Filing yourself is $890 in year 1. Northwest adds $39 and includes the first year of agent service. ZenBusiness Starter plus its registered agent adds $199.
What we're watching (not confirmed)
Reports say the first-year tax may drop to $400 for LLCs whose first tax year starts in 2027 to 2029. The Franchise Tax Board's LLC page didn't mention it when we checked on October 20, 2026, so this page uses $800. We'll update it if the FTB confirms.
When is the California Statement of Information due?
The first one is due within 90 days of registering; after that, every two years by the end of the month you originally registered. Missing it can bring a $250 FTB penalty. Details and official sources: California LLC Statement of Information.
Get your exact date with the deadline calculator, or compare every state in the cost index.
FAQ
How much does an LLC cost in California?
$70 to file, $890 in year 1 with the $800 tax and the $20 Statement of Information, then $800 a year plus $20 every two years.
Is the $800 tax due even if my LLC makes no money?
Yes. The Franchise Tax Board says every LLC doing business or organized in California pays it, even if it isn't conducting business, until the LLC is canceled.
Do I need a registered agent in California?
Yes (California calls it an agent for service of process). It can be you, with a California address.
Sources
Provider prices and terms, checked October 21, 2026:
- Northwest Registered Agent LLC service
- Northwest Registered Agent registered agent service
- Northwest Registered Agent annual report service
- ZenBusiness LLC plans
- ZenBusiness pricing (add-ons and services)
- IRS: get an EIN (free)
State fees: California Franchise Tax Board: LLCs, and the official sources listed on our California page. See how we verify data. Spot an out-of-date price? Email team@llcannualfees.com.
Fees and prices change. Confirm with the state and the provider before you buy. General information, not legal or tax advice.