Forming an LLC in California

Not so long ago, a survey on Californian businesses released by Guidant showed that California has become one of the most popular states to operate and own a business. The survey concluded to show that around 13% of current U.S. small businesses are found in the state and that almost 4% of aspiring entrepreneurs start their business here on the West Coast. Californian businesses have surely been thriving over the years. The state enjoys numerous positive factors, having a young and creative buying market and also a 30% higher concentration than the national average of female entrepreneurs.

With millions of businesses established in the state, California LLC companies have seen an overall increase in the capitalization of startups and the formation of Limited Liability Companies (LLC). Forming an LLC has become very attractive to many young entrepreneurs, as it offers better liability protection, and is easier to operate than a corporation or nonprofit.

What is an LLC?

A Limited Liability Company is a legal structure of business that separates the owner(s) from the company’s debts and/or liabilities. A legal formation of a “Corporate Veil” ensures that business owners can protect their assets in the event of the business failing, lawsuits, or any other business pitfalls.

How do you form an LLC in California?

The state requires new LLC owners to follow a couple of formation guidelines to comply with state regulations.

First off, new LLC owners can start by creating a name for their new business – this is relatively easy, but make sure that your new fictitious name does comply with the outlined naming guidelines. The naming process is very easy, and you can do some research on which companies are already registered with your desired name. Secondly, you can appoint a California Agent of Service Process, don’t feel intimidated, as your newly registered agent will be the representative of your business, and should be someone who can receive and send legal and filing documentation to and from the state government.

Filing articles of organization will cost new owners around $70, and you can either do this on your own with the Secretary of State online or fill out a hardcopy. There are some hefty amounts of administration to complete, with your LLC Operating Agreement. This document should contain admitted member names, responsibilities, benefits, and dividends and how legal processing would be handled between members.

Californian state law requires newly formed businesses, especially LLCs to obtain an Employer Identification Number or EIN. This will help you with state income tax, opening a business bank account, filing federal taxes, and hiring your first employees. The best way to obtain an EIN is online with the IRS.

The whole formation process might take several days, depending on how quickly admin can be completed, but filing processing times will take around 5 days. Afterward, you can now start operating your newly formed LLC in the Golden State.

Why start an LLC in California?

The Golden State sits on one of the most diverse buying markets in the U.S., with this is also the somewhat affordable startup capital needed to start a new business in California. LLCs in California have become significantly cheaper to start and operate, but with the added benefit that almost 42% of business owners claim that doing business in the state is arguably more satisfying than any other. 

What are the advantages of starting an LLC in California?

The young and influential market in the state makes it possible for newer ventures to quickly become well-established after only a few years of trading. LLC owners have reported that their companies are operating with minimum staff, around five or fewer, ensuring lowered labor costs. Residents are also more buyer-friendly, as personal income capita is above the national average, showing us that Californians have excess money to spend on services and goods.

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