How to form an LLC in California: Easy and Fast guide 2025
Considering opening a business in the USA and California? Smart decision. If you are an international businessman, a freelancer, or an entrepreneur who wants to become your own boss, opening a US LLC in California can lead you to unlimited possibilities.
But the catch here is — it's somewhat intimidating, at least if you're outside the US. The good news: it's less complicated than it looks, and below is a step-by-step tutorial that will guide you through it all.
Why Form an LLC in California?
California boasts enormous brands, innovative startups, and tech giants. California is, however, extremely welcoming to solo entrepreneurs and small businesses. Here's why entrepreneurs prefer starting a US LLC in California:
- You are legally allowed to conduct business in the US.
- Your personal assets are safeguarded.
- It appears professional (if you have US clients, especially).
- Facile access to tools like Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, etc.
- You can maintain a US business account.
Regardless of whether you're from India, Pakistan, UAE, or any other place — you don't have to be a US citizen to register an LLC in the United States.
Step-by-Step: How to Start a US LLC in California
1. Select your LLC name
- Ensure your business name is new and not occupied by anyone within California.
- You can confirm name availability on the website of the California Secretary of State.
???? Tip: Put "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" at the end of the name.
2. Obtain a Registered Agent in California
- This is a person who has your business's tax and legal documents.
- If you're not a resident in the US, you're going to need to have a registered agent service that can operate in California
- (you can arrange this with LLC Setter)
3. File the Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1)
- This is the official state form to submit your California LLC.
- Sign and submit online or via mail.
- State fee to submit is usually around $70.
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
- Not a state requirement but highly advised.
- Essentially a contract that outlines how your LLC will be operated — who owns what, how profits are distributed, etc.
- Very helpful if you have business partners.
5. Obtain Your EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- It's essentially a Social Security Number for your company.
- You'll be needing it for a US business bank account opening, tax reporting, and even Stripe/PayPal onboarding.
- And yes — foreign nationals are also qualified for obtaining an EIN, although they don't have an SSN.
- You simply need to apply directly with the IRS or let us do it on your behalf at LLC Setter
6. Submit the Statement of Information (Form LLC-12)
- You must submit this form within 90 days of LLC filing.
- It includes your business address, owner details, and registered agent information.
- It's a $20 fee and extremely important for compliance.
7. Stay in Compliance with California Laws
- Once your LLC is up and running, you'll need to:
- Pay California LLC annual franchise tax (minimum $800/year)
- File your Statement of Information on a two-year basis
- Maintain a registered agent
- Keep records up to date for your business
Additional Tips for Non-US Citizens
- If you're incorporating outside the US, this is what you'll also need:
A US business address (LLC Setter can give you a virtual one)
- ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) – if you require it
- Banking support, Stripe/PayPal setup, and taxes (yep, we have got you covered)
Is Starting a California LLC Worth It?
- If your target market is in the US, or you are targeting US businesses to do business with, then absolutely 100%.
- It makes your brand more credible, provides legal protection, and facilitates easier expansion.
- Just be careful of the California-specific requirements — the yearly franchise tax is the biggest one to be aware of.
Let LLC Setter Do the Heavy Lifting for You
- We understand — forms, fees, and paperwork can put a damper on the thrill of launching your business of a lifetime.
- That's why LLC Setter does everything for you — California LLC filing to EIN, business address, bank setup, and beyond.
No matter where you are, India, UK, Canada, or somewhere in between, we've assisted 500+ entrepreneurs like you in launching a US LLC in California with ease.
Ready to Launch Your LLC the Easy Way?
Click here to get started with LLC Setter today.
✅ Fast turnaround
✅ Affordable packages
✅ Full support, even if you’re outside the US
Start your California LLC today — and build the business you’ve been dreaming about.
