California LLC and corporation formation questions
Straight answers about timing, privacy, fees, the $800 tax and what happens after you file.
How fast can you form a California LLC or corporation?
If you order by 12:00 noon Pacific Time on a business day, we file that day using the state’s 24-hour expedited service, so your LLC or corporation is eligible for approval by the next business day. Our standard service usually takes 3 to 5 business days. For same-day filing, call 310-980-4455.
What does “next business day” mean?
Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding California state holidays. An order placed by noon PT on Tuesday is filed Tuesday and is eligible for approval by Wednesday. An order placed after noon, or on a weekend or holiday, is filed the next business day.
Is next-business-day approval guaranteed?
No one but the Secretary of State can approve a filing. We file on time with expedited service and review your details to avoid rejections, but the state controls approval. If the state rejects a filing, we contact you, fix the issue and resubmit.
What is an LLC with privacy, and is it legal?
It is a standard California LLC set up so your personal name and address are not shown on the public state filings. Your ownership is recorded in your private Operating Agreement, and we prepare organizational minutes appointing you manager. Using a privacy structure is legal. It does not hide you from the IRS, the Franchise Tax Board, banks or courts.
Why is privacy only for LLCs and not corporations?
California requires every corporation to list its officers and directors by name and address on its public Statement of Information. LLCs have more flexibility in how they are managed, which makes a privacy structure possible.
Do your prices include the state filing fees?
Yes. Each price lists the state fees it includes, such as the $70 LLC or $100 corporation filing fee and the $350 state 24-hour expedite fee for next-business-day service. You can also file directly with the state and pay only the state fees.
What do I receive when my company is approved?
We email the state-certified documents as soon as we receive them from the Secretary of State, along with your Operating Agreement or bylaws and organizational documents.
Is CaliforniaFilings.com part of the government or a law firm?
No. CaliforniaFilings.com is a private filing service owned by Blazing Star LLC. We are not a law firm or a CPA firm, and we are not affiliated with the California Secretary of State. You can file directly at bizfileOnline.sos.ca.gov.
Can I get same-day formation?
Yes, by phone. Call 310-980-4455 early in the morning. The state’s same-day service requires the filing to reach the Secretary of State by 9:30 a.m. PT and carries a $750 state fee.
What is the order cutoff for next-business-day service?
12:00 noon Pacific Time on a business day. Orders received by then are filed that day with the state’s 24-hour expedited service.
How much is the registered agent service after the first year?
$75 per year. The first year is included with every formation package.
What does an out-of-state company need to register in California?
A certificate of good standing from its home state, issued within the last six months, its exact legal name and a California agent for service of process. LLCs file Form LLC-5 ($70); corporations file a Statement and Designation by Foreign Corporation ($100).
What is the $800 California franchise tax and when is it due?
Every LLC and corporation formed or registered in California owes at least $800 a year to the Franchise Tax Board. An LLC pays its first $800 by the 15th day of the 4th month after it is formed, using Form FTB 3522. Corporations are not charged the $800 minimum in their first tax year. Full guide.
Do I need to file a Statement of Information?
Yes. Every California LLC and corporation files one within 90 days of forming. LLCs then file every two years ($20) and corporations every year ($25). Details.
Do you get my EIN?
If you need one, we help you obtain your Employer Identification Number from the IRS after the state approves your company. The IRS does not charge for an EIN, and you can apply yourself at irs.gov.
Do you give legal or tax advice?
No. We prepare and file documents based on the information you give us. For advice about your situation, talk to a California attorney or CPA.
Can I choose a future filing date?
Yes, in many cases. Owners forming late in the year sometimes choose a January date so the first tax year doesn’t end a few weeks after formation. Ask us when you order.
What if the name I want is taken?
We check name availability before filing. If your name is not available, we contact you to choose another so your filing is not rejected.
Last reviewed October 18, 2026. General information, not legal or tax advice.