How To Open An INC In California

Home / Blog/ How To Open An INC In California

How To Open An INC In California

Are you considering forming a company based on your California business idea? Learning how to open an INC in California will greatly help your company. California’s strong economy makes incorporating appealing, and the state boasts numerous thriving companies in many sectors.

What is an INC (Incorporation) in California?

“INC,” or “incorporated,” after a company name indicates that the firm is a corporation which is a distinct legal entity from its owners. This division builds a buffer between your personal assets and company debt. Including your company in California creates it as its own “person” under the law, enabling it to go on even if ownership changes.

Steps to Open an INC in California

Choose a Unique Business Name
Start by choosing a unique name for your company that no other California company uses. This is the first step for how to open an INC in California. The name must be “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Inc.,” or “Corp.” The California Secretary of State’s business entity database will provide name availability.

Designate a Registered Agent
Every California company requires a registered agent—also known as a “agent for service of process”—who receives legal paperwork for your business. Though they might be you, another person, or a professional service, they must have a physical address in California.

Steps to Open an LLC in California

Choose a Name for Your LLC

Choose a name that another California company does not already use. Your name must end in “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” The California Secretary of State website allows you to check if your name is available.

Select a Registered Agent

A registered agent or a business that handles significant documentation for your LLC. They must be physically present in California and show up during business hours. You may be your registered agent, but many company owners pay for a professional service.

File Articles of Incorporation

Your company is officially created from this paper. Form ARTs GS must be sent in to the California Secretary of State, including:
The filing cost is $100; you may file online, via mail, or in person. Should one file personally, an extra $15 handling charge is due.

Create Corporate Bylaws

Although they do not necessarily have to be registered with the state, bylaws are crucial internal records detailing the company’s running policies. They address vote rules, director and officer duties, and meeting practices.

Hold an Organizational Meeting

Following incorporation, call your first board meeting to approve bylaws, name officials, let stock be issued, and address other fundamental business concerns.

Obtain an EIN

File an IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN) application. Needed for tax filings, creating a business bank account, and staff recruiting, this is the tax ID number of your company.

File a Statement of Information

Ninety days after incorporating, you must submit a Statement of Information (Form SI 200) to the California Secretary of State. This form costs twenty bucks and must be updated annually.

California Specific Requirements

Learning how to form an INC in California entails knowing several state-specific criteria:

Franchise Tax

Whether or not California companies earn, they must pay a minimum franchise tax of $800 yearly.

Statement of Information

Unlike other jurisdictions, California mandates businesses to submit an annual Statement of Information to maintain current information.

Compliance with CARB

Some companies have to follow the toughest rules in California, the California Air Resources Board guidelines.

Ready to Open Your INC in California?

Although creating an LLC in California requires numerous processes, many company owners find the advantages well worth the effort. Incorporation offers security, legitimacy, and opportunities for expansion, which can help a company succeed in the long run.

Visit our website to start your road on how to open an INC in California company or call Cali Permits LLC at (800) 555 1234 now!

How Can We Help
Starting a trucking company in California, Indiana, or New York shouldn’t be a struggle. Cali Management LLC makes the process simple, clear, and stress-free.
Ready to start? Contact us today, and let’s make your trucking business a reality.
Scroll to Top