How Long Does It Take To Get An LLC In California

There are many benefits of forming an LLC in California. These include protection against personal liability and the flexibility of structuring a company.

It may seem like setting up the business can take a while, but it actually only takes two steps to become compliant in California: registering with the Secretary of State and filing for an Employer Identification Number.

For business owners asking, how long does it take to get an LLC in California?

This article has all the answers!

This blog post will outline the duration of forming an LLC in California and uncover tips to make the process go as smoothly as possible.

So, let's get started!

What Is An LLC?

The purpose of an LLC is to protect the members of a company from personal liability for business debts or other claims. The LLC is treated as a separate legal entity from its members.

In general, an LLC provides the limited liability features of a corporation and the tax efficiencies and operational flexibility of a partnership. 

The best LLC formation service providers engage in forming limited liability companies at the state level.

What Is LLC Processing Time? 

The amount of time it takes to form an LLC in California can vary depending on if the paperwork is correctly filled out and if the certificate of formation needs to be reviewed by the Secretary of State. 

This is the amount of time it takes the Golden State to examine and enter an LLC filing into its system. Once they approve an LLC, the state returns the authorized documentation electronically or by mail.

A registered agent must be designated to allow the company to receive legal notices and manage business-related tasks, such as collecting money owed by a member.

However, a business can change registered agents in California at any time by filing a change of agent certificate with the Secretary of State.

How Long Does It Take To Get An LLC In California?

California LLC processing times depend on the filing method: Online or by mail. 

Mail Filing

Approval of mail filings for California LLCs takes about 2-3 weeks in total. This includes the processing period of 3-5 working days and when the documents are in the mail.

Online Filing

There is no additional transit time because companies can download their documents as soon as they are accepted. As a result, online filing remains the fastest way to form an LLC in California. Approval of online filings for California LLCs takes 3-5 business days in total. 

How Much Does An LLC Cost?

The cost of forming an LLC varies by state and ranges from $40 to $500. However, California LLC cost is a $70 filing fee with the California Secretary of State to register LLC's Articles of Organization online.