California Statement of Information (LLC-12)

What it is

The Statement of Information updates the state on the LLC’s addresses, managers/members, and Agent for Service of Process. It is filed via bizfile Online or by mail.

When it’s due

• Initial: within 90 days of the date the Articles of Organization (LLC-1) were filed.
• Then: every two years, in the calendar month of the original filing.

Cost

$20 per filing. Online filing is processed immediately.

What information is required

• LLC name and SOS file number
• Principal office address
• Mailing address (if different)
• Names and addresses of managers (or members if member-managed)
• Agent for Service of Process and address
• Type of business

Penalties for late or missed filing

The Franchise Tax Board imposes a $250 penalty for failure to file. Continued non-compliance can lead to suspension or forfeiture of the LLC’s right to do business in California.

Reminders

The SOS sends an email reminder approximately 90 days before the due date if your registered email is current. Set a calendar reminder regardless, the $250 penalty is one of the most common avoidable costs for California LLCs.

California LLC at a glance

How California compares

California's LLC filing fee is $70, $30 below the national median of $100. 12 of the 51 jurisdictions (50 states and DC) charge less to file. Filing fees are only part of the picture, so the table below sets California beside five states founders often consider.

Forming outside the state where you live and work rarely saves money. A business operating in California that forms elsewhere generally still has to register as a foreign LLC in California and pay both states' fees. Our best states for an LLC guide explains when an out-of-state filing makes sense.