How to Register a Business in California

If you want to create a legal entity for your business in California, you have several options. A California Limited Liability Company, or LLC, provides key legal protections for your company while requiring a minimum of paperwork.

A California Corporation provides all of the legal protections of an LLC, in addition to special treatment as a full business entity for accounting and tax purposes, at the cost of slightly more paperwork and reporting requirements.

On IncorporationForms.org, we have all of the papers you need to create your own business entity.

Registering a Limited Liability Company

1. Check your local government for any permits or licenses you may need. This usually at the county level.
2. Register with the IRS by obtaining a Employer Identification Number (EIN). This is your federal tax ID.
3. Fill out the Articles of Incorporation of a General Stock Corporation.

Registering a Corporation

1. Check your local government for any permits or licenses you may need. This usually at the county level.
2. Register with the IRS by obtaining a Employer Identification Number (EIN). This is your federal tax ID.
3. Fill out the Articles of Organization for Limited Liability Company (LLC).