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California registered agent

California LLCs file a Statement of Information ($20) within 90 days of formation and every two years after, in a six-month window ending with their formation month. They also pay an $800 annual LLC tax to the Franchise Tax Board. Every LLC must name an agent for service of process in California.

Who can be a registered agent in California

  • An individual who resides in California
  • A corporation registered as a California Corporate Agent (Section 1505), with its advance approval

An individual agent must provide a physical California street address. The agent's name and address are public record.

Can you be your own agent?

The LLC itself cannot act as its own agent. A California-resident member or manager can serve as an individual.

Changing your agent

State fee: $20 (filed on a new Statement of Information). File a new Statement of Information whenever the agent changes or resigns.

Official form / portal →

Registered agent services

Prefer to hire a registered agent in California?

Commercial agents receive legal and state mail for you, keep your home address off public records and usually send compliance reminders. Compare current prices on each provider’s site.

Northwest Registered Agent

Registered agent and LLC formation service.

See California pricing

ZenBusiness

LLC formation and compliance service with registered agent plans.

See California pricing

Bizee

LLC formation service with registered agent and annual report options.

See California pricing

We may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. How we’re funded.

Recurring California filings to keep in good standing

California Statement of Information (Form LLC-12)

Due: Every two years, by the last day of your formation month — in even years if you formed in an even year, odd years if odd. Fee: $20.

Full California filing guide →

California initial Statement of Information

Due: Within 90 days of registering your LLC with the Secretary of State. Fee: $20.

Full California filing guide →

California $800 annual LLC tax

Due: The 15th day of the 4th month of your tax year — April 15 for calendar-year LLCs. First year: the 15th day of the 4th month after you file with the Secretary of State. Fee: $800.

Full California filing guide →

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a registered agent for my California LLC?

Yes. Every California LLC must continuously maintain a registered agent. An individual agent must provide a physical California street address. The agent's name and address are public record.

Can I be my own registered agent in California?

The LLC itself cannot act as its own agent. A California-resident member or manager can serve as an individual.

How much does it cost to change a registered agent in California?

The state filing fee is $20 (filed on a new Statement of Information). File a new Statement of Information whenever the agent changes or resigns.

Get California deadline reminders

Free emails 60, 30 and 7 days before each filing.