bidnez-resources
Some resources on starting an LLC in California
Starting an LLC
Pre-Flight
- Have a credit/debit card ready
- Use a common email address
- Sign up for a password manager like 1Password to store the credentials for all of your new accounts
1. Business Name Lookup Tools
Prior to buying anything use the search tools below to make sure the business name you want is available
- California Business Search - check to see if name is registered in California
- Trademark Search - check to see if the name is included in an established trademark
- NameCheap - check to see if domain name is available for purchase
2. Configure Business Domain and Email
Get your domain rolling so that you can create an email for the remaining business steps
- Create an account with a registrar like NameCheap
- Purchase your business's domain name
- Create Google Workspace for your business with your domain name
| Service | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Domain Registration | $5-$500k | domain renewal is also required |
| Google Workspace. | $6/user/month |
3. Virtual Addresses
A virtual address allows you send mail for the business to a real address without using your personal address to protect your privacy. You will need this address while setting up the rest of the business.
- ipostal1 - one of the more popular virtual address services (2021)
| Service | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Address Service | ~$100/yr |
4. Apply for LLC
Creating the LLC will take 5-10 business days to process
| Service | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Registration | $75 | |
| Franchise Tax Board | $800/yr | might be waived on first year of business |
5. Apply for Employer ID Number (EIN)
An EIN is like a SSN for businesses. It's used for tax purposes and allows you to open a bank account for your business.
6. Apply for California Business License
A business license is established at the city level and will have different requirements for different business types.
- California Department of Tax and Fee Administration - Create a new account
7. Open Business Bank Account
Once you receive the EIN, you are ready to open a bank account for your business
8. Sign up for a book keeping service
| Service | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Quickbooks Online | ~$150/yr | Simple Start package |
Resources
Articles
- The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Business in California
- California LLC Franchise Tax Waved in First Year
- The Best LLC Formation Services
- What is an EIN? And why is it important?
Videos
- 12 Legal Requirements to Start a Business in California
- LLC vs S-Corp - TLDR don't do it until net income is greater than $40k/yr
- Virtual Mailbox 101