California Statement of Information Form | Lovie — US Company Formation

Forming a business in California, whether it's an LLC, Corporation, or Nonprofit, involves several critical steps beyond initial registration. One of the most important ongoing requirements is filing the Statement of Information (Form SI). This document, filed with the California Secretary of State (SOS), provides essential details about your business's structure, management, and registered agent. Failure to file the Statement of Information on time can lead to significant penalties, including administrative dissolution of your business and substantial fines. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the California Statement of Information form, including who needs to file it, when it's due, how to complete it, and how Lovie can help ensure you stay compliant.

What is the California Statement of Information Form?

The California Statement of Information (Form SI) is a mandatory filing required by the California Secretary of State for most business entities. Its primary purpose is to keep public records up-to-date with current information about your company. This includes details like the names and addresses of principal officers, directors, managers, or members, depending on the business structure. For Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), the form requires the names and addresses of the LLC's managers (if

• Mandatory filing with the California Secretary of State.
• Provides up-to-date public information about your business.
• Includes details on officers, directors, members, managers, and registered agent.
• Essential for legal and public communication.

Who Needs to File a Statement of Information in California?

Virtually every type of business entity registered in California must file a Statement of Information. This includes: * **Limited Liability Companies (LLCs):** Both member-managed and manager-managed LLCs must file. * **Corporations:** This covers C-Corporations and S-Corporations, including both domestic (formed in California) and foreign (formed in another state but registered to do business in California) corporations. * **Nonprofit Corporations:** Public benefit, mutual benefit, and r

• Required for LLCs, C-Corps, S-Corps, and Nonprofits.
• Applies to both domestic and foreign entities registered in California.
• Mandatory even for inactive businesses.
• Initial filing is due within 90 days of formation.

California Statement of Information Filing Deadlines and Fees

Understanding the deadlines and costs associated with the Statement of Information is crucial to avoid penalties. For LLCs and Corporations, the initial Statement of Information must be filed within 90 days after filing the Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State. After the initial filing, subsequent Statements of Information are due every two years for LLCs and annually for corporations. The filing fee for the Statement of Information varies

• Initial filing due within 90 days of formation.
• LLCs file every two years; Corporations file annually.
• LLC filing fee: $20; Corporation filing fee: $25 (subject to change).
• Penalties for late filing include fines and potential business suspension.

How to File Your California Statement of Information

Filing the Statement of Information in California can be done online, by mail, or in person. The California Secretary of State's website offers a convenient online portal for most filings, which is often the quickest method. You will need to locate the correct form for your entity type (e.g., LLC, Corporation). When completing the form, you'll need specific information, including: * **Entity Name:** The legal name of your business as registered with the state. * **California SOS File Number

• Can be filed online, by mail, or in person.
• Requires entity name, SOS file number, addresses, and contact information.
• Accurate details on officers, directors, managers, members, and registered agent are essential.
• Keep a copy of the filed form for your records.

Maintaining Compliance Beyond the Statement of Information

While the Statement of Information is a critical annual or biennial requirement, it's just one piece of the puzzle for maintaining good standing with the state of California and the IRS. Entrepreneurs must also be aware of other ongoing compliance obligations. For instance, LLCs and corporations may need to pay an annual franchise tax to the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB), which is separate from the SOS filing fees. This tax is currently $800 per year for most LLCs and corporations, regard

• Remember the $800 annual California franchise tax for LLCs and Corporations.
• Comply with all necessary federal, state, and local licenses and permits.
• Understand S-Corp election deadlines (IRS Form 2553).
• Secure an EIN from the IRS for tax purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Statement of Information for an LLC and a Corporation in California?

LLC Statements of Information list managers or members and the agent for service of process. Corporate Statements of Information list officers, directors, and the agent for service of process. Both are filed with the California Secretary of State but have slightly different reporting details.

Can I file my California Statement of Information online?

Yes, the California Secretary of State provides an online portal for filing the Statement of Information for most business entities. This is often the fastest and most convenient method.

What happens if I don't file my California Statement of Information on time?

Failure to file can result in a $250 penalty for LLCs and potential suspension or forfeiture of the corporate charter for corporations, meaning your business can no longer legally operate in California.

How often do I need to file the Statement of Information in California?

LLCs must file their Statement of Information every two years. Corporations must file theirs annually. The initial filing for both is due within 90 days of formation.

Do I need a registered agent to file the Statement of Information?

Yes, your Statement of Information must include the name and physical address of your designated agent for service of process (registered agent) in California.

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