Fill Your California Llc 12 Form

Fill Your California Llc 12 Form

The California LLC 12 form, officially known as the Statement of Information (Form LLC-12), is a crucial document that every California limited liability company, as well as registered foreign limited liability companies, must file with the California Secretary of State. This form must be submitted within 90 days of the company’s registration and every two years thereafter during a designated filing period. Understanding the requirements and timelines associated with this form is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties.

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The California LLC 12 form, officially known as the Statement of Information (Form LLC-12), serves as a crucial document for both California-based and registered foreign limited liability companies. This form must be filed with the California Secretary of State within 90 days of the company’s registration and subsequently every two years during a designated filing period. The filing period is determined based on the original registration date, ensuring that companies maintain up-to-date information with the state. An active or suspended status is required to submit the form, and companies can verify their status through the Secretary of State’s online Business Search. Filing fees apply, and specific guidelines outline the costs associated with obtaining copies or certified versions of the filed document. The form requires detailed information, including the LLC’s name, principal address, and the designated agent for service of process. This agent is responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of the LLC. Additionally, the form includes sections for identifying managers or members of the LLC, as well as a brief description of the company’s business activities. Timely submission is critical, as failing to file can result in penalties. Understanding the requirements and deadlines associated with the California LLC 12 form is essential for compliance and maintaining good standing with the state.

Documents used along the form

When filing the California LLC 12 form, there are several other documents that may be required or helpful in conjunction with the Statement of Information. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in maintaining compliance with California business regulations. Below is a list of common forms and documents associated with the LLC 12 filing.

  • Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1): This is the foundational document required to form a limited liability company in California. It outlines the LLC's basic information, such as its name, address, and management structure.
  • Operating Agreement: While not mandatory to file with the state, this internal document outlines the management structure and operating procedures of the LLC. It is crucial for defining the roles and responsibilities of members and managers.
  • Statement of Information (Form LLC-12NC): This form is used to update the Statement of Information when there are no changes since the last filing. It is a simpler form that confirms existing information without requiring a full re-submission.
  • Certificate of Good Standing: This document verifies that the LLC is compliant with state regulations and is in good standing. It may be required for certain business transactions or when applying for loans.
  • Statement of Information for Foreign LLCs (Form LLC-12F): If the LLC is registered in another state but doing business in California, this form is necessary to comply with local regulations. It provides information similar to the LLC-12 but is tailored for foreign entities.
  • Tax Identification Number (EIN): Obtaining an Employer Identification Number from the IRS is essential for tax purposes. This number is often required for opening a business bank account and filing taxes.
  • Business License Application: Depending on the type of business and its location, a local business license may be required. This application ensures compliance with local regulations and ordinances.
  • Franchise Tax Board (FTB) Forms: If the LLC is suspended or forfeited, resolving the status with the FTB is critical. Various forms may be needed to address tax issues and reinstate the LLC's active status.

Understanding these additional forms and documents is vital for maintaining compliance and ensuring the smooth operation of a limited liability company in California. Timely filing and accurate information can prevent penalties and legal complications down the road.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The LLC-12 form only needs to be filed once.
  • Many people believe that after the initial filing of the LLC-12 form, no further action is required. In reality, this form must be filed every two years. It is essential to keep track of your filing period to avoid penalties.

  • Misconception 2: Any status of the LLC can file the LLC-12 form.
  • Some assume that any LLC status can file the LLC-12 form. However, the LLC must be active or have a suspended/forfeited status on the records of the California Secretary of State to file this form. Always check your LLC’s status before proceeding.

  • Misconception 3: Filing the LLC-12 form is free.
  • It is a common belief that filing the LLC-12 form incurs no costs. While there is no fee for submitting a Statement of Information after the initial filing, the first filing does require a fee of $20. Additionally, if you need copies or certified copies, there are associated fees.

  • Misconception 4: You can use a P.O. Box for the LLC's principal address.
  • Some individuals think that using a P.O. Box for the LLC’s principal address is acceptable. This is not true. The form requires a physical address. Ensure that you provide a complete street address to comply with the requirements.

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How to Use California Llc 12

Filling out the California LLC-12 form is an important step for maintaining your limited liability company’s good standing with the state. This form needs to be filed within 90 days of your LLC's registration and every two years thereafter. It's crucial to complete it accurately to avoid penalties.

  1. Enter the name of your LLC exactly as it appears on your registration document. Include the entity ending, such as “LLC.”
  2. Provide the 12-digit Entity (File) Number assigned to your LLC by the California Secretary of State.
  3. If your LLC was formed outside California, enter the state or country where it was organized. Leave this blank if it was formed in California.
  4. Input the complete street address, city, state, and zip code of your LLC’s principal office. Ensure it is a physical address, not a P.O. Box.
  5. If your mailing address differs from the principal office address, enter it here. A P.O. Box is acceptable for this item.
  6. If your LLC is formed in California, provide the complete street address of the office in California. If formed outside California, leave this blank.
  7. List the name and complete address of any manager(s) or member(s) of the LLC. If there are multiple, use Form LLC-12A for additional names.
  8. Identify your Agent for Service of Process, either an individual or a registered corporate agent. Provide the required details based on your choice.
  9. Briefly describe the general type of business your LLC conducts.
  10. Enter the name and complete address of the chief executive officer, if applicable.
  11. Sign and date the form, including your name and title.

Once completed, submit the form online or mail it to the Secretary of State. Ensure to include any applicable fees to avoid delays. For further assistance, consult the California Secretary of State's website.