California LLC and California Corporation
Filed with the California Secretary of State
California Corporation Names
It is not required to use a corporate designator in a California Corporation. Many companies do, however, include the word “Corporation,” “Incorporated,” “Limited” or an abbreviation of one of these. The name cannot state or imply that the corporation is formed for a purpose other than what is permitted in the articles of incorporation. Also, the name cannot be the same or deceptively similar to any active domestic or foreign corporation or LLC filed with the state.
California Limited Liability Company (LLC) Names
The California Limited Liability Company (California LLC) must use the term “Limited Liability Company” or “LLC.” The word “Limited” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” Moreover, the word “Company” as “Co.” The name cannot state or imply that the corporation or LLC is formed for a purpose other than what is permitted in the articles of incorporation/organization. Also, the name cannot be the same or deceptively similar to any active domestic or foreign corporation or LLC filed with the state.
Registered Agent
A corporation must maintain a registered agent at all times to accept any important service of process from the state. The registered agent must be located and available during regular business hours at a legal address within the state. California prohibits the use of a P.O. Box as your registered agent’s address.
Director Information
Minimum Number – Not less than three, unless there are only one or two shareholders of record. Then the number of directors may be less than three but not less than the number of shareholders. Residence Requirements – No provision. Age Requirements – None. Directors are not required to be listed in the articles of incorporation.
Officer Information
Officers are not required to be listed in the articles of incorporation.
Stock Information
An increase in shares or par value does not affect initial filing fees.
Corporate Records
An original or a copy of bylaws must be kept at the principal executive office or principal business office in the State of California. The minutes of directors’ and shareholders’ meetings must be held at the principal office.
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