How do I properly file the required annual Statement of Information for my California LLC or corporation?

You file your Statement of Information online through the California Secretary of State's bizfile Online portal. This filing is required annually for corporations and every two years for LLCs. Here is how to file your Statement of Information: Step 1: Determine Your Filing Deadline Your first Statement of Information is due within 90 days of your entity's registration. After that, corporations must file annually, and LLCs must file biennially (every two years). The deadline is the last day of the calendar month in which your business was originally formed. Step 2: Gather Your Required Information Before you begin, collect your entity's full legal name, its California Secretary of State file number, the principal business address, the name and complete street address of your agent for service of process, and the names and addresses of your officers (for a corporation) or managers/members (for an LLC). Step 3: Go to the Official State Website Navigate to the California Secretary of State's bizfile Online portal. Do not use third-party services that send official-looking mailers, as they charge excessive fees. Always file directly with the state. Step 4: Complete the Online Form On the portal, search for your business by name or file number and select the option to file a Statement of Information. If none of your information has changed since your last filing, you can use the faster "No Change" option. Otherwise, update the necessary fields. Step 5: Pay the Filing Fee and Submit Pay the required filing fee directly on the website using a credit card. The fee is $20 for an LLC and $25 for a corporation. Once payment is complete, you will receive a confirmation. Save a copy of the filed statement and your receipt for your records. Important Details and Nuances The Secretary of State typically mails a reminder postcard, but you are still responsible for filing on time even if you do not receive it. The agent for service of process must have a physical street address in California, not a P.O. Box. Warnings and Limitations Failure to file your Statement of Information on time will result in a $250 penalty from the Franchise Tax Board. More critically, the state can suspend your business, which means you legally lose the right to conduct business in California until you are back in good standing. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations or if your business is not in good standing, consult with a qualified California attorney.