Short answer: Requires standard designators like LLC or Limited Liability Company. Restricts terms implying the business is a bank, trust, or insurance company without proper licensing.
We've pulled these figures from the California Secretary of State's own pages. If something's changed since our last check, the state's portal wins, so it's worth a quick look before you pay.
California naming rules
Requires standard designators like LLC or Limited Liability Company. Restricts terms implying the business is a bank, trust, or insurance company without proper licensing.
Open the official California name search
Reserving a name
California lets you reserve a name for $10, which holds it for 60 days.
Doing business under another name
California DBAs are filed with: county. Fee: $25 to $100.
How California compares
California's name reservation fee is $10. That ties for the lowest of the 50 jurisdictions we track. The national median is $25, so California comes in $15 under it.
| State | Fee | National rank (1 = highest) |
|---|---|---|
| California | $10 | 41 of 50 |
| Oregon | $100 | 1 of 50 |
| Utah | $22 | 32 of 50 |
| Arizona | $10 | 41 of 50 |
| Nevada | $25 | 18 of 50 |
| Colorado | $25 | 18 of 50 |
California fees that apply here
| Filing | State fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1) | $70 | Applies uniformly whether filed online or via mail, though in-person drop-offs incur an additional $15 special handling fee. |
| Name reservation (optional) | $10 | 60 days |
| Amendment | $30 | |
| DBA / assumed name | $25 to $100 | county |
Name search and rules: California questions
How do I check if an LLC name is available in California?
Use the official California Secretary of State business search. A name that's distinguishable from existing records can usually be registered.
What words must a California LLC name include?
Requires standard designators like LLC or Limited Liability Company. Restricts terms implying the business is a bank, trust, or insurance company without proper licensing.
Can I reserve an LLC name in California?
Yes. Reservation costs $10 and holds the name for 60 days.
Do I need a DBA in California?
Only if you'll do business under a name other than your exact LLC name. DBAs are filed with: county. Fee: $25 to $100.
Sources and verification
Last checked against official state sources on . States change fees with little notice, so confirm on the filing portal before you pay. How we verify.
Still being confirmed with the state: state tax.escalating tiers.