Starting or moving a business to California comes with more than sunshine and opportunity—it also comes with important compliance requirements. One of the most critical (and often overlooked) is the California Statement of Information.
This filing is the state’s way of keeping your business records current. It tells California who owns or manages your company and how the public and state agencies can contact you. Keeping this information accurate isn’t just good practice—it’s required to stay in good standing.
Failing to file your Statement of Information can lead to serious consequences, including fines or even suspension of your business. For for-profit entities, missing the deadline can trigger a $250 penalty if the filing isn’t completed within 60 days of receiving a notice. In addition, a suspension or forfeiture issued by the Franchise Tax Board must be resolved separately, adding more time and cost to get your business back on track.
What Is a Statement of Information (and What Is It Called in Other States?)
A Statement of Information is California’s version of the legal document that keeps the state updated about the key details of the business. These details include business name, business addresses, names and addresses of managers, members, officers or directors, registered agent name and address, and various other details. It is similar to filings in other states and is known by different names in different states.
Depending on the jurisdiction, you may see similar filings called an Annual Report, Biennial Report, and Periodic Report. California’s version of this filing is known as the Statement of Information. It is important to note that California follows its own timelines, forms, and disclosure rules, which differ from the requirements in many other states.
Who Must File a Statement of Information in California?
Both LLCs and corporations registered in California are required to file a Statement of Information. Whether it is a domestic business formed in California or a foreign (out-of-state) business registered to do business in California, both need to file a Statement of Information with the state.
An LLC is preferred by small businesses as it offers flexibility, pass-through taxation, and limited liability to the owners. It requires minimal paperwork to start an LLC. A corporation is a more formal business structure that requires a board of directors and issues stocks. It faces double taxation but is ideal for investors and startups looking to go public.
What Information Is Required on the California Statement of Information?
It is essential to provide accurate and up-to-date details about your business on the California Statement of Information. Here is a list of the typical information that the Statement of Information includes.
- Legal business name and Secretary of State file number
- Business Addresses (Principal office and mailing address)
- Names and addresses of managers, members, officers, or directors
- Registered agent name and address
- Type of business or general activity
Businesses need to match the information provided in California with the information in other state filings. Accuracy and consistency reduce the risk of rejections or compliance issues.
Filing Deadlines: When Do You Need to File?
It is important to understand the deadlines to stay compliant with the regulations in California. Some key deadlines are as follows.
1. Initial Filing Deadline
Most entities must file their first Statement of Information shortly after formation or registration in California. The initial filing deadline for many LLCs and corporations is within 90 days after registration with the California Secretary of State.
2. Ongoing Filing Requirements
The filing frequency for companies depends on their business structure. Mandatory requirements: Initial filing due within 90 days of formation. Ongoing: LLCs file every 2 years; corporations annually. Use the 6-month filing window (registration month + prior 5 months). Examples: January formation → file August 1–January 31 (even years if formed in even years; odd if odd year). File up to 6 months early to stay compliant.
3. Filing When Information Changes
Businesses must file an updated Statement of Information if key details of the business change. These details include the address, management, or registered agent. Rather than waiting for the next regular cycle, you must file an updated Statement of Information promptly.
California Statement of Information Fees
The filing fee for a California Statement of Information depends on your entity type and whether the filing is initial or periodic. The filing fee for LLCs is $20, while for corporations it is $25. It is important to remember that fees are subject to change and should be verified with the California Secretary of State before submitting the form. Proper budgeting for this recurring cost allows you to avoid penalties and late filings.
How to File a Statement of Information in California
You can file the Statement of Information in California by filling it out online via BizFil for LLC. Online filing is a much faster and more common method.
The process of filing the California Statement of Information for LLCs and corporations is similar. Select the appropriate form based on the entity type, complete it with the most recent business data, and submit it with the supporting documents. The online submission is completed immediately after submission. Businesses should carefully select the appropriate form based on their entity type and review the entries before filing the California Statement of Information.
Form Requirements
- LLCs: Form LLC-12 (initial/periodic)
- Additional managers/members: Form LLC-12A
- Corporations: Form SI-550 (annual) or SI-100
What Happens If You Don’t File? Penalties & Consequences
Failing to comply with regulations and missing filing deadlines may result in serious consequences for the company. The business may face late fees and administrative penalties for missed deadlines. If the business continues to be noncompliant, it may result in the suspension or forfeiture of the company’s good standing. This might limit its ability to conduct business legally and to gain market trust. Filing your Statement of Information on time helps protect your limited liability status and keep your business in good standing with the state.
How California’s Statement of Information Differs From Other States
California is not like other states due to its disclosure requirements and filing schedules. It also includes more specific management and contact information and has more stringent deadlines than the other states. A significant portion of this information is publicly available in California, which underscores the importance of the accuracy and timeliness of its updates relative to that in many other jurisdictions.
Tips for Staying Compliant Year After Year
Staying compliant with the Statement of Information requirements in California becomes easier with a proactive approach. Follow these practical tips to stay compliant.
- Set calendar reminders
- Review information annually, even if nothing has changed.
- Keep registered agent details up to date.
Proactive compliance prevents last-minute stress and reduces the risk of penalties or suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the Statement of Information the same as an annual report?
Yes. It serves a similar purpose; however, California uses a different name.
Q2: Do I need to file if nothing has changed?
Yes. You must still file on schedule.
Q3: Can I file early?
Yes, early filing is generally allowed in California.
Q4: Is the Statement of Information public record?
Yes, much of the information becomes publicly accessible.
Staying in Good Standing With California
The California Statement of Information plays a vital role in maintaining the legal standing of your company. It is an extremely simple yet mandatory filing that keeps state records accurate and allows you to operate in California. The first time, it might be confusing with deadlines and fees, but as long as you get to know the process, it will be easy to comply. By filing on time, changing and revising the filing promptly, and checking on your obligations, you will be able to avoid the penalties and grow your business with confidence. Services like IncParadise can simplify this process by guiding you through the filings, ensuring everything is completed accurately and on time. Get help filing your Statement of Information!
