Starting a new business is a major endeavor. For business owners in Los Angeles, there is the added complexity of local laws that govern the process. To make sure your startup gets off on the right foot and is set up properly, you need the support of experienced business lawyers who understand the legal landscape. This guide will provide an overview of the steps you need to take to get your LLC up and running in Los Angeles.

An LLC, or limited liability company, is a type of business organization that provides legal separations between the business and its owners. The business remains financially separate from its owners and is its own like a person under law. An LLC is formed when its owners, known as “members,” file their Articles of Organization with the California Secretary of State. To successfully get your LLC up and running you’ll need to cover the following steps:

Choosing a Legal Business Name

The first step for LLC formation in Los Angeles is choosing a name that is approved by the California Secretary of State and meets certain legal requirements. Your LLC name must include either “Limited Liability Company” or one of its abbreviation “LLC” or “L.L.C.,” and it must not include certain restricted words like “Bank” or phrases like “Professional Corporation.” In addition, you'll need to make sure that the name is not currently in use or similar enough to an existing business. You can search for business entity names online through the California Secretary of State website.

Filing the Articles of Organization

Once you have chosen a legal business name, it’s time to file the Articles of Organization. This is a form that you will submit to the California Secretary of State. The Articles of Organization will include basic information about your LLC, including your business name, registered agent, address, and tax classification. You will also be required to pay the filing fee when submitting this paperwork.

Create an Operating Agreement

Once the Articles of Organization have been filed with the state, you will need to create an operating agreement. This document outlines the governing rules of the LLC and is legally binding on all its members. It should include information such as the members’ duties and responsibilities, how management will be structured, how profits and losses will be allocated, and how ownership will be divided.

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

The next step is to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). An EIN is a unique nine-digit number that is used by the Internal Revenue Service to identify business entities. It is required for LLCs looking to open bank accounts, file taxes, and hire employees. The IRS provides an online application form for EINs, which you can access here.

Comply With Other Local and State Requirements

In addition to the steps outlined above, there may be other local or state-level business requirements that you need to meet. Working with experienced business lawyers who understand Los Angeles regulations can help you make sure that you are in compliance with all legal requirements.

Topics:

LLC,

Los Angeles,

California