The California Secretary of State plays an important role when it comes to California businesses. This guide helps business owners understand how to use the California Secretary of State website effectively and answers common questions that business owners ask.
The California Secretary of State is located in Sacramento, California. Photo by JD Weiher on Unsplash
How do I set up my business with the California Secretary of State?
Depending upon which type of business entity you choose, you will file different documents with the California Secretary of State. In most cases, business owners file documents with the Secretary of State to establish the company. This link gives information about what kinds of documents one needs to file for different types of business entities.
Bear in mind that the choice of a business entity represents a key legal decision. Be sure to seek appropriate legal counsel before doing any business setup.
How do I search for a business on the California Secretary of State website?
The California Secretary of State website offers a tool for users to search for any California business. The business search tool allows you to search for information about a California business by name or entity number.
How do I register a California trademark?
If you are doing business completely in California, you might want to file for a California trademark. A California trademark differs from a federal trademark (see below). To file for a California trademark, you can visit the trademark filing section of the California Secretary of State website.
We recommend speaking with a trademark attorney before filing any trademark.
How do I search for a California trademark?
The California Secretary of State offers a tool to search for any California trademark. To access that tool, simply visit the California Trademark Search page. This page allows users to access records of over 13,000 trademarks filed in California. Searching the California Secretary of State website won’t reveal whether a federal trademark registration exists for a given brand name.
Caution: A California trademark differs from federal trademark registration. If you don’t know the difference or why you might choose one or the other, seek trademark counsel for guidance.
How do I file a Statement of Information for my LLC?
California limited liability companies (LLCs) must periodically file a Statement of Information. A Statement of Information provides the California Secretary of State with basic information about the LLC. This includes members, addresses and other such. Failure to file a Statement of Information creates risks for the LLC, including suspension or termination.
To file a Statement of Information for your LLC, please click here.
