How to Change LLC Address in California | A Step-by-Step Guide

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Change LLC Address in California

When you form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in California, you are required to provide a registered office address. This address is the official location where legal documents, such as the service of process, can be delivered. As your business grows, you may find it necessary to change your California LLC’s address for various reasons, such as moving to a larger space, expanding to multiple locations, or simply changing your Agent for Service of Process.

Changing your California LLC address may seem daunting, but it can be simple and straightforward with the right information and guidance. In this article, Webinarcare Editorial Team will walk you through the necessary steps to change your California LLC’s address, ensuring that you remain compliant with California regulations.

How to Change California LLC Address

What is a Limited Liability Company?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a specific form of a private limited company that combines aspects of partnership and corporate structures. It is a legal form of a company that provides its owners with limited liability. This means the owners are not personally liable for the company’s debts and liabilities beyond their investments in the company.

When it comes to changing the registered address of the LLC, the responsibility typically falls on the managers or members of the LLC, depending on the company’s structure.

The process is often as follows:

  1. The LLC must approve the change of address. This may happen at a members’ or managers’ meeting.
  2. Once approved, the appropriate form or document to effect the change of address must be filed with the California Secretary of State.
  3. The filing often includes a small processing fee. After accepting the filing, California will update the public record with the new address.

In California, the change of registered address can also be related to the address of the LLC’s Agent for Service of Process. A Agent for Service of Process is a person or entity appointed by the LLC to receive legal papers and service of process on its behalf. This is another crucial role in the LLC that might be involved in the address change, especially if the Agent for Service of Process’s address is used as the business’s official address.

It’s important to note that the specifics of this process can vary quite a bit depending on the California LLC’s operating agreement and the specific administrative rules and requirements of California in which the LLC is registered.

Before you change your LLC address, it is advised that you consult with a legal expert. They will be aware of what’s best for you and your business. You can always start an LLC in California, if you wish to protect your personal assets from business debts.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Reasons to Change California LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in California can be prompted by several reasons, each distinctive to the business’s circumstances and goals. Here are several common reasons:

  1. Relocation of Business: The main reason for changing an LLC address is the relocation of the business. This could be related to business expansion, more space, or moving to a more convenient location.
  2. Convenience or Strategy: Sometimes, an LLC might change its primary address for convenience or strategic reasons. For instance, the business might move closer to its customer base or an area with favorable economic benefits.
  3. Legal Requirements: If an LLC’s legal or Agent for Service of Process changes its address, the company must also change its registered address since the Agent for Service of Process’s location is where all legal correspondences are sent.
  4. Rental Issues: If the tenant agreement — such as a lease — expires or faces problems, it might compel an LLC to change addresses. Landlord disputes can also lead to a change of address.
  5. Management Changes: If the management or owner of the business changes and the old address is no longer feasible or relevant for the new management, a change of address becomes necessary.
  6. Privacy Concerns: Some LLC owners change their addresses for privacy reasons to separate their personal lives from their business activities.
  7. Cost Reduction: Sometimes, a business may change its address to move to a less expensive area to cut costs.
  8. Disaster Recovery: In the unfortunate event of a natural disaster or other unforeseen circumstances, such as a fire outbreak or civil disturbance, changing the LLC’s address might be necessary.
  9. Image and Branding: The business address can sometimes be part of the company image, particularly if the business is in an industry where location matters. An LLC may change addresses in such cases as part of a rebranding effort.

Remember, if your business operates as an LLC in California, it’s important to update the California Secretary of State or other relevant state agency whenever you change your business address. It helps to keep your business in good standing and to ensure that all official documents, notifications, and legal correspondences reach you or your Agent for Service of Process.

How to Change California LLC Address

To change your California LLC address, you must follow the guidelines that include determining whether you need to change your LLC’s address, update your registered office address, update your principal place of business address, notify the IRS, and inform other relevant parties due to the amendment of your LLC address. 

Step 1: Determine If You Need to Change Your LLC’s Address

Before you begin the process of changing your California LLC’s address, it’s essential to determine whether a change is indeed necessary. In California, there are two primary addresses associated with your LLC:

Registered Office Address

This is the official address where legal documents and official correspondence will be delivered. If you are starting a business in California or changing your Agent for Service of Process, you will need to update this address. Changing your Agent for Service of Process is one of the reasons why you need to change your California LLC address because a Agent for Service of Process should have a primary address in the state your LLC is registered. 

An example is having a Foreign LLC in California; a Agent for Service of Process should have the same address as your registered Foreign LLC.

Principal Place of Business Address

This is where your California business operates. If you are moving your business, expanding to multiple locations, or changing your business structure, you must update this address. 

In some cases, you may need to update both addresses. Be sure to evaluate your specific situation to determine which addresses need to be updated.

Step 2: Update Your Registered Office Address

If you need to change your registered office address in California, you will likely need to file an address change form with the California Secretary of State. Below is an outline of the steps:

Obtain the Appropriate Form

Visit the California Secretary of State‘s website to download the necessary form for changing your California registered office address. This form may be called “California Statement of Change of Registered Office” or something similar.

For you to update the registered office address, you need to have the following;

1. Your California LLC must obtain a Certificate of Status from the California Secretary of State, confirming that it has complied with all filing and tax obligations in the state of California.

2. Your California LLC must conduct a name search on California Secretary of State Bizfile Online to ensure that its desired name is available for use in the state of California. However, if you do not wish to file your LLC right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your LLC name for 60 days. You must file a name reservation application with the California Secretary of State to keep the name. 

You can register your business under a different legal name if your preferred name isn’t available.  Once you have chosen a name, you can submit an application for California DBA (doing business as). In this manner, you can choose any name you desire for your business. A DBA allows a company to operate under the name of the person or entity who owns it. If you have decided to file for a DBA, you can file it in two methods, online and by mail.

However, before filing a DBA, you should know that you need to renew your DBA every five years, which costs $26 for filing and $5 for each additional business name..

3. Your California LLC should prepare and file the Articles of Domestication with the California Secretary of State, providing information about its existing California LLC, its desired California LLC name, and its new registered office address in California.

4. Your California LLC has designated a Agent for Service of Process with a physical address in California and is available during regular business hours to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the LLC.

In California, your Agent for Service of Process must:

  • Be a resident of California or a business entity authorized to do business in California
  • Have a physical address in California (P.O. boxes are not acceptable)

Choosing a reliable and responsible Agent for Service of Process is essential, as failure to receive and respond to legal documents can seriously affect your business. 

You can serve as your own Agent for Service of Process or appoint a friend, family member or hire the Best California Agent for Service of Process Services.

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Complete the Form

Carefully fill out the form, providing all required information, including your California LLC’s name, current registered office address, and new registered office address. You may also be required to provide the name and address of your new Agent for Service of Process if you are changing agents.

Submit the Form

Once the form is completed, please submit it to the California Secretary of State, along with any required filing fees. You can usually submit your form online, by mail, or in person.

The fees in California for this process are as follows:

  • Articles of Domestication: The filing fee for Articles of Domestication with the California Secretary of State is $150.00 for conversion.
  • Dissolution of California LLC: The fee for filing the California Articles of Dissolution with the California Secretary of State is $35.

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Confirm the Change

After submitting your form and other required documents, you should receive a confirmation from the California Secretary of State that your address change has been processed. Keep this confirmation as proof that you have updated your registered office address.

Step 3: Update Your Principal Place of Business Address

If you need to change your California LLC’s principal place of business address in California, you may need to update your business license or other permits, depending on your specific situation. Here are some general steps to follow:

  • Contact Local Agencies: Contact the California Secretary of State that issued your business licenses or permits to determine their specific requirements for changing your address. Depending on your business type and location, this may include city, county, or state agencies.
  • Keep Records: Retain copies of any updated California licenses, permits, or other documents as proof that you have changed your principal place of business address. This may be necessary for future filings, audits, or compliance requirements.
  • Update your Licenses and Permits: Follow the instructions provided by the California Secretary of State to update your business licenses and permits with your new principal place of business address. 

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Step 4: Notify the IRS of Your Address Change

In addition to updating your California LLC’s address with the California Secretary of State and local agencies, you should also notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of your address change. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Complete Form 8822-B: Download and complete IRS Form 8822-B, “Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business.” This form informs the IRS of your LLC’s new address.
  • Mail the Form: Mail the completed Form 8822-B to the IRS at the address specified in the form’s instructions. There is no filing fee associated with this form.
  • Update your EIN: If your California LLC has an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you should also update the address associated with your EIN by contacting the IRS via phone, mail, or fax. The specific contact information and instructions can be found on the IRS website.

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Step 5: Inform Other Relevant Parties of Your Address Change

To ensure that your California LLC remains in good standing and that you continue to receive important correspondence, you should also inform the following parties of your address change:

  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Vendors and suppliers
  • Customers and clients
  • Utility providers
  • California Insurance companies
  • Relevant industry associations or organizations

Update the Articles of Organization

When changing the address of your LLC in California, one of the pertinent requirements could be updating your Articles of Organization, which is the document initially filed to establish your business entity officially.

The Articles of Organization includes various pieces of information about the LLC, such as its name, primary place of business, and Agent for Service of Process information. When you change the business address, it’s critical to ensure that the details on the Articles of Organization reflect this modification.

The process usually involves the following steps:

  1. Obtain the Proper Form: The LLC must get the right form to amend the Articles of Organization in California. This information is typically available on the state’s Secretary of State website or other relevant state agencies.
  2. Complete the Form: Fill out the form according to the instructions provided.
  3. Submit and Pay Fees: Once the form is completed, submit it to the California Secretary of State, along with any necessary filing fees. The fee for the amendment is $70.
  4. Record Keeping: Keep a copy of the amendment or change of address form for the company’s records.

Remember that the process and requirements for changing an LLC address may vary based on the regulations in California, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or refer to the California Secretary of State website for accurate information.

Advantages of Changing California LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in California could bring several advantages, depending on the specific circumstances and reasons behind the move:

  • Business Growth and Expansion: If the change of address is due to the need for more space, the LLC is growing and expanding, which is a positive outcome.
  • Access to Resources: Moving to a new location could provide better access to essential resources, such as proximity to suppliers, customers, or a skilled labor pool, enhancing the company’s operation and potential profitability.
  • Strategic Benefits: The LLC might move to an advantageous business environment with strategic benefits such as a more favorable regulatory climate, lower taxes, or business-friendly policies.
  • Improved Professional Image: Moving to a prestigious business district or a well-known commercial area could enhance the professional image of the LLC and make it more attractive to clients or investors.
  • Lower Operating Costs: Changing the address could lower costs if the new location has cheaper rent, utility, or other operational expenses.
  • Improved Work Environment: A new address could mean a better work environment for employees, boosting morale, productivity, and, ultimately, the bottom line.
  • Enhanced Privacy: If an LLC owner uses a home address as the registered address, moving to a new, separate business address can help maintain privacy and separate personal life from business matters.

While these potential benefits can be compelling, it’s important to remember that changing an LLC’s address also involves informing the relevant government bodies in California, updating business contacts, and possibly revising marketing materials. LLC owners should factor these considerations into their decision-making process.

Can Form 882-B Be Used to Change the LLC Name? 

Form 8822-B, titled “Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business,” informs the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of an address change for a business or a change in the responsible party. It cannot be used to change the name of an LLC.

To change the name of California LLC, you must follow the appropriate process in the state where your LLC is registered. This typically involves filing Articles of Amendment or a similar document with the California Secretary of State. After the name change has been approved at the state level, you should inform the IRS by following the instructions on your tax return or by sending a signed letter to the IRS office where you filed your return.

FAQs

How do I change my LLC address in California?
To change your LLC address in California, you must file a Statement of Information with the California Secretary of State.
What information do I need to provide when changing my LLC address in California?
You will need to provide your LLC’s name, the current registered agent and address, the new address, and the name and address of the new registered agent (if applicable).
Is there a fee for changing my LLC address in California?
Yes, there is a fee of $20 to file a Statement of Information with the California Secretary of State.
How long does it take to change my LLC address in California?
Processing times vary, but it typically takes about 7-10 business days for the California Secretary of State to process a Statement of Information.
Can I change my LLC address online in California?
Yes, you can file your Statement of Information online at the California Secretary of State’s website.
Can I change my LLC address by mail in California?
Yes, you can file your Statement of Information by mail, but it will take longer to process.
Will I receive confirmation that my LLC address has been changed in California?
Yes, the California Secretary of State will send you a filed copy of your Statement of Information, which serves as confirmation of the change.
Do I need to notify any other government agencies if I change my LLC address in California?
It depends on the agency and the type of business you have. You may need to notify the California Franchise Tax Board, your city or county, and any licensing or regulatory agencies.
Can I use my home address as my LLC address in California?
Yes, you can use your home address as your LLC address in California.
Can I use a PO box as my LLC address in California?
No, a PO box cannot be used as your LLC address in California.
Can I change my LLC address to another state from California?
No, if you want to move your LLC to another state, you must dissolve it in California and file as a new entity in the new state.
How often do I need to file a Statement of Information in California?
LLCs in California are required to file a Statement of Information every year.
What happens if I miss the deadline to file my Statement of Information in California?
If you miss the deadline to file your Statement of Information in California, your LLC will be subject to a penalty fee.
What if I want to change more than just my LLC address in California?
You will need to file an Amendment to your LLC’s Articles of Organization to make any other changes, such as changing its name.
How much does it cost to file an Amendment to my LLC’s Articles of Organization in California?
The fee to file an Amendment in California is $30.
Can I file an Amendment to my LLC’s Articles of Organization online in California?
Yes, you can file an Amendment online at the California Secretary of State’s website.
Do I need to provide a reason for changing my LLC address in California?
No, you do not need to provide a reason for changing your LLC address in California.
Can I change my LLC address before receiving confirmation from the California Secretary of State?
It is not recommended to change your LLC address until you receive confirmation from the California Secretary of State.
What if my LLC has multiple addresses in California?
You will need to choose one address to list as your registered agent’s address on your Statement of Information.
What if my LLC has no physical address in California?
You will still need to provide a physical address that can receive mail and service of process for your registered agent.
What if my LLC is dissolved or no longer in business in California?
You will need to file a Certificate of Cancellation with the California Secretary of State.
What if I need to change my LLC address after business hours in California?
You can file your Statement of Information online at any time.
What if I want to change my LLC address in California but I don’t know the new address yet?
You can hold off on filing your Statement of Information until you have the new address.
What if I make a mistake on my Statement of Information when changing my LLC address in California?
You can file an Amendment to correct any mistakes.
Are there any restrictions for where I can change my LLC address within California?
No, as long as the new address is a physical location within California and can receive mail and service of process.
Will changing my LLC address affect my company’s EIN in California?
No, changing your LLC’s address does not affect its EIN (Employer Identification Number).
Can I change my LLC address and keep my existing bank account in California?
Yes, but you may need to update your business address with your bank after changing the address with the California Secretary of State.
What if I have more than one LLC and I need to change the address for all of them in California?
You will need to file a separate Statement of Information for each separate LLC.
How do I change the address for my California LLC?
You can change the address of your California LLC by filing a Statement of Information with the California Secretary of State.
Can I change my California LLC address online?
Yes, you can change your California LLC address online through the California Secretary of State’s Business Search portal.
How much does it cost to change the address of my California LLC?
It costs $20 to file a Statement of Information to change the address of your California LLC.
When should I submit my change of address form to the California Secretary of State?
You should submit your change of address form to the California Secretary of State as soon as possible after your California LLC’s address changes.
Can I change my California LLC address without a physical address?
No, you must provide a physical address for your California LLC when changing the address.
Do I need to notify anyone else besides the California Secretary of State when changing my LLC’s address?
You should also notify the Franchise Tax Board and any other government agencies or financial entities that may require your LLC’s updated address.
How long does it take to change the address of my California LLC?
It typically takes about 5-7 business days for the California Secretary of State to process a change of address request.
Can I expedite the processing time for my California LLC’s change of address request?
Yes, you can pay an additional fee to expedite the processing time for your California LLC’s change of address request.
What happens if I do not update my California LLC’s address with the Secretary of State?
You may face penalties or fines if you do not update your California LLC’s address with the Secretary of State.
How do I know if my California LLC’s address change has been processed?
You can check the status of your California LLC’s address change request on the California Secretary of State’s Business Search portal.
What address should I use for my California LLC’s registered agent?
You should use your California LLC’s physical address as the registered agent’s address.
Can I use a PO box for my California LLC’s address?
No, you cannot use a PO box for the address of your California LLC.
What if I want to change the address of my California LLC’s registered agent?
You can update the registered agent’s address when filing a Statement of Information to change your California LLC’s address.
Can I change my California LLC’s address and registered agent at the same time?
Yes, you can change your California LLC’s address and registered agent at the same time by filing a Statement of Information.
How often do I need to update the address of my California LLC?
You should update the address of your California LLC whenever the address changes.
Can I change the California LLC’s address for my multiple-member LLC?
Yes, you can change the California LLC’s address for a multiple-member LLC.
Is there a fee to change the address of my California LLC’s registered agent?
No, there is no fee to change the address of your California LLC’s registered agent.
What documents do I need to file to change the address of my California LLC?
You need to file a Statement of Information with the California Secretary of State to change the address of your California LLC.
Are there any restrictions on the new address I can choose for my California LLC?
The new address for your California LLC must be a physical street address within the state of California.
Can I change the address of my California LLC to a different state?
No, you cannot change the address of your California LLC to a different state.
Can I use a UPS store box address for my California LLC’s address?
No, you cannot use a UPS store box address for the address of your California LLC.
What if I have recently moved and need to change multiple addresses for my California LLC?
You should notify all applicable government agencies and financial entities of your updated addresses and file a Statement of Information to change your California LLC’s address with the Secretary of State.
Can I change the address of my California LLC by mail?
Yes, you can change the address of your California LLC by mail by sending the filing fee and completed Statement of Information form to the Secretary of State’s office.
Is there anything else I need to do after filing my California LLC’s change of address?
You should update all applicable business entities, bank accounts, and vendors with your new California LLC address.
What if I have several actions to complete for my California LLC but only want to submit one filing?
Whenever practical, you may want to request a multiple-item form.
If I accidentally provided a previously used address in my California LLC Statement of Information but have moved and changed it already, will there be any consequences?
Including unaccurate information may affect your business legal terms, so you may want to contact the Secretary of State’s office as soon as you acknowledge your mistake to correct any wrong details on your LLC’s Statement of Information.

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Conclusion

Changing your LLC’s address in California can be relatively simple if you follow the above steps. By updating your registered office and principal place of business addresses, notifying the IRS, and informing other relevant parties, you can ensure that your LLC remains compliant with California regulations and continues to operate smoothly.

Remember to keep records of all address changes and any updated licenses, permits, or other documents, as these may be necessary for future filings, audits, or other compliance requirements. And as always, consult with a legal or business professional if you have any questions or concerns about your situation.

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