California Statement of Information
Running a business in California means following some key rules. One of those is filing a form called the California Statement of Information. Even though this might sound like a small step, skipping it can lead to penalties, suspensions, or even losing your business rights.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn what the Statement of Information is, who must file it, when to file, what it includes, and how to file it properly. This is one step every business owner in California needs to take seriously to stay compliant and active.
What Is the California Statement of Information?
The Statement of Information is a required business document that must be submitted to the California Secretary of State. It lets the state know:
- Who owns and manages your business
- Where your business is located
- How to contact you
This form helps California maintain an updated public record for all business entities operating in the state.
Every active business must file it, and not just once. If you skip this filing, your business could be hit with a $250 fine or worse, become suspended by the state.
Who Needs to File It?
Most formal business structures need to file the Statement of Information. These include:
- Corporations (both for-profit and nonprofit)
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
- Limited Partnerships (LPs)
If you own a sole proprietorship or a general partnership, you’re not required to file this form.
However, if you operate as an LLC, corporation, or LP in California, even if you’re based out of state but registered here, you must file it to remain in good standing.
This filing isn’t optional. Even if your company has no major changes, you must still file to confirm that.
When to File
There are two times when you’re required to file this document:
1. Initial Filing
After you register your business with the Secretary of State, you must file your first Statement of Information within 90 days. This applies to both corporations and LLCs.
Failing to do this can cause delays in processing, or worse, state penalties that are hard to reverse.
2. Regular Ongoing Filing
After the initial filing, you must continue to file on a schedule:
- Corporations: Must file every year
- LLCs and LPs: Must file every two years
The due date is based on the month your business was formed. So, if you filed your Articles of Incorporation in March, your future Statements of Information are due every March.
It’s smart to mark your calendar, use reminders, or assign a registered agent to stay on top of deadlines.
What Information Is Required
The form is simple, but it asks for details that need to be correct. You’ll be asked to provide:
- Legal name of the business
- Entity number issued by the Secretary of
- Business address (must be in California
- Mailing address, if
- Names and addresses of officers (for corporations
- Names of LLC members
- Name and address of registered
- Type of business
- Business email address for reminder
All of this becomes public record, so if privacy matters, consider using a professional registered agent.
How to File the Statement of Information
You can file this form in three ways. Most people choose online filing because it’s quick and gets instant confirmation.
Option 1: Online Filing (Recommended)
- Go to: MissLC’s
- Click “File Statement of Information”
- Search your business by name or entity number
- Fill in the requested details
- Pay using a debit/credit card
- Submit and save your receipt
Online filing is available 24/7 and usually gets processed faster than mail.
Option 2: Filing by Mail
- Download Form SI-100 (corporation), LLC-12 (LLC), or LP-12 (LP)
- Print and complete it by hand
- Write a check for the filing fee
- Mail to the address listed on the form
Option 3: In-Person Filing
- Visit the Secretary of State’s office in Sacramento
- Bring your completed form and fee
- Ask for a stamped copy for your records
This method is slower and not commonly used today, but it’s available if you prefer hand delivery.
Filing Fees
Here’s what you’ll need to pay based on your business type:
Entity Type | Filing Fee |
Corporation | $25 |
Limited Liability Company | $20 |
Nonprofit Corporation | $0 (free) |
The fee is the same whether you’re updating your info or just confirming it hasn’t changed.
What Happens If You Don’t File?
Failing to file can cause serious issues for your business. Here’s what you risk:
- $250 penalty added to your account
- Business suspension or forfeiture by the Franchise Tax Board
- Loss of good standing status
- Trouble getting licenses, permits, or business loans
- Inability to enter contracts or file legal claims
Some businesses only realize they missed the filing when they’re denied a loan or a contract, and by then, it’s too late.
If your business becomes suspended, you’ll have to file the form, pay the penalty, and request reinstatement before doing business again.
How to Stay Compliant
Staying compliant is simple if you build a routine around it:
- Set a yearly reminder for your filing month
- Use a registered agent service to handle filings
- Always check if the Secretary of State has sent email notices
- Make sure your registered agent’s address is correct and updated
- Even if you’re not actively doing business, you still need to file
Missing just one filing can affect banking, taxes, and business operations.
Why This Filing Matters
This might feel like just another form, but it plays a major role in your business:
- It keeps your company legally active
- It protects your ability to do business in California
- It helps lenders, partners, and clients verify your business
- It prevents costly penalties and suspensions
- It shows the state your business is still alive and operating
In short, filing the Statement of Information is a small task with big consequences if ignored.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if my business info hasn’t changed?
A: You still need to file. Just mark “No Changes” and submit the form. You’ll still pay the standard fee.
Q: Can I update my business address here?
A: Yes. You can update your business address, officers, members, and your registered agent all on the Statement of Information.
Q: What is a registered agent and why do I need one?
A: A registered agent is a person or company who accepts legal papers on your behalf. You must list one with a California street address.
Q: What happens if I file late?
A: You’ll get a $250 fine and your business may be suspended. Late filings can delay loans, licenses, and partnerships.
Q: Is this the same as filing taxes?
A: No. This has nothing to do with the IRS or Franchise Tax Board. It’s strictly a state requirement for legal status.