If you own an Corporation in California, staying on top of your compliance requirements is critical to keeping your business in good standing. This guide covers everything you need to know about the California Statement of Information (Form Corporation-12), including deadlines, fees, and official links.
Quick Summary: California Corporation Requirements
Below is the essential information you need to file your state compliance report correctly and on time.
| Form Name | Statement of Information (Form Corporation-12) |
|---|---|
| Filing Frequency | Biennial |
| Filing Fee | $800 |
| Due Date | The 15th day of the 4th month after the close of the taxable year (e.g., April 15th for calendar year filers).. (Warning: The minimum franchise tax is due even if the corporation has no income or is inactive; failure to pay can lead to suspension or forfeiture.) |
| Late Penalty | $5% of unpaid tax plus 0.5% per month (max 25%) for late payment; 25% of tax due for late filing if more than 60 days late; additional underpayment penalties may apply. |
What Happens If I Miss the Deadline?
Every Corporation operating in California is required to file their Statement of Information (Form Corporation-12) to the state on time. Missing this deadline has immediate financial and legal consequences.
- Monetary Penalty: You will be charged a late fee of $5% of unpaid tax plus 0.5% per month (max 25%) for late payment; 25% of tax due for late filing if more than 60 days late; additional underpayment penalties may apply..
- Loss of Good Standing: Your business will lose its "Good Standing" status, which can prevent you from opening business bank accounts or signing contracts.
- Administrative Dissolution: Continued failure to file will result in administrative dissolution. This means your business will legally cease to exist in California, and you will lose your personal liability protection.
Where to File Your Statement of Information (Form Corporation-12)
You can complete your filing directly through the official California portal:
- File Your California Statement of Information (Form Corporation-12) Here
- Official California State Compliance Page
Who must file? All foreign and domestic LLCs registered in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the California Corporation annual fee?
The standard filing fee for a California Corporation is $800.
What is the deadline for the California Statement of Information (Form Corporation-12)?
The deadline is The 15th day of the 4th month after the close of the taxable year (e.g., April 15th for calendar year filers).. (Warning: The minimum franchise tax is due even if the corporation has no income or is inactive; failure to pay can lead to suspension or forfeiture.).
What is the penalty for filing late in California?
If you miss the deadline, the state charges a late fee of $5% of unpaid tax plus 0.5% per month (max 25%) for late payment; 25% of tax due for late filing if more than 60 days late; additional underpayment penalties may apply.. Continued failure to file may result in administrative dissolution.
Explore More California Guides
Do you operate other business entities? Check out all of our California Business Compliance Guides to ensure your entire portfolio remains in good standing.
Last Verified: 2026-03-16. The information on this page is for general educational purposes. Compliance rules change frequently, so always verify specific deadlines and fee amounts directly with the official California state website before submitting your payment.