Tag: Franchise Tax Board

Fixing a Rejected FTB Payment: Common Error Codes

When your California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) payment fails, the consequences can include late penalties, interest, and even suspension of your LLC or corporation. This blog explains the most common FTB payment rejection errors, what they mean, and how to fix them quickly for the 2025 tax year. Why FTB Payments Get Rejected FTB payment […]

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How to E-Pay the CA $800 LLC Tax on the FTB Portal

Every California LLC is required to pay the $800 annual franchise tax to the Franchise Tax Board (FTB). The easiest and most secure method is online payment through the official FTB Web Pay portal. This blog walks you through the exact steps to make your 2025 payment without any errors. Who Needs to Pay the […]

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2025 California Franchise Tax Due Dates (LLCs, Corps, LPs)

Every business entity operating in California, whether it’s a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation, or Limited Partnership (LP), must track and comply with the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) deadlines. Missing a due date can trigger penalties, interest, or even suspension. Here’s your official 2025 due date calendar for all major California entity types. Who Must […]

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Can You Run a Series LLC Inside California?

California does not permit the formation of Series LLCs within the state. However, foreign Series LLCs, those formed in other states, can register and operate in California. Despite this allowance, each series within the LLC is treated as a separate entity for tax purposes, leading to potential complexities and increased costs. What Is a Series […]

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Delaware Series LLC? Why California Charges a “Doing Business” Fee Anyway (2025)

Why Your Delaware Series LLC Still Owes California Money State Nexus Rule. California imposes its annual $800 franchise tax on every entity “doing business” in the state or registered with the Secretary of State—no matter where it was created (R&TC § 17941, § 23101).  Series Treated Separately. The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) treats each protected […]

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Paying the CA PTET Voucher: Exact Form 3893 Walk-Through for 2025

Legal & Technical Authority State Law: California Revenue & Taxation Code §§ 19900-19906 (AB 150, SB 113) require two pass-through entity elective tax (PTET) payments—one during the tax year and one with the return. Federal Context: PTET shifts the state tax to entity level, making it deductible under IRC § 162 and sidestepping the SALT […]

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C-Corp Flat 8.84 % Tax: Still Worth It for Venture-Backed AI Start-Ups in 2025?

Statutory Authority & Basics Law. California taxes C-corporations at a flat 8.84 percent on net income (10.84 percent for banks/financials) under R&TC § 23151, applied on Form 100.  Minimum Franchise Tax. Every C-corp also owes $800 each year, due with the first quarter estimate—even if inactive or loss-making.  Federal Overlay. C-corps pay IRC § 11 […]

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How to Claim California’s R&D Tax Credit for Businesses (2025 Edition)

Introduction California rewards businesses that invest in research and development with one of the most lucrative state tax credits available. If your company develops software, processes, or products, you may be eligible to reduce or eliminate your state tax liability using the R&D tax credit in 2025. What Is the California R&D Credit? Applicable Code: […]

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California vs. Texas: Where Do Entrepreneurs Save More Money? (2025 Edition)

Introduction California and Texas are two of the biggest economies in the U.S., but they offer very different experiences for entrepreneurs. From income taxes to business regulations, where can you actually save more money in 2025 as a founder or small business owner? Tax Environment Overview: California vs. Texas Applicable Code: IRC §11, §162; CA […]

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California’s Franchise Tax: How to Reduce or Eliminate It (2025 Edition)

Introduction California imposes a minimum $800 franchise tax on most business entities—even if you make no income. In 2025, this tax continues to affect startups, holding companies, and out-of-state businesses operating in California. But with proper planning, you may be able to reduce or eliminate it legally. What Is the California Franchise Tax? Applicable Code: […]

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