Business Entity Types
Standard business structures for California companies
Flexible structure combining liability protection with pass-through taxation. Ideal for most small businesses.
Traditional corporate structure with separate taxation. Best for companies seeking venture capital or planning to go public.
Pass-through taxation with potential self-employment tax savings. Popular election for profitable small businesses.
For-profit structure balancing profit with social/environmental purpose. Triple bottom line accountability.
Tax-exempt structure for charitable, educational, and religious organizations. 501(c)(3) qualification guide.
Simplified corporate governance for small shareholder groups. No board required, partnership-like flexibility.
Professional Corporations
Licensed professional practice structures under California law
Medical Corporation
MDs, DOs, Podiatrists
Dental Corporation
DDS, DMD, Dental Specialists
Psychology Corporation
Psychologists, LMFTs, LCSWs
Law Corporation
Attorneys, State Bar
CPA Corporation
Certified Public Accountants
Pharmacy Corporation
Pharmacists, PharmDs
Veterinary Corporation
DVMs, Animal Hospitals
Physical Therapy Corp
PTs, DPTs
Chiropractic Corporation
DCs, Chiropractors
Nursing Corporation
NPs, CNMs, CRNAs
Architecture/Engineering
PEs, Architects, Land Surveyors
Advanced Topics & Specialty Guides
Specialized formation guides and compliance resources
Navigate California's complex cannabis licensing and entity requirements. DCC compliance, local permits, and 280E tax planning.
When to incorporate in Delaware vs California. Startup considerations, VC expectations, and cost comparison.
Franchise Tax Board requirements, suspended entity revival, and maintaining good standing in California.
Registering out-of-state entities to do business in California. Qualification requirements and ongoing compliance.
Converting between entity types. LLC to corporation, sole prop to LLC, and other conversion pathways.
Multi-entity structures for asset protection, real estate holding, IP holding, and tax planning strategies.