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Employer’s Guide to Paid Sick Leave, Family Leave, and Other Mandatory Leaves in California

California law sets strict standards for paid sick leave, family leave, and other forms of mandatory employee leave. Indeed, they are among the most comprehensive in the country. As an employer, you need to be sure that you are in full compliance with leave requirements. Mistakes, even unintentional ones, can expose a company to serious liability. Here, our Fremont employment lawyer provides a guide to paid sick leave, family leave, and other forms of mandatory leave in California.

What Employers Should Know About Paid Sick Leave in California

Under California’s Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act (Cal. Lab. Code § 245–249), all employers must provide paid sick leave to employees who work for 30 or more days within a year. Employees accrue at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, though employers may cap accrual at 48 hours (or six days) and use at 24 hours (or three days) per year. Accrued time carries over annually (unless an employer adopts a “front-load” policy granting the full leave at the start of each year). Employers can cap the maximum sick leave an employee may take annually at 5 days or 40 hours per year, in a written policy.

What Employers Should Know About Family Leave in California

California’s family leave obligations are primarily governed by the California Family Rights Act (CFRA). It is more comprehensive than the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Covered employers (those with five or more employees) must provide eligible workers up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave in a 12-month period for serious health conditions, bonding with a new child, or caring for a family member. One of several ways in which the CFRA goes beyond FMLA is by covering domestic partners, adult children, siblings, and grandparents. Unlike paid sick leave, family leave under CFRA/FMLA is unpaid. With that being said, employees may substitute accrued paid leave or receive wage replacement through California’s Paid Family Leave (PFL) program which is administered by the Employment Development Department (EDD).

What Employers Should Know About Other Mandatory Leave in California

Beyond sick leave and family leave, California law imposes several other mandatory leave obligations on employers. As an employer, it is your responsibility to be aware of all the different types of leave that apply. Here are some notable examples:

Pregnancy disability leave (PDL): Up to four months of unpaid, job-protected leave for employees disabled by pregnancy or related conditions (Cal. Gov. Code § 12945).
School/childcare leave: Employers who employ 25 or more employees at the same location must provide up to 40 hours annually for parents to enroll their child in school or a licensed child care provider, participate in activities of the school or licensed daycare, and to address school or childcare discipline and emergencies (Cal. Lab. Code § 230.8).
Jury duty and witness leave: Required unpaid leave for service as a juror or witness (Cal. Lab. Code §§ 230–230.1).
Domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking leave: Unpaid time off to seek medical attention, counseling, or legal protection (Cal. Lab. Code §§ 230, 230.1).
Voting leave: Up to two hours of paid time to vote in a state or federal election if the employee does not have sufficient time outside of working hours to vote at a statewide election (Cal. Elec. Code § 14000).

Contact Our California Employment Lawyer for the Employer Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a California employment attorney for employers who puts an emphasis on solutions-focused guidance and support. If you have any questions about sick, family, or other mandatory leave requirements in California, we can help. Contact us today for a strictly confidential consultation. From our Fremont office, our firm works with businesses and organizations throughout the Bay Area.

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How to Structure Your Medical Practice for Liability Protection

Are you preparing to form a medical practice in California? It is imperative that you put a structure in place that provides adequate liability protection. Liability is one of the key issues that doctors need to worry about when setting up their own professional practice in California. Here, our Fremont business lawyer for starting a medical practice provides an overview of the key things to know about structure and liability protection in California.

Why Liability Protection Matters

Liability protection matters because one lawsuit or contract dispute can threaten everything a doctor has built. When you set up a medical practice with the proper legal structure, California law makes physicians personally responsible for their own malpractice, but not for ordinary business debts if the practice is properly structured. When you add sufficient medical malpractice insurance, your professional practice will be in the best possible position to reduce liability risk.

You Need to Choose the Right Legal Entity for Your Medical Practice

In California, physicians cannot form a traditional limited liability company (LLC) for the purpose of providing medical services. Instead, the proper legal structure is a professional corporation (PC) under the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act (Cal. Corp. Code § 13400 et seq.). The law governs how licensed professionals (such as physicians, surgeons, and dentists) may incorporate. A properly formed medical corporation separates business obligations from personal assets. Although a PC does not shield a doctor from personal malpractice liability, it does protect against the debts and contractual obligations of the practice itself. That is a key form of liability protection.

Note: To form a professional corporation (PC) for a medical practice in California, ownership is restricted to at least 51% ownership by licensed physicians and surgeons, and the remaining 49% ownership may be by other specific qualified licensed individuals. Under the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act, only people holding valid medical licenses issued by the Medical Board of California may serve as directors, or act as officers of a medical corporation, except a one shareholder (physician) PC may have a Secretary who is unlicensed. Non-licensed individuals, including outside investors or management firms, cannot own or control any part of the professional corporation. Otherwise, you could be denied PC status.

Medical Practitioners Need Proper Malpractice Insurance

It is important to remember that California law does not let physicians shield themselves from their own negligence through any business structure. A professional corporation limits business and contract risk, but malpractice exposure remains personal. Proper coverage (which is typically at least $1 million per incident and $3 million aggregate) helps to protect a professional practice against catastrophic verdicts and board complaints. The policy should list employed physicians and other licensed staff. That is consistent with Bus. & Prof. Code § 2052, which prohibits unlicensed practice. In California, medical malpractice insurance is not optional, it is necessary.

Contact Our California Business Lawyer for Medical Practices Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a top-rated California business law attorney. With a commitment to solutions, Attorney Ariathurai can help you structure your medical practice for the maximum liability protection. Contact us today for a fully confidential, no obligation initial consultation. We work with professional practices throughout the Bay Area.

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How to Combine a Practice with Another Physician

Do you own and operate your own medical practice in California? You may be considering combining your professional practice with another physician. If so, it is crucial that you know how to effectively navigate the process so that you protect your rights and interests and put your new joint practice in the best position to thrive. Here, our California business lawyer provides an overview of key things to know about combining your medical practice with another physician.

Step #1: You Must Confirm Compliance with California’s Practice of Medicine Doctrine

Before merging two practices, physicians must confirm that their proposed structure complies with California’s corporate practice of medicine doctrine (Bus. & Prof. Code § 2400). Under state law, licensed physicians must own at least 51% of a medical practice, and 49% may be owned by certain qualified licensed individuals. Non-physicians, management companies, and investors cannot hold any ownership interest or exercise control over clinical decision-making. When combining practices, physicians owners must hold active California licenses and agree on the governance and management of the new entity.

Note: The transaction must be structured as a merger or stock purchase of a professional corporation (PC) under the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act.

Step #2: Review the Key Structural and Legal Considerations

Every merger of medical practices carries legal and operational implications. The following are essential elements that must be addressed before completing the combination:

Entity form and ownership: As noted previously, you confirm that both existing practices are properly organized as professional corporations.
Valuation and capital contribution: You should also determine how the assets, goodwill, and liabilities of each practice will be valued and how capital will be contributed to the new entity.
Governance/voting rights: Next, you need to define decision-making authority, director and officer roles, and voting thresholds for key matters such as hiring, expansion, or dissolution.
Employment agreements and/or partnership agreements: Be sure to update contracts to ensure consistent compensation structures, restrictive covenants, and dispute resolution provisions.
Regulatory and payor compliance: You also need to notify Medi-Cal, Medicare, and private insurers of ownership changes to avoid billing interruptions or recertification delays.
Medical malpractice coverage: Finally, you should coordinate tail coverage for each physician’s prior entity and ensure the new entity carries sufficient professional liability insurance.

Step #3: Prepare for the Integration of the Professional Practices

Once terms are finalized for combining the two medical practices, you must be prepared to execute the agreement in a proactive, detail-focused manner. It is important to ensure that any and all agreements are consistent with California corporate and medical board requirements. Among other things, you should file updated articles of incorporation, amend bylaws, and submit ownership updates to the Medical Board of California. Operational integration should include merging patient records in compliance with the Confidentiality of Medical Information Act, aligning EHR systems, and reconciling staff employment policies. As a best practice, you and your future partner may want to conduct a joint compliance audit and establish clear clinical governance procedures before the combined entity begins treating patients. Combining professional medical practices in California can be complicated. A top-rated Fremont, CA business lawyer can help.

Call Our California Business Lawyer for Medical Practices Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a California business lawyer with extensive experience working with medical practices. If you have any questions about combining a practice with another physician, we can help. Contact us today for your strictly confidential, no obligation initial consultation.

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7 Things To Do Before Signing a Commercial Lease

Are you preparing to sign a commercial lease for your company in California? It is a big step. Location matters—as does ensuring that you have a well-drafted lease agreement. Once you have a spot picked out, there are some key things that you need to do before you sign a commercial lease. Here, our Fremont commercial lease attorney highlights seven things to do before signing a commercial lease in California.

1. Visit the City’s Planning Department

You need to be sure that your business can operate in the location in which you are interested. With that in mind, you should start by confirming that your intended use of the property is legally permitted. In California, every city has zoning laws that regulate what type of business can operate in a specific location. If your business requires a zoning permit, learn how long the approval process will take. You should also ask about building permits, occupancy permits, and any other requirements specific to your area.

2. Review the Timeline for Permits and Approvals

Even if your business type is allowed under zoning rules, you may still need construction or occupancy permits before opening. These processes can take weeks or even months, especially if inspections or modifications are required. You should ask the planning department for an estimate of the timeline. If approvals will delay your ability to open, that knowledge becomes valuable during negotiations with the landlord. It is important because you may need rent abatement or other concessions while you wait on permits.

3. Inspect the Property With a Licensed Contractor

Is the property in as good of shape as it looks? You need to be sure. A professional inspection by a local, licensed contractor is an invaluable resource. The contractor can identify potential ADA compliance issues, the scope and cost of any necessary buildout, and the condition of critical systems such as plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and the roof. Commercial spaces can hide expensive problems that only an expert will recognize.

4. Estimate Buildout Costs and Timelines

Most commercial spaces are not “plug and play.” There are exceptions, but even with second generation spaces where a similar business was the tenant in the recent past, some work will likely be required. Your business may need new walls, lighting, flooring, or accessibility upgrades. Understanding the cost and time associated with buildout allows you to evaluate whether the space is financially viable.

5. Be Ready to Negotiate With the Landlord

Once you have all the relevant information, you will be in a strong position to negotiate. Seek concessions such as free rent during construction, reimbursement for buildout, or landlord-funded improvements. Do not be afraid to push for terms that protect your business, especially if the landlord is eager to fill the space. A lawyer can represent you to negotiate for a more favorable commercial lease.

6. Have a California Commercial Law Attorney Review the Lease

Commercial leases are complex legal contracts. Before signing, have a qualified attorney review the lease to advise you on your rights and responsibilities. An attorney can propose amendments that address important tenant protections, such as limits on personal guarantees, fair allocation of maintenance responsibilities, and options to renew or expand.

7. Always Plan for the Long-Term

Finally, commercial tenants in California should think beyond the immediate move-in. You must consider how the lease terms will affect your business growth, exit strategy, and liability in the future. For example, does the lease allow subleasing if you outgrow the space? Are rent increases capped or tied to market conditions? Does the lease require you to restore the property to its original condition at the end of the term? A long term plan is best.

Contact Our California Commercial Lease Agreement Lawyer Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a California business attorney with the knowledge, skills, and experience to handle commercial lease agreements. If you have any questions about what you need to do before signing a commercial lease, we can help. Contact us today for a fully confidential consultation. We draft and review commercial lease agreements throughout the Bay Area.

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Business Formation: LLCs

Forming a limited liability company (LLC) in California is one of the most popular choices for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Common questions include: “What protections does an LLC provide?” “How is it taxed compared to a corporation?” and “What variations of LLCs are available in California?” The truth is, LLCs offer flexibility, liability protection, and certain tax advantages. Whether an LLC is right for your needs (and which type of LLC makes the most sense) is highly case-specific. Lynnette Ariathurai is a California business formation attorney who has extensive experience with limited liability companies (LLCs). In this article, you will find an overview of LLCs in California.

What is an LLC?

A limited liability company (LLC) is a flexible business structure that combines liability protection with more simplified management. In California, an LLC shields its owners (members) from being personally responsible for business debts or legal claims. However, unlike corporations, LLCs typically avoid double taxation because profits and losses can pass directly through to members’ personal tax returns. An LLC is a great option for many small businesses.

Understanding the Different Types of LLCs

Are you considering setting up an LLC for your business in California? If so, it is imperative that you select the right option for your specific needs. There are a number of different types of LLCs in California. Here is an overview:

Member managed LLCs: A member managed LLC allows the owners themselves to handle the daily operations of the business. In California, this structure is common for smaller businesses where all members want direct involvement. It avoids the complexity of appointing managers, and the relationship between members and managers. Active participation by the members is generally required.
Single manager LLCs: In California, a single manager LLC has only one person or entity that manages the business but may have one or more owners (members). The member(s) vote for the manager who is the only one to operate the business, and the member(s) receive the profit and/or losses. The structure provides liability protection. It ensures that the owner’s personal assets are separate from business liabilities.
Multi manager LLCs: A multi manager LLC involves two or more managers who share control and responsibilities and may have one or more owners (members) who share the profits or losses. In California, the operating agreement is especially important to define the manager’s role, and each member’s voting and other rights, as well as profit and loss shares.

How to Know if an LLC is the Right Option

Starting a business in California often raises the question of whether to form an LLC. A limited liability company offers strong personal asset protection, flexible ownership structures, and pass-through taxation, making it one of the most popular entities in the Bay Area. LLCs work especially well for consultants, real estate investors, and small retail or e-commerce businesses. One drawback of an LLC may be the self-employment tax on the gross income similar to a sole proprietorship. That said, the right choice always depends on your goals and risks. The question of when to create an LLC can be challenging to answer. Our California business formation lawyer can help.

Contact Our California Business Formation Lawyer for LLCs Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a California business formation who puts clients first. If you have any questions about forming an LLC, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a fully confidential initial consultation. With an office in Fremont, our firm serves clients across the Bay Area.

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Business Formation: Corporations

Starting a business in California comes with a major decision: choosing the right type of corporation. Entrepreneurs often ask, “What are my options for business formation?” and “Which structure best protects my interests?” Each type of corporation in California comes with advantages, disadvantages, and legal requirements. Lynnette Ariathurai is a California business formation lawyer with extensive experience working with corporations. In this article, you will find an overview of the corporate forms in California.

An Overview of the Difference Types of Corporations in California

C Corporation

If you hear the term “corporation” used broadly, the speaker is often referring to a C corporation. It is the standard corporate business structure in California. Business owners choose this type when they want strong liability protection and the ability to raise capital from investors. A C corporation exists as a separate legal entity. Why does that matter? It means that shareholders are not personally responsible for a company’s debts or other liabilities. Further, the structure allows for unlimited shareholders. That makes the C corporation form attractive for businesses planning to grow, issue stock, or to someday go public. On the other hand, C corporations do face double taxation. They are taxed first at the corporate level and then at the shareholder level when profits are distributed as dividends. Further, overall compliance is more complex than other entities, requiring annual meetings, minutes, and formal record-keeping. If you have any questions about creating a C corporation, our California business formation attorney can help.

S Corporation

The S corporation is another corporate form. It offers many of the same liability protections as a C corporation but provides a different tax structure. Business owners in California often choose this type to avoid double taxation. An S corporation allows profits and certain losses to “pass through” directly to shareholders, who report them on their personal tax returns. There are some cases in which setup can lower overall tax burdens. That is especially true for some small and medium-sized businesses. However, unlike a C corporation, an S corporation comes with strict eligibility requirements. Shareholders must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, and the number of shareholders cannot exceed 100. Further, only one class of stock may be issued. An S corporation still requires formalities such as board meetings, record-keeping, and annual reporting. It can be more expensive to maintain than an LLC. If you have questions about creating an S corporation, our California business formation lawyer can help.

Professional Corporation

A professional corporation in California is a specialized entity designed for licensed professionals such as doctors, lawyers, accountants, architects, and other regulated fields. The state requires many licensed service providers to form professional corporations instead of LLCs or standard corporations. By forming a professional corporation, owners protect themselves from liability for business debts and obligations, while maintaining accountability for their own professional conduct. A professional corporation has similar formalities to a C or S corporation, but the owners (shareholders) and operators (officers and directors), as well as the transferability of the shares are limited to qualified people.

Contact Our California Business Formation Lawyer for Corporations Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a top business formation attorney. If you have any questions about corporations, we can help. Contact us today for a fully confidential, no obligation initial consultation. With an office in Fremont, we provide corporation formation services throughout the Bay Area.

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When & Why to Create a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in California

Forming the right business entity is one of the most important decisions for any new venture. For certain professional services, a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) may be the ideal choice. Below, our Fremont business formation attorney explains what an LLP is and when to consider forming one in California.

What is a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)?

In California, an LLP is a special type of partnership that offers personal liability protection to each partner. It combines the tax flexibility of a general partnership with the legal protections of a corporation—meaning that each partner is not personally liable for the misconduct or negligence of another partner.

However, California limits the types of businesses that can form an LLP. As of today, LLPs are restricted to certain licensed professionals – attorneys, accountants, and architects.

When to Form an LLP in California

LLPs are purpose-built for specific industries, and they offer unique advantages when used appropriately. You should consider creating an LLP if:

You are a licensed professional working with other licensed professionals: In California, LLPs are often used by law firms, accounting firms, and architectural practices.
You want partnership-style management with liability protection: LLPs allow each partner to participate in management while shielding them from personal liability for another partner’s mistakes.
You seek pass-through taxation: Like general partnerships and LLCs, LLPs are not subject to corporate income tax beyond the $800 minimum Franchise Tax (or 1.5% of net income, whichever is greater). Profits and losses pass through to each partner’s individual tax return.
You want flexibility in structure: LLPs allow you to define how profits, decision-making, and responsibilities are shared among partners.

Examples of Why LLPs Work Well for Licensed Professionals in California

LLPs are widely used by attorneys or accountants or architectural firms where there is more than one licensed professional in the company.
The licensed professionals seek to operate with colleagues under a shared name while maintaining personal liability protection from the other partners’ liability
Licensed professionals often use LLPs for their tax benefits
LLPs similar to partnerships can define clear division of responsibilities, percentage ownership, and the percentage of sharing of the profits and losses among the partners

Is an LLP Right for You? Ask a Business Formation Lawyer

Because LLPs are only available to certain professions in California, it’s important to confirm your eligibility and evaluate whether this structure aligns with your goals. The right legal counsel can help ensure your partnership is properly registered and legally compliant.

Contact Our California Business Attorney for LLPs Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a trusted California business formation lawyer. If you are considering an LLP or have questions about which business entity is best for your professional practice, we are here to help. Contact our Fremont office today for a confidential consultation. We serve professionals and firms throughout the Bay Area.

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When & Why to Create a C Corporation in California

Are you starting or growing a business in California? One of the key decisions you’ll face is choosing the right business entity. While LLCs and S-corps are popular, some entrepreneurs and investors find a C corporation (C-corp) is the best fit. Below, our Fremont business formation attorney highlights when to consider forming a C-corp in California.

What is a C Corporation?

The California Franchise Tax Board describes a C-corp as a legal structure that creates a separate legal entity from its owners. A C corporation provides strong liability protection and allows businesses to issue multiple classes of stock. Unlike S-corps and LLCs, C-corps are taxed as separate entities. This means the business pays corporate income tax on profits at the corporate rate—and shareholders may also pay taxes on dividends at their individual tax rate (commonly referred to as “double taxation”).

Despite this tax structure, C-corps offer significant advantages in certain situations.

When to Create a C-Corp in California

Deciding whether to form a C-corp should be based on your long-term goals, funding needs, and ownership structure. Here are some scenarios where a C-corp makes the most sense:

You plan to raise venture capital or seek investors: Most institutional investors and venture capital firms prefer investing in C-corporations because of their familiarity, predictability, and ability to issue preferred stock.
You want to offer stock options or employee equity: If your business will offer employee incentives like stock options or an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), a C-corp is often the best—or only—choice.
You anticipate rapid growth or plan to go public: If your vision includes scaling nationally or listing your company on a stock exchange, a C-corp is generally the standard.
You want perpetual existence: Unlike partnerships or sole proprietorships, a C-corp exists independently of the founders. Ownership can be transferred through stock sales without disrupting business operations.

Examples of Businesses that Work Well as C-Corps

Technology Startups and SaaS Companies
These companies often seek outside investment and plan for scalability, making the C-corp structure ideal.
Biotech and Medical Device Firms
Due to their high capital needs and long development timelines, these businesses frequently structure as C-corps to attract investors.
Manufacturing and Product-Based Companies
Businesses with significant equipment, inventory, and growth potential may benefit from the structure and formalities of a C-corp.

Every Business is Unique—Get Legal Guidance

Creating a C-corp in California requires more paperwork and compliance—but it can open up valuable opportunities. Make sure it aligns with your long-term vision. An experienced business formation attorney can help you evaluate the pros and cons based on your business model, tax situation, and funding goals.

Contact Our California Business Lawyer for C-Corps Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a California business formation attorney with deep experience forming C corporations. If you’re considering a C-corp, we are here to advise you. Contact our Fremont office today for a confidential consultation. We assist businesses across the Bay Area.

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The Different Types of LLCs

Starting a business in California? You need to be sure that you select the right legal entity. Companies need the best foundation in order to thrive. A limited liability company (LLC) offers several potential advantages. Lynnette Ariathurai is a Fremont business formation attorney who has experience with the full range of LLCs. We can help you find the right one for your company. In this article, you will find an overview of the different types of LLCs in California.

What is a Limited Liability Company (LLC)?

The California Franchise Tax Board explains that an LLC is “a business entity that blends partnership and corporate structures.” It is a business structure that offers favorable liability protection while offering the tax flexibility and relative ease of formation of a partnership or sole proprietorship. In California, LLCs are created by filing Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. The owners of an LLC are called members. A key advantage is that they are generally not personally liable for the company’s debts or legal obligations. Still, LLCs must comply with specific requirements in the state, including paying an annual franchise tax and filing regular reports.

An Overview of the Three Types of LLCs in California

Single-member LLCs

The most straightforward type of LLC in California is a single-member LLC. It only has one owner (member), but it still offers full personal liability protection while keeping management and tax filing relatively simple. It is a popular choice for solo entrepreneurs, consultants, or freelancers who want legal separation between personal and business assets. The member can elect to be taxed as a sole proprietorship (more common) or corporation (an option). To be clear, there is no need to divide decision-making. The single owner retains full control over daily operations of the business.

Single-member LLCs must still comply with California’s annual franchise tax and filing obligations.

Multi-member LLCs

Multiple parties can own and operate an LLC in California. A multi-member LLC is a company that has two or more owners. Multi-member LLCs offer a collaborative ownership structure with shared responsibilities. This may be the right entity for businesses with multiple partners. Each member has an ownership interest. The LLC will allocate profits, losses, and responsibilities according to an operating agreement. Multi-member LLCs should have a professionally drafted operating agreement. Most multi-member LLCs are taxed as a partnership. With that being said, corporate tax treatment is an option. It provides limited liability for all members. That means that personal assets are protected from business liabilities.

Manager-managed LLCs

Finally, in California, a manager-managed LLC is a type of LLC where the members (owners) designate one or more managers to handle day-to-day business operations. That manager may or may not actually be one of the members. The model is ideal when investors want limited involvement in management or when the business needs professional management. Members retain ownership rights but delegate operational control. That can help to streamline decision-making. Of course, non-manager members must put a great deal of trust into the people who oversee day-to-day business operations. Notably, California allows both member-managers and non-member managers.

Contact Our California Business Formation Lawyer for LLCs Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a California business formation lawyer who provides solutions-focused guidance and support to clients. If you have any questions about the different types of LLCs, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a fully confidential consultation. With an office in Fremont, we provide business formation services throughout the Bay Area.

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When to Create a C Corp

Choosing the right business structure can have major implications for taxes, liability, and long-term growth. A C corporation offers distinct advantages. At the same time, they can be complicated and costly to set up, so it is certainly not the right option for every situation. Here, our Fremont business formation lawyer provides a guide to C corporations, including an explanation of the structure, the advantages and disadvantages, and examples of when to create one.

What is a C Corporation?

A C corporation (C corp) is a legal business structure that is wholly separate and distinct from its owners. It is the most common type of corporation in the United States. A C corp can enter into contracts, own assets, sue and be sued, and is taxed independently of its owners. One key feature is that profits are taxed at the corporate level and again at the shareholder level when distributed as dividends. Indeed, the California Franchise Tax Board explains that a C corp pays taxes on its earnings directly. The shareholders of the C corp are taxed separately from the business.

Know the Advantages and Disadvantages of a C Corp

The Benefits of a C Corp

As a C corp is a fully distinct legal entity, it offers very strong liability protection. Shareholders are shielded from personal responsibility for business debts and lawsuits. Further, a C corp also allows for unlimited shareholders. That makes it an attractive structure for raising capital and attracting investors. C Corps can also issue multiple classes of stock. The flexibility in ownership and fundraising makes them a great business entity for companies that have massive growth potential.

The Drawbacks of C Corp

C corps are not right for every situation. One major drawback of a C Corp is double taxation. Remember, the profits are taxed at both the corporate level and again when distributed to shareholders as dividends. C Corps also face extensive recordkeeping, regulatory compliance, and reporting requirements. That can increase the start-up costs and administrative costs.

Examples of When to Create a C Corp in California

You Plan to Raise Venture Capital

Most venture capital firms require investment in a C corporation because it allows for preferred stock and scalable equity structures. Forming a C corp in California positions your business to raise money from outside investors.

You Intend to Go Public in the Future

C corps are the required structure for companies that want to file an initial public offering (IPO). Establishing a C corp early helps to position a business for going public.

You Want to Offer Stock Options to Employees

C corps can issue stock options and other equity incentives that are attractive to top talent. It is a significant benefit because it can make it easier to recruit and retain employees in California’s competitive business environment.

You Anticipate Substantial Profits That Will Be Reinvested

A downside of a C corp is that it is subject to double taxation. However, an advantage of being taxed separately from their owners is that these businesses can reinvest profits without immediate tax consequences for shareholders. It is a strategy that can help grow the company.

Contact Our California Business Formation Lawyer for C Corps Today

Lynnette Ariathurai is a California business formation attorney who has the knowledge and experience that companies can trust. If you have any questions about creating a C corporation, we are here to help. Contact us today for a strictly confidential consultation. From our Fremont office, our firm works closely with C corps throughout the Bay Area.