Yes, you can have two different businesses with separate LLCs in California. Each LLC would be a separate legal entity from the other and would have its own liability protection. You would need to file a separate LLC Articles of Organization for each LLC with the California Secretary of State.
You would also need to have a physical address for each LLC in California (PO Boxes are not allowed). Each LLC would need to have a registered agent in California who is available during normal business hours at the LLC’s physical address. The registered agent can be an individual or another business entity.
If you are the only owner of both LLCs, you can operate them as “single-member LLCs.” This means that you can file a single tax return for both LLCs (on Form 1040, Schedule C). Alternatively, you can choose to have each LLC taxed as its own entity (known as a “multiple-member LLC”). In this case, each LLC would file its own tax return (Form 1120 or 1120S).
There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to operate one or two businesses as separate LLCs. You should consult with an attorney or accountant to discuss the pros and cons of operating multiple businesses as separate legal entities.
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