The paper presents a generalized optimal active control algorithm for earthquake-resistant structures. The study included the weighting matrix configuration, stability, and time-delays for achieving control effectiveness and optimum solution. The sensitivity of various time-delays in the optimal solution is investigated for which the stability regions are determined. A simplified method for reducing the influence of time-delay on dynamic response is proposed. Numerical examples illustrate that the proposed optimal control algorithm is advantageous over others currently in vogue. Its feedback control law is independent of the time increment, and its weighting matrix can be flexibly selected and adjusted at any time during the operation of the control system. The examples also show that the weighting matrix based on pole placement approach is superior to other weighting matrix configurations for its self-adjustable control effectiveness. Using the time-delay correction method can significantly reduce the influence of time-delays on both structural response and required control force.