How to Start an LLC in Florida

To start your LLC in Florida, you have to pick a name for your business, choose a registered agent, and file your Articles of Organization. After that, you need to set up your business operations and then file your BOI Report. We go over everything you need to know to get started.

Start a Florida LLC in 5 Steps:

1. Name Your Florida LLC
2. Choose a Registered Agent
3. File Articles of Organization
4. Set Up Business Operations
5. File BOI Report

Step 1: Name Your Florida LLC

Naming your Florida LLC is one of the first tasks you’ll have to complete when forming your business. The name must be unique among other Florida businesses, and needs to include “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC.”

To make sure your business name is unique, conduct a preliminary search using Sunbiz’s Business and Trademark Name Search.

It’s also worth looking online and on social media to make sure your LLC name is available for use. Check to see if your business name or one similar to it is available as a domain name, even if you’re not ready to build a business website. Although this step is not a legal requirement, it is helpful to prepare you for future success and expansion.

Step 2: Choose a Florida Registered Agent

A Florida registered agent is a person or company that accepts legal mail (like service of process) on behalf of your business. You can be your own registered agent, a friend or business partner can fill the roll, or you can hire a commercial registered agent company.

Your Florida registered agent needs:

• A Florida street address (a PO box won’t work)
• To be present at the address during normal business hours

Although you can be your own registered agent, it means your information will be listed on Florida’s public record, easily searched by anyone with internet access. Using a registered agent service minimizes the exposure of your private information. When you hire Registered Agents Inc to form your Florida LLC, we’ll also be your registered agent.

Step 3: File Florida Articles of Organization

The Florida Articles of Organization can be filed by mail, fax, in-person, or online via Florida’s Division of Corporations SunBiz.

The Florida Articles of Organization require three things:

1. Company Name. Be sure to include an identifier like “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
2. Address. The street and mailing address of your company’s principle office.
3. Registered Agent. The name, Florida street address, and signature of your registered agent. (Note: if you hire us, we’ll list our information here.)

Additionally, you can chose to add other important details like:

• Whether the company is manager-managed or member-managed.
• Names and addresses of company managers or members, depending on the management style you select.
• Authority for LLC members or managers to make decisions on behalf of your company.

Is there a fee for filing my Florida Articles of Organization?

Yes. It costs $125 to file your Florida Articles of Organization.

There are additional fees if you choose to order optional documents:

• Certificate of Status ($5): A document certifying your LLC’s good standing with the Florida SOS.
• Certified Copy ($30): A copy of your certified Articles of Organization. Many banks require a certified copy to open a bank account.

Do I have to file a Florida Annual Report right away?

A Florida annual report confirms or updates information about your business entity to the Secretary of State. Your LLC needs to file an annual report every year to maintain “active status.”

Your Florida annual report is not due right away. Your LLC’s first Annual Report won’t be due until the 1st of May the year after the LLC was formed. Sound confusing? When you hire us to act as your registered agent, we’ll file your annual report for you at no extra cost.

Step 4: Set Up Business Operations

Now that your Florida LLC is officially formed, it’s time to look at a few other tasks you’ll need to complete.

• Create an Operating Agreement
  Florida does not require an Operating Agreement for LLC formation, but having one is important and helpful. A Florida Operating Agreement sets the rules for your LLC and acts as a guide on how to divide profits, manage disagreements, and facilitate growth.
• Get an EIN
  An EIN is an identifying number that is issued by the IRS for business tax purposes. You will need an EIN when you set up a bank account for your business and if you plan to hire employees.
• Set Up a Business Bank Account
  Without a business bank account, a court could find that there is no separation between the LLC and its owners.
• Obtain Licenses and Permits
  You may need to apply for specific licenses to do business in different Florida cities or counties. Check your local government website for requirements. Specialized businesses (engineering, accounting, alcohol sales, etc) may need to apply for a statewide business license. The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation can help you get a better idea of what kind of licensing might be required for your Florida LLC.

Step 5: File BOI Report

Most LLCs need to file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report. The federal filing asks for company information and the owners with substantial control of the business. Unlike your Florida Articles of Organization, this report does not go on the public record. The information is held by FinCEN.

When do I have to submit my BOI Report?

If you started your business in 2024, you have 90 calendar days to file after your LLC is registered.

If you start your business on or after January 1, 2025, you will have 30 calendar days to file once your LLC registration is effective.