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. It’ll cost $125. Here’s how to do it.
Create a FL LLC in 4 Steps:
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 information you’ll need to complete the Florida Articles of Organization are below:
1
Business name
Be sure to include an identifier like “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
2
Principal office & mailing address
The street and mailing address of your company’s principle office (does not need to be a Florida address).
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.)
4
Management type (optional)
Whether the company is manager-managed or member-managed.
5
Member/Manager authority info (optional)
List of member/manager names and addresses who have been given the authority to make decisions on behalf of your company. Although this information is optional upon formation, most financial institutions require this information to be recorded with the Florida Department of State in order to open an account. The Department of Financial Services also requires this information to issue Workers’ Compensation.
6
Effective date (optional)
Enter a specific date you would like your LLC to become active. If the filing date is good enough, leave this area blank.
7
Other provisions (optional)
You can add additional clauses on a separate sheet of paper or as a .pdf attachment.
8
Signature
The person authorized to compelte and submit this application to the state must sign.
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.
Ready to create your LLC in Florida?
We’ll set up your entire business in minutes.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an LLC need a business license in Florida?
Florida does not require a general statewide business license. Some specialized types of businesses (accounting, law, construction, massage) need state licenses to operate. Additionally, you will need to register for a business operating license (often called a “business tax receipt”) with your county or city government.
Do LLCs pay taxes in Florida?
While Florida does not have a state income tax, it’s a good idea to check any self-employment, city and county, or business-specific taxes that may apply to your LLC. However, all LLCs with sales in Florida will most likely need to file a Florida Business Tax Application in order to do business in the state.
At the federal level, LLCs are classified as “pass-through entities.” This means that LLCs themselves do not pay federal income taxes on business income. Instead, the money flows right to LLC members, who file their own individual tax returns.
How long does it take for an LLC to be approved in Florida?
Online Florida Articles of Organization take about 5 days to process. Mailed filings can take 10 days or more (plus time for mailing).
Do I need to live in Florida to start an LLC there?
No. But you will need a registered agent who has a physical street address in Florida.