How to start an LLC in Florida
Here are the seven steps, what each one costs and where each one is filed. You can do every step yourself on the state’s and the IRS’s websites.
Seven steps to start an LLC in Florida
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Choose a name the state will accept
It must end in “LLC,” “L.L.C.” or “Limited Liability Company” and differ from every name on the state’s records. A plural, “and” instead of “&,” or punctuation does not make a name different. Search first; the name is yours only once the state accepts your filing.
Where: the state’s name search · Cost: free -
Name a registered agent
This is the person or company that accepts legal papers for the LLC at a Florida street address every weekday. It can be you if you live in Florida. The agent signs the filing to accept the job.
Cost: free if you do it; our registered agent service is $150/year -
File the articles of organization
The form asks for the LLC’s name, a street address for its main office, a mailing address and the registered agent. Both addresses go on the public record, which is what a Florida virtual mailbox is for. Listing a manager is optional, but most banks want one on the state’s record.
Where: the state’s website, or by mail · Cost: $125 to the state; our Florida LLC formation service adds $99 -
Pick the date it starts
The LLC starts the day the state accepts it, or on a date you choose up to 90 days later. If you form in November or December, a January 1 start moves your first annual report out a full year.
Cost: free -
Get an EIN from the IRS
This is the LLC’s federal tax number, and banks ask for it to open an account. It is free online if the owner has a Social Security number or ITIN; otherwise you apply by fax or mail.
Where: irs.gov · Cost: free; our EIN service is $50 -
Write an operating agreement
Florida does not require one, and it is not filed with the state. Without one, Florida’s default rules decide how profits are split and how votes count.
Cost: free to write yourself; our operating agreement is $500 for a single-member LLC -
Register for local and state taxes
Get a local business tax receipt from your county and city. If you sell taxable goods or services, register with the Florida Department of Revenue, and register again when you hire. Licensed professions also apply to their state board.
Where: your county and city; floridarevenue.com
What happens after you file
The state approves it
Filings wait in line in the order received. As of October 29, the state is approving online filings it received on October 26, a wait of three business days.For online filings that usually takes about 10 business days. The state emails you when it is approved.
It goes on the public record
The LLC’s name, addresses and registered agent appear on the state’s website. Letters selling “Annual Minutes” follow; the state says to ignore them.
A report every year
Between January 1 and May 1 of each year after the first, file the annual report: $138.75. After May 1 the state adds $400.
Doing business under a different name
If the LLC uses a name other than its legal one, on a sign, a website or invoices, Florida requires a fictitious name registration first. The LLC’s own name needs none.
Common reasons the state rejects a filing
A name too close to another
Only a real difference in words counts. “Coastal Design LLC” and “Coastal Designs, L.L.C.” are the same name to the state.
A P.O. box as the street address
The main office and the registered agent need street addresses. Only the mailing address can be a P.O. box.
An agent who did not sign
The registered agent has to accept the job on the filing itself.
A start date outside the window
The date can be up to five business days before filing or 90 days after. Anything else is ignored.
Doing it yourself vs. having us file it
Both routes pay the state the same $125. With us, a person checks the details before filing and tracks your deadlines after.
Common questions about starting an LLC in Florida
Can I start a Florida LLC if I don’t live in Florida?
Yes. You can live anywhere, even outside the U.S. Florida only asks for a registered agent with a street address in the state, and we can be yours.
Does a Florida LLC pay state income tax?
Usually no. Florida does not charge a personal or business state income tax, except on corporations. An LLC taxed as a disregarded entity, a partnership or an S-corp files only a federal return. If you elect to have your LLC taxed as a corporation, you also file a Florida corporate income tax return. Check with an accountant about every filing that applies to you. We are not accountants and do not file tax returns for you.
Or have us file it
Our fee is $99, plus the state’s $125. We check the name, the address and the agent before anything is sent.