🏝️ How to Start an LLC in Florida (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)
Learn how to start an LLC in Florida in 2025. Step-by-step filing instructions, Florida LLC costs, required forms, and everything you need to launch legally.
🤔 Why Start a Florida LLC?
Florida is one of the most popular states for starting a business. A Florida LLC offers limited liability protection, flexible tax options, and a simple formation process — especially appealing to entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and freelancers.
This guide walks you through exactly how to start an LLC in Florida—even if you’re a first-timer.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| 🌞 Favorable Climate for Startupsv | No state income tax, business-friendly environment |
| 🛡️ Personal Asset Protection | Members are shielded from business debts and liabilities |
| 📈 Economic Growth | Florida is one of the fastest-growing economies in the U.S. |
| 🔐 Privacy & Flexibility | No requirement to disclose members publicly |
| 🧩 Simple Compliance | Easy to manage with minimal filing and paperwork |
🧭 Step-by-Step: Form an LLC in Florida
1. 🏷️ Choose a Name for Your Florida LLC
Your Florida LLC name must:
Be distinct from other businesses on file
Include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
Not contain restricted words unless licensed (bank, lawyer, etc.)
📌 Use the Florida Division of Corporations Search Tool to check name availability.
2. 🧑💼 Appoint a Registered Agent in Florida
Florida law requires every LLC to maintain a registered agent who:
Has a physical address in Florida (no P.O. boxes)
Can receive legal papers during normal business hours
Is either an individual Florida resident or a company authorized to do business in Florida
✅ Many use a professional registered agent service for privacy and compliance.
3. 📝 File Articles of Organization
To legally create your LLC, you must file Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations.
Filing Fee: $125
Processing Time: 1–5 business days (online), 5–15 (mail)
File Online: sunbiz.org
You’ll need:
LLC name and principal office address
Registered agent name and address
Names of members/managers
4. 📜 Create an Operating Agreement (Recommended)
An LLC operating agreement is not required in Florida but is highly recommended to:
Define member roles and responsibilities
Outline profit sharing and voting rights
Avoid internal disputes
Even single-member LLCs benefit from having one on record.
5. 🆔 Apply for an EIN
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is needed if you plan to:
Hire employees
Open a business bank account
Elect S Corp taxation
Apply for free at the IRS website.
6. 🏢 Get Florida Business Licenses (If Required)
Florida does not require a general statewide business license, but:
You may need local city/county licenses
Industry-specific licenses may apply (construction, hospitality, etc.)
📌 Check with your local county or use Florida’s Business Information Portal
7. 🔄 File the Florida Annual Report
All Florida LLCs must file an Annual Report by May 1 each year to remain active.
Fee: $138.75
File at: sunbiz.org
Failure to file leads to $400 late fee or administrative dissolution.
💰 Florida LLC Formation Costs (2025)
| Cost Component | Price |
|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $125 |
| Registered Agent (annual) | $50–$150 |
| EIN | Free |
| Operating Agreement | Free (DIY) |
| Annual Report | $138.75 |
🏛️ Florida Division of Corporations Contact
📞 (850) 245-6000
📍 2415 N. Monroe Street, Suite 810, Tallahassee, FL 32303
❓ FAQs: People Also Ask
1. How much does it cost to start an LLC in Florida?
$125 to file Articles of Organization. Optional fees for a registered agent and business licenses.
2. How long does it take to form a Florida LLC?
Online filings are usually processed in 1–5 business days.
3. Do I need a registered agent in Florida?
Yes. Every Florida LLC must have a registered agent with a physical Florida address.
4. What is an operating agreement?
A legal document outlining your LLC’s management and ownership rules.
5. When is the Florida LLC annual report due?
By May 1st each year. Late filing incurs a $400 penalty.
6. Can a non-resident open an LLC in Florida?
Yes, non-residents and foreigners can form and own a Florida LLC.
7. Do I need a business license in Florida?
Not statewide. Check your county or city for local requirements.
8. Do I need an EIN for a Florida LLC?
Yes, if you hire employees or want to open a business bank account.
9. Does Florida tax LLCs?
Florida does not tax income for most LLCs. However, LLCs electing corporate status pay corporate income tax.
10. Can a Florida LLC operate in other states?
Yes, but you may need to register as a foreign LLC in those states.
About Us
We specialize in guiding individuals through the process of forming LLCs across all states, while also offering a range of comprehensive business services tailored to entrepreneurs.
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contact details
- support@tostartanllc.com
- +1 (646) 347-3833
- 1494 State St, Schenectady, NY 12304,
