🏝️ 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. 💼 Open a Business Bank Account
Keep personal and business finances separate. You’ll need:
EIN
Certificate of Formation
Operating Agreement
8. 📆 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.
🔍 People Also Ask
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Florida?
$125 for the Articles of Organization, plus $138.75 annually for your report.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Florida?
Usually 2 to 5 business days if filed online.
💰 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
Department: Division of Corporations
Phone: (850) 245-6000
Mailing Address:
Division of Corporations
P.O. Box 6327
Tallahassee, FL 32314Website: https://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz
❓ FAQs: People Also Ask
1. Do I need a registered agent in Florida?
Online filings are usually processed in 1–5 business days.
2. What is an operating agreement?
Yes. Every Florida LLC must have a registered agent with a physical Florida address.
3. When is the Florida LLC annual report due?
A legal document outlining your LLC’s management and ownership rules.
4. Can a non-resident open an LLC in Florida?
By May 1st each year. Late filing incurs a $400 penalty.
5. Do I need a business license in Florida?
Yes, non-residents and foreigners can form and own a Florida LLC.
6. Do I need an EIN for a Florida LLC?
Not statewide. Check your county or city for local requirements.
7. Does Florida tax LLCs?
Yes, if you hire employees or want to open a business bank account.
8. Can a Florida LLC operate in other states?
Florida does not tax income for most LLCs. However, LLCs electing corporate status pay corporate income tax.
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,