How to Start an LLC in Florida: A Beginner’s Guide (2025)

Thinking of starting your own business in Florida? Setting up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is one of the smartest ways to get started. It combines the flexibility of a sole proprietorship with the liability protection of a corporation—making it a favorite structure for small business owners.

Forming an LLC in Florida doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re starting a side business or building your next big venture, this guide walks you through each step—from choosing a name to staying compliant—so you can focus on growing your business, not getting lost in paperwork.

1. Choose a Business Name

Your business name is more than a label—it’s the foundation of your brand identity. Florida requires your LLC name to:

• Be unique from any other registered businesses in the state.

• Include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” in the name.

To check if your name is available, use the Sunbiz Division of Corporations’ business name search. Avoid names that sound too similar to others or could confuse customers.

Tips for choosing your LLC name

• Keep it short, simple, and easy to remember.

• Make sure the matching domain name is available.

• Check for trademark conflicts if you plan to expand nationally.

Pro tip: Register your domain name early—even before filing your LLC—to secure your online presence.

2. Appoint a Registered Agent

A registered agent is your LLC’s official contact for receiving government correspondence, compliance reminders, and legal documents.

In Florida, your registered agent must:

• Have a physical address (not a P.O. box).

• Be available during normal business hours.

You can act as your own registered agent, designate another LLC member, or hire a professional service.

Why consider a professional agent service?

Using a registered agent service adds privacy and peace of mind. It keeps your personal address off public records and ensures that important mail is handled promptly—even if you’re out of office or traveling.

3. File Articles of Organization

Your LLC officially comes to life when you file Articles of Organization with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

What you’ll need to file:

• LLC name and principal business address

• Registered agent’s name and address

• Member or manager information

• Organizer’s signature

Filing fee: $125
Processing time: Typically 2–5 business days for online submissions

You can also set an effective date up to 90 days in the future—helpful if you’re still preparing for launch.

Pro tip: After approval, download your stamped Articles of Organization. You’ll need it for banking, licensing, or applying for loans.

4. Create an Operating Agreement

Florida doesn’t legally require LLCs to have an Operating Agreement—but having one is highly recommended.

An Operating Agreement acts as your company’s internal rulebook. It defines:

• Ownership percentages and voting rights

• Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)

• Procedures for adding or removing members

• Profit and loss distribution

• Steps for resolving disputes

Why it matters

An Operating Agreement strengthens your liability protection by proving that your business operates independently from your personal affairs. It can also prevent misunderstandings between members and is often required by banks when opening a business account.

Pro tip: Even single-member LLCs should have an Operating Agreement—it helps legitimize your structure for tax and legal purposes.

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5. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

An EIN, or Federal Employer Identification Number, is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and serves as your LLC’s unique tax ID.

You’ll need an EIN to:

• File business taxes

• Hire employees

• Open a business bank account

• Apply for loans or credit lines

You can apply for free through the IRS website.

For non-US residents

If you don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), you can still obtain an EIN by submitting Form SS-4 via fax or mail.

6. File Your Annual Report

To maintain your active status, every Florida LLC must file an Annual Report with the Florida Division of Corporations.

Key details:

• Filing period: January 1 to May 1 each year

• Fee: $138.75

The report confirms or updates your business details, including your address, members, and registered agent.

Missing the deadline triggers a $400 late fee, and continued noncompliance can lead to administrative dissolution.

Pro tip: File early each year and set calendar reminders.

7. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits

Depending on your business type and location, you may need local or state licenses before operating.

Common examples:

• Retail businesses: Sales tax permit from the Florida Department of Revenue

• Restaurants: Health and safety permits

• Contractors: State or county professional licenses

Check with your city or county clerk’s office and the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) to confirm specific requirements.

Pro tip: Florida doesn’t have a general statewide business license, but local compliance varies—always verify before you start operating.

Summary

Starting an LLC in Florida gives you a strong legal foundation with simple filing requirements and affordable fees. At $125 to file and $138.75 annually to maintain, it’s one of the more cost-effective states for small business formation.

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