Form an LLC in Florida
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Florida. Filing fees, requirements, timeline, and step-by-step guidance.
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How to File
Choose a Name for Your LLC
Select a unique business name that includes 'Limited Liability Company,' 'LLC,' or 'L.L.C.' and is distinguishable from existing entities registered in Florida. Use the Florida Division of Corporations Sunbiz name search tool to verify availability before filing.
15-30 minutes
Designate a Registered Agent
Appoint a registered agent who has a physical street address in Florida (P.O. boxes are not permitted) and is available during normal business hours to receive legal documents. The registered agent can be an individual Florida resident or a business entity authorized to do business in Florida.
15-30 minutes
File Articles of Organization
Submit the Articles of Organization (Form MFAR1) to the Florida Division of Corporations online via Sunbiz.org, by mail, or in person. The filing requires the LLC name, principal office address, registered agent information, and the name and signature of an authorized organizer.
30-60 minutes
Pay the Filing Fee
Submit the $125 state filing fee at the time of filing. Online payments can be made by credit card or debit card through Sunbiz.org; mail-in filings require a check or money order payable to 'Florida Department of State.' Add $30 for optional expedited processing.
5-10 minutes
What's Next After Filing
Once your LLC is officially formed, you'll want to complete these important steps:
- •Draft an Operating Agreement — Although not legally required by Florida law, it is strongly recommended to create an Operating Agreement outlining ownership percentages, management structure, profit and loss distribution, and procedures for adding or removing members. This document helps prevent disputes and reinforces the LLC's liability protection.
- •Obtain an EIN from the IRS — Apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS online at IRS.gov at no cost. An EIN is required to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file federal and state taxes, even for single-member LLCs.
- •Obtain Business Licenses and Permits — Florida does not have a general statewide business license, but many professions and industries require state-issued licenses through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) or other agencies. Additionally, check with your local county and municipality for any required local business tax receipts (formerly occupational licenses).
Advantages
- ✓Florida has no state personal income tax, meaning LLC members pay no state-level tax on pass-through income from the LLC.
- ✓Florida does not impose a franchise tax on LLCs, keeping annual overhead costs lower than in many other states.
- ✓The LLC structure provides strong personal liability protection, shielding members' personal assets from most business debts and legal judgments.
- ✓Florida LLCs offer flexible management structures — members can choose member-managed or manager-managed operation — and have minimal ongoing formality requirements compared to corporations.
Considerations
- •The annual report fee of $138.75 (plus a steep $400 late penalty) is a recurring obligation that can catch new business owners off guard if deadlines are missed.
- •Florida C corporations pay a 5.5% state corporate income tax; while LLCs taxed as pass-through entities avoid this, LLC members who elect corporate taxation should account for this cost.
- •Florida's public records laws mean that the names and addresses of LLC members or managers listed in the Articles of Organization are publicly accessible through Sunbiz.org, which may be a privacy concern for some owners.
Annual Obligations
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