How to Start an LLC in Florida: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Launch your business with confidence — Filing Fox makes Florida LLCs easy!

Protect your personal assets and give your venture legitimacy by forming a Florida LLC. This guide walks you through each step, including costs, timelines, and crucial tips for staying compliant. Filing Fox can take care of it all — so you can focus on growth, not paperwork!

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Florida LLC Costs: What to Expect

$125 — File your Articles of Organization (one-time)
$138.75/year — Annual Report to stay compliant

Online filings: ~5 business days
Mail filings: ~12 business days

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✅ 1. Choose Your Florida LLC Name

Your business name must be unique and follow Florida’s naming rules.

How to check availability:

Pro tip: Do this search before spending on branding!

✅ 2. Appoint a Florida Registered Agent

Every LLC must list a Registered Agent with a Florida street address. You can:

  • Be your own agent
  • Use a trusted friend/family member
  • Hire a Registered Agent service like Filing Fox

Why Filing Fox? We keep your address private, and securely scan and forward all official mail.

✅ 3. File Your Articles of Organization

File online at Sunbiz.org — fee: $125 (one-time).

Processing: ~5 business days online, ~12 days by mail.

Filing Fox can prepare and file these for you — no headaches, no risk of rejection.

✅ 4. Create an Operating Agreement

Not required by law, but highly recommended.

  • Clarifies ownership and management
  • Protects your liability status
  • Often needed to open a bank account

Filing Fox provides free templates and step-by-step help!

✅ 5. Get an EIN from the IRS

Your Employer Identification Number is required to file taxes, open a business account, and hire employees.

Apply free at the IRS — takes about 15 minutes with an SSN/ITIN.

Not sure how? Filing Fox can guide you through the EIN process.

After Approval: What’s Next?

  • Open a business bank account
    Keep business and personal finances separate to protect your liability status.
  • Check for local licenses or permits
    Florida doesn’t require a general state business license, but your city or county might.
  • File your Annual Report
    Due by May 1 each year, fee $138.75. Missing the deadline may mean late fees or dissolution!

Why File with Filing Fox?

Thousands of Florida entrepreneurs trust Filing Fox because:

  • We keep your personal info off public records
  • We save you hours of paperwork (and headaches!)
  • Get step-by-step support — we’re real Florida LLC experts!

Ready to make your Florida LLC official?

📧 Contact our team at [email protected] — we’ll handle everything!
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Important Florida LLC Resources

Florida LLC FAQs
Does Florida have a state income tax for LLCs?
No — single-member LLCs pay no Florida income tax. Profits are taxed on your personal return.

What happens if I miss the Annual Report deadline?
You may owe late fees, and your LLC could be dissolved. Always file by May 1!

Do I need a lawyer to form a Florida LLC?
No — most business owners DIY or use a service like Filing Fox.