How to Form an LLC in Florida

Florida is one of the most popular states for LLC formation, with favorable tax treatment (no state personal income tax) and a straightforward formation process through the Division of Corporations. Here is everything you need to know.

Step 1: Choose a Name for Your LLC

Your Florida LLC name must:

• Include "Limited Liability Company" or an abbreviation (LLC, L.L.C.)
• Be distinguishable from other entity names registered with the Division of Corporations
• Not include restricted words without proper authorization (Bank, Insurance, etc.)

Check name availability through Sunbiz.org using the entity name search. Florida offers name reservations for 120 days through the Division of Corporations if you want to hold a name while preparing your filing.

Step 2: Designate a Registered Agent

Florida requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a physical street address in the state. The registered agent receives legal documents and Division of Corporations correspondence on behalf of your business.

You will list your registered agent on your Articles of Organization. If you use our service, we provide the name and address to include on the form.

Step 3: File Articles of Organization

File your Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations through Sunbiz.

• Filing fee: $125
• Online filing: Through Sunbiz.org
• Processing: Online filings are typically processed within a few business days

The Articles of Organization require:

• LLC name
• Principal address and mailing address
• Registered agent name and Florida street address
• Whether the LLC is member-managed or manager-managed
• Name and address of at least one manager or managing member
• Effective date (current or future date within 5 business days)

Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement

Florida does not require an operating agreement to be filed with the state, but having one is important. The operating agreement governs:

• Ownership structure and capital contributions
• Management authority and voting procedures
• Profit and loss distribution
• Transfer of membership interests
• What happens if a member departs or the LLC dissolves

Keep the operating agreement with your business records.

Step 5: Get an EIN

Apply for a free Employer Identification Number from the IRS at irs.gov. You need an EIN to:

• Open a Florida business bank account
• File federal and state tax returns
• Hire employees
• Apply for business licenses

Step 6: File Your First Annual Report

Your initial annual report is due by May 1 following the year of formation. For example, an LLC formed in 2026 would file its first annual report by May 1, 2027. File through Sunbiz.

Ongoing Requirements

Annual Report: File through Sunbiz by May 1 each year. Fee: $138.75. Late fee: $400 additional.

Registered Agent: Maintain a valid registered agent continuously. Update through Sunbiz if your agent changes.

Taxes: Florida does not impose a personal income tax, but LLCs may be subject to the Florida corporate income tax if they elect to be taxed as a corporation. Federal tax obligations apply regardless.

Local Requirements: Depending on your county and city, you may need a local business tax receipt (sometimes called a business license).

Florida LLC Costs Summary

Why Florida for Your LLC

• No state personal income tax: Pass-through income from your LLC is not taxed at the state level
• Sunbiz efficiency: Online filing and management through a well-built state portal
• Business-friendly environment: Strong asset protection laws and straightforward compliance requirements
• Growing economy: Access to one of the largest state economies in the US

Get Started — $99/year

Need a registered agent for your new Florida LLC? Sign up now.