Thinking about starting a business in Florida in 2025? Great decision! Florida is a business-friendly state, and forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) can give you solid protection, flexible taxes, and a clear structure for your new venture. Whether you’re launching a side hustle, full-time business, or freelancing gig, an LLC is often the best choice for small business owners. This guide breaks everything down step-by-step in plain, simple language.
Let’s go through what it takes to start your LLC in Florida, from choosing your business name to staying compliant every year.
Summary: Costs to File an LLC in Florida
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Articles of Organization Filing | $100 |
| Registered Agent Designation | $25 |
| Total Initial Filing Fee | $125 |
| Annual Report Fee | $138.75 |
| Late Annual Report Fee | $538.75 |
Steps to Form an LLC in Florida
Forming an LLC in Florida requires a few key steps. It’s not complicated, but you do need to follow each step in the right order to avoid delays or rejections.
1. Search Your LLC Name
Your business name is your brand. But in Florida, it also needs to follow a few rules:
- It must be unique from all other registered businesses in the state.
- It must include “Limited Liability Company” or an abbreviation like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
- It cannot include certain restricted words like “bank,” “attorney,” or “insurance” unless you’re properly licensed.
To check if your desired name is available, search the Florida Division of Corporations database. If it’s taken, try modifying it slightly by adding a word or changing the order. Keep in mind that just because a name looks available doesn’t mean it’s automatically approved. The state reviews all filings for uniqueness.
You can also reserve your business name for up to 120 days by filing a name reservation request. This gives you extra time to get everything else in order without losing your perfect name.
2. Choose a Registered Agent
Florida law requires every LLC to designate a registered agent. This is a person or business entity that receives legal documents and state correspondence on behalf of your company.
Who Can Be an LLC Registered Agent?
The registered agent must:
- Be a Florida resident or a business authorized to operate in Florida
- Have a physical street address in Florida (no PO boxes)
- Be available during regular business hours to accept official mail and legal notices
You can be your own registered agent, or appoint someone you trust. But many business owners choose a professional service for privacy and reliability. If you list yourself, your name and home address will become part of the public record. A registered agent service keeps your personal details private and ensures important mail is handled professionally.
We Recommend Northwest Registered Agent
When it comes to hiring a registered agent, one company that consistently gets great reviews is Northwest Registered Agent. They’re known for:
- Strong privacy protection (they use their address, not yours)
- Reliable service and quick document delivery
- No upselling or sharing your data
- Personalized customer service with real people on the phone
While they may not be the cheapest option out there, their transparency and excellent support often make them worth the cost. Their services include LLC formation and registered agent services bundled together, which can be helpful if you’re looking for a one-stop solution.
3. File Articles of Organization with the Department of State
This is the step that officially forms your LLC. You need to file a document called the Articles of Organization with the Florida Department of State.
What you’ll need to include:
- Your LLC name
- Principal place of business address
- Registered agent name and address
- Names and addresses of the LLC’s members or managers
- Whether the LLC will be managed by members or managers
- Effective start date (you can delay the effective date if needed)
- Signature of the person forming the LLC
You can file online for faster processing, or by mail if you prefer. The filing fee is $125. Most online filings are approved within 1 to 5 business days.
4. Create an Operating Agreement
Although Florida doesn’t legally require an LLC Operating Agreement, it’s highly recommended. This internal document outlines how your business will be run and helps avoid future disputes.
Key things to include:
- Ownership structure
- Member roles and responsibilities
- Voting procedures
- Profit and loss distribution
- How to handle member changes, including resignations or deaths
- What happens if the LLC needs to dissolve
Even if you’re the only member, an Operating Agreement proves your LLC is a separate legal entity and helps protect your personal assets. If your LLC has multiple members, this document becomes even more essential.
5. Get an EIN from the IRS
An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is like a Social Security number for your business. It’s required for most LLCs and allows you to:
- Open a business bank account
- Hire employees
- File federal and state taxes
You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website. It’s free, and you usually receive your number instantly. If you don’t have a Social Security Number, you can still apply, but the process takes longer and requires a paper application.
Some registered agent services, like Northwest, can apply for your EIN for you, either as part of their LLC package or for a small additional fee.
What Should I Do After My LLC Is Approved?
Once your Articles of Organization are accepted and you’ve received your EIN, your LLC is officially formed. But you’re not done yet. There are a few ongoing requirements and optional steps you should take to protect your business and stay compliant.
How Much Does the Annual Report Cost?
Every Florida LLC must file an Annual Report to remain in good standing. The fee for this report is $138.75. Failing to file can result in your LLC being administratively dissolved.
When Is the Annual Report Due?
The report is due every year by May 1. It confirms your LLC’s contact and ownership information with the state. You can file online through the Florida Department of State website.
When Is My First Annual Report Due?
Your first Annual Report is due the year after your LLC is formed. For example, if your LLC is formed in March 2025, your first report is due by May 1, 2026.
Tip: If you form your LLC late in the year and don’t want to pay the Annual Report fee twice in a few months, you can delay your effective date to January 1 of the following year when filing.
How Do I File My LLC Annual Report?
- Visit the state’s official business filing portal
- Enter your LLC’s information
- Review and update your details
- Pay the $138.75 fee
- Submit the report before May 1
You can also set up reminders or use a registered agent service that alerts you about upcoming deadlines.
How Will My LLC Be Taxed?
By default, Florida LLCs are treated as pass-through entities for tax purposes:
- Single-member LLCs are taxed as sole proprietorships
- Multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships
This means the business itself doesn’t pay federal income tax. Instead, profits and losses pass through to the members, who report them on their personal tax returns.
You can also elect to have your LLC taxed as an S Corporation or C Corporation by filing additional forms with the IRS. This is sometimes beneficial for larger LLCs with higher profits.
Florida does not have a state income tax for individuals, which is great news for business owners. However, if your LLC sells goods or services, hires employees, or has other tax obligations, you may need to register with the Florida Department of Revenue.
State Agencies
Knowing who handles what is important when running a business.
Florida Department of State: Division of Corporations
This is where you:
- File your Articles of Organization
- Submit Annual Reports
- Make amendments to your business filing
They maintain the state’s official business registry and oversee all business entity filings.
Florida Department of Revenue
This agency handles:
- Sales and use taxes
- Employer taxes
- Business tax registrations
If your LLC will collect sales tax or have employees, you must register with this department.
Final Thoughts
Forming an LLC in Florida is a straightforward process that offers real legal and financial benefits. It allows you to separate your business and personal assets, gain credibility, and stay flexible with taxes. While you can do everything yourself, many business owners prefer to use a service to save time and reduce the chance of errors.
To recap, the main steps are:
- Choose a unique name for your LLC
- Designate a registered agent
- File your Articles of Organization
- Create an Operating Agreement
- Obtain an EIN
- File your Annual Report on time each year
Whether you’re starting small or aiming big, forming an LLC in Florida can set the foundation for a successful business. Good luck on your entrepreneurial journey!
FAQs
Do I need a lawyer to start an LLC in Florida?
No, but you may want to consult one if your LLC has multiple members, complex ownership, or legal concerns. Many business owners form an LLC on their own or use a service to simplify the process.
Can I form an LLC on my own?
Yes. You can file all the documents yourself and save money. Just make sure to follow each step correctly.
Can I change my LLC’s name later?
Yes. You’ll need to file an amendment with the state and pay a small fee. Remember to update your business bank account, licenses, and tax information afterward.
What licenses or permits does my business need?
This depends on your industry and location. Florida does not issue a general business license at the state level, but you may need local or industry-specific permits. Check with your county and city government.
Can I use a PO Box for my business address?
You can use a PO Box for your mailing address, but not for your principal business or registered agent address. Florida requires a physical street address.
Can I form an LLC if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. Non-citizens can form and own LLCs in Florida. However, you’ll need an EIN to open a business bank account and may face additional paperwork.
What if I want to close my LLC?
You must file Articles of Dissolution with the Florida Division of Corporations and settle any outstanding taxes or debts.
How much does it cost to maintain an LLC annually?
At minimum, $138.75 for the Annual Report. If you use a registered agent or other services, your total cost may be higher.
Do I need an Operating Agreement if I’m the only member?
Yes. Even single-member LLCs benefit from having an Operating Agreement. It helps separate your business from your personal assets and provides a clear structure.