While the business formation process varies from state to state, there are some common steps. These include selecting a name, appointing a registered agent, and filing an operating agreement.
The registered agent is an individual or business that receives legal documents and tax forms on behalf of an LLC. They also act as a go-between for service of process.
What is an LLC?
The first step in registering an LLC in Florida is filing articles of organization. These documents, which are also known as statements of information and certificates of formation in other states, give the state basic information about your business, including its name and address.
You must also appoint a registered agent for your LLC. This is a person or company that can receive lawsuits and official government correspondence on behalf of your business. You can use an existing person in your LLC as a registered agent or choose a service that provides this role.
Once your articles of organization are approved, the IRS will issue you a nine-digit Federal Tax ID number for your LLC. You will need this number to open an LLC bank account and to register your business for certain taxes, such as sales tax and withholding tax. You may also need to obtain licenses and permits, depending on your business type and location.
How do I form an LLC?
Florida offers a simple and flexible process for forming an LLC. The first step is choosing a name for your company. You must also select a registered agent. The registered agent is responsible for receiving important documents (like lawsuits) on behalf of your business. You can serve as your own registered agent, or you can hire a company like Northwest Registered Agent to act on your behalf.
You must file articles of organization with your state to formally establish your LLC. The articles of organization typically include the LLC’s official name, address and members/managers. If you are a licensed professional, your LLC’s name must end with “professional limited liability company,” “PLLC” or “PLC.”
You must obtain an employer identification number and register to pay business taxes. You may also need a zoning permit, home occupation permit or licenses from your local government to operate your LLC. You must open a separate business bank account to keep your personal assets out of the company’s finances.
Do I need a registered agent?
To form an LLC in Florida, you need to submit articles of organization. These documents need to include your business name, owners, authorized managers and representatives and a statement about the purpose of your LLC. You can also include a URL where potential customers can find your company.
You can serve as your own registered agent or you can appoint an individual or business to this role. However, if you choose to serve as your own agent, you need to be available at your Florida address during normal business hours. Using a professional registered agent service can help you focus more on your business and increase your privacy by allowing you to use an office address that is separate from your own.
In addition, your registered agent needs to be able to accept service of process on behalf of your LLC. This is an important duty and you should not skip this step. You will also need to get an employer identification number from the IRS, which is the equivalent of a Social Security number for your business.
Can I transfer my LLC to Florida?
If your company is already an LLC in another state and you want to expand to Florida, you’ll need to register the business as a foreign entity. It’s best to work with a local business attorney to ensure full compliance with state laws throughout this process.
When registering an out-of-state LLC to do business in Florida, you’ll need to provide your company name, registered agent information, and an authorized signature. You can file online, by fax, or by mail. You’ll also need to obtain a Federal Tax ID Number (EIN), which can be obtained by filing online or using Form SS-4.
Your LLC’s registered agent must be a Florida resident or a corporation authorized to do business in the state. The agent must have a physical address in Florida; P.O. boxes are not acceptable. You can be your own registered agent or hire a professional registered agent service.