Florida is one of the top states for forming an LLC. It offers limited liability protection, tax benefits and more.
To form an LLC in Florida, you must file “articles of organization” with the state. These documents can be filed online or in the mail.
Getting Started
Once you’ve decided to start your business in Florida, the next step is getting started. That means deciding on a name, creating an operating agreement and filing your Articles of Organization.
Choosing a name for your LLC is the most important part of forming an LLC. It must be a unique and distinguishable name that meets Florida LLC rules and regulations.
In addition to being easy on the eyes, an attractive and recognizably unique name helps you build brand recognition and makes your company easier to find online. It can also help you avoid legal challenges later on.
You’ll also need to decide on your registered agent, which is someone who will accept legal papers on behalf of the company and provide a Florida street address. A registered agent can be an individual resident or a Florida business entity.
Once you’ve formed your LLC, it’s time to get business licenses and bank accounts. This can be a daunting task, but there are ways to simplify the process and save time.
Filing Your Articles of Organization
Filing your articles of organization is one of the most critical first steps in establishing your new LLC. A single misstep can lead to costly issues down the road, so it’s important to get them right the first time.
Articles of organization are a legal document that outlines the rights, powers, and obligations of your business. They are filed with the state and give you legal recognition as a limited liability company (LLC).
You’ll also need to designate a registered agent for your business. A registered agent serves as your official mailing address and accepts service of process (notice of a lawsuit) on your behalf.
A registered agent saves you the hassle of having to sort through your official mail when you’re busy running your business. They also liaise with the government and third parties on your behalf, giving you timely notifications about upcoming deadlines or actions that need to be taken.
Paying the Filing Fee
When starting your Florida LLC, it’s important to understand the legal fees that you must pay to register your business and stay in compliance with state laws. These fees vary by business type and entity, but can add up quickly.
To form your Florida LLC, you must file Articles of Organization with the Florida Department of State. This document includes the LLC’s name, address, and other vital information. It also needs to include a registered agent, which is a person or a business that receives and sends important mail on behalf of the LLC.
You can complete your Articles of Organization online or by mail. The filing fee is $125. Alternatively, you can submit your application in person at the Department of State, Division of Corporations.
Getting Your Authorized Documents Back
Once you’ve filed your Florida LLC formation paperwork, you need to get your authorized documents back. This can take a few weeks or longer depending on how quickly the state’s office accepts your filing.
Once the process is complete, you’ll receive confirmation that your LLC formed in the state. This document serves as legal proof of your business’s existence, and it can be used to open a bank account or obtain an EIN (employer identification number).
A Florida LLC must have a registered agent, which accepts important legal notices for the company and forwards them to owners and managers. The agent can be a person or entity.
A Florida LLC must also have a separate bank account for the company. This makes accounting and recording easier, and it ensures that the assets of the business are not tied to the owner’s personal finances.