When you want to start a new business in Florida, an LLC is the right choice. It offers more asset protection than a sole proprietorship, less paperwork than a corporation and lots of tax benefits.
However, before you can get started, you need to choose a business name. Make sure your LLC name is unique, available, and easy to remember.
Articles of Organization
When forming an LLC in Florida, it is important to file articles of organization with the state. These documents lay out your business’s legal structure and disclose information about your LLC such as its principal business address, registered agent, and members/managers.
The information you need to disclose will vary depending on your state’s specific requirements. However, in most states, an LLC must disclose its name and principal business address.
You can either file your articles of organization yourself or hire a professional service to do it for you. In either case, you’ll need to submit the filing with a $125 state fee and the cover letter that includes the name of your company.
Operating Agreement
Florida LLC formation services will help you form a limited liability company in the state, filing articles of organization with the Secretary of State. The state will issue your LLC an official certificate.
However, this doesn’t exempt you from all the licensing and permit requirements that other businesses must meet. For example, you’ll need to obtain a business license, a federal employer identification number (EIN), and a seller’s permit, among other things.
A Florida LLC operating agreement can be used to set forth the rules and procedures of your business, including how it will be managed and run internally. It can also help you avoid disputes among members.
An LLC operating agreement helps preserve your limited liability status and adds credibility to your business. It should address who owns what, how profits and losses will be distributed, and other important internal issues. It’s a great way to protect your assets, and can save you money in the long run.
Registered Agent
In Florida, every LLC and corporation is required to have a registered agent who can receive legal mail and notifications on behalf of the company. A registered agent can be an individual, an organization or a legal service firm.
A registered agent is responsible for receiving important papers and official documents such as business license renewals, annual reports reminders or tax notices. In addition, your registered agent can act as a point of contact for the state and provide you with additional legal services.
A registered agent can be a great asset to your business, especially if you’re new to Florida and need help filing paperwork or staying on top of important deadlines. It can also help keep you safe from legal trouble.
Annual Reports
Florida is one of the most popular states to form an LLC due to its low taxes and protections for small business owners. However, the state requires business entities to file annual reports with the Secretary of State.
The annual report is a formal document that provides an overview of the company. It includes information like the names and addresses of business officers and managers, a company’s Registered Agent address, and other important details.
Most states require businesses to file annual reports to maintain their status with the Secretary of State. This paperwork helps the state and local governments stay updated on changes in a company’s address, ownership, and other details.
The state will send a reminder notice to business owners when their annual report is due. The state typically emails the notices to the email address on file and may also mail them to the registered agent on file.