If you are a Florida business owner, you may need to obtain a certificate of formation for various reasons. Getting one can help you open a business bank account, apply for credit, and conduct business in other states as a foreign entity.
Generally, a certificate of formation is only needed by corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and partnerships. You can order a certificate of formation online, in person, or by mail.
Online
Getting a certificate of formation is an important step in starting your business. It enables you to prove that you are complying with the state’s rules and regulations.
There are several ways to get a certificate of formation in Florida, including online. The process is fast and easy, but you will have to pay a one-time fee to file.
You can also hire an attorney to help you with the filing process. However, hiring a lawyer can be costly.
The cost of forming an LLC varies by state, and it may be difficult to find a lawyer with the experience you need.
To form an LLC in Florida, you will need to fill out Articles of Organization (known as a Certificate of Organization in some states). You will need to provide the name of the LLC, the address where your company will be located, and who will be the LLC’s registered agent.
In Person
Getting a certificate of formation is one of the first steps in establishing an LLC. This is a legal document that states your LLC was formed and is recognized as a legal business entity in the state of Florida.
The Florida Department of State website allows you to file online, but if you need assistance, they also offer in-person services. The cost of an in-person request is a bit high, but the process is usually the same day or within 2 days.
Once you have the documents completed, send them to the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations. They’ll send back a stamped, dated Certificate of Formation.
The Certificate of Status is a legal document that lets banks, investors and other parties know you’re in compliance with state laws. It’s important to keep your COS valid as you continue to grow and expand your business.
By Mail
If you’re a Florida business that needs to get a certificate of formation, there are a few options for how to do this. You can go online, visit the Division of Corporations office in person, or mail a letter to the Department of State.
A certificate of status, or COS, is a legal document that proves your business is legally formed and properly maintained in the state it’s registered with. It is used by banks and investors to determine whether you’re in compliance with state regulations.
For example, a bank may ask for a COS before offering you a business loan or credit. Similarly, investors will often request a COS before they invest in your company.
Fortunately, getting a COS isn’t difficult for any Florida business, including LLCs, corporations, and partnerships. You can complete the process by filing a few simple documents with the Division of Corporations and pay a small fee.
By Phone
A certificate of formation in Florida is a document that confirms that your business has met all requirements for doing business in the state. It’s often required by banks, investors, and other businesses before doing business with you.
There are a few ways to get a certificate of formation in Florida, including online and by phone. You can also visit the Division of Corporations in person and fill out a request form.
Getting your first certificate of status can be a simple process. All you need to do is provide your entity’s registration or document number and email address.
Once your order has been processed, you’ll receive a digital certificate of status as a PDF. Alternatively, you can mail your request and pay by check or money order payable to the Florida Department of State.
You can also request certified copies by mail, which are available for $8.75 for corporations, partnerships, and LLCs and $5 for sole proprietorships. These copies are used to secure a bank loan, apply for a certificate of authority, and obtain business licenses.