If you’re thinking of forming an LLC in Florida, you have a few options to consider. You can do it yourself, use an LLC formation service, or hire a business attorney.
First, check to see if your chosen LLC name is available. You’ll need to do this by using the Florida Department of State’s business entity search tool.
Articles of Organization
Before you can get your Florida limited liability company (LLC) registered, you need to prepare and file Articles of Organization with the state. This is one of the most critical steps in getting your business up and running.
The articles of organization outline the structure and operation of your Florida LLC. They must include your LLC’s name, mailing address, and purpose.
It also specifies the management structure of the LLC. You can choose to have managers or members manage your LLC.
If you choose to have managers or members manage your LLC, be sure to add them as authorized representatives in the Articles of Organization.
You can also list the effective date of your LLC’s existence in the Articles of Organization, as long as it is no more than five business days before or 90 calendar days after the filing date.
Once you’ve finished preparing your Articles of Organization, submit them online or in person to the Florida Division of Corporations. The process takes about ten days to three weeks, depending on how many businesses are filing at the same time.
Registered Agent
If you are a business owner, you may be considering the benefits of forming an LLC in Florida. An LLC offers a number of tax advantages and can also protect you from personal liability.
To get an LLC in Florida, you will need to file your Articles of Organization and pay state fees. The state also requires that you appoint a registered agent for your business.
Your registered agent will accept legal mail and serve as the point of contact between your company and the government. They need to have a physical address in the state where your company is doing business (a PO box does not count), be available during standard business hours and provide a written acknowledgment of receipt for all official notices sent to them.
Choosing the right registered agent for your business can make all the difference in the world. Whether you choose to hire a service like Anderson Advisors or an attorney, it’s important that you have someone on hand to receive the necessary paperwork and notify you of deadlines and actions that you need to take.
EIN
If you want to get an LLC in Florida, you will need to obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number). This is a nine-digit number like a social security number for your business. It identifies your business and can help you with tax filings, opening a bank account and more.
The IRS requires that most businesses have an EIN, although there are some exceptions. These include single-member LLCs and sole proprietorships that do not have employees.
You should apply for an EIN as soon as possible after forming your LLC. This will help you keep track of your company’s finances and ensure that the IRS can accurately track your payments and filings.
You can get an EIN online via the IRS website. The system will verify your information and send you a confirmation letter. Alternatively, you can print out and mail an application form SS-4 to the IRS. Afterward, you can download or save your EIN confirmation notice to keep for your records.
Annual Report
If you want to operate an LLC in Florida, you will need to file an annual report. This is a yearly filing that must be submitted to the state on time each year between January 1 and May 1.
If you fail to file this on time, the state may administratively dissolve your business. You will then need to submit a reinstatement application and pay a $100 fee before you can regain your active status.
The information you include in your annual report will be listed publicly and can be amended if there are any changes in the business. This includes information about the officers, directors and managers of the business. It also includes the company name and address, registered agent details and business ID numbers.