Florida is an attractive state for entrepreneurs to register their business. Its low corporate and sales tax rates and a favorable business climate make it an excellent choice for companies of all sizes.
The Articles of Organization require the name and principal Florida street address of your LLC. You also need to include the registered agent’s name and street address.
Choosing a name
Picking a name for your Florida LLC is one of the most important decisions you will make. It’s a big part of how customers view your company and can have a significant impact on your sales and marketing efforts. Before you settle on a name, be sure it’s available and doesn’t infringe on any trademarks. You can do this by performing a Sunbiz business search.
Once you’ve settled on a name, you can reserve it for 120 days by filing a name reservation with the state. This will protect your chosen name while you complete the rest of the registration process. It’s also important to note that the name you choose must be unique and not the same as another business already registered with the state. This can be confirmed by conducting an online search or contacting the state agency. It’s also necessary to select a registered agent, who will receive official documents and other notifications on behalf of the business.
Filing the Articles of Organization
Once you have chosen the name of your business and figured out how you’ll manage it, it’s time to file your articles of organization with the state. These documents set up your LLC as a legal business entity that protects your personal assets and establishes limited liability.
Your articles of organization must include your legal business name, a description of the company’s purpose, and information about members and managers. You must also list your registered agent, a person or business who will receive legal or government notices for the LLC. The state will also need your mailing address and a daytime phone number for questions.
You can e-file your articles of organization or submit them by mail. E-filing is the quickest option, and you can expect to have your articles accepted within three to five business days. Once your articles are approved, you can start conducting business. If you have employees, be sure to get an Employer Identification Number from the IRS.
Choosing a registered agent
If you want to get the process started quickly, you can hire a national registered agent service. They will provide a streamlined solution that will save you time and money. They also offer improved privacy, which is important if you are dealing with lawsuits. Their names will not be publicly listed on the Florida public records search website.
Choosing a registered agent for your Florida LLC is one of the most important steps in registering your business. You must choose someone who can receive legal documents on behalf of your company and is available during normal business hours. A registered agent can be an individual or a business entity, but it must have a physical address in the state of Florida.
In addition to providing a reliable address, a good registered agent can also help you file annual reports and other timely documents. They can even help you obtain a Florida business license. Some services even provide additional assistance, such as bookkeeping and accounting, virtual office services, and mail handling.
Filing the annual report
Florida LLCs are required to file an annual report, which is a standardized way for the state to keep up with business information. This includes changes in the company name, mailing address, and registered agent information. Failure to file an annual report by the deadline could result in late fees and even dissolution of the business entity.
The report includes the following information:
Purpose of Business: This outlines the general purpose of the company and any products or services offered. Shares Issued: The number of shares issued by the company, including non-member manager shares.
Names of the owners: The full names of all members and their Florida street addresses. Mailing Address: The preferred address where the company should receive legal and government documents.
The Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz) will send 4 courtesy annual report reminder notices. The first is typically sent around the middle of January, with subsequent notices every 4-5 weeks. If you use Sunshine Corporate Filings as your Florida registered agent, the state will email or send by mail your annual report reminder notices.