Starting an LLC is a popular choice for new businesses in Florida. It offers limited liability protection and tax benefits.
However, there are a few key things to keep in mind before you begin the process of forming your LLC. These tips can help you stay on track with your new business.
Articles of Organization
Articles of organization are an important part of starting a limited liability company in Florida. They detail the LLC’s name, address, registered agent, and authorized managers or members.
A limited liability company is a popular business structure because it offers flexible management and taxation. It can also offer strong liability protection.
The state of Florida requires that all LLCs file articles of organization with the Department of State. This process can be completed online, by mail or in person.
It costs $125 to file Articles of Organization in Florida. The filing fee can be paid by check or credit card.
It’s a good idea to perform a preliminary name search before submitting your articles of organization to make sure there aren’t any other companies already using the name you want. This is especially important if you want to avoid trademark infringement.
Bylaws
LLCs are one of the most popular business structures in Florida, as they come with tax flexibility and offer personal asset protection. Besides, they are easy to start and maintain.
In addition, LLCs can pass profits through to their owners and avoid double taxation. They also have a limited liability and allow for ownership by non-family members.
The first step in starting an LLC in Florida is filing Articles of Organization with the Division of Corporations. This document explains the company’s name, purpose, registered office address and more.
Aside from these, the Articles of Organization must include the name and contact information for your registered agent. This person is responsible for receiving official documents and communications from the state, including notices of a potential lawsuit against the company. They can be an individual, but it’s most common for attorneys and other professionals to serve as registered agents.
Annual Reports
Every year, your business needs to file an annual report with the state of Florida. Whether you’re a large corporation or small LLC, this is an important process that helps keep your business in good standing.
It also keeps the state up-to-date on changes in your company’s information. This includes the name of your company, your registered agent’s address and the names and addresses of all officers, directors, managers or members.
You can also update your principal office and mailing addresses, as well as your business’s federal employer identification number (EIN). It’s very easy to file your annual report online through the Florida Sunbiz website.
You can use your 6- or 12-digit document number to log in and start the filing process. If you’ve forgotten your number, just search for it with the “Forgot Number?” link on the Florida Sunbiz site and it will show up in a list. Once you’re logged in, it will be easy to submit the annual report and pay the fee with credit or debit card.
Meetings
Starting a business can be a challenging process. There are so many paperwork tasks to complete, and they can be very time-consuming.
That’s why it’s important to create a starting LLC Florida checklist before you begin forming your company. This will help you stay organized and avoid a lot of confusion in the future.
One of the first things you’ll want to do is file Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations. These are the documents that create your LLC and allow you to legally operate in the state.
The Articles of Organization contain important information about the purpose of your business. It also includes the names of authorized managers or representatives.
Once you’ve filed your Articles of Organization, it’s time to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). This federal tax number is similar to a Social Security number and functions like a federal ID for your business.