If you’re looking to start an LLC in Florida, there are several steps that must be taken. These steps include choosing a business name, designating a registered agent, filing articles of organization, and creating an operating agreement.
An operating agreement is an internal document that lays the groundwork for your company’s financial, legal, and operational aspects. It acts as a compass for your business and prevents conflicts among its members.
Establishing the business entity
One of the first steps to creating an LLC in Florida is establishing its business entity status. You’ll need to file Articles of Organization with the state, which can be done online or by mail.
The form asks you for your LLC’s name, principal place of business and registered agent’s name and address. It also asks for the names of your members and managers, if applicable.
You’ll need to comply with federal, state and local tax regulations for your business. You’ll need to obtain an Employer Identification Number and register for business licenses and permits. You’ll also need to register for business insurance.
Choosing a business name
Choosing your business name is an important step in creating a new LLC. It can help differentiate your business and make it easy for customers to find you.
You should choose a name that accurately describes what your company does and is memorable enough that people will remember it. It should also be unique and not deceptively similar to other business names.
State laws limit what you can include in your business name. For example, you can’t include words that could confuse your LLC with a government agency (FBI, Treasury, State Department), or words referring to banks or financial institutions.
In addition, you must check your LLC name with state databases to ensure that it is not already registered by another business in Florida. This can be done through a free online search on the Sunbiz Florida website.
Designating a registered agent
Designating a registered agent is an important step to follow when forming an LLC in Florida. This is because a registered agent can help you keep track of government, state, and county-issued documents.
The registered agent will also receive any service of process notices and other official legal notices for your business. They must be available during normal business hours to receive these items and be able to provide you with updates once they arrive.
Some businesses default into using a member of their staff or managers as the registered agent, but this is not a viable option for several reasons. It is difficult to guarantee that a member or manager of your company will be available during normal business hours to accept these notifications and ensure they get delivered in a timely manner.
Filing articles of organization
Articles of organization are the first step in registering a business entity. They provide information about your company’s name, location, contact information and other legal details.
Filing articles is a fairly simple process that can be completed online or by mail. However, if you aren’t familiar with the process, it is best to get help from an attorney.
The person who fills out the documents must be an authorized representative of the LLC. They can be an owner or manager of the company.
Depending on your state, you may need to include other information. For example, some states require professional LLCs (an LLC owned by licensed professionals such as doctors and lawyers) to use a separate form.
Once you’ve filed your articles, wait for the state to approve them. Usually, this will happen within 5 business days of filing.
Creating an operating agreement
While Florida statutes do not specifically require an operating agreement, it’s recommended for all LLCs. This can give you a greater degree of flexibility when it comes to running your company.
An operating agreement describes the membership structure and establishes rules and procedures for management. It also includes the terms and conditions governing profits and losses, interest assignments, meeting and voting procedures, property ownership, and more.
It’s important to remember that the terms of an operating agreement are binding. This means that they are legally enforceable, even against individual members of an LLC.
While there are a few solutions for creating an LLC operating agreement, it’s always best to use one that is drafted by a legal professional. You can find attorneys in your area who specialize in drafting these documents on UpCounsel’s marketplace.