If you’re looking to establish an LLC in Florida, there are several services you can use to help get your business up and running. These companies will help you file your Articles of Organization and obtain a tax ID, among other things.
The state of Florida requires an LLC to have a registered agent. This is an individual or company that agrees to accept legal documents from the state on behalf of the company if it receives a lawsuit.
Articles of Organization
To create a Florida LLC, you must first file articles of organization with the state. These documents outline the company’s rights, powers, and obligations.
The process varies from state to state, so it’s important to know the legal requirements for this form and to discuss them with business lawyers before you begin. You’ll also need to make sure you complete all document requests accurately to avoid delays or denials.
In addition to defining the company’s purpose, the Articles of Organization will need to include information about members and managers. This is a critical step because it sets up a legally established entity that will protect each partner’s personal assets and finances as well as establish limited liability protection.
The Articles of Organization will also include a Florida LLC’s principal business address and registered agent name and address. The registered agent will receive legal or government notices on behalf of the LLC. The registered agent must be a Florida resident or have a physical address in the state.
Annual Reports
Every business that is registered with the state must file annual reports. These are required to keep the state updated on your company’s officers, changes in your registered agent and other important details.
The state needs this information to stay in touch with your LLC with any upcoming filings, taxes or service of process. They also need to know how to reach you if they ever have any questions about your business.
Filing your Florida LLC’s annual report is easy and shouldn’t take much time at all. Once you have all the necessary information, just fill out the form online and submit it.
The Florida Department of State provides step-by-step filing instructions and a link to pay your fee online. Alternatively, you can file your Florida LLC annual report by mail. If you choose to file by mail, you’ll need a check made payable to the Florida Department of State and a copy of your company’s Certificate of Organization or Articles of Incorporation.
Registered Agent
A registered agent is the point of contact for Florida companies. They are responsible for receiving and forwarding important legal documents. They may also be required to file paperwork on behalf of the business, such as due dates, renewals, and annual reports.
The registered agent for a company must live in the state or be a licensed Florida artificial legal entity (corporation, LLC, LP, or LLP). They must be available during regular business hours to receive any service of process on the company’s behalf.
Some Florida registered agents provide additional services, such as mail scanning, answering your phone, maintaining your virtual office and more. Others offer assistance with your Articles of Organization and annual report filing. They can even help you avoid identity theft or fraud.
Employer Identification Number
If you’re starting a business in Florida, the first step is to get an employer identification number. This is similar to a social security number for your company, and it’s used by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify businesses for tax reporting.
Obtaining your EIN is free, but you can also opt to hire a company that will do it for you for a minimal fee. Companies such as Incfile offer affordable packages that will take care of this entire process on your behalf for just $70.
An EIN is important for your business because it allows you to establish a strong, professional identity with banks and the IRS. Plus, it’s a good way to add credibility to your LLC and show clients that you’re a legitimate and reliable company.