Start your Florida LLC journey with confidence. Our step-by-step guide ensures you'll navigate the Articles of Organization process smoothly, understanding all requirements and legal implications before you begin.
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a flexible business structure that combines the liability protection of a corporation with the tax advantages and operational flexibility of a partnership. Florida LLCs are governed by Chapter 605 of the Florida Statutes.
LLCs have become the most popular business entity choice for new businesses in Florida due to their unique combination of benefits and relatively straightforward formation process.
Liability Protection
LLC members are generally not personally responsible for business debts and liabilities, protecting personal assets from business creditors.
Tax Flexibility
LLCs enjoy "pass-through" taxation by default, avoiding corporate double taxation, with options to be taxed as S-Corps for potential savings.
Operational Freedom
LLCs have fewer corporate formalities and greater management flexibility compared to corporations, with customizable operating agreements.
Key Requirements Before Filing
1
Authorized Signature
A member, manager, or authorized representative must sign the Articles of Organization.
2
Physical Address
A Florida street address is required (no P.O. boxes) for your principal place of business.
3
Registered Agent
Must be a Florida resident or authorized business with a physical address accessible during business hours.
4
LLC Name
Must be unique and contain "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to distinguish it from other business entities.
Before filing, ensure your LLC name is available by searching the Florida Division of Corporations database. Your registered agent must provide a signed acceptance and maintain a physical Florida address accessible during normal business hours.
Payment Information
Accepted Payment Methods
Credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks are accepted for online filings through the Florida Department of State's secure payment portal.
Filing Fees
The standard filing fee for Florida LLC Articles of Organization is $125. Additional services such as certified copies ($30) or certificates of status ($5) are available for an extra charge.
Secure Transactions
All online payments are processed through a secure, encrypted connection to protect your financial information and prevent unauthorized access.
Step-by-Step Filing Guide
Verify Name Availability
Search the Division of Corporations database to ensure your desired LLC name is available and compliant with Florida naming requirements.
Complete Form LLC1
Fill out all required fields in the Articles of Organization form, including LLC name, principal address, registered agent information, and management structure.
Obtain Registered Agent Consent
Secure signed acceptance from your registered agent, confirming their willingness to serve in this capacity.
Submit and Pay
File online through Sunbiz.org or mail your completed form with the $125 filing fee to the Division of Corporations.
Post-Filing Requirements
1
Obtain EIN
Apply for an Employer Identification Number from the IRS using Form SS-4 or their online application system within the first weeks after formation.
2
Open Business Bank Account
Establish a separate business bank account using your LLC's EIN and Articles of Organization to maintain legal separation of personal and business assets.
3
Create Operating Agreement
Draft a comprehensive operating agreement outlining ownership, management structure, profit/loss distributions, and dissolution procedures.
4
File Annual Report
Submit your annual report between January 1 and May 1 each year with the $138.75 filing fee to maintain active status.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incomplete Information
Missing sections or incomplete information on your Articles of Organization will result in processing delays or outright rejection. Double-check that all required fields are completed, particularly registered agent information.
Inadequate Business Name Research
Choosing a name already in use or too similar to an existing Florida business can lead to rejection. Conduct thorough name searches and ensure your name includes the proper LLC designator.
Missing Important Deadlines
Failing to file your annual report by May 1st results in a $400 late fee. Missing the September 30th deadline leads to administrative dissolution, requiring reinstatement fees.
Resources and Support
Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate information, this guide does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions regarding your LLC formation, please consult with a qualified attorney licensed in Florida.