How to Open a New LLC in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide for Entrepreneurs
Starting a new business is an exciting milestone, and forming a Florida LLC is one of the best ways to protect your personal assets while giving your company a strong legal foundation. Whether you’re launching a new venture or formalizing an existing one, understanding the steps will help you start on the right foot.
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Your business name is your brand identity. Florida requires your LLC name to be unique and to end with “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.”
2. Check Availability
Before deciding on a name, confirm it’s available across all the platforms you plan to use:
Sunbiz (Florida Division of Corporations) — to ensure the name isn’t already taken
Domain names — secure the website address you want
Social media handles — check Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc.
Trademarks — optional but recommended to avoid future conflicts
Doing this upfront helps prevent costly rebranding later.
3. File Your Articles of Organization on Sunbiz
To officially create your LLC, file your Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations. The state charges a filing fee of approximately $138 (this amount may vary slightly depending on processing or optional services).
The Articles include basic information such as:
LLC name
Principal office address
Registered agent
Member/manager information (optional to list)
Once filed and accepted, your LLC is officially recognized in Florida.
4. Apply for an EIN With the IRS (It’s Free!)
Every LLC should obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. An EIN allows you to:
Open a business bank account
Hire employees
File business taxes
Set up payroll
Build business credit
Important:
Applying for an EIN on the IRS website is 100% FREE. Be cautious of third-party websites that try to charge you for this service—they are unnecessary and often misleading. Only use the official IRS.gov website.
5. Draft an Operating Agreement
Even though Florida does not legally require LLCs to have an operating agreement, it is still a vital document for both single-member and multi-member LLCs. It outlines:
Ownership structure
Member rights and responsibilities
How decisions are made
Profit and loss allocation
Procedures for adding or removing members
What happens if a member leaves or becomes incapacitated
Having one strengthens your liability protection and creates clarity for current and future operations.
6. Open a Business Bank Account
With your Articles of Organization and EIN in hand, you can open a business bank account. Keeping business and personal finances separate is crucial for maintaining liability protection and clean financial records.
7. Obtain Any Required Licenses or Permits
Depending on your industry and location, you may need additional approvals such as:
City or county business tax receipts
Professional licenses
Industry-specific permits (e.g., food service, health, construction, beauty)
Make sure you check both state and local requirements.
8. Maintain Your LLC
To keep your LLC in good standing:
File your Annual Report with Florida every year between January 1 and May 1
Keep business records up to date
Maintain a registered agent
Renew any licenses or permits as needed
Staying compliant protects your business and prevents penalties.
Ready to Start Your Florida LLC the Right Way?
If you want guidance through the entire formation process—from selecting a name to preparing your operating agreement—I’m here to help.
Contact me today to schedule a consultation and set up your Florida LLC with confidence.
