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How to Start a Business in Florida

Everything it takes to legally start a business in Florida, in order — with the official Florida links for each step. Most people can complete the core setup in one to three weeks.

LLC filing fee
~$125
Processing
2–5 business days online
Ongoing report
annual · ~$138.75
State sales tax
yes
State income tax
no

  1. Pick a structure (sole proprietor or LLC)

    Most Florida owners start as a sole proprietor (free, no filing) or form an LLC for liability protection. The LLC filing fee is about $125, and formation typically takes about 2–5 business days online. Confirm the current fee on the state site before you pay.

    Florida business filing office ↗

  2. Name a registered agent

    If you form an LLC or corporation, Florida needs a registered agent with a physical in-state address. You can be your own agent if you're available during business hours, or hire a service for about $100–$150/year.

  3. Get your EIN from the IRS

    An Employer Identification Number is free from the IRS and takes a few minutes online. You need it to open a business bank account and to hire.

    IRS — Apply for an EIN ↗

  4. Register for Florida taxes

    Florida has a state sales/use tax and has no state individual income tax. Florida has no personal income tax, but the annual report has a hard deadline (May 1) with a steep $400 late fee.

    Florida tax registration ↗

  5. Confirm local licenses and permits

    Florida rarely issues a single statewide "business license" — most licensing is by city or county, plus profession-specific licenses. Check your city and your trade.

    Florida professional licensing ↗

  6. Open a business bank account and get insurance

    Keep business and personal money separate from day one. General liability insurance is the baseline; some contracts also require a bond.

  7. Put the ongoing report on your calendar

    Florida requires a annual report (about $138.75). $138.75 on-time; $400 late penalty

    Florida reports ↗

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Frequently asked

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Florida?

The state filing fee is about $125. Beyond that, budget for a registered agent if you hire one (~$100–$150/year), the annual report (~$138.75), and any local license fees. An EIN is free.

Do I need an LLC to start a business in Florida?

No. You can operate as a sole proprietor in Florida with no state filing. An LLC adds a layer of personal liability protection and can make you look more established to customers and lenders — it's a judgment call based on your risk and goals, not a legal requirement.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Florida?

Standard processing is about 2–5 business days online. Many states offer paid expedited options.

Does Florida have a sales tax?

Yes. If your product or service is taxable in Florida, you must register with the state tax agency before you collect tax. Many services are not taxable — confirm on the official site.

What ongoing filings does a Florida LLC have?

Florida requires a annual report (about $138.75). $138.75 on-time; $400 late penalty

Official sources

Fees and timelines are commonly-cited figures last reviewed 2025-06 and can change — always confirm on the official site. This is educational information, not legal or tax advice.

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AI-generated guidance is for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Disclosures · Trust center