Starting a Florida Corporation is a great way to establish a legal business entity with liability protection and tax benefits. However, before you file your paperwork, it's important to understand the costs associated with forming a corporation in Florida. In this guide, we’ll break down the exact fees you can expect when setting up your corporation, along with additional costs you may need to consider.
1. Florida Corporation Filing Fees
The Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz) is responsible for processing business entity filings, including corporations. Below are the required fees:
Articles of Incorporation Filing Fee – $35
Registered Agent Designation Fee – $25
Certified Copy of Articles (Optional but Recommended) – $8.75
Certificate of Status (Optional) – $8.75
💰 Total Minimum Cost to Form a Florida Corporation: $60
If you request a certified copy and certificate of status, the total cost will be $77.50.
📝 Where to File:
Online: Sunbiz E-File System
Mail: Download the Articles of Incorporation PDF and send it to: Florida Division of Corporations
P.O. Box 6327
Tallahassee, FL 32314
⏳ Processing Time:
Online Filings: Typically processed within 1-5 business days.
Mail Filings: Can take 2-4 weeks for processing.
2. Annual Report & Ongoing Costs
Every Florida Corporation must file an Annual Report to remain active. The Annual Report Fee for a Florida Corporation is $150 and is due between January 1st and May 1st each year.
🔴 Late Filing Penalty: If you miss the May 1st deadline, there is a $400 late fee, bringing the total cost to $550.
3. Additional Costs to Consider
A. Registered Agent Service (If Not Using Yourself)
Every Florida Corporation must designate a Registered Agent with a physical address in Florida to receive legal notices. If you don’t want to serve as your own agent, you can hire a registered agent service.
Cost of a Registered Agent Service: $100 - $300 per year.
B. Business Licenses & Permits
Depending on your business type and location, you may need state, county, or city business licenses. Costs vary, so check with your local county clerk’s office.
Average Cost: $50 - $500, depending on industry and location.
C. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An EIN (Tax ID Number) is required for hiring employees, opening business bank accounts, and filing corporate taxes. You can obtain an EIN for free from the IRS.
Apply Online: IRS EIN Application
Cost: $0
D. Corporate Bylaws & Operating Agreements
While Florida does not require corporations to file Corporate Bylaws, it is strongly recommended to create one to outline your company’s structure and operations.
Cost: $50 - $300 if using a business attorney or online legal service.
E. Initial Tax Obligations & Fees
Florida Corporate Income Tax Rate: 5.5% on net income over $50,000.
Sales Tax Registration: If selling taxable goods/services, you must register with the Florida Department of Revenue.
💡 Check with a CPA or tax professional to understand your corporation’s tax obligations.
4. Should You Use an LLC Instead of a Corporation?
Many Florida business owners choose to form an LLC instead of a corporation due to its simpler structure and tax advantages. The filing fee for a Florida LLC is $125, and it does not require as much ongoing paperwork as a corporation.
Read more: How to Form a Florida LLC
5. Watch Our Video on Florida Corporation Formation Costs
To help you better understand the expenses involved, we’ve created a detailed video guide on How Much Does it Cost to Form a Florida Corporation? Watch it below to get step-by-step insights into the filing process and additional costs to consider:
6. Need Help Forming Your Florida Corporation?
If you’d like professional assistance with forming your Florida Corporation, we can handle the entire process for you! Our team at FloridaBusinessPlanWriter.com specializes in Florida business formations, including corporations, LLCs, and business planning services.
📞 Contact us today and let us take care of your Florida Corporation formation so you can focus on growing your business!
Visit us at: FloridaBusinessPlanWriter.com
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