What Forms Do You Need To File to form a new Company in Florida?

Starting a business in Florida is an exciting step toward entrepreneurship, but it’s essential to ensure that all necessary forms are correctly filed with the Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz). Whether you’re forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation (Inc.), or another type of business entity, this guide will walk you through the required paperwork to get your business legally registered in Florida.

1. Choosing the Right Business Structure

Before filing any forms, you need to determine which type of business entity best suits your needs:

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Best for small businesses seeking liability protection and tax flexibility.

  • Corporation (Inc.) – Ideal for businesses looking to raise capital or expand significantly.

  • Sole Proprietorship or Partnership – Easier to set up but does not offer liability protection.

Once you choose your business structure, you must file the appropriate documents to make your company official.

2. Forms Required for Forming an LLC in Florida

A. Articles of Organization (LLC-1)

The Articles of Organization is the official form required to create an LLC in Florida.

B. Registered Agent Acceptance

A Registered Agent must be designated in the Articles of Organization. The agent must:

  • Have a physical address in Florida (no P.O. boxes).

  • Be available during business hours to receive legal documents.

C. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

While not required by Florida, an EIN (Tax ID Number) is essential for tax purposes, hiring employees, and opening a business bank account.

D. Operating Agreement (Optional but Recommended)

Although not required, an LLC Operating Agreement helps define the roles and responsibilities of LLC members.

3. Forms Required for Forming a Corporation in Florida

A. Articles of Incorporation (For-Profit Corporation)

The Articles of Incorporation is required to establish a Florida Corporation (Inc.).

B. Corporate Bylaws (Optional but Recommended)

Bylaws define the internal rules and operations of your corporation.

C. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Like LLCs, corporations also need an EIN from the IRS to conduct business.

4. Additional Filings & Compliance Requirements

A. Annual Report (Required for LLCs and Corporations)

All Florida LLCs and Corporations must file an Annual Report to stay active.

B. Business Licenses & Permits

Certain businesses may need additional local, state, or federal licenses:

C. Florida Fictitious Name Registration (DBA)

If operating under a name different from your legal entity name, you must register a Fictitious Name (DBA).

5. Watch Our Video on What Forms You Need to File to Start a Business in Florida

To help guide you through the filing process, check out our step-by-step YouTube video explaining What Forms You Need to File to Form a New Company in Florida:


6. Need Help Filing Your Business Forms?

Filing the right documents is crucial to starting your business on the right foot. If you need assistance with forming your Florida LLC or Corporation, we can help! At FloridaBusinessPlanWriter.com, we offer business formation services, ensuring all paperwork is correctly filed for you.

📞 Contact us today to let us handle the paperwork while you focus on growing your business!

Visit us at: FloridaBusinessPlanWriter.com

Tags: #FloridaBusinessFormation #StartABusinessInFlorida #FloridaLLC #FloridaCorporation #FloridaBusinessPlanWriter

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