LLC Cost in Florida | How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
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LLC Costs in Florida

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Florida is a popular choice for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to protect their personal assets and enjoy flexibility in their business operations. LLC formation costs vary from state to state, and it is essential to understand the costs involved in forming and maintaining an LLC in Florida.

If you would like to know more about the Florida LLC Cost, read the whole article until the end. Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you gain knowledge on how much an LLC Costs in Florida. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

How to Start an LLC?

Before we dive into the LLC Cost in Florida, you should know the step-by-step process of starting an LLC, including selecting a unique business name, appointing a Registered Agent, filing the necessary documents, and fulfilling any additional requirements, such as obtaining licenses or permits that are specific to your industry or location.

Here are the steps in starting an LLC in Florida:

  • Step 1: Choose a Unique Business Name
    The first step in starting an LLC in Florida is to select a unique business name for your company. The name should be distinguishable from any other registered businesses in the state. You can check the availability of your desired business name by searching the state’s business name database. Once you’ve found an available name, you may need to include “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” at the end of the name to comply with state requirements.
  • Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent
    A Registered Agent is someone who will receive official legal and tax documents on behalf of your LLC. The Registered Agent must have a physical address in Florida and be available during normal business hours. You have the option to appoint yourself as the registered agent or hire a professional registered agent service.
  • Step 3: File the Articles of Organization
    To officially form your LLC, you need to file the Articles of Organization with the Florida Secretary of State or the appropriate state agency. The Articles of Organization typically requires basic information about your LLC, such as its name, address, Registered Agent details, and the name and address of the LLC’s members or managers.
  • Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
    Once your LLC is formed, it’s highly recommended to create an operating agreement in Florida. Although not required by Florida law, an operating agreement is a crucial internal document that outlines the ownership, management, and operating procedures of your LLC. It helps establish clear guidelines and expectations among members, and it can be especially useful in the event of disputes or disagreements in the future. The operating agreement can be customized to fit the specific needs and goals of your LLC.
  • Step 5: Obtain Required Licenses and Permits
    Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain specific licenses or permits at the federal, state, or local level. Research the licensing requirements in Florida and apply for business licenses in Florida related to your industry or activities. Common examples include professional licenses, health or safety permits, and sales tax permits.
  • Step 6: File for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
    An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that is used to identify your LLC for tax purposes. Even if you don’t have employees, obtaining an EIN is typically required if you plan to open a business bank account, hire contractors, or file certain tax forms. You can easily apply for an EIN in Florida through the IRS website.
  • Step 7: Comply with Ongoing Requirements
    Once your LLC is established in Florida, it’s important to stay in compliance with any ongoing requirements. This may include filing periodic reports, paying Annual Report fees, and renewing licenses or permits. Familiarize yourself with the specific obligations for maintaining your LLC’s good standing in Florida.

Remember, starting an LLC in Florida involves some specific steps and requirements that may differ from other states. It’s advisable to hire an LLC Services in Florida that specializes in business formation to ensure that you follow all the necessary procedures accurately and efficiently. We reviewed the Best LLC Services for you to check out.

LLC Cost in Florida

It is crucial to consider the costs associated with the formation and maintenance of your business. The costs of establishing and operating an LLC in Florida can vary based on several factors, including the initial formation fees, ongoing compliance requirements, and optional expenses.

Initial LLC Costs

When starting a limited liability company (LLC), knowing the initial costs associated with forming and registering your new business entity is essential. Understanding and preparing for these expenses can help you budget effectively and set your Florida business on a path to success. Some common initial costs associated with forming an LLC include Articles of Organization filing fees, Registered Agent fees, and additional services, such as business name reservation fees.

Articles of Organization Filing Fee

The first step in forming an LLC in Florida is to file the Florida Articles of Organization with the Florida Secretary of State. This document officially creates the LLC and includes essential information about the business, such as its name, address, and Registered Agent.

This document includes essential information about your LLC, such as:

  • The name of your LLC
  • The address of your LLC’s principal office
  • The name and address of your Registered Agent
  • The purpose of your LLC (optional in some states)

You can typically file the Articles of Organization online, by mail, or in person. A filing fee is associated with this process, which costs around $100. You can also file by mailing it to Florida Secretary of State, which is located at New Filing Section, Division of Corporations, P.O. Box 6327, Tallahassee, FL 32314.

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Registered Agent Fee

An LLC in Florida must designate a Registered Agent who will be responsible for receiving legal and government documents on behalf of the business. You can act as your own Registered Agent or appoint someone you know. Professional Registered Agent in Florida typically charge an annual fee ranging from $50 – $150.

In Florida, your Registered Agent must:

  • Be a resident of Florida or a business entity authorized to do business in the state.
  • Have a physical address in Florida (P.O. boxes are not acceptable)

Choosing a reliable and responsible Registered Agent is essential, as failure to receive and respond to legal documents can seriously affect your business.

We reviewed some of the Best Registered Agent Services in Florida and provided features as an add-on with their packages for you to check out.

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Business Name Reservation Fee

If you have a specific business name in mind and want to ensure it is available when you are ready to file your Articles of Organization, you can reserve the business name with the Florida Secretary of State.

In Florida, your LLC name must:

  • Include the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.
  • Not contain any words or phrases that are prohibited by state law
  • Be distinguishable from the names of other businesses registered in the state

However, if you do not wish to file your LLC right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your LLC name for 120 days. You must file a name reservation application in the Florida Secretary of State to keep the name.

The online name reservation fee is $35, while the mail name reservation fee is $25. You can register your business under a different legal name if your preferred name isn’t available. Once you have chosen a name, you can submit an application for a DBA (doing business as). If you have decided to file for a DBA, you can file it in three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing.. However, before filing Florida DBA, you should know that you need to renew your DBA for up to five years, which cost $50 Processing Fee, $10 Certificate of Status, $30 Certified Copy.

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Ongoing LLC Costs

After you know the initial costs of forming an LLC in Florida, you should also know the ongoing costs once you have filed for an LLC. Here are the involved costs that you need to know.

Annual Report Filing Fee

To keep your LLC in good standing, you must file Annual Report with the Florida Secretary of State. The Annual Report provides updated information about your LLC, such as changes in address, members, or Registered Agent.

In Florida, the Annual Report fee costs $138.75 which can be paid every 1 year (between 1st January and 1st May).

Franchise Tax or Annual LLC Tax

Some states require LLCs to pay an annual franchise or LLC tax, separate from the Annual Report filing fee. Franchise tax, or annual tax, is a fee imposed by Florida on businesses, including LLCs and Florida Corporations, for the privilege of operating within their jurisdiction. This tax is separate from income taxes and is usually based on factors such as the company’s net worth, assets, capital, or a fixed dollar amount, depending on the Florida’s specific tax regulations.

Florida LLC Taxes To Be Paid

The State of Florida is one of those rarest states in the United States that does not levy any personal income tax on businesses. However, the business LLCs must file other taxes with the State authorities.

  • Sales Tax: A sales tax is a government-imposed tax on the sale of goods and services. It is generally added to the price of a product or service at the point of sale and paid by the consumer. The tax is collected by the retailer or service provider, who then remits the collected tax amount to the relevant government authority. In Florida, the sales tax rate is 6.00%.
  • State Income Tax: Considering other taxes in Florida, you should pay for the state income tax, with a rate of 5.50%.
  • LLC Federal Self-Employment Tax: Federal self-employment tax rates are the same across all states. Self-employment taxes are imposed on self-employed individuals or members of a Limited Liability Company (LLC) taxed as a sole proprietorship or partnership.
  • Property Tax: The property tax is fixed at 0.98% of industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural, and all other properties.

Business Licenses and Permits

Depending on the nature of your Florida business and the location of your operations, you may need to obtain permits and business licenses in Florida. The costs of these licenses and permits will vary based on your specific business and location. In Florida, the business license ranges from $50 – $300. However, research the requirements for your LLC in Florida and budget for these expenses accordingly.

Optional LLC Costs

Here are the optional costs you must consider if you will form an operating agreement or hire a professional service.

Operating Agreement

Although not required by law, it is highly recommended that LLCs create an operating agreement in Florida. This document outlines the LLC’s ownership structure, management, and operating procedures. Hiring a business attorney to draft an operating agreement can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000, or you can use online resources and templates to create one yourself.

Professional Services

You may hire professionals such as attorneys, accountants, or business consultants to help you establish and run your Florida LLC. These services can provide valuable expertise and guidance but come at an additional cost. Consider the potential benefits and weigh them against the costs when hiring professional assistance.

You may check out the Best Business Attorney Services in Florida that offer their professional services to form your business.

Can I Set Up an LLC For Free?

It’s impossible to set up an LLC entirely for free, as state filing fees and other costs are associated with establishing an LLC. However, you can save money by handling the formation process instead of hiring a professional service. Here are some steps to help you minimize the cost of setting up an LLC:

  • Choose your LLC’s name and check for availability in your state. This can generally be done through the Secretary of State’s website.
  • Prepare and file the Articles of Organization yourself. Florida offer an online filing option or downloadable forms on their websites. By completing this process independently, you can avoid paying additional fees for a professional service.
  • Act as your own Registered Agent if permitted within Florida. It allows the business owner to serve as the Registered Agent, saving you the cost of hiring a professional registered agent service.
  • Create your own Operating Agreement using online resources and templates. Although not required in every state, an Operating Agreement is highly recommended to outline your LLC’s ownership structure and management. By drafting this document yourself, you can save on legal fees.
  • Research and apply for any required licenses and permits on your own. Depending on your business type and location, you may need specific permits or licenses. These costs can vary, but handling the application process yourself can save you the expense of hiring a professional service.

While you can’t set up an LLC for free, taking a do-it-yourself approach and minimizing the use of professional services can help you save money during the formation process. However, handling these tasks requires time and effort, and there may be additional legal or financial risks if mistakes occur.

FAQs

What is the cost to file an LLC in Florida?
The cost to file an LLC in Florida is $100 online or $125 by mail.
Does Florida require annual reports for LLCs?
Yes, Florida requires LLCs to file annual reports and the fee for filing is $138.75.
Are there any additional fees required to maintain an LLC in Florida?
Yes, there may be additional fees required depending on your business activities. For example, if you sell goods and services in Florida, you may need to collect and remit sales tax.
Can I use a registered agent service in Florida for my LLC?
Yes, a registered agent service can be used for an LLC in Florida.
What is the average turnaround time for the Florida LLC filing process?
The average turnaround time for the Florida LLC filing process is usually about 5-7 business days.
Can I form an LLC in Florida if I am not a resident?
Yes, you can form an LLC in Florida even if you are not a resident of the state.
How much does it cost to renew an LLC in Florida?
The cost to renew an LLC in Florida is $138.75.
Does Florida have a franchise tax for LLCs?
No, Florida does not have a franchise tax for LLCs.
Can an LLC be taxed as an S corporation in Florida?
Yes, an LLC can elect to be taxed as an S corporation in Florida.
Can I amend my Florida LLC operating agreement?
Yes, you can amend your Florida LLC operating agreement.
How long does it take to get an EIN for my Florida LLC?
It usually takes about 1-2 business days to get an EIN for your Florida LLC.
Can I change the name of my Florida LLC?
Yes, you can change the name of your Florida LLC by filing an amendment with the state.
Can I convert my sole proprietorship to an LLC in Florida?
Yes, you can convert your sole proprietorship to an LLC in Florida.
Do I need a business license to operate my Florida LLC?
Yes, you may need a business license depending on the type of business you are operating.
Can I add members to my Florida LLC after it has been formed?
Yes, you can add members to your Florida LLC after it has been formed.
Can a foreign LLC do business in Florida?
Yes, a foreign LLC can do business in Florida by registering as a foreign entity with the state.
How much does it cost to dissolve an LLC in Florida?
To dissolve an LLC in Florida, the filing fee is $5.
Can I file my Florida LLC paperwork myself or do I need an attorney?
You can file your Florida LLC paperwork yourself, but it is recommended to consult with an attorney for legal advice.
Can I have a single-member LLC in Florida?
Yes, you can have a single-member LLC in Florida.
How can I dissolve my Florida LLC?
To dissolve your Florida LLC, you will need to file Articles of Dissolution with the state.
Can I split profits unequally in my Florida LLC?
Yes, you can split profits unequally among LLC members in Florida.
Can I convert my Florida LLC to a corporation?
Yes, you can convert your Florida LLC to a corporation.
How can I file an annual report for my Florida LLC?
You can file the annual report for your Florida LLC online or by mail.
Do I need an operating agreement for my Florida LLC?
It is not required by law to have an operating agreement for your Florida LLC, but it is highly recommended.
Can I have a PO Box address for my Florida LLC?
No, you must have a physical Florida address for your LLC.
Can I change the business address for my Florida LLC?
Yes, you can change the business address for your Florida LLC by filing paperwork with the state.
Do I need to file for a tax ID for my Florida LLC?
Yes, you need to obtain a tax ID for your Florida LLC, also known as an EIN.
Can I convert my Florida corporation to an LLC?
Yes, you can convert your Florida corporation to an LLC.
Can I operate multiple businesses under one Florida LLC?
Yes, you can operate multiple businesses under one Florida LLC.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Florida?
It costs $125 to file articles of organization for an LLC in Florida.
Are there any additional fees for filing an LLC in Florida?
Yes, there is a $35 processing fee for filing articles of organization for an LLC in Florida.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Florida?
It typically takes about 5-7 business days for the Florida Division of Corporations to process and approve LLC filings.
Do I need a lawyer to form an LLC in Florida?
No, you can file articles of organization for an LLC in Florida yourself, or you can hire a registered agent to help you.
What is a registered agent in Florida?
A registered agent in Florida is someone who receives legal documentation and government notices on behalf of the LLC.
How do I choose a registered agent for my LLC in Florida?
You can choose a registered agent in Florida by appointing someone within your LLC or by hiring a professional registered agent service.
Can a business entity be its own registered agent in Florida?
Yes, a business entity can act as its own registered agent in Florida.
What are the annual fees for an LLC in Florida?
An LLC in Florida is required to pay an $138.75 annual fee.
When is the annual fee due for an LLC in Florida?
The annual fee for an LLC in Florida is due by May 1st of each year.
What happens if I miss the deadline for the annual fee for my LLC in Florida?
If you miss the May 1st deadline for the annual fee for your LLC in Florida, you will be charged a $400 late fee.
Does Florida LLC law require regular meetings or annual reports?
No, Florida LLC law doesn’t require regular meetings or annual reports to be filed.
What is an operating agreement for an LLC in Florida?
An operating agreement for an LLC in Florida is a legal document that outlines the LLC’s ownership structure, management, and other key details.
Is it necessary to have an operating agreement for an LLC in Florida?
No, it’s not necessary to have an operating agreement for an LLC in Florida, but it’s strongly recommended as it provides clear guidelines for the company’s operations and can prevent disputes.
Can I amend my LLC operating agreement in Florida?
Yes, you can amend your LLC operating agreement in Florida at any time with approval from all of the members.
How much does it cost to amend an LLC operating agreement in Florida?
There’s no fee for amending an LLC operating agreement in Florida, but you may incur legal fees if you seek legal advice or assistance.
Can I change the name of my LLC in Florida?
Yes, you can change the name of your LLC in Florida by filing an amendment to the articles of organization and paying a $25 fee.
Can people who live outside Florida form LLCs there?
Yes, anyone can form an LLC in Florida, regardless of where they live.
Can I authorize multiple managers to operate my LLC in Florida?
Yes, you can authorize multiple managers to operate your LLC in Florida.
How much will it cost to register to do business as an LLC in Florida and other states?
The cost to register as an LLC and do business in Florida and other states will vary depending on the specific state’s fees.
What are the Florida tax obligations for an LLC?
Generally, an LLC in Florida must pay a state income tax or a franchise tax, depending on its ownership structure.
Do I have to pay taxes on an LLC in Florida if it brings no income?
No, you don’t have to pay state income taxes or franchise taxes for an LLC in Florida if it brings no income.
What is the minimum tax on LLC in Florida?
The minimum Florida LLC tax is $138.75 per year.
Do you have to file taxes for an LLC in Florida that’s considered a disregarded entity by the IRS?
No, if your LLC in Florida is considered a disregarded entity, you don’t have to file a separate tax return for it.
Can an LLC elect to be taxed as an S corporation in Florida?
Yes, an LLC in Florida can elect to be taxed as an S corporation by filing Form 2553 with the IRS.
How long does the renaming process take for an LLC in Florida?
The renaming process for an LLC in Florida usually takes about 5-7 business days.
Can I convert my LLC to a different business entity in Florida?
Yes, you can convert your LLC to a different business entity in Florida by filing the appropriate paperwork and paying any required fees.
How do I transfer ownership of my LLC in Florida?
To transfer ownership of your LLC in Florida, you would need to change the ownership structure in the operating agreement and/or file documentation with the state.
Are there any additional taxes that an LLC in Florida needs to pay for doing business under an assumed name?
No, there are no additional taxes that an LLC in Florida needs to pay for operating under an assumed name.

Also Read

How to Save Money While Starting Your Business LLC in Florida

One of the most effective ways to save money when starting a business is to create a detailed budget that outlines your expenses and income. By having a clear understanding of how much money you have and how much you need to spend, you can make informed decisions about where to cut costs and where to invest. Remember to always overestimate your expenses and underestimate your income to ensure you have a buffer for unexpected costs.

Another way to save money when starting your business is to consider alternative ways to obtain the goods and services you need. For example, instead of leasing an expensive office space, you could work from home or rent a co-working space. This can save you money on rent, utilities, and other overhead costs associated with running an office. Additionally, you could explore bartering or trading services with other businesses to get what you need without spending money.

When it comes to purchasing equipment and supplies for your business, it’s important to shop around for the best deals. Compare prices from multiple vendors and consider buying gently used or refurbished items to save money. You can also take advantage of discounts and promotions offered by retailers or negotiate with suppliers to get a better deal. Don’t forget to look for opportunities to buy in bulk as well, as this can help you save money in the long run.

In addition to being mindful of your expenses, it’s crucial to keep track of your cash flow and manage your finances effectively. Make sure to set up a separate business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate. This will not only help you stay organized but also make it easier to track your income and expenses for tax purposes. Consider using accounting software to streamline your financial processes and make it easier to monitor your profitability.

Finally, be sure to take advantage of all the resources available to small business owners in Florida. There are plenty of organizations and programs that offer support and guidance to entrepreneurs, including workshops, networking events, and mentoring opportunities. By tapping into these resources, you can access valuable information and advice that can help you save money and grow your business.

Starting a business LLC in Florida doesn’t have to break the bank. By carefully planning your budget, exploring alternative options, shopping smartly, managing your finances effectively, and leveraging resources available to you, you can save money and set your business up for success. With a little creativity and perseverance, you can achieve your entrepreneurial dreams without sacrificing your financial stability.

Conclusion

Forming and maintaining an LLC in Florida involves various costs, including initial filing fees, ongoing annual report fees, and taxes. Understanding and planning for these costs is essential when establishing your LLC. Additionally, consider any optional expenses, such as hiring professional services or drafting an operating agreement, to ensure the success and longevity of your LLC in Florida.

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