Decide on the legal structure of your business. See our business tax structure page. Common options include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• C-Corporation (C-Corp)
• S-Corporation (S-Corp)
• Nonprofit

For more information, see our Tax Structure Guide!

Florida does not require you to reserve a business name before registration, but it’s a good idea to ensure your desired name is available:

• Check Name Availability: Florida Business Entity Search 

Submit the necessary formation documents based on your business structure to the Florida Division of Corporations:

• LLC: File Articles of Organization.

  • Fee: $125.
  • File Online 
  • Download Forms 

• Corporation: File Articles of Incorporation.

  • Fee: $70 (plus $35 for a registered agent designation).
  • File Online 
  • Download Forms 

If operating under a name different from your legal business name, register a Fictitious Name (DBA) with the Florida Division of Corporations:

• Fee: $50.
• File Online 

If your business will hire employees or sell goods, register with the Florida Department of Revenue:

• Sales and Use Tax Permit: Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services.
  • Register Online
• Employer Taxes: Register for withholding and unemployment taxes if you have employees.
  • Employer Registration

Certain businesses may require additional permits or licenses depending on their industry or location:

• Use Florida’s Business Information Portal to identify required licenses:
  • https://openmyfloridabusiness.gov/

Separate your personal and business finances by opening a business bank account using:

• Your EIN (Employer Identification Number).
• Formation documents or operating agreement.

• Annual Reports: LLCs and Corporations must file an Annual Report with the Florida Division of Corporations by May 1 each year:
  • Fee: $138.75 for LLCs, $150 for Corporations.
  • File Online 

• Florida Division of Corporations
• Florida Department of Revenue
• Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC)