How to Start an LLC in Florida (Step-by-Step Guide)
Turn your business idea into reality. Here’s everything you need to know about forming your LLC — from filing to tax ID setup.
Starting an LLC in Florida is one of the smartest ways to protect your personal assets while running a business.
It offers flexibility, limited liability, and credibility — all while being affordable and straightforward when done correctly.
At VIP Notaries & Legal Solutions, we’ve helped countless entrepreneurs and small business owners file their LLCs smoothly.
Here’s your complete step-by-step guide to forming an LLC in Florida — simplified and stress-free.
What Is an LLC?
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) is a legal business structure that separates your personal assets from your company’s liabilities.
This means your home, car, or personal savings are protected if your business ever faces legal or financial trouble.
An LLC also offers flexible management and simple tax options — ideal for freelancers, startups, and small business owners.
Step 1: Choose Your LLC Name
Your business name must be unique and compliant with Florida’s naming rules.
Guidelines:
It must include “Limited Liability Company” or “LLC.”
It can’t use words like “bank” or “insurance” unless properly licensed.
It must not be already in use by another registered business in Florida.
Pro Tip:
You can search name availability on the Florida Division of Corporations website (Sunbiz.org).
If you’re not ready to register immediately, VIP Notaries can help you reserve your business name while you prepare the paperwork.
Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent
Every Florida LLC must have a Registered Agent — an individual or company authorized to receive official mail, tax notices, and legal documents on behalf of your business.
Requirements:
Must be a Florida resident or authorized business.
Must have a physical Florida address (no P.O. Boxes).
VIP Notaries offers Registered Agent Services to keep your business compliant and organized year-round.
Step 3: File Your Articles of Organization
This is the official step that legally creates your LLC in Florida.
You’ll file Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz.org) — either online or by mail.
Information Required:
LLC name and address
Registered Agent name and address
Member or manager names
Purpose of business
💰 State Filing Fee: $125
Once filed, your LLC will typically be approved within a few business days.
Step 4: Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
An EIN (Tax ID Number) is issued by the IRS and acts like a Social Security number for your business.
You’ll need it to:
Open a business bank account
Hire employees
File taxes
VIP Notaries can obtain your EIN for you as part of your formation package — fast and hassle-free.
Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement outlines how your LLC will be run — including ownership, management structure, and profit distribution.
Even though Florida doesn’t legally require it, it’s highly recommended to avoid future disputes.
Your Operating Agreement should include:
Member roles and responsibilities
Voting rights and decision-making process
Procedures for adding or removing members
Profit and loss distribution
At VIP Notaries, we include a customized Operating Agreement in all our formation packages.
Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account
To keep your finances legal and separate, you must open a dedicated business bank account for your LLC.
Bring your EIN, Articles of Organization, and Operating Agreement to your chosen bank.
This helps maintain liability protection and simplifies bookkeeping.
Step 7: Maintain Compliance
Once your LLC is formed, there are a few ongoing responsibilities:
Annual Report: Filed every year by May 1st via Sunbiz.org to maintain active status. (Fee: $138.75)
Business License: Some cities/counties require a local business tax receipt.
Taxes: LLCs are pass-through entities, meaning profits are reported on your personal tax return unless you choose a different tax classification.
VIP Notaries offers annual compliance reminders to help keep your business in good standing.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| State Filing Fee | $125 |
| Registered Agent Service (Optional) | $50/year |
| EIN (Tax ID) Setup | Included |
| Operating Agreement | Included |
| VIP Notaries LLC Formation Service | From $275 |
Why Choose VIP Notaries & Legal Solutions
Starting a business should be exciting — not confusing.
We handle all the paperwork so you can focus on growing your brand and serving clients.
When you work with us, you get:
✔ Full LLC setup — from name filing to EIN registration
✔ Registered Agent service (optional)
✔ Custom Operating Agreement
✔ Transparent pricing and fast turnaround
✔ Bilingual support (English & Spanish)
Whether you’re launching your first business or restructuring an existing one, we’ll help you every step of the way — the right way.
Final Thoughts
Forming an LLC in Florida is one of the best ways to protect your assets and give your business credibility.
With professional support, the process is simple, affordable, and fast.
At VIP Notaries & Legal Solutions, we make it effortless — handling filings, forms, and follow-ups so you don’t have to.
Ready to Start Your LLC?
Turn your idea into a real, registered Florida business today.
We’ll take care of the filings while you focus on building your dream.