Launch Your Florida LLC in the Sunshine State

Florida LLC Formation Costs

Florida charges a $125 filing fee for online LLC formations through the Division of Corporations. Annual reports cost $138.75 and are due by May 1st each year, with the first report due the year following formation. Additional expenses include registered agent services ($99-$299/year) and optional formation assistance for EIN filing or operating agreements.

Formation Timeline

Florida delivers exceptional formation speed with 3-5 business day processing for online filings through the Sunbiz portal, while paper submissions take 5-10 business days. The state doesn’t offer expedited processing, but the standard timeline already ranks among the nation’s fastest. Real-time filing through Sunbiz provides immediate confirmation numbers for instant peace of mind.

Registered Agent Requirements

Florida law mandates that all LLCs maintain a registered agent with a Florida street address for legal document service. You can serve as your own registered agent if you maintain a Florida address and remain available during business hours, or hire professional services for reliability and privacy protection.

Ongoing Compliance Requirements

Florida requires annual reports by May 1st each year at $138.75, with the first report due the year following formation. Late filing triggers administrative dissolution, making timely submission critical. Reports update basic company information including principal addresses, registered agents, and member/manager details. Maintain continuous registered agent service and keep operating agreements current for ongoing compliance.

Business Climate and Advantages

Florida’s combination of zero state income tax, strategic geographic location, and business-friendly policies creates exceptional opportunities for growth. The state provides natural access to Latin American markets, world-class cruise and cargo ports, and a thriving tourist economy. Growing population centers in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville offer diverse workforces and expanding customer bases across multiple industries.

Operating Agreement Guidelines

While Florida doesn’t legally require LLCs to maintain operating agreements, creating one provides essential business protection and operational clarity. Operating agreements establish ownership structures, management procedures, and operational guidelines while reinforcing liability protection. Banking institutions typically require these documents for business account opening, making them practically necessary for business operations.

Key Industry Sectors

Florida’s economy centers around tourism and hospitality, aerospace and defense, agriculture and citrus production, international trade, and real estate development. The state leads in cruise ship operations, space technology through Kennedy Space Center, and financial services. Growing technology sectors in Miami and Orlando, plus entertainment production facilities, create diverse opportunities for businesses across traditional and emerging industries.