Initiating an LLC in Florida, a state known for its business-friendly climate, entails understanding specific protocols and timeframes.
This article offers a clear roadmap for the registration process, highlighting the nuances and duration needed to bring a Limited Liability Company to fruition in the Sunshine State.
How Long Does it Take to Get an LLC in Florida
Florida’s LLC approval process takes 2-5 days if filed online and 3-4 weeks if filed by mail. Learn more about the steps and schedule involved in forming an LLC in Florida.
|
Filing Options |
Approval Time |
Expedited Filing |
State Filing Fee |
|
Filing Online |
2-5 business days | Not available in Florida | $125 |
|
Filing by Mail |
3-4 weeks | Not available in Florida | $125 |
The LLC approval time is the amount of time it takes from the moment you submit your formation documents until your LLC is approved.
The LLC approval time includes the document’s travel time (if filing by mail) as well as the time it takes for the state of Florida to process and register your LLC formation documents.
You can quickly submit and download formation documents via Florida’s online filing page. Online filing expedites the response time.
To get an LLC in Florida, it takes 3-4 weeks by mail and 3-5 business days by filing online.
If you are interested in starting a business in Florida and want to register as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), you may be wondering how long the process takes.
The good news is that getting an LLC in Florida is relatively straightforward and can be done in a few steps.
However, the actual timeline for getting an LLC in Florida can vary depending on several factors.
Approval Time for a Florida LLC
Online Filing: You can get an LLC in Florida in 3-5 business days
Mail Filing: Filing by mail can take about 3-4 weeks
Florida LLC Filing Steps
Online Filing
How to file online for a Florida LLC on the Florida Department of State website:
1. Visit the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations website (https://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/).
2. Click on “Start a Business” from the main menu at the top of the page.
3. Click on “Limited Liability Company (LLC)” from the list of business types.
4. Read and agree to the Terms of Service and click on “Continue”.
5. Enter the name of your LLC and conduct a name search to ensure that the name is available. If the name is not available, you will need to choose a new name.
6. Enter the principal business address for your LLC.
7. Enter the name and address of your registered agent. Your registered agent is a person or entity authorized to accept legal papers on behalf of your LLC.
8. Enter the name and address of each person authorized to manage your LLC.
9. Choose whether your LLC will be managed by its members or by a manager. If you choose manager-managed, you will need to provide the name and address of each manager.
10. Choose your LLC’s effective date. This is the date your LLC will begin conducting business in Florida.
11. Choose your LLC’s fiscal year-end. This is the end of your LLC’s accounting period.
12. Enter the name and address of the person filing the LLC’s Articles of Organization. This person is typically an owner or manager of the LLC.
13. Pay the filing fee, which is currently $125.
14. Review your information and submit your application.
Once your LLC is approved, you will receive a confirmation email with a document called “Articles of Organization” attached.
You should keep this document with your business records as proof of your LLC’s formation.
You can also order a certified copy of the Articles of Organization for an additional fee if needed.
Filing by Mail
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file for a Florida LLC by mail:
1. Obtain the Articles of Organization form:
– The fee for filing the Articles of Organization by mail is $125.
2. Choose a name for your LLC:
– The name must be unique and not already in use by another business entity in Florida.
– You can check name availability on the Division of Corporations website or by calling (850) 245-6052.
– You can reserve a name for up to 120 days by filing a Name Reservation Request form and paying a $50 fee.
3. Choose a registered agent:
– A registered agent is a person or business entity that is designated to receive legal documents on behalf of the LLC.
– The registered agent must have a physical address in Florida.
– You can appoint yourself, a member of your LLC, or a third-party registered agent.
4. Fill out the Articles of Organization form:
– Provide the name and address of the LLC, the name and address of the registered agent, the names and addresses of the LLC’s members, and the purpose of the LLC.
– You can include additional provisions, such as management structure, in the optional provisions section.
– Sign and date the form.
5. Submit the Articles of Organization form and fee:
– Mail the completed Articles of Organization form and a check or money order for $125 payable to the Florida Department of State to:
Florida Department of State
Division of Corporations
P.O. Box 6327
Tallahassee, FL 32314
Once the Division of Corporations receives and approves your Articles of Organization, they will mail you a certificate of organization. This document confirms that your LLC has been legally formed in the state of Florida.
That’s it! With these steps, you should be able to start an LLC in Florida either by mail or online. It’s always recommended to consult with an attorney or accountant to ensure you’re following all the necessary steps for your specific business.
Steps Getting a Florida LLC
Here is a breakdown of the steps involved in getting an LLC in Florida and an estimate of how long each step takes.
Step 1: Choose a Name for Your LLC
The first step in forming an LLC in Florida is choosing a name for your business. You will need to make sure the name you choose is available and not already in use by another business in the state. You can search the Florida Secretary of State’s online database to see if the name you want is available.
Timeframe: This step can be done relatively quickly, usually within a day or two.
Step 2: File Articles of Organization
Once you have chosen a name for your LLC, you will need to file Articles of Organization with the Florida Secretary of State. This document establishes your LLC and includes basic information such as the name of the LLC, the registered agent, and the members of the LLC.
Timeframe: Filing the Articles of Organization typically takes around one to two weeks. However, if you choose to file online, you may receive confirmation of your LLC’s approval within a few days.
Step 3: Obtain an EIN
An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is a unique nine-digit number that identifies your LLC for tax purposes. You will need to obtain an EIN from the IRS, even if you do not plan to hire employees.
Timeframe: Obtaining an EIN can usually be done quickly online, and you will receive your number immediately.
Step 4: Apply for Business Licenses and Permits
Depending on the type of business you plan to operate, you may need to apply for additional licenses and permits from the state or local government. This can include things like a business license, sales tax permit, or professional license.
Timeframe: The time it takes to obtain business licenses and permits can vary widely depending on the type of license or permit you need. Some licenses and permits can be obtained quickly, while others may take several weeks or even months to process.
Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement
Although it is not required by Florida law, it is recommended that you create an Operating Agreement for your LLC. This document outlines the management structure of your LLC and the rights and responsibilities of the members.
Timeframe: Creating an Operating Agreement can take several days or even weeks, depending on the complexity of your LLC’s management structure and the number of members.
Overall, the timeline for getting an LLC in Florida can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of your business and the number of licenses and permits you need to obtain.
If you are in a hurry to get your LLC up and running, you may want to consider using an online formation service, which can expedite the process significantly.
However, if you have a more complex business structure or need to apply for multiple licenses and permits, it may take longer to complete the process.
Should I Hire an LLC Filing Service in Florida?
Whether or not to hire an LLC filing service in Florida depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
An LLC filing service can be helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the formation process, need assistance with paperwork and filing, or simply want to save time and hassle. LLC filing services can take care of the paperwork and filing process for you, so you can focus on running your business.
Additionally, some LLC filing services may offer additional services, such as registered agent services or tax advice.
However, if you’re comfortable with the formation process and have the time and resources to handle the paperwork and filing yourself, hiring an LLC filing service may not be necessary. You can file the Articles of Organization yourself by mail or online, and the process is generally straightforward.
Additionally, hiring an attorney or accountant to review your documents and provide guidance can be a more cost-effective option than hiring an LLC filing service.
Ultimately, the decision to hire an LLC filing service in Florida is a personal one and depends on your specific needs and circumstances. It’s always recommended to do your research, compare costs and services, and consult with professionals before making a decision.
Conclusion
In summary, while the process of obtaining an LLC in Florida can take a bit of time, it is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed with a little bit of effort and attention to detail.
By following the steps outlined above, you can get your LLC up and running and start pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams in no time.
FAQs
Does Florida Have Expedited Filing?
The state of Florida does not offer expedited filing services. We recommend filing online for the quickest service. Your business should be approved in 1-2 business days if you file online.
How Much Does It Cost to Form a Florida LLC?
When you file your Florida Articles of Organization, a $125 filing fee is required. If paying by check, checks must be made payable to the Florida Department of State.
