How to start an LLC in Florida
While forming an LLC is often a multi-step process, below are the essential actions to focus on during the formation process.
1. Choose and reserve a business name
Before you can progress in the LLC formation process, you need to decide upon a business name. This name will be used in official paperwork so it’s important to choose a name that adequately describes your business and is available. You can run an LLC name search in Florida to check whether a name is free or not and make a business name reservation so that no other companies register it.
2. Assign an LLC organizer to file your paperwork
An LLC organizer is the individual appointed to sign and file the Articles of Organization with the Florida Department of State. It’s a good idea to appoint someone to this role early on so that they can also assist with the preparation of paperwork. If you partner with Corporate Creations, we will manage every aspect of your LLC formation and can act as your LLC organizer.3. Select your registered agent
As a business entity operating in the U.S., you’re required by law to appoint a registered agent. A registered agent acts as the official point of contact for your business receiving service of process and other important legal documents on your behalf. They also play a key role in keeping your business compliant, so it’s important to work with a reputable registered agent service provider, like Corporate Creations, to ensure your compliance is appropriately handled. We provide registered agent services across all 50 U.S. states including Florida.
4. Choose your ownership and management structures
Operating an LLC means you have a lot of flexibility in terms of your ownership and management structures. In Florida, you can opt to have a single-member LLC, in which one person owns the company, or a multi-member LLC, where two or more members own the business. Similarly, you can either opt for a member-managed LLC or a manager-managed LLC. There are pros and cons to both management structures, with members either being more involved with the day-to-day running of the business or hiring managers to oversee operations. Our blog on member-managed LLCs vs manager-managed LLCs looks closer at the differences between these two different structure types.5. Write up your operating agreement
Now that you have decided upon the basics for your business, you can draft your operating agreement, which includes essential information such as your business name and address. The operating agreement is an important document as it can be referred to if there are any operational disagreements or legal matters. For example, if you opt for a multi-member LLC then it is important to explicitly outline the roles, decision-making, profit sharing, and ownership percentages for future reference.
6. File your articles with the Florida Department of State
With all the above steps covered, your organizer can file the Articles of Organization with the Florida Department of State, Divisions of Corporation. You can do this online or by mail. Once your articles are filed, your LLC will be registered in the state.Although not required, it is advisable to order a Certificate of Status for your LLC and a Certified Copy of your articles once you have filed them. The Certificate of Status verifies the status and existence of your LLC, while a Certified Copy verifies that the articles on record are accurate.
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