How to Form an LLC in Florida (2026 Guide)
Last updated: July 21, 2026
Quick note: we're operators, not attorneys or accountants. This is general educational info, not legal or tax advice — confirm current Florida requirements with the state and a licensed pro before filing.
Florida is one of the friendliest states for a small, hands-on business: no state income tax, a fast online filing through Sunbiz, and low upkeep. Here's the whole process in plain English, written for people starting something real like a courier route.
How to start a Florida LLC in 6 steps
Name it, appoint a Florida registered agent, file the Articles of Organization on Sunbiz ($125), write an operating agreement, get a free EIN, then file the annual report by May 1.
Name your Florida LLC
Your name must be distinguishable from every other Florida business and include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company." Search the name on Sunbiz.org first — if it's taken, the filing bounces. Grab the matching domain while you're checking.
Appoint a Florida registered agent
Florida requires a registered agent with a physical street address in Florida (no PO boxes) who's available during business hours to accept legal mail. You can name yourself for free, or use a service to keep your home address off the public Sunbiz record — worth it for a courier working from home. Northwest includes registered-agent service free the first year with their $39 filing.
File the Articles of Organization on Sunbiz
This is the document that creates your LLC. File it online with the Florida Division of Corporations at Sunbiz.org and pay $125 — that total already includes the $25 registered agent designation, so there's no separate charge. Online approval is usually quick, often a couple of business days.
Write an operating agreement
Florida doesn't require one, but create it anyway. It sets out who owns and runs the LLC, backs up your liability protection, and banks usually want to see it. A simple filled-in template covers most single-owner courier businesses.
Get a free EIN from the IRS
Your EIN is the business tax ID for banking and taxes. Get it free at irs.gov in minutes. Because Florida has no state income tax, there's no separate state tax ID for most LLCs. Never pay a third party for an EIN.
File the annual report by May 1
Every Florida LLC files an annual report on Sunbiz between January 1 and May 1 for $138.75. It just confirms your details — it's not a tax return. Miss May 1 and you're hit with a $400 late fee that can't be waived, so put a reminder on your calendar for April.
Florida LLC cost breakdown
Forming costs a flat $125, then $138.75 a year to stay active. No state income tax on the profits.
| Item | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization (Sunbiz) | $125 one-time (RA fee included) | Yes |
| EIN | Free from the IRS | Yes (free) |
| Registered agent service | $0 (yourself) – $300/yr | No |
| Annual report | $138.75/yr (by May 1) | Yes |
| Late annual report | +$400 penalty | Avoid |
Florida figures as of 2026. Verify current amounts at dos.fl.gov / Sunbiz.org before filing.
Setting up to run courier routes in Florida?
The LLC is step one. Our course takes you the rest of the way — insurance and certifications, the business bank account, and how to actually find routes and win contracts with Florida clinics, labs, and hospitals.
Start Your 7-Day Free TrialFlorida LLC FAQs
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Florida?
Filing on Sunbiz costs $125 total, which already includes the registered agent designation. Your EIN is free, so many Florida LLCs cost $125 to form, then $138.75 a year for the annual report.
When is the Florida annual report due?
Between January 1 and May 1 every year, for $138.75. It's filed on Sunbiz and just confirms your LLC's info — it's not a tax return.
What happens if I miss the Florida annual report deadline?
A $400 late fee is added on top of the $138.75, and it can't be waived. Keep ignoring it and the state dissolves your LLC in the fall. Set an April reminder.
Does a Florida LLC pay state income tax?
No. Florida has no personal state income tax, so a standard pass-through LLC owner pays no Florida income tax on the profits — a major reason Florida is popular for small businesses.
Can I be my own registered agent in Florida?
Yes, with a physical Florida street address and availability during business hours. A paid service (about $100–$300/year) keeps your home address off the public Sunbiz record.
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