How to Start an LLC in Florida (2026): Cost, Steps & Timeline
Forming an LLC in Florida costs $125 in state filing fees, paid to the Florida Division of Corporations (Department of State). Processing takes about 1–5 business days for online filings — one of the faster states. FilingsHQ prepares and files everything for $0 in service fees — you pay only the state fee.
What a Florida LLC costs
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee | $125 | Paid to the Florida Division of Corporations (Department of State); required |
| Expedited processing | Varies | No formal expedited service; online filings already process quickly |
| Annual Report | $138.75 (a $400 late fee applies after May 1) | May 1 each year |
| Registered agent | $0–$199/yr | Free if you serve as your own; $199/yr with FilingsHQ |
| FilingsHQ service fee | $0 | Starter package — preparation, review, and submission included |
Answer a few questions; we prepare, review, and file with the state.
Step-by-step: forming your Florida LLC
1. Choose a name
Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing Florida businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”. Check availability using the Florida Division of Corporations (Department of State)’s business search before you file — a rejected name means starting over.
2. Appoint a registered agent
Florida requires every LLC to name a registered agent: a person or company with a physical street address in the state (no P.O. boxes) available during business hours to receive legal documents. You can be your own agent, but your address becomes public record — many owners use a professional service to keep their home address private.
3. File the Articles of Organization
The formation document in Florida is the Articles of Organization, filed with the Florida Division of Corporations (Department of State) (online via Sunbiz). The filing fee is $125. About 1–5 business days for online filings — one of the faster states. No formal expedited service; online filings already process quickly.
4. Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number is your LLC’s federal tax ID — you’ll need it to open a business bank account and hire employees. The IRS issues EINs for free at irs.gov; FilingsHQ’s Pro and Premium packages handle the application for you.
5. Create an operating agreement
Florida doesn’t require you to file an operating agreement, but every LLC should have one — it documents ownership, profit splits, and what happens if a member leaves. Banks and investors routinely ask for it.
6. Stay compliant
File your annual report ($138.75 (a $400 late fee applies after May 1)) — due may 1 each year. Missing it can lead to late fees or administrative dissolution.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Florida?
The Florida state filing fee is $125. With FilingsHQ's Starter package the service fee is $0, so $125 is the total to form your LLC. Ongoing costs: Annual Report — $138.75 (a $400 late fee applies after May 1).
How long does it take to form an LLC in Florida?
About 1–5 business days for online filings — one of the faster states. No formal expedited service; online filings already process quickly.
Do I need a registered agent in Florida?
Yes. Every Florida LLC must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in the state to receive legal and government documents. You can serve as your own agent, appoint someone you know, or use a professional service like FilingsHQ ($199/yr).
Does Florida require an annual report?
Yes. Annual Report: $138.75 (a $400 late fee applies after May 1), due may 1 each year.
Where do I file my LLC in Florida?
LLC formations in Florida are filed with the Florida Division of Corporations (Department of State), using the Articles of Organization. Online filings go through Sunbiz. FilingsHQ prepares and submits this filing for you.
Florida LLC for $0 + the $125 state fee. Every cost shown before you pay.
Nearby states
Keep reading
FilingsHQ is a private document filing service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal or tax advice. Fees and processing times are set by the Florida Division of Corporations (Department of State) and may change — always confirm current figures with the state. Last verified July 2026.