FL · formation guide
Incorporating in Florida
Cheap to start, easy to run, if you are based there.
Who this state fits
Florida residents, service businesses, short-term rental and property owners in-state.
Multiple companies: Frequently used as the operating or property-holding subsidiary, with a Wyoming or Delaware parent above it for privacy and governance.
Pros
- Low startup cost and a genuinely simple online filing system (Sunbiz)
- No personal income tax
- No franchise tax and a modest flat annual report fee
- Excellent for real property and service businesses physically in Florida
Cons
- Essentially no privacy — ownership and management are public
- $400 late fee if the annual report misses the May 1 deadline
- C corporations owe 5.5% Florida corporate income tax
- Weaker asset-protection reputation than Wyoming or Nevada for single-member LLCs
Filing walkthrough
- 1
Search Sunbiz
Confirm the name is distinguishable from existing Florida entities.
- 2
Designate a registered agent
The agent signs the filing accepting appointment.
- 3
File Articles of Organization / Incorporation on Sunbiz
Filed online with a card payment; you get the filed copy by email.
- 4
Adopt governing documents
Operating agreement or bylaws, plus initial resolutions and ownership records.
- 5
Get your EIN and register for state taxes
Florida Department of Revenue registration for sales tax and reemployment tax if applicable.
- 6
Calendar the annual report
Due January 1 to May 1 every year; the $400 late penalty is not waivable.
After the state approves your filing, continue with the EIN and tax walkthrough.