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Step 1
Open your Web browser and enter the website address of the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations (see Resources below). On the top menu bar, click the third item from the left, which is "E-Filing Services." From the dropdown menu click "FL Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation."
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Step 2
Mark the disclaimer box, then click the box that's labeled "Add a Filing." Now you're ready to fill out the paperwork.
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Step 3
Fill in the date, then the name of you nonprofit corporation, followed by "Corp." or "Inc." If you click on either box for "Certificates of Status" or "Certified Copies," you will be charged $8.75 for each document, and they are not required. Check the box for "As provided for in the bylaws" for method of electing, unless you want a different method, like "Managing director shall appoint directors, who serve at his (her) discretion."
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Step 4
Enter the principal place of business address. It's fine to use your home address--you can change it later if needed. Enter your name and address as "registered agent," unless you have somebody else representing you, like a lawyer or accountant. If you live outside Florida, your registered agent must be located and registered in Florida. Type in your signature or agent's signature as it would usually be signed.
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Step 5
Enter your name and address one more time as "Incorporator," and type your name in the signature box as you would normally sign it. Fill in the box for "Corporate Purpose," giving details of what types of activities the corporation will engage in.
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Step 6
Fill in your name and email address in the correspondence section. Now it's time to decide on your board of directors. You will need at least three names and addresses, and you can use friends and relatives. It's a real good idea to get their permission first. Click the "Continue" button when you are finished.
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Step 7
Check the data you entered on the next screen to make sure everything is correct, then click "Continue." Write down the tracking number on the receipt page, and if you are ready to pay, click "Continue" one more time.
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Step 8
Check the boxes for the fees to be paid. The basic fee is $35 for filing plus $35 for registering an agent. If you want a Certified Copy of Record or a Certificate of Status, each will cost another $8.75, but it's not really necessary. Fill out the information for your credit card and click the "Finish" button. You will receive your confirmation by email within about a week.
