How to File for an Incorporation in Florida

You can incorporate your Florida business online in just a few simple steps.

Incorporating your business in the Sunshine State is quite easy these days, thanks to the Internet. There are a few decisions to make before you register your Florida company, so do a little research, then begin the incorporation process.

Instructions

1. Search names. Go to the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations website at www.sunbiz.org and click on the "Look Up a Business Name" link. Verify that the name you have chosen for your business is available. If so, register it as a fictitious name on this site. A fee schedule is available.

2. Fill out the corporation form. On the same website, click on the link for "Electronic Filing" and choose "File New Florida Profit Corporation" or select nonprofit if that is your business type. Enter the date your company was established, the corporate name, principal place of business and mailing address. List a registered agent who will be the contact person for your business in dealing with the Division of Corporations. Describe the purpose of the corporation and list the names of all officers. You can pay your filing fee online.

3. File an annual report. Each year, you will be required to file an annual report for your Florida corporation with the Department of State. This is relatively simple and takes just a couple minutes online to submit. An annual fee must be paid at the time of renewal. You will receive notices via e-mail and regular mail to alert you well ahead of time that the deadline is approaching.

4. Review other business start-up information. In addition to filing to become a Florida corporation, the Department of State offers numerous tips for starting a Florida business. Check them out at http://www.sunbiz.org/startbus.html.

References

• Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations

Resources

• MyFlorida.com: Starting a Business in Florida