Last Updated on March 8, 2025 by Anda Malescu
As experienced business lawyers in Florida, we frequently receive inquiries about how to start a business in Florida. We’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to provide you with essential information. For personalized legal assistance and expert guidance, contact our Florida business law firm today.
Would you like to start a business in Florida? Here’s what you need to know…
The necessary 7 steps for starting a business in Florida
1. Seek advice from an attorney or accountant
Before starting a business in Florida, whether you’re a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. Consult with a Florida business attorney or accountant to determine the optimal business structure – corporation, limited liability company or other – for tax efficiency and legal compliance. Secure your Florida business formation with expert guidance.
Looking to register your LLC in Florida? Select a trusted third-party Florida LLC formation service or get personalized support by contacting our team for your Florida business formation.
2. File with the Florida Department of State to legally create the entity
Go to www.sunbiz.org for more information or contact us for more details.
3. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Contact the Internal Revenue Services (IRS) to obtain an EIN for your business. The easiest and quickest way to receive and EIN is by using the IRS EIN online tool. Visit www.irs.gov/businesses/ for more information or contact us for more details.
4. Your new business may be required to collect and remit certain state taxes or fees. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue
You business may be required to collect and remit certain state taxes and fees. Don’t risk penalties! Register with the Florida Department of Revenue at www.dor.myflorida.com/dor/taxes/ to ensure compliance. Contact your accountant to ;earn about your specific tax obligations and registration procedures.
5. Check if a Local Business Tax Receipt/Occupational License is required from the county where the company is located
Before fully launching your business in Florida, it’s essential to understand local requirements. Many counties in Florida mandate that businesses obtain a Local Business Tax Receipt (also known as an Occupational License).
Go to the county’s website where the business is located for more information (example, www.miamidade.gov), or contact us for details.
6. Determine if other county requirements must be met, such as receipt of a certificate of use (zoning) or an environmental permit
Go to the county website for more information or contact us for details.
7. Open a commercial bank account for the business
*Non-U.S. citizens can form a company, subsidiary or branch in the U.S. regardless of their immigration status. Some restrictions apply.
From this moment onward, all you need to have is entrepreneurial skills. Whether you have them or not, know your business, work hard and be successful!
Malescu Law can assist
Ready to form your company in Florida? Contact our experienced Miami business formation lawyers or schedule a consultation today. We specialize in assisting both US and foreign nationals with all aspects of Florida company formation.
Contact us or schedule a consultation.
Malescu Law P.A. – Business Lawyers
