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How to start a home-based business in Florida

Date: 01/10/2022 | Category: | Author: developers

How to start a home-based business in Florida?

Florida is home to a vibrant technology environment, which has opened a window of opportunities for both small business owners as well as those who want to start a home-based business in Florida. One of the most important advantages of starting a business from home is low startup costs vis-à-vis businesses that rent commercial spaces. So, if you are planning a home startup, where do you begin? This guide will provide you with the information on how to start a home business in Florida. It also entails business and state requirements including home business registration, licenses and permits, as well as zoning laws and regulations.

Home Based Businesses in Florida

A home-based business (HBB) is also known as a home business and it is basically a form of small business, which is operating from the business owner or entrepreneur’s home office. It is important to understand that if you start a home-based business in Florida then it will not be the same as working from home. A home-based business can start from anywhere including your garage or even a friend’s kitchen and once you obtain home business licenses in Florida; you can easily start selling your products or service to local, national, and even international customers.

Some of the top businesses in the world actually took shape in the home environment. Some examples are Hewlett-Packard, Google, and Apple Computers. Some of the best known home based entrepreneurs include the late Steve Jobs, Michael Dell, William Redington, Moses and Endel Phillips, and Steve Wozniak among others.

Why start a home-based business in Florida?

There is no dearth of home-based business ideas in Florida and the state has a vibrant and pro-active business ecosystem to support such ideas. Florida is a state that provides high access to the internet, a robust infrastructure, a strong economy, and a good transportation and logistics system. These are not the only reasons to start your home-based business in Florida; there are several other advantages and benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them.

  • Variety of Industries – One of the salient aspects of the startup landscape of Florida is the diverse industries the state has. The top industries in the state include tourism, International Trade, Financial Services, Consulting, Entertainment, professional services, food services, and technology. Technology makes up almost 8 percent of the state’s economy and is considered as one of the best segments for home-based business ideas in Florida. Consulting and tourism are also multi-million dollar industries and if you want to start a company in any of these industries; all you need is registration of your startup and home business licenses in Florida.
  • Low startup cost – One of the salient aspects of forming a home startup in Florida is the low cost of forming a new business. If you want to start a home-based business in Florida as a sole proprietorship then there are almost negligible startup costs but if you set up your business as an LLC or a corporation, even then the startup costs are lower than other states. This is more so because you are not renting an office or commercial space thus saving an important monthly expense.
  • Networking events – Florida has a pro business environment which is quite the benefit for small businesses. One of the important elements of this environment is networking events. Florida hosts a wide variety of networking events, meet-ups, and seminars for small businesses as well as those who want to start a home-based business in Florida. Participation in such events includes everyone from entrepreneurs to industry professionals, top executives and even thought leaders. These events also focus on various aspects of a startup or small business like marketing and business strategy workshops to provide information on how to start a home business in Florida. You can even meet prospective clients!

Popular home-based business ideas in Florida

There are plenty of home-based business ideas in Florida that you can explore as the state offers several helpful resources, grants, and incentives to different types of businesses in varied industries. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular forms of home businesses:

  • Virtual Assistant (VA) – If you want to know how to start a home business in Florida then you first need to identify the type of business you want to do. One of the trending home-based business ideas in Florida is that of a virtual assistant (VA). A VA is a type of independent contractor specializing in providing different types of administrative services to a company or an individual client. These services can vary from calendar management to handling bookkeeping, project management, customer service, team meetings, and task coordination among others.
  • Meal Delivery Services – One of the top home-based business ideas in Florida today is that of fresh home-cooked meals and their delivery. This type of business can be conducted from your home kitchen and the objective is to provide convenient meal kits consisting of high nutritional value food and pre-portioned ingredients. Meal delivery services can cater to a wide variety of customers right from individuals to families, schools, events, and corporations.
  • Coaching or Consulting – You may require certifications in special areas of study as well as home business licenses in Florida to conduct this type of business. There are several benefits and you can work over a wide area of subjects e.g., if your home-based business ideas in Florida revolve around coaching students from home then you can choose any subject area; from programming languages to management. The same applies to consulting as you have the opportunity to provide valuable insights to other businesses through consulting by using your skill sets.
  • SEO Services – Search engine optimization (SEO) has existed for over a decade and is still as relevant as it was before. If you are new to this industry but have the required knowledge and certifications then this is one of the top home-based business ideas in Florida that you can explore. You will need to obtain home business licenses in Florida prior to making your business operational. You can focus on a single aspect of SEO like Google Analytics Management or offer your expertise in multiple areas like Google Adwords Services, Social Media Optimization, Google Analytics Support, Link Management, and Content Management among others.

Steps to Start Home Based Business in Florida

You have a great business idea but are unsure of how to start a home business in Florida to launch that idea. It is important to understand that there are certain processes that you will need to consider for launching your business from home successfully. So, let’s take a look at the key areas that you need to focus on to launch your home-based business ideas in Florida.

1. Prepare your home based business plan

If you want to know how to start a home business in Florida then the first step would be to create a business plan. A strong business plan will let you focus on the market, industry, target audience, marketing plan, revenue, and even competition. In order to start a home-based business in Florida, there are specific components that should be included in your business plan and they are:

  • Executive summary of your home-based business
  • Research on your launch market
  • Existing competition
  • Future prediction of the market
  • Revenue generation model
  • Target audience
  • Advertising, marketing and sales strategy
  • Startup Expenses
  • Operating plan

2. Check zoning laws and regulations for your home based business

You can start a home-based business in Florida in any industry but one of the key areas to focus on is zoning. Zoning laws and regulations will vary according to the city or county your business is operating from and lack of compliance with the same can often lead to penalties. In fact, you will be able to obtain home business licenses in Florida only if you are compliant with the zoning regulation in your jurisdiction. The importance of zoning lies in the fact that different districts have been divided into zones and each zoning district specifies where different activities can take place like industrial, commercial, and recreational among others.

For example: If you are planning to start a home-based business in Florida and are located in Miami-Dade County then you will need to check their zoning interactive map to locate your home. According to Miami – Dade County, Florida – Code of Ordinances, Chapter 33 – ZONING, Section 33-25, home occupation is allowed in the residential districts although you will be required to apply for and obtain an annual ‘certificate of use’ from the Zoning Permits Section. There is a list of Permitted and Prohibited Home Occupations though, which you need to check prior to applying for the permit.

3. Register your business with Florida Department of State

The first step towards transforming your home-based business ideas in Florida to a legal operational business entity is by registering the company. The registration documents, forms, and fees will be different based on the business structure. If you form a limited liability company then you will have to file “Articles of Organization” with the Division of Corporations along with a filing fee of $125. Similarly, if you form a general partnership then you will be required to file a “Partnership Registration Statement” along with a filing fee of $50. If you require help regarding how to start a home business in Florida then we at IncParadise can assist you with the process of registering your new business in the state.

Register your business to launch your home-based business idea in Florida!

4. Check if you need to obtain an EIN

Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required by businesses operating within the US or Florida. This is a unique 9-digit number also known as the Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) and is assigned to businesses by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Your requirement for an EIN will depend on the form of business you operate. For example, a corporation will need to apply for a tax ID number although in a sole proprietorship; you can file taxes using your social security number (SSN). At any given point in time, as a sole proprietorship business, if you hire employees then you will have to apply for the Employer Identification Number.

5. Register for taxes

If you start a home-based business in Florida then you may be required to register for taxes. The type of taxes you have to file will depend entirely on:

Although Florida does not impose any state income taxes, it does have corporate tax and sales and use tax apart from other state and local taxes.

6. Obtain the necessary licenses and permits

Once you have applied for registration of your home-based startup, the next step is to apply for and obtain home business licenses in Florida. You will not be able to operate your business in the state without obtaining the required licenses or permits. Business licenses and permits in the state can be categorized under the following:

  • General Business License – The general business license is known as the “Business Tax Receipt” and is issued by the county in which your home business is located. This type of license will be applicable if you start a home-based business in Florida that focuses on selling of services or products (goods) in the jurisdiction or county your business is based.
  • Licenses for specific industries or profession – This type of home business licenses in Florida will be required if your industry or profession falls in the regulated categories. Such licenses will be issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Once you start a home-based business in Florida and become operational after obtaining the required licenses; they have to be renewed annually. You can also check our specialized Business License Research Report service as it will provide you information pertaining to Florida licensing requirements including license fees and documents to be filed.

Ready to Start Your Home Based Business in Florida?

If you are planning to start a home-based business in Florida, it is important to understand that it will be different from other commercial enterprises or companies in terms of business structure, taxes, revenue, and operation. Even as a home business, you will be able to leverage tax credits and other business incentives offered by the state. If you are wondering how to start a home business in Florida successfully then our experts can guide you with the process of starting your home-based business in Florida.

IncParadise is one of the top new business formation and registered agent service providers in Florida and we also offer additional services that will help you with any other requirements associated with a home-based business like obtaining an EIN, and filing of annual reports among others.

Start a Florida home-based business with IncParadise!

How to Start an Online Business in Florida

Date: | Category: | Author: developers

How to Start an Online Business in Florida?

Entrepreneurs are choosing to be online increasingly as more and more people prefer to order products and services from the convenience of their home or office. There have been increased investments from the computing technology industry and e-commerce has become the trend for many product and service oriented businesses. You can also start an online business in Florida and become a part of the e-commerce revolution and this guide will show you how exactly you can achieve that. The guide provides a brief outline of benefits of doing business online in Florida, trending online business ideas in Florida, preparation of a business plan, registering such a business, licensing and permits, and regulatory requirements of the state.

Online Business in Florida

Online Business is also known as electronic business or e-business and entails any form of commercial or business transaction over the internet. If you start an online business in Florida in the services industry then it may include sharing of information amongst businesses, individuals, and groups using the internet as a medium of communication. However, if you are planning to sell goods or products then you will have to start an ecommerce business in Florida. E-Commerce is known as electronic commerce and is an integral aspect of online businesses as it involves electronic funds transfer, inventory management, supply chain management, automated data collection systems, and online processing of transactions.

There are different types of e-commerce business categories but the most popular models are the Business to Consumer (B2C) and the Business-to-Business (B2B). You will require an online business license in Florida if you are planning to buy and sell products or services using electronic channels exclusively.

For example: You are an entrepreneur with an idea to sell services as a wedding photographer. Instead of e-commerce, you will need to start an online business in Florida offering photography services. Now, if you plan to sell your photographs, different types of clothing, mugs, jute bags etc., using your pictures then your business will become an e-commerce enterprise. Either way, it will be considered as a Business to Consumer (B2C) business.

What are the biggest benefits of doing business online in Florida?

Florida has a pro-business climate and along with a state-of-the-art infrastructure as well as a skilled workforce; the state is considered the perfect starting point for any new business. Florida provides a cost-efficient alternative to some of the better known high-tech states and this is beneficial if you are planning to start an online business in Florida. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest benefits of operating an online business in Florida.

  • Access to the Internet – Florida internet coverage and availability is one of the most important deciding factors if you are planning to start an online business in Florida. According to a survey report by BroadbandNow, 96.8% of Florida residents have access to high speed internet services. This means that if you were to start an ecommerce business in Florida then you will be able to reach 96.8 percent of customers in the state.
  • Global Audience – There are several benefits of high speed internet services and one of the top benefits is being able to reach out to a global audience. Since Florida has a high internet coverage and availability, it is great for e-commerce and home-based businesses. If you start an online business from home in Florida, you will be able to provide a variety of services to a global audience.
  • Business Incentives – Whether you start an ecommerce business in Florida or operate an offline brick and mortar retail outlet; you will be able to leverage the business incentives provided by state and local counties. There are tax credit programs based on the industry like the services or information technology industry that you can benefit from and you can also apply for grants.

Top online business ideas in Florida

Florida is home to a large number of startups and most of these companies have evolved from a single business idea. If you already have a business idea or are looking for an idea to start an online business in Florida then there is plenty to choose from. There are some ideas that are trending and there are some that have had a slow start. Some of the top ideas to start an online business from home in Florida are:

  • Online Retail – One of the best ideas is to start an online business in Florida in the retail segment. You don’t have to necessarily compete with the big e-commerce portals because you can create your own niche like selling your designs and artwork or selling baked products.
  • Mobile Apps Development – If you are planning to start an online business from home in Florida then mobile apps development is an option that you can really benefit from. Yes, you will need to have certifications in various computer programming languages like HTML5, C#, JavaScript, and Swift among others.
  • Translation Services – This is one of highly valued services where an online business license in Florida is not required as long as you are working as a freelancer. You may require proper certifications though. This type of services can be used for translating documents, projects, and also for communication purposes.
  • Social Media Consulting – One of the top and trending online business ideas in Florida is that of social media consulting. This is a type of business segment, which can be conducted online as the objective is to reach out to a target audience and engage them using various social networking channels.

Starting an Online Business in Florida

Florida offers a robust platform and startup resources for all types of online or e-commerce businesses but first you need to form a new business. The following processes will help you in understanding the state and business specific requirements as well as documentation to start an online business in Florida.

1.Prepare your Florida online business idea and plan

Your business idea is the most important aspect as it will provide the first step towards creating a business plan. In order to start an online business in Florida, you need to have a business plan as it will provide you with the information you require to launch and sustain your online business successfully. You can use the internet to see how other entrepreneurs are converting their ideas into sustainable startups. Although a business plan is created based on online business ideas in Florida, there are certain key components of the plan, which remains the same for most forms of businesses. These components are:

  • Business objective and mission
  • Your short and long-term goals
  • Defining the targeted online demographic profile
  • Existing online market for your idea
  • Providing a value proposition
  • Creating a revenue model
  • Defining benefits of the online service or product
  • Developing a strong internet marketing strategy
  • Defining risks
  • A financial plan regarding scaling of business

2. Choose your online business name

Once you have an idea, you can start your business over the internet and obtain an online business license in Florida. All this will be possible only after you have chosen a business name as it is important towards giving the brand or the idea an identity. Here are some tips for choosing a name for an online business:

  • Keep the name short, simple, and memorable
  • The name should have a connection to what the business offers
  • Since, it will be for an online business, ensure the domain name is available
  • In order to reserve the business name with Florida State, check for name availability
  • Follow all business naming requirements mentioned in Florida statutes

If the said online business idea in Florida is a home-based business or a sole proprietorship then check with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office to ensure there are no name copyright infringements.

3. Choose a business structure for your online business

A business structure is quite important to any new startup and one of the most popular forms of online business is sole proprietorship. This is a type of online company that is operated by an individual or a single owner. There are several other forms of businesses that you can consider if you are planning to start an online business in Florida. These structures include:

There are some important aspects to keep in mind while choosing a structure to help you start an ecommerce business in Florida. The aspects are:

  • Formation documentation and other paperwork needed
  • The tax obligation for the chosen business structure
  • The registration cost
  • The liability and corresponding risks
  • The benefits of your chosen structure

4. Register your online business

Whether you start an online business from home in Florida or operate an e-commerce startup from a brick and mortar commercial space; you will need to register the business in the state. This process is also known as new business formation or incorporation. The registration process will be different for different business structures and has to be followed up by obtaining an online business license in Florida to make the company operational.

We at IncParadise are one of the reputable Florida registered agents and have a team of experienced professionals who can help you with the incorporation or registration process in Florida. We have helped many new business owners to start an online business in Florida.

Start your online business in Florida today!

5. Obtain all necessary licenses and permits for online business

If you are thinking of taking your idea online then there are plenty of online business ideas in Florida to choose from. Florida offers the opportunity and resources to entrepreneurs and startups so that they can form a new business and start capitalizing on state incentives, tax credits, and resources. It is important to register your new business with the Division of Corporations but it is more important to apply for and obtain an online business license in Florida. If you have formed a business and not applied for a license or permit then you will not be able to make your business operational. If you operate without a business license then there will be a penalty.

The type of online business license in Florida required by your company will depend on two factors and they are:

  • The nature of business or online business ideas in Florida like baked goods online, grocery online, consultancy, advertising services, and Information tech companies among others.
  • Licensing and permits will also depend on the city or county your business operates from.

If you are planning to start an ecommerce business in Florida then you may require a general business license also known as business tax receipts or permits for specific industries or professions. Depending on the type of business activity, you may require business tax receipts as well as permits or online business license in Florida. You may even require multiple licenses.

Do you require more information regarding Florida Business Licenses?

6. Buy a domain and set up the website for your business

Whether you are a freelance wedding photographer planning to start an online business from home in Florida or want to take your existing small business online; you will need a website. A website is the foremost way of connecting to a larger and global audience over the internet. You can hire an in-house web designer or hire services globally depending on your budget for designing a website. You can also choose custom website design templates depending on the product or service you are offering. A website can also be integrated with a payment gateway and shopping cart and these are important aspects to keep in mind when you start an online business in Florida.

In order to start a website, you would need to book a domain name first. Let’s look at an example to understand the domain name aspect.

Example: If you are planning to start an online business in Florida that will be creating custom T-shirts or FL t-shirts and if the name of your company is GatorsFL then you need to search for a domain name with the words “GatorsFL”. It is always recommended to book your domain name with an ICANN-accredited registrar. There are different types of domain name extensions that you can choose from like .com, .net, .org, .co, and .us among others. If your domain name is available like “GatorsFL.com” then all you have to do is go ahead and register it. Normally, you can book a domain name for 3, 6, or 12 months and the maximum registration period is 10 years. The cost will vary according to the time period you are booking for and the domain name extension.

7. Get EIN

If you are planning to start an online business in Florida then depending on your business structure, annual sales, and activity, different types of Florida taxes may be applicable. For Example: If your business is a limited liability company and you are selling grocery online then you may be levied sales and use tax. Hence, you will be required to apply for and obtain an employer identification number (EIN) before you start an ecommerce business in Florida. The EIN number will be issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

8. Open a bank account

Once you have obtained your online business license in Florida it is extremely important to open a business bank account. A business bank account will be important in segregating your personal income and expenses from your business gains and expenses. Since the revenue generated is much higher when you start an ecommerce business in Florida, having a business bank account will ensure you are able to keep track of all business related expenses.

9. Comply with taxes and other regulatory requirements

Once you start an online business in Florida, you will be required to comply with annual maintenance as well as tax requirements of the state. Some of the important requirements include:

  • Once you have obtained an online business license in Florida, it is important to ensure timely renewal. The renewal time and fee may vary depending on the county your business is operating from and the governing or issuing authority of the license.
  • As part of annual maintenance, you will be required to file an annual report in the state of Florida.
  • If you start an ecommerce business in Florida, you may be levied different forms of taxes. The filing of taxes ensures your business enjoys an active status and remains in the good books of the state authorities.

10. Market your business

Marketing is a very important aspect of online businesses as you are looking at an audience that is not going to walk into your store and buy but instead will be ordering using a laptop or a mobile application. Before you start an online business in Florida, you need to have a marketing plan in place that will comprise of the following elements:

  • Search Engine Optimized content
  • Visuals for strengthening your brand, product or service
  • Use of Mobile commerce (m-commerce) to reach more customers
  • Digital marketing strategies and campaigns
  • Promoting your products or services using email marketing

Looking to start an online business in Florida?

You can start a new business based on different types of online business ideas in Florida thanks to high internet access in the state. Even though you are planning to start an online business in Florida, there is a specific process based on Florida statutes that you will have to follow. IncParadise can assist you with ensuring you are able to form your online or e-commerce company with ease.

IncParadise is one of the most reputed Florida registered agents and we have helped thousands of companies to start their own businesses in Florida. We also have a team of experts who can guide you through the process of starting your online business in Florida.

Start a Florida e-commerce business!

How to change your Florida registered agent

Date: | Category: | Author: developers

How to change your Florida registered agent?

If you are thinking of starting a new company in Florida or have an existing business in another state and want to relocate or expand in Florida then you will be required to file different applications in compliance with the Florida Statutes. The requirement of documentation will depend on the type of business you want to form. This is because the documentation of an LLC is different from that of a corporation. Since you are new to Florida, the compliance requirements and documentation may sound complex and this is where IncParadise, one of the best Florida registered agent services, can assist you with your business related documentation. This is a guide that will provide you with an insight into how to change a Florida registered agent, their duties, and the qualifications or the requirements of a registered agent.

Registered Agent in Florida

A registered agent is also known as a statutory agent, resident agent, or an agent for the service of process. A Florida registered agent can be a firm, business, or an individual, who is hired or designated by a business entity (LLC, Corp.) for receiving the service of process documents, notices, different types of compliance-related documents, as well as government correspondence on behalf of the said entity. Some of the best Florida registered agents provide numerous additional services that cater to different forms of businesses and their state-based requirements. Some of the most common services offered by a Florida resident agent include:

These are some of the services that you or your business can benefit from. If you feel that your existing agent is unable to provide you with specific services or assistance as required then you can always have the option to change your Florida registered agent.

What is a registered agent in Florida?

Whether you are planning to register a new business (a corporation or a limited liability company) in Florida; you will be required to designate and continuously maintain a registered agent in the state governed by Florida Statutes, Title XXXVI – Business Organizations. According to Florida Statutes, you will have to provide information pertaining to your RA when filing formation documents and this includes name and physical address. If you already have a resident agent then you can maintain the same in Florida if they have a physical address or you can change your Florida registered agent to IncParadise. If you change your Florida registered agent, then depending on the type of business, you will be required to notify the Division of Corporation by filing a “Statement of Change of Registered Office”.

The cost of change of Florida registered agent will vary according to the type of business and are governed by FL Stat § 605.0114 (2019) for a Limited Liability Company and FL Stat § 607.0502 (2019) for a business corporation. You can choose a firm, agency or even an individual who has the necessary qualifications and experience and is compliant with all Florida state laws as your new agent.

Who can be a Florida registered agent?

A “registered agent” (RA) in Florida is a company or a person who has agreed to accept any legal mail on behalf of a company in case the company gets sued. Florida registered agent requirements are different in different states and their responsibility can vary from receiving official legal documents to assisting businesses in maintaining annual compliances with the state. It is important to note that a registered agent has to maintain a physical office or address. It should not be a PO Box number.

There are several other Florida registered agent requirements. For instance, you would be required to keep regular business hours and this is governed by state law. It is necessary to maintain regular business hours so that they can accept service of process or legal correspondence on behalf of the clients they are representing. If you want to choose the best Florida registered agent then there are specific criteria you must meet? Basically, you have two options:

  • You can choose an individual as a Registered Agent or you can also be your own registered agent if you fulfill the Florida registered agent requirements. You must make sure that the business address is identical to the address of your registered office pursuant to FL Stat § 605.0113 (2019).
  • You can choose the best Florida registered agent services also known as a “Commercial Registered Agent” who can hire a commercial resident agent for new and existing businesses! A new business has to hire a statutory agent while an existing business need not as they already have an agent. In certain cases, where the business thinks it is necessary to change Florida registered agents they can do so by notifying the Division of Corporations of the same.

What does a registered agent in Florida do?

The Florida registered agent requirements vary from one state to another but the primary responsibilities remain the same. A registered agent in Florida is someone who acts as the bridge between a business entity and the Secretary of State or the Division of Corporations and thus receives any and all notices sent by the state to the said business.

For Example: If you hire IncParadise as your best Florida registered agent then any notification by the Division of Corporations like due date notice for an annual report will be received by us on behalf of your company. Thus, as your registered agent, you will not only be receiving your notices and mail but we will also ensure you are able to file your documents like annual report on time thus helping you avoid any penalty.

When you hire a new RA or change a Florida registered agent it is important to first understand what their purpose or objectives are. The responsibility and objectives remain almost the same over all the 50 states in the US and they are:

  • Service of Process – Service of process in Florida is directed through the use of subpoenas, summons, and other processes within civil actions throughout the state and is governed by 2019 Florida Statutes, Title VI – Civil Practice and Procedure. The Chapter 48. Service of process is the primary purpose and responsibility of the best Florida registered agent services as they accept and receive any process or service of process against any private corporation, Limited Liability Company, and any domestic or foreign entity maintaining such agent services. For example: If a legal notice is served against a domestic or foreign limited partnership pursuant to FL Stat § 48.061 (2019) then receiving such a notice on behalf of any partner is one of the important Florida registered agent requirements.
  • Secondary Services – The services offered by a registered agent can vary from one firm to another and hence when a company bears the cost of change of Florida registered agent; they are basically looking at the secondary services being offered. There are a variety of secondary services like:

    • Being available during business hours
    • Receiving your mail as well as government notices
    • Providing a Florida business address
    • Providing compliance alerts like notifying a business of a due date
    • Helping file Florida annual reports
    • Assisting with EIN services
    • Answering any questions pertaining to business formation and maintenance
    • Helping with licensing and permits in Florida

Are you looking for the best Florida Registered Agent Services?

How Do I Change My Florida Registered Agent?

Whether you are forming a new business in Florida or have an existing business, the reasons to change a Florida registered agent may vary from one business to another. Once you have decided that you want to look for the best Florida registered agent service, you would want to know the process. The process is simple although there are three different aspects, which include choosing an agent, notifying a former agent, and filing the change of agent. Let us take a look at the process through which you can successfully change your agent in Florida.

1. Select a new registered agent

The first step towards changing your Florida registered agent starts with selecting a company or agency that is highly reliable and has experience working with the state laws. If you are wondering how much the cost will be then the cost of change of Florida registered agent is not expensive at all. More than the cost, the importance lies in the fact that the chosen statutory agent meets all Florida registered agent requirements of the state. Here are some tips that will help you make an informed decision:

  • Maintaining Regular office hours – This is one of the top Florida registered agent requirements as according to Florida statutes. A commercial or statutory agent has to be available during regular hours to accept or receive service of process on behalf of their clients.
  • Physical Address – According to Florida statutes, FL Stat § 605.0113 (2019) and FL Stat § 607.0501 (2019), a Florida registered agent can be an individual or company whose business address should be the same as the registered office address. This is especially helpful to foreign entities and business owners residing outside Florida.
  • State Compliance – This is an integral aspect of Florida registered agent requirements. If you are looking for the best Florida registered agent services then ensure the chosen firm is in compliance with all Florida state requirements and laws. IncParadise, one of the leading registered agent service providers in Florida is not only state compliant but also meets requirements as outlined in Florida Statutes.
  • Services Offered – It is important to note that the cost of change of Florida registered agent will remain the same irrespective of the services offered by different resident agents across the state. Hence, it is important to evaluate the services based on the requirements of a business. IncParadise, one of the top registered agents in Florida offers several additional services like annual report and EIN and this is apart from new business formation services.

For example: If your company needs an Employer Identification Number (EIN) as well as business licenses but your current agent is not offering either or both, then you can opt to change your Florida registered agent and choose someone who offers these services and more.

2. Notify your previous registered agent

If you are planning to change a Florida registered agent then it is necessary to inform your existing registered agent so that they may not end up billing you. You may think that changing your existing agent may lead to credibility loss but that will not happen. It is important to inform your existing agent immediately after you have filed the change of agent application and paid the cost of change of Florida registered agent. This is because once the application is processed by the Division of Corporation; the new chosen agent will be reflected on the state records.

3. File Florida Statement of Change of Registered Agent to the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations

If you have finally decided to go ahead with the process to change a Florida registered agent, then you will have to think about what application you need to file and whom to file with. Depending on the type of business entity, you will be required to file the “statement of change of registered office or registered agent or both” for the said type of business; whether an LLC or a corporation. The forms will be different for different entities and the cost of change of Florida registered agents will also be different. The form has to be filed with the Amendment Section, Division of Corporations along with a cover letter.

Want to Change your registered agent in Florida?

Cost of Changing Florida Registered Agent

There is no additional cost of change of Florida registered agent except for the filing fee for “statement of change of registered office or registered agent or both” and the fee would be different for different forms of business.

IncParadise meets all Florida registered agent requirements and if you hire us as your registered agent in this state then you can avail all of special deals. The Registered Agent service in Florida for one year is $89 and the fee for change of agent is:

  • Registered Agent change for an LLC – $25
  • Registered Agent change for a Corporation – $35

IncParadise has a special price for companies that will order RA service for more than one year. The special price for registered agent service for 2 years is $129 while that of 3 years is $169 only.

Choose IncParadise as Your Florida Registered Agent

Whether you are planning to form a new business or have an existing business, you can choose to change a Florida registered agent or hire a new agent depending on your business requirements. IncParadise is one of the best Florida registered agent service providers and we can help you with the process of changing your registered agent in this state.

We are also in compliance with all Florida state regulations and have experience in providing several different and additional services to cater to a wide variety of business requirements like obtaining an EIN Tax ID and filing Annual reports in Florida.

Do you need a Registered Agent in Florida for your business?

Florida Foreign Qualification

Date: | Category: | Author: developers

Florida Foreign Qualification

The physical location of a business plays a key factor in determining the overall success of the business as it can harness state business resources, skilled workforce, infrastructure, logistics, and state and local incentive programs. Such a location is Florida and the state is famous for its tax reforms, flexible regulations, and a pro-business climate. If you want to start a foreign LLC in Florida or a corporation then this guide will provide you with the information required to form such a business. This guide focuses on key areas of Florida foreign LLC registration or incorporation and throws light on the laws governing the formation process.

Florida Foreign Qualification

The state of Florida is home to approximately 2.5 million small businesses including domestic and foreign entities and their contribution to the state GDP is 44 percent. In fact, Florida is home to several foreign businesses and startups which have multi-state operations.

For Example: WalMart has headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas and has 385 retail outlets in Florida. Similarly, Hewlett-Packard Latin America and Hilton International are based out of Miami, Florida even though HP is originally registered in Palo Alto, California while Hilton International is registered in McLean, Virginia.

If you are a small business owner in another state like New York or Nebraska and want to expand your business to Florida then you have to undergo the foreign qualification in Florida process. This process can be used for Florida foreign corporation registration or foreign LLC formation under the Florida statutes. The process of Florida foreign qualification can be different for different business structures.

What is Florida foreign qualification?

Foreign qualification Florida is a process by which you can register your existing business with the state authority like the office of the secretary of state or the Division of Corporations of another state. Foreign qualification will enable your company to legally establish its operations in another state and pursue growth and expansion opportunities in the said state without having to incorporate a new entity.

The process of foreign qualifying would require you to obtain a certificate of existence or a certificate of good standing from your home state. This is a necessary step prior to applying for Florida foreign LLC registration or incorporation. The process of registering a foreign LLC or corporation in Florida may be different from that of other states in terms of filing process and regulations. Let’s look at an example to understand this:

If you have formed a domestic corporation in Delaware then such a state will be known as your home state. Now, if you plan to expand your operations or open a branch office or retail outlet in Florida then you will have to apply for Florida foreign corporation registration as governed by FL Stat § 607.1501 (2019). This process will ensure your business is a legal entity in the state and can apply for licenses and permits to operate.

As a part of the foreign qualification in Florida process, you will also be required to hire and maintain a Florida registered agent like IncParadise in the state. You will also have to fulfill annual compliances as required by the state of Delaware (home state) as well as Florida (new state).

Doing business in Florida

One of the important questions that every business owner or entrepreneur should ask with respect to foreign qualification Florida is the definition of “doing business” according to the state they want to form their business in. Since each state has its own standards or there are no uniform standards, it is always important to check with the state of foreign qualification. Generally speaking, a business having physical presence in a specific state is known to be doing business in that state. Participating in activities related to interstate commerce is also considered as conducting business in the said state.

According to the FL Stat § 605.0905 (2013) for Florida foreign LLC registration and FL Stat § 607.1501 (2019) for foreign corporations, the following activities do not constitute transacting business in the state. It is as follows:

  • Maintaining, settling, mediating, or defending any proceedings in the state
  • Holding meetings of the managers, board of directors, members, or shareholders
  • Maintaining bank accounts
  • Maintaining managers or agencies for the exchange, transfer, and registration of securities of the foreign LLC or corporation
  • Selling through various independent contractors
  • Obtaining or soliciting orders through mail, agents, or employees
  • Creating or acquiring mortgages, indebtedness, and security interests in personal or real property
  • Transacting business in interstate commerce
  • Making an isolated transaction that is completed within a period of 30 days
  • Owning and controlling a subsidiary LLC formed in or corporation incorporated in this state

Florida Foreign Qualification Process

If you have already formed a business in any other state and want to establish or expand in Florida then you will have to apply for Florida qualification. The process and the registration fee may vary depending on the type of business you plan to form, like the documents required for registration of a foreign corporation in Florida are different from that of a limited liability company. It is important to note that transacting business without authority like Florida foreign LLC registration or incorporation makes the business liable for a civil penalty, which can vary from $500 to $1,000 each year depending on the number of years it has been operating in such a manner.

Florida foreign corporation registration

If you are planning to form a foreign corporation in Florida then you will need to obtain a certificate of authority from the Division of Corporations. This certificate will allow an entity to transact business in Florida. The following steps will help you to identify the requirements for Florida foreign corporation registration.

  • Name Registration: The first step towards registering a foreign corporation in Florida is to choose a name. You need to check for name availability. If the chosen name is available then you will need to register the corporate name with the Division of Corporations pursuant to FL Stat § 607.0403 (2019). The fee for registration of a corporate name is $87.50. You will be required to also file a “Cover Letter” along with the “Application for the registration of a Foreign Corporate Name”. You will also be required to submit a certificate of existence or a certificate that sets forth the fact that the said corporation is in good standing under the laws of the home state or the jurisdiction where it has been incorporated.
  • Registered Agent: An important aspect of Florida foreign corporation registration is designation of a registered agent. Each foreign corporation that has been authorized to transact in the state will have to designate and maintain a registered agent in the state pursuant to FL Stat § 607.1507 (2019). You can hire IncParadise as your Florida registered agent as we possess the experience and expertise in the registration process of a foreign corporation in Florida and can help you qualify for the same.
  • Certificate of Existence: This document is also known as the certificate of good standing or certificate of status depending on the state your company has been incorporated in. It is mandatory to submit a certificate of existence along with name registration and Florida foreign corporation registration application. You will have to obtain the certificate from your home state. The certificate states that your company is a legitimate venture and is legally authorized to transact business.
  • Foreign Corporation Qualification: If you want to register a foreign corporation in Florida then your company needs to fulfill all requirements governed by Florida Statutes, FL Stat § 607.15015 (2019), FL Stat § 607.1502 to § 607.1506 (2019). You can download the Florida foreign corporation registration application also known as the Profit Qualification or the “Application by Foreign Corporation for Authorization to Transact Business in Florida”.

    You have to submit a cover letter and a certificate of existence along with the registration application and are required to provide information pertaining to your Florida registered agent. You can submit by mail to the Registration Section, Division of Corporations along with a filing fee of $70. If you require a Certificate of Status and a Certified Copy of the incorporation then the fee would be $87.50.

Do you want help with forming a foreign corporation in Florida?

Florida foreign LLC registration

You have an existing business and now you are planning to expand in Florida because of the many benefits and a growing market; do you need to form a new business? You won’t be required to form a new business; instead you can register a foreign LLC in Florida with the Division of Corporations. The following steps will help you to identify the requirements for Florida foreign LLC registration.

  • Name Registration: The first step towards registering a foreign LLC in Florida is to choose a name and check for name availability. It is important to ensure your chosen name is distinguishable in the Florida state records from names of other domestic or foreign limited liability companies in the state pursuant to FL Stat § 605.0112 (2019). If the chosen name is available then you will need to register the LLC name with the Division of Corporations. If the chosen name is not available then you can adopt an “Alternate Name” for the purpose of transacting business in the state. The LLC name can be reserved for a period of 120 days pursuant to FL Stat § 605.01125.
  • Registered Agent: An important aspect of registration of foreign LLC in Florida is the designation of a registered agent for the service of process pursuant to FL Stat § 605.0113 (2019). IncParadise can be your Florida Registered Agent as we have the expertise and experience regarding Florida foreign LLC registration and can help you with the entire process of foreign qualification.
  • Certificate of Existence: This document is also known as the certificate of good standing or certificate of status in the state of Florida. You will be required to submit a certificate of existence that is not more than 90 days old and it should be duly authenticated by the officials in the jurisdiction (home state) in which the LLC has been organized. The certificate has to be submitted along with the Florida foreign LLC registration paperwork.
  • Foreign LLC Qualification: If you want to apply for foreign LLC in Florida qualification then you will be required to submit the “Qualification of Foreign LLC” form also known as the “Application by Foreign Limited Liability Company for Authorization to Transact Business in Florida” pursuant to FL Stat § 605.0902 (2019). The certificate of authority application has to be submitted along with a cover letter to the Registration Section, Division of Corporations. The fee for the foreign qualification application is $100 and you will have to submit an additional $25 for designation of Registered Agent and optional $5 for Certificate of Status.

Do you require assistance with registering foreign LLC in Florida?

Need Any Assistance in Applying for Florida Foreign Qualification?

If you are already operating a business corporation or a limited liability company in another state and want to expand to Florida then foreign qualification in Florida is necessary. As one of the leading registered agents in the state, IncParadise can help you with the Florida foreign qualification registration process of your LLC or corporation.

We also provide additional services in Florida that will ensure you are in compliance with all requirements pertaining to Florida foreign qualification. We provide foreign qualification services in all 50 states and this will help you to expand your business in any state of your choice.

Want to apply for a Florida foreign Qualification?

Forming company in Florida as a Non-Resident

Date: | Category: | Author: developers

Forming company in Florida as a Non-Resident

Foreign direct investors have acquired, established, or expanded their existing and new businesses in Florida to the tune of $2.9 billion in 2019 with an extensive role being played by non-residents. If you are planning to start a company in Florida as a foreigner or a non-resident then this article will provide the right guidance. The article is targeted towards providing you information on the existing startup environment and how to start a business in Florida as a foreigner including choosing a business entity, securing business funding, registering your business, and obtaining business licenses and permits among others.

Starting a Company in Florida

Florida is home to 2.5 million small businesses that have a major contribution in the state’s GDP of $1.1 trillion. There are several reasons why small and medium sized companies are thriving in the state and this includes a strong infrastructure, second-largest foreign trade zone (FTZ) network in the country, creating the right platform for becoming a global trade hub, $55.89 billion dollar manufacturing industry, a strong and growing innovation ecosystem, and last but not the least; several types of business incentive programs. These factors contribute greatly towards helping non-residents and foreigners to start businesses in Florida.

Florida small business/startup environment

The Florida business environment has grown in leaps and bounds thus taking Florida from being the ‘sunshine state’ to becoming the ‘startup state’. Florida has a developing business landscape and its business environment has gone through a critical shift in several areas including creating higher access to capital, a flexible tax law, and embracing emerging technology. There are different elements that are entwined to create a business environment where you can start a company in Florida as a foreigner. Some of those elements are:

  • Business or startup environment – One of the top reasons to start a company in Florida as a foreigner is that it is a knowledge driven and innovation based economy. Florida is slowly transforming into a state that has brought together capital, technology, investors, and innovation creating a seamless and successful startup environment. The state is also home to several incubators, labs as well as accelerators including 500 Startups and Dreamit, which are the leading accelerators globally. The Florida business environment has been further strengthened with the growth of Miami as a top tech ecosystem in the country with venture-backed companies raising more than $950 million in 2020.
  • Florida Small Business Incentive Programs – When you start a company in Florida as a foreigner, one of the aspects that will benefit you and your company is the small business incentive programs offered by the state. The primary objective of these incentive programs is to ensure startups achieve bottom-line advantages, which further leads to long-term profitability. The incentive programs also play an integral role in creating the right Florida business environment. Some of the top programs include Corporate Income Tax Credit, Capital Investment Tax Credits (CITC), Tax Exemption for Machinery and Equipment Used for Research and Development, Quick Response Training (QRT) grant, and Brownfield Redevelopment Bonus among others.
  • Foreign Trade Zones – When you start a business in Florida as a non-resident or a foreigner, you may provide goods and services locally as well as globally. The trade industry is considered as one of the fastest growing industries in the state with several small business owners starting their new business as an exporter or importer. Florida imports up until August 2021 were $8,352 million while exports were $4,532 million. This is simply an indicator of the unprecedented growth the industry has been witnessing. When you register a Florida business as a foreigner, you can choose to make it operational within a designated Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ). There are 21 designated FTZ’s in Florida with three zones in Miami itself.

Steps to Form a Florida Company as a Foreigner

If you are wondering if it is possible for you to start a company in Florida as a foreigner or non-resident then the answer is yes, most definitely. There is a specific process that you would have to follow in order to form a startup. You will also be required to be compliant with all federal and state laws pertaining to starting a company. Let’s take a look at how to start a business in Florida as a foreigner and make it operational.

1.Prepare your Florida business plan

One of the most important aspects to consider before you start a company in Florida as a foreigner is creating a strong business plan. The objective of a business plan is to help create an operational roadmap that outlines the requirements, resources available, strategies, risks, opportunities and competition. If you want to register a Florida business as a non-resident or foreigner then your business plan should include the following:

  • Business objectives and mission statement
  • Business Overview
  • Operations Plan
  • Market Analysis
  • Competitive Analysis
  • SWOT Analysis
  • Financial Projections and Funding
  • Management and Organization
  • Products and Services
  • Marketing Plan and Sales Strategy

2. Secure your business funding

If you plan to start a company in Florida as a foreigner or a non-resident then there will be initial costs and annual costs. These costs include new business formation, rental or lease of commercial space, cost of purchasing or renting equipment, marketing and promotion of business, and obtaining business license and permits among others. If you feel that your initial budget is not enough to begin operations and sustain it then you will need to secure funding through other available sources in the state. Funding is an important aspect of how to start a business in Florida as a foreigner and before you apply for funding, it is important to determine your requirements. Some of the available funding opportunities are:

  • Bootstrapping or Self-funding
  • Crowdfunding
  • Florida Small business grants
  • Small Business Loans in Florida
  • Angel Investment
  • Venture capital from private investors
  • Government’s Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS)
  • Micro-loan organizations
  • Small Business Administration investment programs
  • Funding from Incubators & Accelerators

3. Choose a company name

A company name is an aspect that provides an identity to the business. A good choice of name can create a brand and a poor choice can kill the brand even before it takes off. Hence, you need to consider several aspects when creating a company name. You will also need to ensure the business name is in compliance with the Florida state laws, so that you can start a business in Florida. The important aspects to consider are:

  • The name should be catchy, short, and easy to pronounce
  • The chosen name should be SEO friendly
  • Since the name will be used to register a Florida business, it needs to be unique
  • The name should reflect your product or services and brand personality
  • Always check for trademark issues prior to reserving the name
  • Follow state statutes for choosing a name like a corporate name should have words like “corporation,” “company,” or “incorporated”
  • You can also use abbreviations like “Inc”, “Co.”, or “Corp” pursuant to FL Stat § 607.0401 (2019)
  • It should not contain any language that implies or states that the company is connected with a federal or state government agency

4. Choose a business entity

If you have decided to start a business in Florida as a foreigner then one of the primary considerations to make is the business structure. You can form different types of entities in Florida like:

The type of entity you want to form will be dependent on your requirements and what you seek from the business. Each business structure has its pros and cons as well as tax requirements and these aspects need to be considered as a part of the process of identifying how to start a business in Florida as a foreigner.

5. Choose a Registered Agent

One of the important and mandatory requirements governed by the Florida business statutes is that of a registered agent. If you want to start a business in Florida then it is mandatory to designate a registered agent for the service of process.

A Florida registered agent is also known as an agent for service of process and is appointed by a new or existing business for the purpose of accepting different official correspondences and legal notices. A registered agent like IncParadise will not only handle service of process but can help you register a Florida business. IncParadise is one of the most reputable registered agent service providers in Florida today!

6. Register your company

If you want to start a company in Florida as a foreigner then there is a specific process for registration of an entity. The new business formation process will depend on the type of entity or business structure. Since you are a non-resident or a foreigner, you will have to go through the process of foreign qualification. Hence, in order to register a Florida business, you will need to file an Authority of foreign business to transact in the state.

If you are planning to form a foreign corporation then you will have to file an Application by Foreign Corporation for Authorization to Transact Business in Florida pursuant to FL Stat § 607.1501 (2019) and for an LLC it will be a Certificate of Authority pursuant to FL Stat § 605.0902 (2019). IncParadise, one of the top registered agents in Florida can help you with the process of filing your new Florida company registration. You can order a new LLC or INC online right here – right now!

Form your business in Florida today!

7. Get EIN

If you are a non-resident or a foreign citizen and are planning to start a business in Florida then you will have to apply for and obtain an EIN or employer identification number. It is a unique 9-digit identification number that is issued by the IRS to different forms of domestic and foreign businesses. An EIN is most commonly used by businesses for filing annual tax returns.

8. Open a bank account for your business

If you are wondering how to start a business in Florida as a foreigner then it is important to remember that having a business bank account can be quite helpful. Although, it may seem that your existing personal banking account may be good enough, that is not the case, simply because mixing personal and business expenditures and earnings can cause accounting issues. A business bank account is primarily used for business transactions like accepting payments, purchasing business equipment, and paying employees among others. If you want to start a company in Florida as a foreigner then here are some of the top benefits of a business bank account:

  • You can be assured of financial protection for yourself as well as your company
  • It will help in keeping personal finances separate from your business expenses and income
  • It enables organized handling of business finances
  • With a business bank account, you can track your business expenses and monitor spending
  • It makes tax audit and filing of tax returns accurate and easy.

9. Obtain the necessary business licenses and permits

Florida has a strong economy that supports all forms of businesses and different types of industries. You can start a business in Florida in any industry including tourism, aerospace, cleantech, logistics, information technology, and manufacturing. Your business will be formed under the law when you submit registration documents but your business will not be operational till you have obtained the necessary business licenses and permits. It is important to understand that there are primarily two types of business licenses in Florida and they are:

  • General business license known as a business tax receipt in the state
  • License and permits for specific industries or professions.

You can order our Business License Research Report Service for more detailed information on licensing requirements when you register a Florida business.

10.Know about the annual and ongoing state filing requirements

Once you start a business in Florida as a foreigner or a non-US resident; you will be required to maintain it and ensure your business is compliant with all annual requirements. This will help in ensuring your business enjoys active status. Compliance with annual and ongoing state filing requirements will help you to avoid any penalties or fines related to late filings. Different forms of business entities will have different annual as well as ongoing requirements. The annual requirements are:

Know more about Forming a Florida Company as a Non-Resident

If you are planning to start a business in Florida, especially as a non-US resident or a foreigner then you may have several queries regarding how to start a business in Florida as a foreigner. We have created this section of “Frequently Asked Questions” to address some of the most common queries that you may have pertaining to types of business entities that you can register, documents required for registration,visa requirements if any, and getting an EIN as a non-U.S. resident among others.

Can a foreigner open a company in Florida?

Yes. It is possible to start a company in Florida as a foreigner or non-US resident and the process for company registration will be quite similar to that of a domestic or foreign entity formation. If you are thinking of forming a legal entity in the state then you are not required to be a resident of the state to register such an entity.

What types of business entities can a non-US resident start in Florida?

You can register a Florida business with ease even as a foreigner but it is important to note that you will be allowed to form only legal business entities in the state. Legal entity denotes those entities that are governed by Florida statutes and hence, you will be able to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Professional Corporation(C Corp) in the state.

What documents do I need to submit to form my Florida business?

In order to start a company in Florida as a foreigner or a Non-US resident, you will need to file specific registration related documents. The type of registration application will depend on the business Structure.

For example: If you register a Florida business as a limited-liability company then you will need to file Articles of Organization along with a cover letter and designation of Registered Agent. The application has to be filed with the Division of Corporations and follow the process of formation of a domestic LLC. You will also have to file for name reservation and submit an annual report as governed by Florida statutes.

What Visa requirements are required for a non-US resident to start a business in the US?

As a foreigner, you may wonder whether you need to obtain a visa to start a business in Florida. A visa is not a mandatory requirement for operating a business in the state but it will be required if you want to reside in Florida or anywhere in the USA. There are two main visa options that you have and they are:

  • E-2 Visa: This visa is meant for those foreign entrepreneurs who are citizens of countries with whom the US has the Treaty of Navigation, Commerce or Friendship. Hence, the E2 visa holders are also known as E-2 Treaty Investors and will be allowed to register a Florida business. Check if you belong to a Treaty Country.
  • EB-5 Visa: The EB-5 Visa is issued under the “Immigrant Investor Program” by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is targeted at specifically foreign investors interested in making a capital investment with a Minimum Investment Amount of $1,800,000.

What’s the easiest way to get an EIN as a non-U.S. resident?

If you are a foreign citizen and want to register a Florida business then first you will need to obtain a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN). An EIN is mandatory for most forms of businesses in the USA and is used primarily for filing business tax returns. Since, a foreign resident planning to start a business in Florida does not have a Social Security Number (SSN), the easiest way to get an EIN would be by applying for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) first.

The ITIN is a tax processing number that is issued only to resident aliens and non-resident or foreign citizens and their spouses who are unable to acquire a Social Security Number (SSN). In order to get an ITIN, you will be required to file the IRS Form W-7-IRS Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

How do I pay taxes as a non-US resident for my Florida business?

If you start a company in Florida as a foreigner, you will still be required to file taxes. The type of taxes you need to file will depend on the business structure although it is important to note that non-residents or foreign citizens are not allowed to become members of an S-corporation. If you form a corporation as a non-resident then you will have to file corporate taxes like domestic entities. If you register a Florida business as a limited liability company then the profits of the said non-resident run LLC will be taxed at 30%.

Can I open a bank account for my US business if I’m not a US resident?

If you are thinking of forming a startup in Florida or the USA; you will have to eventually look for business banking options. You can open a bank account in the US as a non-resident or a foreign citizen although the process is more complex with stringent rules and requirements as compared to resident entrepreneurs or US citizens. When applying for a US business bank account, you will need to furnish the bank with documents for verification of name, date of birth, and physical address. You can use a valid passport or other government-issued identification from your home country, or even Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Looking to Start a Company in Florida?

If you are planning to start a company in Florida as a foreigner or a non-US resident then a leading registered agent service like IncParadise can help you with the formation or incorporation of your new business. IncParadise is one of the top registered agents in Florida and have helped thousands of companies to register their new business or startup in the US.

We can be your registered agent in the state of Florida and assist you with all your business related initial and annual requirements through a range of additional services like annual reports and EIN.

Start a Florida Business as non-US residents today!

Filing DBA in Florida

Date: | Category: | Author: developers

Filing DBA in Florida

A company name also known as a business name has a monumental role to play in the overall growth and perception of a company or brand. You can choose to go with a standard business name or opt for a DBA or “Doing business as”. There is a separate process for filing a DBA in Florida as compared to reserving or registering a standard business name. This article will delve deeper and provide insight into various aspects of a fictitious business name in Florida including what a DBA is, how to conduct a name search, and explain the process of filing for one.

Doing Business As or DBA in Florida

Florida is considered by entrepreneurs and small business owners as a favorable state for starting a small business. The state is home to 2.8 million small businesses leveraging a growing economy, robust infrastructure, and high accessibility to local, national, and global markets. Now, if you register a startup in the state then one of the first aspects to consider is a fictitious business name in Florida. There are several benefits of filing a DBA in Florida including privacy protection, enhanced value, and increased flexibility.

How does a DBA work in Florida?

If you want to start a business in Florida and are looking for a distinctive name that identifies your business then filing a DBA in Florida will be a good option. When you register a DBA or ‘Doing Business As’ then it allows you to conduct business in the state under a fictitious business name instead of your real name. There are many reasons why a new business owner would want a DBA. Some of these reasons are if your company is planning to inaugurate a new service or product line, which is currently not being reflected under the existing name. In such a scenario, you can file a DBA online in Florida to start this new product or service.

For example:: A small business owner, Joseph Lang starts a golf store business named Joseph Lang Golf Outlet. This type of business or business name will not require you to file a DBA online in Florida. However, if he changes the name to Lang Golf Outlet or Lang Golf & other sports outlets then it will be considered as a DBA or ‘doing business as’ name. This will require filing a DBA in Florida under the new name.

When do you need a DBA in Florida?

A DBA is often known as an assumed name, trade name or fictitious name. A fictitious business name Florida increases credibility and increases visibility for marketing and promotion of a business and hence it is quite popular. It is also important to understand that every business does not require filing a DBA in Florida as its requirement is based on several factors including a business owner’s preference. There are several reasons why a business owner would want to conduct their business under a DBA (Doing Business As) and the reasons can be different for different businesses. Some of the most popular reasons for using a DBA are:

  • Business Structure – If you opt to go with unincorporated business structures like a sole proprietorship or a general partnership then filing a DBA in Florida may be required if you plan to operate your company under a name that is not your own name or your business partner’s legal name. If you plan to form other legal entities like a Florida LLC, limited partnerships or a corporation then you are not required to file a fictitious business name in Florida. Although, you don’t need to file a DBA as a franchise owner, filing it can help in establishing your identity as a local Florida business.
  • Multiple businesses – You are already offering a specific product or service through your existing business but plan to diversify into other unrelated or new products or services through multiple businesses. In such a scenario, a DBA or fictitious business name in Florida will help you to keep each business separate without the need to register several companies.
  • Bank Requirement – There are times when your chosen bank may require a DBA (doing business as) for opening a business bank account. This is especially true for sole proprietorship businesses and general partnerships.

Filing a DBA in Florida

In order to conduct business under a DBA, you will be required to complete appropriate DBA forms and file a DBA online in Florida or even through mail. There is a filing fee and it would be required to fulfill any requirements pursuant to the 2020 Florida Statutes, chapter 865.09 – Fictitious Name Registration. Let us look in detail at the important steps towards filing a DBA in Florida successfully.

Do a name search

One of the first steps towards registering a fictitious name is conducting a DBA Florida search. In order to conduct a search for ‘doing business as’ names, you will need to identify or create a name for your company. Once you have created a business name, you can conduct a fictitious name search in the Search Records Section (Sunbiz) of the Florida Division of Corporations. This search will help you to find out if your chosen DBA is available or not while highlighting whether the name is similar to any other fictitious or business name in the Florida Department of State records.

Publish notice of your Florida DBA

Once you have conducted a DBA Florida search to find out the availability of a name, the next step is to publish a notice of intention. This simply means that before you file a DBA online in Florida, you will need to advertise the chosen DBA name at least once in a local newspaper or a newspaper located in the same county as your principal business address pursuant to 2021 Florida Statutes, Chapter 50.031.

For Example:: If your business is situated in Palm Beach County, FL then you need to publish in a local newspaper like the Palm Beach Post, Town-Crier, Sun-Sentinel etc.

Register DBA

Once you have advertised or published your fictitious business name in Florida in the local newspaper, you can proceed towards the registration of your DBA. The ‘doing business as’ name registration in Florida is governed by Florida Statutes, FL Stat § 865.09 (2020). The sole purpose of filing a DBA in Florida is to inform Florida residents about the business entity or individual who is conducting the business under the specific name. It is important to consider the following:

  • Your chosen fictitious name or DBA should not contain any suffix or indicator of a legal business entity like Corporation, Incorporated, Limited Liability Company, Corp, L.L.C., L.P., and P.A., among others especially if it is a sole proprietorship.
  • According to the Section 655.922 of the Florida Statutes, if your business is not a financial institution then it is prohibited by law to use specific words like “bank,” “banco,” “banker,” “savings bank,” “trust company,” or “credit union,” in your DBA name.

If your chosen fictitious business name in Florida complies with the Florida Statutes then you can register it by filing the “Application for Registration of Fictitious Name” along with a fee of $50. Alternatively, we at IncParadise can also help you to register your Florida DBA.

There are three ways of filing a DBA in Florida and they are:

  • Send your application through mail to Fictitious Name Registration, PO Box 6327, Tallahassee, FL 32314-1300
  • File a DBA online in Florida through the Sunbiz Portal
  • You can order a DBA through IncParadise thus saving valuable time and you can use this time to manage other aspects of the new business

Do you want to file a DBA in Florida?

Managing Florida DBA

Filing a DBA in Florida doesn’t mean that the work or process is complete as you will need to keep renewing it as long as you want to keep the fictitious name. The fictitious business name in Florida has to be managed depending on the specific requirements of the business including cancelling the DBA permanently or changing the assumed name. Let us look at the various aspects integral to managing a Florida DBA.

Renew a Florida DBA

One of the important aspects to consider after filing a DBA in Florida is to renew it each year, so that the name doesn’t expire or it is not reserved by some other company. Different states have different renewal periods for a DBA and in Florida, a fictitious name registered under FL Stat § 865.09 (2020) will be valid for a period of 5 years. The 5-year period begins on the date you file a DBA online in Florida and expires on December 31 of the 5th calendar year after that date.

Example: If you register your fictitious business name in Florida on June 12, 2021 then it will expire on December 31, 2026. Hence, you will need to renew it on or before December 31 of the expiration year. Renewal on time will ensure the validity of the DBA for a period of another 5 years.

It is important to note that the Florida division of corporations will notify you regarding the expiry of the fictitious name registration prior to September 1 of the expiration year. This ensures filing a DBA in Florida for renewal on time. The fee for renewal of Florida DBA is $50.

Change a Florida DBA

Once you have registered a Florida DBA, you can conduct your business under the said name. Now, if you want to alter or change the fictitious name then what? Yes, it is possible and you need to start by conducting a DBA in Florida search to ensure your altered or new fictitious name is available. The next step is to download the “Application for Registration of Fictitious Name” and use it to simultaneously cancel the existing DBA and re-register the new DBA. The fee for re-registration of a fictitious business name in Florida is $50.

Cancel a Florida DBA

After filing a DBA in Florida, you may decide to keep the name for a period of 5 years, change it, or even cancel it. The cancellation of DBA can be due to any professional or personal reasons. According to FL Stat § 865.09 (2020), if you cease to operate and transact your business under the registered DBA then you will need to file a cancellation with the Florida division of corporations within 30 days after the business operations have stopped. In order to cancel your fictitious business name in Florida, you will have to download the DBA registration form or “Application for Registration of Fictitious Name” and fill out Section 4 of the application only. The fee for cancellation is $50.

Need Any Assistance in Filing a DBA?

The process for filing a DBA in Florida may require you to provide accurate information for proper registration of the fictitious name. You will also be required to publish your fictitious business name in Florida in local newspapers prior to the registration process. If all this sounds like a daunting process, then IncParadise is here to assist. We have expertise and knowledge regarding the DBA laws and can help you to set your Florida DBA.

We can also provide additional services that will ensure your other business requirements are fulfilled like getting a tax id, S corporation status, Florida Certificate of Good Standing, and dissolutions.

Do you require more information on Florida DBA?