Starting a Company in Florida (2025 Guide)

, 2025

This content is for general informational purposes only. Tax/compliance obligations may vary according to your business model.

Why Does Florida Stand Out?

Florida is one of the frequently preferred states for entrepreneurs who want to establish a company in the USA due to its strong domestic market, tourism and logistics infrastructure, proximity to Latin America, and no individual state income tax.

Standout reasons

• No individual state income tax

• Corporate tax structure is competitive (Florida corporate income tax: 5.5%)

• Population growth and large consumer base

• Location advantage in international trade

• Strong ecosystem in sectors such as tourism, technology, logistics

Company Types That Can Be Established in Florida

The most frequently preferred structures in Florida

• LLC (Limited Liability Company): Flexible operation + liability protection

• Corporation (C-Corp / S-Corp): For those with investment, share structure, and growth plans

• Single-member LLC: Simple and protective structure for individual entrepreneurs

Florida Company Formation Process (Step by Step)

Basic steps

1. Company name is determined, availability is checked
2. Formation documents are prepared (Articles of Organization / Incorporation)
3. Filing fees are paid
4. Registered Agent is appointed (representative with physical address in Florida)
5. EIN is obtained
6. ITIN application is made if necessary
7. Annual Report: Submitted between January 1 - May 1 each year (there is a late penalty risk)

Florida or Delaware or Wyoming?

Florida is particularly advantageous in local market access and tourism/logistics-focused businesses. Delaware and Wyoming may be more preferred in some scenarios for privacy/operational structure.

Use these criteria when deciding

• The main market of the business (is there physical operations in Florida?)

• State-based compliance and reporting burdens

• Cost and "investor expectations" (especially for C-Corp)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there corporate tax in Florida?

Yes. Corporate income/franchise tax is applied in Florida (current rate 5.5%).

When is the Annual Report due?

In Florida, the annual report period for many structures is between January 1 - May 1.

Is a Registered Agent required?

Yes, a representative to receive service of process on behalf of your company in Florida is required.

Recommended internal links (on-site SEO)

• What is EIN? (separate content)

• What is ITIN? (separate content)

• Starting an LLC (separate content)

• Sales Tax (separate content)