The choices you make in your first month (entity type, tax election, payroll and bookkeeping) affect every tax return after it. We help you set it up correctly from day one.
To start a business in Florida, you typically choose an entity such as an LLC or corporation, register it with the Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz), obtain a free Employer Identification Number from the IRS, open a business bank account, and decide whether to make an S corporation election. Florida entities must file an annual report with Sunbiz each year.
Reviewed by an Enrolled Agent at IRS Debt-Free ยท Updated September 2026
File Articles of Organization with the Florida Division of Corporations through Sunbiz, name a registered agent, get an EIN from the IRS, and open a business bank account. You also need to file an annual report each year to stay active.
An LLC is a legal structure, while S corporation status is a tax election that an LLC or corporation can make. Many small businesses start as an LLC and elect S corporation treatment once profits make the payroll savings worthwhile.
No. The IRS issues Employer Identification Numbers for free on IRS.gov. Be careful with websites that charge a fee for this.
Florida LLCs and corporations must file their annual report with Sunbiz between January 1 and May 1 each year. Late reports carry a penalty and can lead to administrative dissolution.
Book a confidential consultation. We'll review your situation and tell you honestly what we can do.