How to File Articles of Organization in Florida

In Florida, as in most states, the primary step in creating a limited liability company (LLC) is to file articles of organization with the state. This is an absolutely crucial document that helps define your business, so it’s important to do it correctly.

An LLC is a business entity that offers liability protection for owners, as well as pass-through taxation, much like a sole proprietorship. 

What are Articles of Organization?

The articles of organization is a legal document you need to file with the state to form your LLC. It will specify details about your company and establish your LLC as an officially registered business entity in Florida. 

The document is similar to the articles of incorporation you would file to form a corporation instead of an LLC. 

How to File the Florida Articles of Organization

In Florida, the process to file articles of organization is quite simple. The crucial first step is gathering the required information about your new LLC, before proceeding with the filing itself. 

Here are the steps you’ll need to take to create your new business entity: 

1. Gather the required information about your business.
   
   • Entity Name
   • Entity Address
   • Registered Agent Name
   • Registered Office Address
   • Governing Authority Type
   • Effective Date

2. Visit the state’s Division of Corporations website (SunBiz.org)

Find Florida’s articles of organization form here. It’s easiest to fill out the form online and file immediately, but you can also download it, fill it out and mail it in. 

3. Filling out Articles of Organization Document

On the landing page of the online form, accept the terms of the disclaimer by clicking the check box. Click “Start New Filing” at the bottom left.

You will then be brought to a form where you’ll input all of your business information. Fill in your company name, principal business address, mailing address, and registered agent contact information. You can also include additional information, like a purpose or mission statement. Next, enter your correspondence contact information and entity information. Once the form is complete, click “Continue”.

The next screen displays your information for a final review. If everything is correct, click “continue” at the bottom of the page. You’ll be given a document tracking number. Click “continue” to be taken to the payment screen.

When filling out your articles of organization form, be sure to double-check that all the information is accurate and up-to-date. Maybe you’ve just moved, or use your middle initial in official documents, such as with your bank account. If you get it wrong now, changing it later can be a real pain. So accuracy is crucial. 

• File Articles of Organization – The final step in the process is to submit payment through the website’s payment screen or mail in all documentation. The filing fee in Florida is $125. 

Document reviewers process requests on a “first in, first out” basis. Turnaround times for online submissions are typically within a week. Mail in filings take about 30 days. You can check current processing times here.

Florida Division of Corporations Contact Info

SunBiz.Org – Florida Division of Corporations Website

Department of State
Division of Corporations
The Centre of Tallahassee
2415 N. Monroe Street, Suite 810
Tallahassee, FL 32303

Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST

850.245.6000

General inquiries – [email protected]

The Bottom Line

In Florida, it’s relatively easy to create an LLC, but you do need to jump through a few hoops. You now have all the information you need to officially create your new business and begin your entrepreneurial journey in The Sunshine State.