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What legal steps do I need to take when starting a new business in Florida?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

When starting a new business in Florida, there are several legal steps that you must take to ensure that your business is properly registered and compliant with state laws. These steps include:

  1. Choosing a Business Entity: The first step in starting a new business in Florida is to choose a business entity. The most common choices are sole proprietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), and corporation. It is important to choose the entity that best suits your needs and goals.
  2. Registering Your Business: Once you have decided on your business entity, you must register your business with the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations. You will need to file the appropriate forms and pay the required fees.
  3. Obtaining Necessary Licenses and Permits: Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need to obtain certain licenses and permits from the state of Florida. You can check with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation to determine what licenses and permits may be required for your business.
  4. Obtaining an EIN: Most businesses will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The EIN is used by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes.
  5. Setting up Your Business Bank Account: It is important to set up a separate bank account for your new business. This will allow you to keep your business finances separate from your personal finances.
  6. Complying with Tax Obligations: As a new business owner in Florida, you will need to comply with state and federal tax obligations. This may include registering for state and local taxes, collecting and remitting sales tax, and filing income tax returns.
  7. Complying with Employment Laws: If you plan to hire employees for your new business, you will need to comply with various employment laws such as minimum wage requirements, worker’s compensation insurance, and anti-discrimination laws.

It is important to note that there may be additional legal steps that are specific to your business type or industry. It is always a good idea to consult with a licensed attorney to ensure that you are meeting all of the legal requirements for starting and operating your business in Florida.