Before starting a business in the state of Florida, you will likely need to acquire a Florida business license with the proper agencies. Depending on the type of business that you start, you could find that you need a business license in Florida that comes from a state, city, or county agency.
Generally, to obtain a business license in Florida, you will need to:
- Research what business licenses are required in your industry and jurisdiction
- Download an application and gather any necessary documentation
- Submit the application along with any required fees
Popular industries in Florida include tourism, agriculture, and mining. Florida is the fourth most populated state in the country and it has numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs who obtain the appropriate Florida business licenses.
Florida Business License Requirements
Before you can start a new business, you will need to make sure that you meet the Florida business license requirements. What is required to obtain a business license in Florida varies by both industry and jurisdiction, but some sample requirements are:
- Valid Federal or State Registration
- Proof of Education
- Proof of Insurance
- Age
- Ability to Pass an Examination
- Background Check
- Tax Information
Researching what is required to become licensed in your particular industry is often complicated and time consuming, but incorporate.com can help you navigate this process. Whether you plan to start earning money from rental properties, home-based enterprises, farming, or construction, you need to make sure you have the proper license.
Florida Business License Cost and Fees
If you are looking to attain a small business license in Florida, you may have a relatively small budget that doesn't leave much room for extra expenses and, as a result, you may be concerned with how much it will cost.
The good news is that the typical Florida business license costs very little, so it shouldn't have a big impact on your projected budget. The specific costs depend on the kind of business that you want to create and what licenses you need for it. Generally, you can expect to spend less than $100 on a license.
If you are unsure of the specific Florida business licenses and permits that you will need, then incorporate.com can help. We will compile the necessary licenses based on the information that you provide.
Florida Business License Application and Documents
Applying for a Florida business license will require several documents. You can make the application process much easier by having those documents ready ahead of time. The specific documents that you need, of course, depend on the kind of license that you need to run your business. You can find most of the information needed when you download your application, or if you work with incorporate.com we will ensure you have all the documents you need.
In addition to your state application, you might need to fill out information to apply for a city or county business license. You will also need to obtain a tax identification number from the IRS.
These are all crucial documents that you need to operate your business legally in Florida.
How Long Will it Take to Get a Florida Business License?
The length of time that it takes to process your business license application may vary by regulatory agency or jurisdiction. However, it will likely be several weeks or months before you hear back from the state or local government.
When you apply, most Florida licensing agencies will tell you what the average processing time is, so you can plan accordingly. Additionally, some agencies have an online portal that allows you to monitor and track the status of your application.
Renewing Your Florida Business License
Once you have submitted your paperwork, paid all applicable fees, and received your business license, you are ready to start operating legally within the State of Florida. You should realize, however, that companies operating in some industries might need to renew their licenses on a regular basis.
Florida business license renewal differs greatly from industry to industry, so it is important to check with regulatory organizations to make sure you have a valid license at all times. In most cases, the expiration date is printed on your license, so you shouldn't have any difficulties knowing when you need to submit documents for an updated license.
Remember, however, that it can take several weeks or months for the state and local government to process your renewal application. Waiting until the last minute could disrupt your ability to operate your business.
Too busy to research your licensing requirements? We can help.
Call us at 855.235.3824 to get started on obtaining your Florida business license today!