Question 1

Why should I register my business?

Accepted Answer

Registering your business will establish your company as a separate legal entity. This helps protect your personal assets in case the company incurs debt or other legal liabilities such as lawsuits. Registration helps protect your personal assets from creditors and lawsuits.

Question 2

What is an EIN?

Accepted Answer

An EIN is an Employer Identification Number, also known as a federal tax identification number, and is used to identify a business entity.

Question 3

What is a registered agent and why do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A registered agent is a natural person or legal entity that agrees to receive legal notices on behalf of the business entity. The registered agent must have a physical address in Florida.

Question 4

What are annual reports?

Accepted Answer

Annual reports are forms used to confirm or update entity information in state records.

Question 5

When is the annual report due?

Accepted Answer

The report must be filed each year by May 1 with the Florida Department of State to maintain the entity's "active" status. Failure to file results in a $400 fine and the entity may be administratively dissolved after the third Friday in September.

Question 6

What are the Articles of Amendment?

Accepted Answer

Articles of Amendment are a form used to modify a business entity's registration, such as name, contact information, registered agents, members, or other related information.

Question 7

What is a dissolution?

Accepted Answer

Articles of Dissolution are used when a business entity needs to voluntarily dissolve itself before the state. Once filed, the entity will no longer exist.

Question 8

Do I need a business license?

Accepted Answer

Yes, to legally operate your business in Florida you need a business license. Depending on the type of business and location, specific business licenses are required.

Question 9

What is Florida Sales and Use Tax Registration?

Accepted Answer

It is a registration that businesses must make with the Florida Department of Revenue in order to collect sales tax. A Florida Annual Sales Tax Certificate is issued.

Question 10

What is the Florida Annual Sales Tax Certificate?

Accepted Answer

It is the certificate that allows business owners, or their representatives, to purchase or rent goods or services tax-free when these goods or services are resold or rented again.

Question 11

What is an Occupational License?

Accepted Answer

It is a permit issued by the local government (city or county) to allow a person or business entity to work in a particular field, including zoning, fire, use, and building permits.

Question 12

What is a Business Tax Receipt?

Accepted Answer

It is a document proving that business tax has been paid and that one has the privilege of engaging in or managing a business, profession, or occupation within the city or county limits.

Question 13

Can I sell alcohol from a food truck?

Accepted Answer

No, in the state of Florida, it is not permitted to sell alcoholic beverages from food trucks. Food trucks are not licensed to sell alcoholic beverages.

Frequently Asked Questions