How to Start a Sole Proprietorship in Florida

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by How to Start an LLC Team
Last updated: June 19th, 2024
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If you’re considering starting a business in Florida, a sole proprietorship is a popular structure for new business owners to consider. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to start a sole proprietorship in Florida, from choosing a business name to obtaining licenses and permits.

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What is a sole proprietorship?

A sole proprietorship is the most straightforward type of business you can establish. The business and the owner are the same legal entity in a sole proprietorship. This means that you have complete control over your business, but you hold personal liability for any debts or obligations of the business.

A step-by-step guide to starting your Florida sole proprietorship

1

Choose a business name

First, you must choose a business name. You can use your legal name or create a fictitious name, also known as a “Doing Business As” (DBA) or trade name.

Here is how you file a DBA:

  1. Choose a business name: Think of potential names for your business. Aim for a name that is both memorable and descriptive. A well-thought-out name can serve as an excellent marketing tool.
  2. Check availability: Once you have chosen your name, you have to check that the name is unique.

There are two key resources to check:

  • The Florida Department of State’s Division of Corporations offers a database to search business entities registered in Florida. Search here to confirm your proposed name is not already taken by another business in the state.
  • The US Patent and Trademark Office allows you to search their national trademark database. Review federal trademarks to ensure your name does not infringe on trademarks or intellectual property.
  1. Check online availability: Check that the website domain of your proposed name is available. Having the .com domain will be a useful marketing tool and help potential clients and customers find your business with ease. As well as the website domain, confirm that the social media handles are also available.
  2. Register the business name:
  • Before you file your fictitious name, Florida law states that you must advertise your proposed name in a newspaper in the county where your business is located.
  • The fictitious name registration form can be downloaded or completed online.
  • A filing fee of $50 is required, and the completed form needs to be sent to the Division of Corporations.
2

Obtain an (Employer Identification Number) EIN

As a sole proprietor, you may not be required to obtain an EIN, especially if you have no employees. In such cases, you can use your Social Security Number (SSN) for tax purposes.

However, obtaining an EIN can provide privacy benefits and help streamline certain business operations.

  • Opens up business banking opportunities: Obtaining an EIN enables the opening of dedicated business bank accounts, credit cards, and financing.
  • Helps establish business credit: An EIN allows building business credit rather than relying solely on personal credit history.
  • Eases the hiring process: Getting an EIN distinguishes the business finances and tax documentation from the owner’s finances.
  • Enhances business privacy: Using an EIN instead of an SSN on business documents enhances privacy protections.
  • Prepares for business growth: An established EIN can simplify future transitions to more structured business entities.

You can apply for your EIN here.

3

Obtain Florida business licenses, permits, and zoning clearances

Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain specific licenses, permits, and zoning clearances to operate legally in Florida. The requirements vary based on your industry, location, and the activities your business will engage in.

  • Florida doesn’t require a general state-level business license.
  • Sole proprietors who are retailers must obtain a seller’s permit. This license is called the “sales and use tax permit.” 
  • Check with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) to determine if your profession requires a license. The DBPR regulates and licenses many professions in Florida.
  • The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS) licenses and regulates other professions in Florida, including pawn shops and private investigators.
  • Some areas, such as healthcare, are licensed by independent regulators, not the DBPR or the DACS.
  • Some industries, such as alcohol, are regulated by federal agencies. You can find more information at the Small Business Administration, where you can find links to the federal agency you must apply with.
  • Check local regulations; your city or county may require permits, licenses, or zoning laws to follow.
  • Contact your city or county clerk to ask about requirements. Some cities like Miami have specific local business rules to stay aware of.
4

Register for taxes

Filing taxes as a sole proprietorship is handled alongside your personal tax return. Each year when you file Form 1040, attach Schedule C to report your sole proprietorship’s income, profits, and losses for the past year.

As a self-employed sole proprietor, you owe self-employment tax contributions for Social Security and Medicare, which you can calculate and report using Schedule SE.

Access the most current versions of Form 1040Schedule C, and Schedule SE on the IRS website.

Additional state and local taxes

  • As previously mentioned, Florida requires businesses involved in retail to register for a sales and use tax. You can file sales and use tax online at the Florida Department of Revenue website or by completing Form DR-1, the Business Tax Application.
  • The Department of Revenue also has a new business start-up-kit webpage that can guide you through the different taxes that may apply to your business.

Additional steps

After you’ve secured your EIN, registered for federal taxes, and received the necessary licenses, you’ve completed the essential steps to establish your sole proprietorship.

We suggest a few more tasks to help your small business stay aligned with rules and well-organized.

5

Open business bank accounts

We recommend opening a dedicated business bank account to maintain clear financial records and separate your personal assets and your business finances.

A business bank account offers several advantages, including:

  • Simplified bookkeeping and record-keeping: Separating your personal and business finances allows for easier tracking of income and expenses.
  • Facilitates accurate tax reporting: With a dedicated business bank account, you can easily identify and report business-related transactions on your tax returns.
  • Demonstrates professionalism: Having a separate bank account adds credibility to your business and enhances your professional image when dealing with clients, suppliers, and financial institutions.
6

Get liability insurance

As a sole proprietor, you shoulder complete responsibility for any business debts or obligations, making insurance an essential part of your business strategy. It safeguards you from unexpected claims or events. Consider exploring the following:

  • General business liability insurance: This coverage handles allegations of property damage, bodily injury, or personal harm tied to your business operations.
  • Professional liability insurance: Particularly vital for service providers, this insurance defends against allegations of negligence, errors, or lapses in your services.
7

Maintain business records

Keeping records is important for tax filing and managing your sole proprietorship’s financial affairs. You should make an effort to track the following precisely:

  • Income
  • Expenses
  • Assets and liabilities
  • Inventory
  • Billing documents

Using bookkeeping software and spreadsheets or setting up a systematic method can help handle documents. Being as organized as possible will prove helpful when it’s time to file taxes, and it promotes the overall financial health of your business.

Sole proprietorship vs. LLC

While a sole proprietorship might seem appealing due to its simplicity and few legal needs, it’s vital to consider possible downsides and look into other business structures, like a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

Here are some things to think about when choosing between a sole proprietorship and an LLC:

  • Protection from debt: One big plus of starting an LLC is its liability protection. As a sole proprietor, you are responsible for any money owed or legal claims against your business, which could put your own assets at risk. On the other hand, an LLC gives a clear divide between your personal and business assets, keeping your personal belongings safe from business debts.
  • Looking professional: An LLC could make you look more professional in customers’ eyes. Starting an LLC shows more dedication to your business.
  • Potential to grow: If you plan to make your business bigger or attract outside funding, an LLC gives you more room to grow than a sole proprietorship.
  • Flexibility with taxes: One plus of a sole proprietorship is how simple it is when it comes to taxes. You usually report money made and money spent by your business on your personal tax return with a Schedule C. An LLC also offers flexibility with taxes, as it can be treated like a sole proprietorship, a general partnership, or a corporation for tax reasons.

It’s important to remember that starting an LLC involves more steps and legal needs, like filing legal documents like your Articles of Organization and paying filing fees.

Useful resources to help start your sole proprietorship in Florida

FAQs

Do I need to register my sole proprietorship in Florida? 

No, there is no formal registration process for sole proprietorships in Florida. You may need to register a fictitious name if you operate under a name other than yours.

Can a sole proprietorship have employees? 

Yes, a sole proprietorship can have employees. If you hire employees, you must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and comply with federal and state employment tax requirements.

What taxes do sole proprietors in Florida need to pay? 

Sole proprietors in Florida may be subject to various taxes, including income tax, sales tax, and self-employment tax. Consult with the Florida Department of Revenue for specific tax obligations related to your business.

Can I convert my sole proprietorship to an LLC in the future? 

Yes, converting your sole proprietorship to an LLC is possible if you have the legal protection and flexibility an LLC provides. Consult with an attorney or business advisor for guidance on the conversion process.

Do I need a business license to operate as a sole proprietor in Florida? 

The licensing requirements for sole proprietors in Florida vary depending on the nature of the business. Some professions and industries may require specific licenses or permits. Research the requirements related to your specific business activities.

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