How to Form a Non-Profit Organization in Florida
Surrounded by hundreds of miles of beaches, Florida is the southeasternmost U.S. state, with the Atlantic Ocean on the eastern coast and the Gulf of Mexico on the western coast. Florida is one of the United States’ economic powerhouses, ranking as the fourth largest economy. Additionally, its GDP is larger than all but 16 countries. Florida’s economy is extremely diverse, with tourism and agriculture among its top industries.
When forming a Non-Profit organization in the state of Florida, you must complete the following requirements:
- Select an organization name according to requirements
- Fulfill director requirements
- Complete annual report
- Choose a registered agent
- Submit articles of incorporation
- Register your federal tax ID number
Let Eco-fyle help you fullfil your business needs.
Select an Organization Name According to State Requirements
• Your nonprofit’s name must contain a corporate suffix (“Corporation,” “Corp.,” “Incorporated,” or “Inc.”), and the name must be distinguishable from other organizations on file with the State of Florida.
• Florida’s Division of Corporations no longer provides name reservations and preliminary name searches, but you can search the state’s records yourself at the Division’s website.
Fulfill All Director Requirements
• You have the option to list the names, addresses, and titles of your nonprofit’s directors or officers in the articles of incorporation.
• You must have at least three directors or officers.
Complete Annual Report
• Florida requires nonprofits to file annual reports to keep the Department of State’s records current.
• The deadline is May 1 each year.
• The filing fee is $61.25, and you must file online at the Florida Department of State’s website.
Appoint a Registered Agent for Your Organization
• Florida requires a nonprofit corporation to appoint and maintain a registered agent to receive service of process (legal notices) from the state, which is why your nonprofit’s articles of incorporation must list your registered agent’s Florida street address.
Submit Articles of Incorporation
• The articles of incorporation cost $70 file, which includes a $35 filing fee and a $35 designation of registered agent fee.
• If you file online, Florida will process your articles within about 5 business days (mailed filings take a bit longer).
Register Your Federal Tax ID Number
• A federal employer identification number (a FEIN or EIN) is a must for any new nonprofit trying to navigate its finances, solicit donations, or apply for federal and state tax exemptions.
• Your Florida nonprofit can get an EIN from the IRS as soon as the state approves your Articles of Incorporation. Apply through the IRS website.
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