Florida Articles of Incorporation: Everything You Need to Know
Formally create a corporation with the state
Document Preview
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION State of Florida The undersigned incorporator(s) hereby adopt the following Articles of Incorporation under the laws of Florida: ARTICLE I — NAME The name of the corporation is: [CORPORATION NAME], Inc. ARTICLE II — PURPOSE The purpose of this corporation is to engage in any lawful business permitted under Florida law. ARTICLE III — REGISTERED AGENT Registered Agent: [AGENT NAME] Registered Office: [ADDRESS], FL [ZIP] ARTICLE IV — AUTHORIZED SHARES The corporation is authorized to issue [NUMBER] shares of [ ] Common [ ] Preferred stock with a par value of $[AMOUNT] per share. ARTICLE V — INCORPORATOR(S) Name: [INCORPORATOR NAME] Address: [ADDRESS], FL [ZIP] ARTICLE VI — DIRECTORS Initial Board of Directors: 1. [DIRECTOR NAME] — [ADDRESS] 2. [DIRECTOR NAME] — [ADDRESS] 3. [DIRECTOR NAME] — [ADDRESS] ARTICLE VII — DURATION The corporation shall have perpetual existence. Filed in accordance with Florida Business Corporation Act (FL Statutes). INCORPORATOR SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____
Where to File Your Articles of Incorporation in Florida
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Articles of Incorporation.
Miami-Dade County Clerk
Miami
73 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33130
Orange County Clerk
Orlando
425 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
Hillsborough County Clerk
Tampa
601 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602
Duval County Clerk
Jacksonville
501 W Adams St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Articles of Incorporation Costs in Florida
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Florida standard rate: $10 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Florida |
| Sales Tax | 6% | Florida base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 2 witnesses | Florida requires multiple witnesses |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
FAQ: Articles of Incorporation in Florida
Is a Articles of Incorporation required in Florida?
Yes, in Florida, a Articles of Incorporation is required for most transactions of this type. Under Florida State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by 2 individuals. Failure to use a proper Articles of Incorporation may result in legal complications.
Does a Articles of Incorporation need to be notarized in Florida?
Notarization requirements in Florida (FL) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $10. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Articles of Incorporation in Florida?
Florida has a base sales tax rate of 6%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Articles of Incorporation, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Florida tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Michael Chen, Esq.
Real Estate Law Consultant
Bar Certified, Real Estate Expert
Expert in property transactions and real estate documentation
This Articles of Incorporation template for Florida has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Florida Articles of Incorporation Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Articles of Incorporation is legally valid in Florida.
Florida Notarization
Florida requires 2 witnesses and notarization may be mandatory. Fees typically range from $10.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Florida, a 6% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Florida law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Florida Filing Deadlines
Check Florida deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Florida Articles of Incorporation Legal Guide
For residents of Florida, ensuring this form is compliant with state-specific requirements is a top priority for legal validity.
Florida law (Florida State Code) governs this Articles of Incorporation. Key financial considerations include a 6% sales tax rate and notary fees of $10. The document requires 2 witnesses and remains valid indefinite.
Using this template ensures you're protected under Florida law while saving time and money on legal fees.
Getting It Done Right in Florida
Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any FL-required notarization. Florida makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Florida attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with FL law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Florida law changes
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Articles of Incorporation is legally binding in Florida and enforceable in FL courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Florida courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable FL statutes.
FL Compliance Checklist
Before finalizing your Articles of Incorporation, verify that it meets Florida's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by FL statute
Florida attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with FL law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Florida law changes
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Articles of Incorporation is legally binding in Florida and enforceable in FL courts. The document remains valid for the duration specified in its terms. Florida courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable FL statutes.
FL Compliance Checklist
Before finalizing your Articles of Incorporation, verify that it meets Florida's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by FL statute
Before finalizing your Articles of Incorporation, verify that it meets Florida's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by FL statute
Other Forms in Florida
Articles of Incorporation in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Articles of Incorporation
- State
- Florida (FL)
- Category
- Business
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6%
- Notary Fee
- $10
Florida Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Law
- ✓Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Florida may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.