What Taxes Does an LLC Pay in Florida?
Florida LLCs pay no state income tax, no franchise tax, and no gross receipts tax. However, you must collect and remit 6% state sales tax (plus any county surtax) on taxable sales, and you'll owe federal self-employment tax on business income. Your federal tax treatment depends on your LLC structure—single-member LLCs default to sole proprietorship taxation (Schedule C), while multi-member LLCs default to partnership taxation (Form 1065). You can elect S-corp or C-corp status if it reduces your overall tax burden.
No State Income Tax
Florida imposes no state income tax on LLC members or the entity itself (Fla. Stat. § 211.02). There is also no franchise tax, gross receipts tax, or annual LLC tax fee beyond the $138.75 annual report filing fee (due between January 1 and May 1 each year).
Sales Tax Obligations
If your LLC sells taxable goods or services, you must register for a Florida sales tax permit and collect 6% state sales tax, plus any discretionary county surtax. Register at floridarevenue.com. Failure to register and remit sales tax creates personal liability for members.
Federal Self-Employment Tax
Self-employment tax applies to all LLC members regardless of Florida's lack of state income tax. Single-member LLCs report income on Schedule C (Form 1040) and pay self-employment tax on net business income. Multi-member LLCs file Form 1065 (partnership return) and members pay self-employment tax on their distributive shares. Estimated federal tax payments are due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15.
Federal Tax Elections
You can elect S-corporation or C-corporation taxation by filing Form 2553 or Form 8832 with the IRS. An S-corp election may reduce self-employment tax on distributions but requires payroll setup and additional compliance. A C-corp election subjects the LLC to federal corporate income tax and potential double taxation.
Annual Compliance
File Florida's Annual Report between January 1 and May 1 each year ($138.75 fee). Missing the deadline triggers a $400 penalty and administrative dissolution if unfiled by the third Friday in September.
Contact: Florida Department of Revenue at floridarevenue.com
This is general information, not legal advice.