Florida attracts new and growing businesses thanks to low taxes, consistent population growth, and favorable labor rates compared to many states. If you’re thinking of relocating or building a business in The Sunshine State, Ocala has a lot to offer, and getting your business started here might not be as difficult as you think it is.
Key Takeaways
- If you haven’t done so yet, you’ll first need to register your business at the state level with the Florida Department of State and, in some cases, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
- Prospective businesses can apply for permits and licenses through the Marion County Civic Access Portal.
- You’ll also need to create a receipt account to remit Marion County business taxes.
If you’re looking to build or bring your business in The Brick City, here’s how you get started.
The First Thing You Need to Start a Business in Florida
Assuming you’ve already put together your business plan and decided on a structure such as a corporation or LLC, your first step toward starting a business in Ocala is registering at the state level. This can be done online via the Florida Department of State website. You can also opt to print out and mail the necessary paperwork instead, along with the name of your business.
Depending on what type of business you plan to get into, you may also need to register with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Services regulated by this department include but are not limited to:
The full list of regulated services can be found on the DBPR website.
Once you’ve completed this step, you’re ready to register at county and state levels.
Getting Your Business Going in Ocala
To establish your business in Ocala, you’ll need to register locally on the Civic Access Portal. With your account, you can apply for any necessary licenses, such as your business license or building permits.
Speaking of buildings, it’s time to ask yourself should you build or buy? Ocala is steadily growing with commercial land located near I-75, a peak interstate for logistics as the midpoint between metro areas like Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville.
Whether you choose an existing building as your new business home or construct it from the ground up, you’ll need to create a business tax receipt account to keep track of expenses.
Taxes and Fees You Can Expect
While the Sunshine State does not have a state or individual income tax, businesses are required to pay filing fees and other financial obligations, like the following:
Florida Corporate Income Tax
Florida has a 5.5% tax rate for corporations or LLC requesting to be taxed as corporations. If your LLC is a partnership, you’re required to file a Florida Partnership Information Return.
For sole proprietors and their LLCs, you’d pay pass-through taxes and claim your business on your personal tax returns.
Permit Fees
Like taxes, the rates vary depending on your business entity. According to Sunbiz, new LLCs pay a total of $160.00, whereas new corporations pay $87.00. These totals include filing and registered agent fees.
You can find the full list of fees on the Florida Department of State website.
Licensure Fees
From obtaining a business license to industry certifications, you can visit your Civic Access Portal to look up, pay, and renew your fees all in one place.
Ocala, and Florida by extension, has a below-median corporate income tax rate and no personal income tax, making it easy to get your business up and running.
Make R+L Global Logistics Part of Your Business Plan
Doing business in Ocala is a straightforward path to success with R+L Global Logistics as your moving partner.
When you’re ready to move, set up shop, and scale your business in Florida and nationwide, we’re at your service. With our logistics team, you’ll have access to local 3PLs, drayage services, and more.
Call us at (877)-510-9133 and reach out to our freight specialists for relocation assistance today.