When starting a business, there are many important decisions to make and many rules and procedures that must be considered.  While there is no single source of information for starting a business, the following steps have been developed to assist you in starting your business.

Business Plan
It is helpful to begin with a business plan.  A business plan is a blueprint of every aspect of your business.  Sales, Marketing, Finance, Advertising, Promotion and Location are just some of the aspects to be considered when developing a business plan.  To obtain financing for a new business, a comprehensive business plan with up to two years of financial projections will be required.   Click on the links below to find assistance in developing your business plan.

SBA Small Business Planner

Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce Small Business Center

University of North Florida Small Business Development Center

Choosing a Business (Ownership) Structure
A legal representative and accountant should be consulted before making a determination as to the type of business entity to form.

The primary ownership structures for businesses include the following:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Corporation
• Limited Liability Corporation (LLC)

Click here for a brief overview of the business structures available in Florida and for information on which ownership structure to consider.

Licensing and Taxing Information
Click on the links below for information on each topic.

Federal Taxes

State of Florida Taxes (includes Corporate Income Tax, Intangible Tax, Sales and Use Tax and Unemployment Tax information)

Florida Department of State Division of Corporations

Duval County Local Business Tax

Duval County Tangible Property Tax

Duval County Real Property Tax

Florida Business Licenses and Permits including Professional Licenses