Articles of Incorporation vs. Articles of Organization in Florida

2. Florida Legal Context

These filings are required under:

• Chapter 607, Florida Statutes – for Corporations (Articles of Incorporation)
• Chapter 605, Florida Statutes – for LLCs (Articles of Organization)

Each document must include specific information required by Florida law:

Articles of Incorporation (for Corporations):

• Corporation name (with “Inc.” or “Corp.” suffix)
• Principal office and mailing address
• Registered Agent and address
• Names and addresses of incorporators and directors
• Purpose clause (optional)

Articles of Organization (for LLCs):

• LLC name (must include “LLC” or “L.L.C.”)
• Principal office and mailing address
• Registered Agent and address
• Whether the LLC is member-managed or manager-managed
• Optional effective date

3. Real-World Application

Here’s how it works in practice:

• A tech startup in Miami forming a corporation to issue stock files Articles of Incorporation
• A freelance graphic designer in Tampa forming a solo LLC files Articles of Organization
• A medical practice in Orlando files Articles of Incorporation as a P.A. (Professional Association)

Knowing the right document ensures your business is recognized by the state and legally compliant.

4. Why It Matters for Business Owners

Filing the correct document is critical for:

• Legal recognition of your business entity
• Liability protection for owners and shareholders/members
• Tax treatment – Corporations and LLCs are taxed differently
• Structure and governance – Corporations require bylaws and directors; LLCs require operating agreements

Using the wrong form—or leaving out key details—can lead to rejected filings, delays, or noncompliance.

5. How Our Law Firm Can Help

We ensure your business is formed properly with the right structure and paperwork:

• Prepare and file your Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization
• Draft customized Bylaws (for Corporations) or Operating Agreements (for LLCs)
• Act as or appoint your Registered Agent
• Ensure compliance with Florida naming and filing rules
• Set up your tax election (S-Corp, C-Corp, or default LLC treatment)

Flat-Fee Retainers – Affordable entity formation from start to finish. 1-Hour Strategy Consultations – Understand which structure fits your goals. 3-Hour Master Strategy Sessions – Comprehensive planning for multi-owner, professional, or investor-backed businesses. BELAW Membership – Includes compliance monitoring, annual report filings, and ongoing corporate legal support.

6. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Which one do I file—Articles of Incorporation or Organization? A: It depends on your business type. Use Articles of Incorporation for Corporations, and Articles of Organization for LLCs.

Q: What if I want to change my entity type later? A: You may need to dissolve the old entity and form a new one, or file for a statutory conversion. We’ll guide you through the best option.

Q: Can I file these documents online? A: Yes. Sunbiz.org offers online filing for both. We file directly for our clients to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Q: Do I need bylaws or an operating agreement? A: Yes. Bylaws (for corporations) and operating agreements (for LLCs) are essential for governance, even if not filed with the state.

Q: Is there a cost difference between filing each document? A: Yes. As of now, filing fees are:

• LLC (Articles of Organization): $125
• Corporation (Articles of Incorporation): $70

7. How to Retain Our Law Firm

We offer multiple access points tailored to your needs:

• Flat-Fee Retainers: Set pricing based on project scope (quoted after your consultation)
• 1-Hour Strategy Consultations: A high-impact session to assess your issues, answer questions, and develop a legal roadmap. Pricing starts at $500.00.
• 3-Hour Master Strategy Sessions: A deep dive analysis with detailed, actionable solutions tailored to your business challenges
• Flagship Product: BELAW – Business + Entrepreneurship Law Advisor Program (Read below)

All services are available in-person, by phone, or virtually.

8. Flagship Product: BELAW – Business + Entrepreneurship Law Advisor Program

Our flagship service is the BELAW Membership – Business & Entrepreneurship Law Advisor Program. This is an exclusive, members-only, 12-month ON-DEMAND legal and business support program at a predictable flat monthly fee, tailored to each business client—regardless of company size.

BELAW is open to business owners, entrepreneurs, for-profit companies, non-profits, and foreign investors. Our members range from startups and nonprofits to established businesses.

At the core of BELAW is our P.O.N.C.E. methodology, developed by Attorney Gil Sanchez, to help businesses not just stay protected—but grow strategically.

What you get with BELAW:

• On demand strategic legal consultations with Attorney Gil Sanchez
• Document review and compliance audits
• Guidance on contracts, leasing, employment, and liability
• Drafting Collection Notices, Cease & Desist Letters and Confidentiality Agreements
• Proactive legal support to mitigate lawsuits and reduce risk exposure
• Strategic input on revenue-generating decisions like expansion, licensing, and joint ventures
• Entrepreneur coaching and a growing library of business education resources
• Litigation retainer and hourly rate discounts

We’re available when you need us—on demand, without hourly billing.

We make it easy to get started:

• Call or text us at (813) 254-1777
• Or fill out the secure contact form below

A member of our team will respond promptly to schedule your consultation.

9. How to Contact Our Law Firm to Retain

We make it easy for you to retain us:

• Call or text: (813) 254-1777
• Email: info@blackrocklaw.com
• Or submit your request using the form below

Our team will promptly follow up to confirm availability and next steps.

10. Who You Are Hiring

When you hire our firm, you’re not just hiring a lawyer — you’re securing the insight, grit, and expertise of Attorney Gil Sanchez.

A proud double Gator, Gil earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Florida — one of the top public universities in the country. Since 2004, he has built a reputation as a formidable business and trial attorney, successfully trying cases before juries in both Florida state and federal courts.

Gil’s legal practice is deeply informed by real-life experience. He launched his first business at age 13 and has continued to build, lead, and advise companies ever since. He’s a licensed business broker (since 2007), an adjunct professor of entrepreneurship at St. Petersburg College, and a trusted advisor to entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners across Florida.

He’s also an inventor, author, and public speaker — holding a U.S. utility patent and federal trademark. His invention was featured in TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions of 2023, and his legal insights have appeared on CNN, ABC’s 20/20, and other national platforms. Raised by Colombian parents in West Virginia and fluent in Spanish, Gil brings cultural fluency, resilience, and a fighter’s mindset to every client matter.

Above all, Gil is a devoted family man — happily married and the proud father of three beautiful children. His commitment to family shapes the way he practices law: with empathy, integrity, and a relentless drive to protect what matters most.

At Black Rock Trial Lawyers, you’re not just getting a legal technician — you’re hiring a battle-tested strategist who understands both the courtroom and the real world. That’s who’s fighting for you.

11. The Law Firm’s Geographical Reach

We proudly represent businesses across all counties in Florida. With the power of virtual consultations, online filings, and remote court access, we can support your legal needs anywhere in Florida—without compromising service quality.

Our main office is in South Tampa, Florida, with a satellite office in South Florida – Miramar, Florida.

From Miami to Jacksonville, Pensacola to Key West—Black Rock Trial Lawyers is here to help Florida businesses thrive.

12. Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as legal advice. Every individual and business matter involves unique facts and circumstances that must be carefully evaluated. Additionally, Florida laws, including statutes and case law, are subject to frequent changes, and the information presented here may not reflect the most current legal developments. For a formal legal opinion or advice specific to your situation, you must consult directly with an attorney at our firm. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this site or by contacting our office through this website.

Start with the right foundation. Schedule a strategy session or join BELAW to file with confidence.