For a business run from Florida, a Texas filing alone does not settle the Florida question. Compare where the LLC actually operates and whether Florida qualification is needed, not just the two formation prices.
Two filing scenarios
| Route | State filing amounts | Continuing state items |
|---|---|---|
| Form in Florida, operate in Florida | $125 total state formation/agent designation fee ($100 + $25) | Florida LLC annual report $138.75 under the current schedule; agent and other duties as applicable |
| Form in Texas and qualify in Florida if required | $300 TX formation + $125 FL foreign-LLC filing = $425 stated state fees, if FL qualification applies | Florida annual report; Texas franchise-tax/reporting rules according to activity and report year; agent and license costs vary |
FL official fee schedule · TX Form 205 · TX Comptroller 2026
When does Florida qualification matter?
The SBA says businesses active in multiple states may need foreign qualification. Where the people, office and work are matters; merely selecting Texas on a formation form does not erase Florida obligations. The Florida fee schedule explicitly lists $125 for a new Florida or foreign LLC. Ask a qualified adviser if the facts do not clearly fit. SBA multistate rule · Florida fees
And if your business is active in Texas?
Texas foreign registration and franchise rules are separate questions. Texas SOS says whether an entity transacts business is fact-dependent; Texas Form 304 registration is $750 if required. For report year 2026 the no-tax-due threshold is $2.65 million annualized total revenue, but PIR/OIR may still apply. A Florida filing does not exempt Texas operations. TX foreign-entity FAQ · TX Form 304 · TX 2026 rules
Start with the Florida and Texas guides. These scenarios do not include local permits, paid agents, tax advice or individual tax determinations.
Frequently asked questions
Should I form in Texas if I live in Florida?
Living in Florida alone does not settle it. Where the company works and whether it needs Florida qualification drive the comparison.
How much more are the stated filing fees for a Texas LLC needing Florida qualification?
$300 Texas formation plus $125 Florida foreign LLC filing equals $425 in stated state fees, versus $125 to form in Florida. This is conditional, not an all-in total.
Will a Florida LLC owe Texas franchise tax just for Texas customers?
Not automatically. Texas franchise-tax and registration analysis depends on business activity and tax rules, not merely the formation label or one customer address.
What is Florida’s annual LLC report fee?
The official schedule lists $138.75; a report received after May 1 has a total fee of $538.75 under the current schedule. Paid agent and other costs are separate.
This is general information, not legal, tax or banking advice. Rules, deadlines and provider policies change; check the linked source and facts of your case before acting.