Florida doesn’t require or issue a business operating license, but that doesn’t mean you won’t obtain a license to run a Jet Ski business in the state. You will need to get a business operating license from your city or county, though requirements vary.
Most localities in the state refer to this type of license as a “business tax receipt,” and it is mainly to register your business with the local tax authorities. A Jet Ski rental is a business that rents out varying types of jet skis for different purposes.
To start a Jet Ski rental business in Florida you need to obtain a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments. The license requirements and how to obtain them will vary; therefore, ensure to check the websites of your city, and governments or contact the right person to learn more.
To receive a business tax receipt you will have to check with the county tax collector to see if you need a license and then register your business with the Florida Department of Revenue. This business tax receipt provides your Jet Ski business with the go-ahead from your local government to start operating.
Different local governments in Florida are known to charge a relatively low business tax – anywhere around $20 and $500 – for a business tax receipt. In the state of Florida, most local governments expect you to renew this license annually for the same amount.
Howbeit, it is imperative to note that not all jurisdictions in the state of Florida refer to a business tax receipt by that name. There are some jurisdictions that refer to them as business tax certificates, tax licenses, or something else entirely.
Steps to Get a Business Tax Receipt For a Jet Ski Business in Florida
Just as it was noted above, Florida doesn’t require or issue a state-wide business operating license; however, you will still need to obtain a license referred to as a Business Tax Receipt from your county to run your Jet Ski business in the state. Steps to obtain this license include;
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Name and Form Your Company
To start the process of obtaining a business tax receipt for your Jet Ski business in Florida, you will first all register your company name. This process can be quite tasking depending on the business structure you intend to form. However, once you have formed and started a business, you will have to get these details ready for your business tax receipt application:
- A business name
- An EIN (Employer Identification Number) or SSN (if you’re a sole proprietor)
- A business entity type (LLC, partnership, corporation, etc.)
- A business address and phone number
- A business plan that includes anticipated revenue and expenses
- A certificate of insurance (COI) for your business insurance policy
Apply for your Florida Business Tax Certificate
Once you have gathered the necessary documents, the next step is to start the main application process for the tax certificate. You will have to visit the website of your city or, if you live in an unincorporated area, your county, and fill out the appropriate forms. Don’t forget that in some cities, such as Miami, you will be expected to hold both a city business license and a county business license.
Determine Which Other Local Licenses May Be Applicable
Most often, it is recommended that businesses use Florida’s OpenMyFloridaBusiness website to determine if their business is required to obtain other licenses controlled on the local level.
You may need a watercraft license, doing business as (DBA), health licenses, and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your city, and county governments or contact the right person to learn more.
Apply For Other License(S) You Need
You might be expected to obtain a seller’s permit especially since your jet ski business will be renting or selling tangible goods. Ensure you reach the Florida Department of Revenue to apply for this license.
Although the federal government does not require or issue general business operating licenses, you may be expected to obtain licenses with specific government agencies especially if you intend to offer certain services with your Jet Ski business, such as fishing and scuba diving.
How Much Does It Cost to Obtain a Business Tax Receipt in Florida?
Florida business tax receipt costs very little, and this shouldn’t have a huge impact on your budget. The cost of obtaining a business tax receipt in Florida tends to vary by locality, nature, and size of the business. Local governments in Florida are known to charge a relatively low business tax – anywhere around $20 and $500. In the state of Florida, most local governments expect you to renew this license annually for the same amount.
Conclusion
Note that the state of Florida doesn’t necessarily mandate all businesses to obtain a license. The state also doesn’t issue or require a business operating license; rather, it regulates and requires licenses or permits for some business activities. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation provides extensive resources and portals to help you connect with the right information that will keep your licenses up to date.