How Long is the Fictitious Name Registration Good/Valid for?

Although filing for a fictitious name in the State of Florida is a requirement (except in certain circumstances), it is not permanent. After an initial registration of the fictitious name, it is valid and active for a period of five years. However, the name will not expire until December 31st, the last day of the year, of the final year.

Depending on when you register then, it is possible that the name remain valid for an additional period of time. For example, if you were to apply on November 1st, 2016, the name would not expire on November 1st 2021, it would expire instead on December 31st 2021. This essentially grants you an “extra” month or so of the fictitious name being valid. This is useful to keep track of in order to make the most of your fictitious name registration, however, this need not influence your decision as to when you should register the name; the name should be registered as soon as it is relevant for transacting business and before any business is undergone.

When it comes time for you to reregister your business or partnership’s fictitious name, the Florida Division of Corporations will send you a renewal application via mail at least three months before the December expiration date. This not only serves as a reminder to you that the time of registration is fast approaching, but is also convenient because you do not need to go out of your way to find the renewal form. Since the form is sent to the current address that is on file for the business’s fictitious name, it is important to make sure that the address for the business, and really all important and contact information for it, is up to date to reduce the risk of the form getting lost in the mail. If you need to update the address for the business operating under the fictitious name, a letter or other form of written communication must be sent to the Florida Division of Corporations; simply e-mailing a change of address request will not suffice.

For more information on starting a business in Florida visit The Hardee County Economic Development Council at http://hardeebusiness.com/