How to Get a Sales Tax Number in Florida

A Florida sales tax number, officially known as a Certificate of Registration, is a credential issued by the Florida Department of Revenue. This certificate provides your business with the legal authority to collect sales tax from customers on taxable goods and services. Possessing this registration is required for businesses that meet certain criteria and is a component of tax compliance within the state. The number serves as a unique identifier for your business.

Determining Your Obligation to Register

Your requirement to register for a sales tax certificate hinges on “nexus,” which is a connection between your business and the state. The most common trigger is having a physical presence, which includes maintaining an office, warehouse, or other place of business. Storing inventory or having employees or representatives operating in the state also creates a physical nexus.

Beyond a physical footprint, Florida has rules for remote sellers based on economic activity. A business located outside of Florida establishes economic nexus if it has more than $100,000 in sales of tangible personal property delivered into the state in the previous calendar year. Sales made through a marketplace facilitator that already collects the tax are not included when calculating this threshold. If your direct sales exceed this amount, you must register and collect tax, even with no physical location in Florida.

Information and Documents for Your Application

Before beginning the registration process, you must gather specific information about your business entity and its principals. A primary requirement is a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) for most business types, though sole proprietors may use their Social Security Number (SSN). You will need to provide the legal name of your business and any “doing business as” (DBA) name.

The application will ask for your primary business location address and a separate mailing address if different. You must also provide detailed information for all owners, partners, or corporate officers, including their full names, home addresses, and SSNs. Be prepared to state the date your business began its operations in Florida and to provide a description of your business activities, which involves selecting a North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code.

All of this information is compiled onto the Florida Business Tax Application, known as Form DR-1. This form is the official document for registering for several business taxes, including sales and use tax. You can find the form on the Florida Department of Revenue’s website. Compiling the necessary data beforehand allows you to complete the DR-1 application accurately.

The Florida Business Tax Application Process

Florida offers two methods for filing: online or by mail. The recommended method is through the Department of Revenue’s online portal, which guides you through the application and provides immediate confirmation of receipt. Registering online is free.

Alternatively, you can submit a completed paper Form DR-1 by mail, which requires a $5 registration fee. Online applications are often verified within 24 to 48 hours, and the official Certificate of Registration is typically mailed within 7 to 10 business days. This certificate must be displayed in a conspicuous place at your business location.