Florida business filing solicitations need the Sunbiz check
A Florida business may get official-looking filing offers by mail or online, so it helps to compare the message with Sunbiz before paying a fee.
A Florida business can get mail or online messages that look more official than they really are.
Some notices offer to help with annual minutes, corporate records, certificates, or annual report filing for a fee. A private service may be allowed to offer help, but do not confuse that offer with a state notice. The Division of Corporations has warned businesses not to mix up unofficial mail or websites with Sunbiz.
The annual report is the common pressure point. A business may need to file the real Sunbiz annual report by May 1. That does not mean every letter about business records is a state filing. Some “annual minutes” or “annual corporate record” forms are private offers, not Department of State annual reports.
Before paying, look up the business on Sunbiz and read its current status. Then compare the deadline in the message with the official record. If you need to file, use the official Sunbiz page. A private company’s message should clearly say it is not from a state agency.
You do not need to distrust every envelope. Just make one official check before money leaves the business account.
Sources
- Florida Department of State - Beware Unofficial Websites or Communications by Mail
- Florida Department of State - Beware Annual Minutes or Annual Corporate Record Forms Notices
- Florida Department of State - 2026 Annual Report Deadline Reminder
Last checked against these sources: July 27, 2026.
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