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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale business owners trust 1-800Accountant's experienced CPAs to manage their bookkeeping and tax needs, giving them more time to focus on what matters most—growing their companies.
Our Accounting Services for Fort Lauderdale Small Businesses
Business Tax Preparation: Have your taxes prepared and filed by a CPA with expertise in your industry so you're always confident in your business tax situation. Our CPAs, with more than 17 years of experience on average, can save you thousands annually when you delegate complex Fort Lauderdale tax preparation to them!
Bookkeeping: Solidify your financial base and manage cash flow with precise, error-free bookkeeping done for you that saves time and provides crucial insights that empower you to make important data-backed business decisions. This meticulous process delivers essential tools for interpreting data with easy-to-understand reporting, enabling your accountant to develop vital financial modeling.
Tax Advisory: Business tax considerations don't end in April. Through our affordable tax advisory service, you can receive the guidance you need when you need it year-round from a dedicated small business tax advisor. Strategic planning helps minimize your business tax liability in Florida throughout the year while ensuring compliance.
Payroll: Save hours each pay period with comprehensive payroll services handled for you, with regular tax submissions to the city of Fort Lauderdale, ensuring accuracy and freeing you to focus on other vital aspects of your business.
Business Formation: Enjoy the advantages of officially establishing your business in Florida with our complimentary incorporation services. Simply cover any Fort Lauderdale fees, and we will manage the rest. This puts you on a path to hiring employees and creating a business bank account as you experience the benefits of an optimized business structure and maximum tax savings.
Discussing your business taxes with 1-800Accountant is quick and easy:
- Set up a time for us to give you a call.
- Tell us what’s going on with your business.
- Get matched with an accountant who knows your industry & local regulations.
| Level | Rate |
|---|---|
| State Tax Rate | 6% |
| County Tax Rate | 1% |
| Municipal Tax Rate | None |
| Combined Sales Tax Rate | 7% |
| City-Specific Taxes |
|---|
| Every business operating within Fort Lauderdale, including home-based ventures and those engaged in interstate commerce, must obtain and renew an annual Fort Lauderdale Business Tax Receipt. The fee varies by business classification. |
| Licenses and Permits |
|---|
| Fort Lauderdale businesses must obtain a business tax license before operating within city limits. |
| Home-based businesses require a restricted business tax license and must provide a copy of a Florida driver's license. |
| All construction, remodeling, and building activities require permits through the Building Services division. |
| As of March 2025, all permit applications must be submitted digitally through Fort Lauderdale's online portal. |
| A 2.75% service fee applies to credit card and PIN-less debit card payments made to the city after March 1, 2025. |
| Grants and Funding in Fort Lauderdale | Grants and Funding Information |
|---|---|
| Broward County Small Business Micro-Grant Pilot Program | This program is designed to assist the smallest for-profit businesses in Broward County, including Fort Lauderdale, that require financial aid for growth or operational stability. Eligible expenses include inventory, supplies, business equipment, rent or mortgage for business premises, marketing/advertising, commercial security systems, liability insurance, and professional services directly provided to the business. |
| Fort Lauderdale Beach Business Improvement District (BBID) FY26 Reimbursable Event Grant Program | Supports events and activations that enhance the economic impact, visitor experience, and branding of Fort Lauderdale Beach as a premier destination. For events scheduled between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026. Events must be hosted within BBID boundaries (along State Road A1A, from Sunrise Boulevard to Harbor Drive). Application Window: December 1, 2024 – February 28, 2025. |
| Lauderdale Lakes Business Enhancement Grant Program | This program offers grants to businesses located within Lauderdale Lakes (part of the greater Fort Lauderdale area) to enhance their storefronts, improve signage, and make other qualifying business improvements. The program aims to stimulate economic development and revitalize commercial areas within the city. |
What to Look for in Fort Lauderdale, Florida Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Fort Lauderdale small business, you should consider the following factors:
Certifications and Florida Compliance: Verify the professional holds appropriate credentials such as CPA licensure with good standing in Florida. Your financial expert should demonstrate thorough knowledge of Florida's tax regulations, including the state's corporate income tax structure, sales tax requirements, and local business tax obligations specific to Broward County.
Industry-Specific Experience: Find professionals with proven expertise in Fort Lauderdale's growing sectors. An accountant familiar with marine industry finances can navigate vessel documentation and luxury tax implications for yacht-related businesses. Similarly, those versed in hospitality accounting understand the seasonal revenue patterns and tourism-related tax considerations vital to local restaurants and hotels.
Understanding of Local Economic Landscape: Select a financial partner who comprehends Fort Lauderdale's unique business environment. This includes knowledge of the city's waterfront commercial real estate market, tourism cycles affecting cash flow, and the economic impact of major events like the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. A locally-connected accountant can provide context-aware financial guidance that considers these regional economic patterns.
Knowledge of Regional Tax Advantages: Florida offers significant tax benefits, including no state income tax and various exemptions that a skilled accountant can maximize for your business. Look for professionals who can identify Fort Lauderdale-specific opportunities such as enterprise zone incentives, film production credits, or marine industry tax breaks. The right accountant will help you navigate Florida's business-friendly tax structure while maintaining full compliance with state and local regulations.
Talk to a business tax expert today for all your tax needs in Fort Lauderdale.
Additional Florida Accounting Resources:
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Florida’s Tax Rates For Small Businesses and Corporations
How To Register Your Small Business In Florida
How Much Does It Cost to Set up an S Corp in Florida?
*Based on a $12.2k average 2022 tax refund per client, which is 4x the cost of a full-service package. Source: first-party data.
*Includes average business tax preparation, form completion and submission, record keeping, and other misc admin time. Source.
*Historical first-party data.