Service of Process
- The Division of Corporations accepts Substituted Service of Process under Chapter 48 of the Florida Statutes.
- We will notify the plaintiff’s attorney of any accepted service, including the time and date of acceptance. However, we do not serve the designated individual.
- The notice includes:
- Two acceptance letters.
- The original “filed” stamped summons.
- A copy of the complaint.
- The plaintiff’s attorney is responsible for notifying the defendant of an accepted Substitute Service of Process.
- Search our records by name to find the name and address of an entity’s registered agent.
Filing Requirements
- The original and a copy of the court-issued summons, which must include:
- The original signature of the Clerk of the Circuit Court and the Seal.
- The name of the defendant, in care of the Secretary of State.
Example:
John Doe
c/o Secretary of State
P.O. Box 6327
Tallahassee, FL 32314
- Two copies of the complaint.
- A cover letter indicating the specific section of Chapter 48, F.S., (e.g., 48.161, 48.181) that authorizes the Division of Corporations to accept the service.
- If the defendant is an active business entity on our records, include a copy of the returned service or an affidavit from the process server as proof of attempted service.
Payment Options
- $8.75 per defendant, non-refundable.
- Make checks or money orders payable to the Department of State.
- Payment must be in U.S. currency from a U.S. bank.
Additional Instructions
- Direct Service of Process naming the Secretary of State as a Defendant to: The Secretary of State, R.A. Gray Building, Tallahassee, Florida 32301.
- Direct Service of Process naming the State of Florida as a Defendant to: The Florida Attorney General’s office or call 850.414.3990 for additional information.
- Direct Service of Process naming an insurance COMPANY (not an insurance AGENCY) as a Defendant to: The Chief Financial Officer at the State of Florida, or call 850.413.4200 for additional information.
Questions?
- Call 850.245.6953 for specific questions about filing substitute service.
- Direct all other inquiries to the attorney(s) involved.
- The Division of Corporations does not provide information pertaining to the summons or complaint.
