Not in Florida but I did maintain aquariums in Washington and Idaho for a few years. First off is a business plan. Find a local SCORE volunteer to help out or a retired business owner. Second find out the local, state, and federal requirements for licenses, resale numbers, and tax requirements. You will have to register a business name and get both state and federal tax numbers. Third find someone to help you set up your bookeeping and reporting to the various tax agencies. This all comes after the business plan that will help you determine if you will be able to make a living or just a hobby. The business plan should force you to ask some hard questions such as how many potential customers are in my area of service? If you live in a low population area you might have to move to where the customers are. The other questions are how much do I need to charge to make a living and will anybody pay me for that service? How much is my overhead each month (insurance, rent, taxes, credit card processing fees, gas, and other expenses)? This is a business not a hobby so research it like your life depends on it...because financially it does! Look for other services and see what they charge. Consider working for another successful aquarium maintenance company for awhile first to learn the ropes or consider buying a good existing business that is already recognized and has a solid customer base. Do the math to avoid getting taken in a purchase of an existing business. Again SCORE can help or a local college may offer business analysis for you. I use Quick books for my business software and payroll requirements. It cost some money but saves lots of time and provides Business analysis in the software. It can also link with Excell and Square for credit card processing via a smart phone or tablet. I could go on and on but take time to learn the fundimentals of business first before taking the step to launch a business. From a hobby to a business is a big step. Make sure you know where you are going before life takes you where you may not want to go. All that said this country is the best place to start your dreams of being a small business owner. I wish you every success!
