NOT LEGAL OR FINANCIAL ADVICE
This content is for educational purposes only. Laws change frequently and vary by circumstance. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state before taking any legal action. We are not responsible for any decisions or actions taken based on this information.
Florida Freelance Invoice Laws
General information about collecting unpaid invoices in Florida
Last Updated: 2025-01-01 • Always verify with a Florida attorney
Late Fee Limit
No statutory limit for B2B contracts
Interest Rate
12% per annum (statutory rate for judgments)
Small Claims Limit
$8,000
Statute of Limitations
5 years for written contracts, 4 years for oral
Additional Context
Late Fees: Late fees must be reasonable and disclosed in the contract. Excessive fees may be reduced by courts.
Interest: Parties can agree to higher rates in writing. No usury cap for B2B transactions.
Small Claims: County courts handle small claims. Filing fees are $55-$300 based on claim amount. Attorneys allowed but not required.
General Best Practices
These are general suggestions, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.
- ✓ Use written contracts specifying payment terms and late fees
- ✓ Include a 12%+ interest rate clause for overdue payments
- ✓ Send invoices promptly with itemized descriptions
- ✓ Follow up consistently at 15, 30, and 45 days overdue
- ✓ Consider demand letters before small claims filing
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗ Not having a written contract for oral agreements
- ✗ Waiting beyond 4-5 years to pursue collection
- ✗ Not specifying interest rates in the contract
- ✗ Filing in wrong county (use defendant's county)
- ✗ Not documenting scope changes and approvals
When to Consult an Attorney
For invoices over $8,000 (exceeds small claims) or if the client is disputing the work quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum late fee I can charge in Florida?
Florida has no statutory cap on B2B late fees. Include reasonable fees in your contract (1.5-2% monthly is common). Courts may reduce excessive fees.
How long do I have to sue for an unpaid invoice in Florida?
You have 5 years for written contracts and 4 years for oral agreements. The clock starts from the invoice due date or last payment.
What is the small claims limit in Florida?
Florida small claims courts handle disputes up to $8,000. For amounts over $8,000, you'll need to file in county court with potentially higher costs.
What interest rate can I charge on overdue invoices in Florida?
The statutory rate is 12% per annum. You can specify higher rates in your contract. There's no usury cap for B2B transactions in Florida.
Do I need a license to collect debts in Florida?
You can collect your own debts without a license. Third-party collection agencies must register with the Florida Office of Financial Regulation.
Sources & References
These are reference sources only. Laws change—verify current statutes before taking action.
- Florida Statutes Chapter 55 (Judgments)
- Florida Statutes Chapter 95 (Limitations of Actions)
- Florida Small Claims Rules
- Florida Office of Financial Regulation
IMPORTANT LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This is NOT legal or financial advice. The information on this page is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal, financial, or professional advice.
Laws change frequently. State laws, court rules, and regulations are subject to change without notice. The information presented here may not reflect the most current legal developments or may not apply to your specific situation.
Consult a licensed professional. Before taking any action based on the information on this website, you should consult with a licensed attorney in Florida who can provide advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
No attorney-client relationship. Viewing this information does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Happy Freelance Life or its creators.
No liability. Happy Freelance Life and its creators disclaim all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on any information on this website. You assume full responsibility for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.
If you need legal help, please contact the Florida State Bar Association for attorney referrals or a legal aid organization in your area.
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Take the QuizThis information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Florida attorney for specific legal guidance. This page was last updated on 2025-01-01. For current legal information, consult the official Florida state statutes or a licensed Florida attorney. Happy Freelance Life is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.