Many Florida landlords search for a local eviction attorney when they don't realize there's a faster, cheaper option. Florida evictions are filed electronically through the state court portal.
You don't need to be local, you don't need an office visit, and you don't need to pay attorney fees. This page walks you through exactly how online eviction filing works in Florida and how to get your documents ready to file from home.
Step 1 — Serve the 3-Day Notice (This Part Is Still Physical) Before anything can be filed online, you must serve a valid 3-Day Notice to Pay or Vacate on your tenant. This step cannot be done electronically — Florida law requires physical delivery by hand, door posting, or certified mail. The notice must state the exact rent owed, the date given, and the name and address of both parties. Keep a copy — you will upload it when you file.
Step 2 — Wait for the 3-Day Period to Expire The 3 days are business days only. Saturdays, Sundays, and Florida legal holidays do not count. Do not accept any partial payment during this period — it can legally invalidate your notice under Florida law and force you to start over.
Step 3 — Prepare Your Eviction Documents Before you log into the filing portal, you need all documents completed and ready to upload. You will need a civil cover sheet, Complaint for Eviction, Summons (form 1.923(a) for possession only or 1.923(b) for possession and back rent), your 3-day notice, and a copy of the lease if one exists. Incomplete or incorrect documents are the most common reason filings are rejected — having everything court-ready before you log in saves time and prevents delays.
Step 4 — File Through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal Florida uses a statewide electronic filing system called the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal at myflcourtaccess.com. Create a free account, select your county, and upload your completed documents. Filing fees are paid online by credit card — approximately $185 plus $10 per defendant. Once submitted, the clerk reviews and processes your filing, typically within 1 to 2 business days.
Step 5 — The Clerk Issues the Summons and Arranges Service After the clerk processes your filing, the Summons is issued electronically. You will need to arrange service of the Summons and Complaint on your tenant through the county Sheriff or a certified process server. Sheriff service fees are approximately $40 per defendant. Some counties allow you to request sheriff service directly through the portal; others require a separate step.
Step 6 — Monitor Your Case Online Once filed, you can monitor your case status through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal or your county clerk's online case search. You will be notified if the tenant files a response. If no response is filed within 5 business days of service, log back into the portal to file your Motion for Default and proposed Final Judgment.
Step 7 — Obtain the Writ of Possession After the Final Judgment is signed, the clerk issues the Writ of Possession. Deliver it to the county Sheriff's Office with the $90 fee. Once the writ is posted on the property, the tenant has 24 hours to vacate.
~Uploading incomplete or incorrect documents , the clerk will reject the filing and you lose time
Using the wrong summons form (1.923(a) vs 1.923(b). Most common rejection reason
Filing before the 3-day notice period has fully expired
Forgetting to arrange sheriff service after the summons is issued. It doesn't happen automatically
Accepting partial rent after serving the notice, invalidating the notice and forcing a restart
Not monitoring the portal for tenant responses. Missing the 5-day window costs you additional weeks
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1 Question: Can I file an eviction online in Florida? Answer: Yes. Florida uses a statewide e-filing portal at myflcourtaccess.com. All eviction documents can be filed electronically from home.
Q2 Question: What portal do I use to file an eviction online in Florida? Answer: The Florida Courts E-Filing Portal at myflcourtaccess.com. Create a free account and select your county to begin.
Q3 Question: How much does it cost to file an eviction online in Florida? Answer: Approximately $185 filing fee plus $10 per defendant, paid by credit card through the e-filing portal.
Q4 Question: Do I need an attorney to file an eviction online in Florida? Answer: No. Florida landlords can file evictions themselves through the e-filing portal without attorney representation.
Q5 Question: How long does online eviction filing take in Florida? Answer: Clerk processing typically takes 1 to 2 business days after submission. Total uncontested eviction still takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Q6 Question: What documents do I need to file an eviction online in Florida? Answer: Civil cover sheet, Complaint for Eviction, Summons form 1.923(a) or 1.923(b), 3-day notice, and lease copy if one exists.
Q7 Question: Can I serve my tenant electronically in a Florida eviction? Answer: No. Physical service by the Sheriff or certified process server is required. Electronic service does not meet Florida legal standards.
Q8 Question: What happens after I file an eviction online in Florida? Answer: The clerk issues the Summons, you arrange sheriff service, then wait 5 business days for the tenant to respond.
Q9 Question: Can I file an eviction online in any Florida county? Answer: Yes. The Florida Courts E-Filing Portal serves all 67 Florida counties through one statewide system.
Q10 Question: What if my eviction filing is rejected online in Florida? Answer: The clerk will notify you of the reason. Correct the documents and refile. Most rejections are due to wrong forms or missing information.
What to know the process in YOUR county?
Evictions Done For You is a document preparation service, not a law firm. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. For questions about your specific situation, consult a licensed Florida attorney.