A Florida Financing Statement is a legal document filed to establish a creditor's security interest in an individual or business entity's personal property. Also known as a UCC-1 (Uniform Commercial Code) Financing Statement, it is an essential tool for lenders and creditors to protect their interests in assets that are used as collateral for loans or credit transactions. The primary purpose of a Florida Financing Statement is to provide public notice of a creditor's claim or lien on personal property. By filing this document, the creditor establishes its priority position in case the debtor defaults or becomes insolvent. The Florida financing statement typically includes essential information such as the debtor's name and address, the creditor's name and address, a description of the collateral, and any additional terms or conditions. There are several types of Florida Financing Statements based on the type of transaction or collateral involved: 1. General Florida Financing Statement: This is the most common type, covering all types of personal property collateral except for fixtures or real estate-related assets. 2. Fixture Filing: A Fixture Filing is used when the creditor's collateral includes personal property attached or affixed to real estate. This type of filing provides notice to interested parties that the personal property is encumbered and cannot be severed without satisfying the creditor's claim. 3. Agricultural Lien: An Agricultural Lien is a specific type of financing statement filed by creditors who provide financing to farmers or agricultural operations. It creates a security interest in the debtor's farm products, equipment, accounts receivable, or other related assets. 4. Purchase Money Security Interest (PSI): A PSI Financing Statement is filed when a creditor extends financing used by the debtor to acquire specific collateral. By filing this statement, the creditor asserts priority over other creditors who may have previously filed a general financing statement. It is crucial for creditors to accurately prepare and file a Florida Financing Statement as any errors or omissions could jeopardize their rights in the collateral. Furthermore, the statement must be properly maintained and periodically renewed to remain effective for a specified time, typically five years. By understanding the different types of Florida Financing Statements and their requirements, creditors can ensure they have a legally valid and enforceable security interest in the debtor's personal property collateral.