Choosing a company name is the first and most important step in starting your LLC. Be sure to choose a name that complies with Ohio naming requirements and is easily searchable by potential clients.
1. Follow the naming guidelines:
- Your name must include the phrase “limited liability company,” or one of its abbreviations (LLC or L.L.C.).
- Your name cannot include words that could confuse your LLC with a government agency (FBI, Treasury, State Department, etc.).
- Restricted words (e.g. Bank, Attorney, University) may require additional paperwork and a licensed individual, such as a doctor or lawyer, to be part of your LLC.
2. Is the name available in Ohio? Make sure the name you want isn't already taken by doing a name search on the State of Ohio's website.
3. Is the URL available? We recommend that you check to see if your business name is available as a web domain. Even if you don't plan to make a business website today, you may want to buy the URL in order to prevent others from acquiring it.
After registering a domain name, consider setting up a professional email account (@yourcompany.com). Google's G Suite offers a business email service that comes with other useful tools, including word processing, spreadsheets, and more. Try it for free
FAQ: Naming an LLC
What is an LLC?
LLC is short for Limited Liability Company. It is a simple business structure that offers much more flexibility than a traditional corporation, while at the same time providing many of the same benefits. Learn more here.
Do I need to get a DBA or Trade Name for my business?
Most LLCs do not need a DBA. The name of the LLC can serve as company’s brand name, and you can accept checks and other payments under that name as well. However, you may wish to register a DBA if you would like to conduct business under a name other than that of your LLC. Learn more here.
You are required to nominate a Statutory Agent for your Ohio LLC. a Statutory Agent is more commonly known as a Registered Agent in other states.
What is a Statutory Agent? a Statutory Agent is a person or business that agrees to send and receive legal papers on behalf of your LLC. Such papers include service of process of legal action (if you are sued) and state filings.
Who can be a Statutory Agent? a Statutory Agent must be a resident of Ohio or a corporation authorized to transact business in Ohio. You may elect an individual within the company including yourself.
Learn more about the role of a statutory agent and why you should consider hiring a professional service.
TIP
Recommended: Incfile provides the first year of registered agent service free with LLC formation ($49 + State Fees)
FAQ: Nominating a Registered Agent
Can I be my own Statutory Agent?
Yes. You or anyone else in your company can serve as the registered agent for your LLC. Learn more here.
Is a Registered Agent service worth it?
Using a professional Registered Agent service is an affordable way to manage government filings for your LLC. For most businesses, the advantages of using a professional service significantly outweigh the annual costs. Learn more here.
To register your LLC, you will need to file the Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State. This can be done online, by mail, or in-person.
When filing the Articles of Organization you will need to decide if your LLC will be member managed or manager managed. Read our article on the topic to learn more.
File the Articles of Organization
OPTION 1: File Online with the State of Ohio
OR
OPTION 2: File by Mail or In-Person
State Filing Cost: $99, payable to the Ohio Secretary of State (Nonrefundable)
Mail to:
P.O. Box 670
Columbus, OH 43216
Processing Time: 24 hours online, 5 to 10 days by mail, but may be expedited for an additional fee.
Expedite two-business-day filling please mail to P.O Box 1390 instead of P.O Box 670. An addtional $100 is required.*
If you’re expanding your existing LLC to the State of Ohio, you need to form a Foreign LLC.
FAQ: Filing LLC Documents
What’s the difference between a domestic LLC and foreign LLC?
An LLC is referred to as a "domestic LLC" when it conducts business in the state where it was formed. Normally when we refer to an LLC we are actually referring to a domestic LLC. A foreign LLC must be formed when an existing LLC wishes to expand its business to another state. Learn more here.
An operating agreement is not required in Ohio, but it's a good practice to have one.
What is an operating agreement? An operating agreement is a legal document outlining the ownership and operating procedures of an LLC.
Why are operating agreements important? An operating agreement is an important document because it ensures that all business owners are on the same page and reduces the risk of future conflict.
For more information on operating agreements, read our Ohio LLC operating agreement guide.
Recommended: Use our free Operating Agreement Tool to draft a customized operating agreement for your LLC.
FAQ: Creating an Operating Agreement
Do I need to file my operating agreement with the state?
No. The operating agreement is an internal document that you should keep on file for future reference. However, many states do legally require LLCs to have an operating agreement in place.
What is an EIN? The Employer Identification Number (EIN), or Federal Tax Identification Number, is used to identify a business entity. It is essentially a social security number for the company.
Why do I need an EIN? An EIN is required for the following:
- To open a business bank account for the company
- For Federal and State tax purposes
- To hire employees for the company
Where do I get an EIN? An EIN is obtained from the IRS (free of charge) by the business owner after forming the company. This can be done online or by mail.
NOTE
FOR INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS: You do not need an SSN to obtain an EIN. Learn more here.
Get an EIN
Option 1: Request an EIN from the IRS
OR
Option 2: Apply for an EIN by Mail or Fax
Mail to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Fax:
(855) 641-6935
Fee: Free
FAQ: Getting an EIN
How do I get an EIN if I don’t have a social security number?
An SSN is not required to get an EIN. You can simply fill out IRS Form SS-4 and leave section 7b blank. Then call the IRS at 267-941-1099 to complete your application. Learn more here.
What tax structure should I choose for my LLC?
When you get an EIN, you will be informed of the different tax classification options that are available. Most LLCs elect the default tax status.
However, some LLCs can reduce their federal tax obligation by choosing S corporation status. We recommend consulting with a local accountant to find out which option is best for you.
We reviewed and ranked the top 5 LLC formation services.
Find out which is best for you.
Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.
When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your LLC is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil.
You can protect your business with these two steps:
1. Opening a business bank account:
- Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
- Makes accounting and tax filing easier.
2. Getting a business credit card:
- Helps you separate personal and business expenses.
- Builds your company's credit history, which can be useful to raise capital later on.
Recommended: Compare business credit card offers at CreditCards.com. Learn more.
Even if you haven’t officially opened for business – it’s critical to get your books in order. A well managed accounting system will help you:
- Track your business finances, including bills, expenses, and income.
- Simplify your annual tax filings.
Quality accounting software makes the whole process fast and easy. Look for software that:
- Syncs with your bank automatically
- Matches transactions to invoices, bills, and purchase orders
- Can be accessed from your phone
- Makes it easy to work with your accountant
Recommended: FinancePal is a one stop shop to meet all your accounting and tax filing needs.
Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to register for one or more forms of state tax:
- If you are selling a physical product, you’ll typically need to register for a seller's permit through the State of Ohio's website.
- If you have employees in Ohio, you will have to register for Unemployment Insurance Tax with the Department of Job and Family Services, and Employee Withholding Tax through the Ohio Business Gateway.
To operate your LLC, you must comply with federal, state, and local government regulations. For example, restaurants likely need health permits, building permits, signage permits, etc.
Keep in mind that in order to get some licenses or permits, you may need to pay a fee, take classes, or pass an exam.
Research what types of federal, state, and local licenses and permits your LLC needs:
- Federal: Use the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) guide.
State: Use the State of Ohio's page under Licenses & Permits.
- Local: Contact your local county clerk and ask about local licenses and permits.
Recommended: If you are a first-time entrepreneur, consider having a professional service research your business’ licensing requirements. Our friends at Startup Savant have reviewed and ranked the top five license research services.
Business insurance helps you manage risks and focus on growing your business. The most common types of business insurance are:
- General Liability Insurance: A broad insurance policy that protects your business from lawsuits. Most small businesses get general liability insurance.
- Professional Liability Insurance: A business insurance for professional service providers (consultants, accountants, etc.) that covers against claims of malpractice and other business errors.
- Workers' Compensation Insurance: A type of insurance that provides coverage for employees’ job-related illnesses, injuries, or deaths. In Ohio, businesses with one or more employees, excluding business owners, are required by law to have workers' compensation insurance. Get a free quote with ADP.
How much will the right insurance cost you? Click here to find out.
If you plan to hire employees, stay compliant with the law by following these steps:
- Verify that new employees are able to work in the US
- Report employees as "new hires" to the State
- Provide workers' compensation insurance for employees
- Withhold employee taxes
- Print compliance posters and place them in visible areas of your work space
Interested in more? Have a look at the Ohio State Website.
NOTE
The minimum wage in Ohio is $8.30 per hour.
Recommended: A payroll service saves you time and makes it easier to follow these requirements.
We understand that creating an LLC and getting your business up and running comes with many challenges. To help you succeed, we compiled the best local resources in every major metro area in Ohio . You can get free assistance in the following areas:
- Mentoring
- Networking
- Business Planning
- Sales & Marketing
- Research Assistance
- Financial Planning
- Fundraising
- Legal Assistance
- Coworking
- Product Development
In Ohio, LLCs with gross receipts in Ohio exceeding $150,000 per year are required to pay a “commercial activity” tax. LLCs with less than $150,000 in gross receipts are exempt from this tax.
Register for Commercial Activity Tax in Ohio
OPTION 1: File Online with the State of Ohio
OR
OPTION 2: File by Mail
Fee: Free
Mail to:
Ohio Department of Taxation
Business Tax Division
P.O. Box 16158
Columbus, OH 43216
Tax Calculation: Tiered based on taxable gross receipts. LLCs with between $150,000 and $1 million in gross recipes pay $150. If you form an LLC during the second half of the year, your first year's CAT is $75.
Due Date: May 10th of the current tax year (the CAT is a prepaid tax)
Late filing penalty: A late filing incurs a penalty of $50 or 10% of the tax due, whichever is greater. Interest may be assessed on unpaid taxes.
Most LLCs will need to report their income to the IRS each year using:
- Form 1065 Partnership Return (most multi-member LLCs use this form)
- Form 1040 Schedule C (most single-member LLCs use this form)
Read our LLC Tax Guide to learn more about federal income taxes for LLCs.
LLCs may face fines and even automatic dissolution when they miss one or more state filings. When this happens, LLC owners risk loss of limited liability protection. A quality registered agent service can help prevent this outcome by notifying you of upcoming filing deadlines, and even submitting reports on your behalf for an additional fee.
Recommended: Incfile offers a reliable registered agent service and excellent customer support.
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A Certificate of Good Standing verifies that your LLC was legally formed and has been properly maintained. Several instances where you might need to get one include:
- Seeking funding from banks or other lenders
- Forming your business as a foreign LLC in another state
- Obtaining or renewing specific business licenses or permits
You can order an Ohio LLC Certificate of Good Standing online, by mail, or in-person.
Order a Certificate of Good Standing
OPTION 1: Request a Certificate of Good Standing Online
OR
OPTION 2: Request by Mail or In-Person
Fee: $5 (Nonrefundable)
Mail to:
180 E. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Long Form Certificate: $25 (Nonrefundable)
If at any point in the future you no longer wish to conduct business with your LLC, it is important to officially dissolve it. Failure to do so in a timely fashion can result in tax liabilities and penalties, or even legal trouble. To dissolve your LLC, there are two broad steps:
- Close your business tax accounts
- File the Articles of Dissolution
When you are ready to dissolve your LLC, follow the steps in our Ohio LLC Dissolution Guide.
Forming a foreign LLC allows your company to operate as one entity in multiple states. If you have an existing LLC and want to do business in Ohio, you will need to register as a foreign LLC. This can be done online or by mail.
Register as a Foreign LLC in Ohio
OPTION 1: File Online with the State of Ohio
OR
OPTION 2: File by Mail
Fee: $99 (Nonrefundable)
Mail to:
P.O Box 670
Columbus, OH 43216
Expedite two-business-day filling please mail to P.O Box 1390 instead of P.O Box 670. An additional $100 is required.
