How to Start Your LLC in Ohio

    Legal Bueno helps with everything you need to start your business. We take care of all the paperwork so you don't have to worry about it. Want to learn more about the process we handle? Keep reading!

    Quick Summary:

    • Filing Fee: $99
    • Turnaround time: 1 business day

    How do I start an LLC in Ohio?

    Thinking about starting an LLC? The process is pretty similar across the states. You'll start by picking a unique name for your business (you'll need to check to make sure it hasn't been taken!) and then filing some paperwork—usually called Articles of Organization or a Certificate of Formation—with your state's agency.

    If you want to check the name availability for Ohio, visit https://businesssearch.ohiosos.gov/.

    After that's taken care of, you'll want to draft a governing doc for your business called an operating agreement & find any licenses you might need. Just keep in mind that each state has its own little quirks, so it's always a good idea to double-check specific requirements for your area.

    What are the costs & processing times of starting a business in Ohio?

    Here's the rundown for Ohio:

    • The filing fee is: $99
    • There are ongoing fees of $0 (no fee and no information report)
    • It usually takes 1 business day if you're filing online or 1 business day (plus mail time) if by mail.

    Why Ohio is a great state for your LLC

    Starting a company in Ohio presents numerous advantages that make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs. Here are some key benefits:

    • Top Business Ranking: Ohio was ranked as one of the top 10 locations for business in the U.S. in 2020, indicating a supportive environment for new ventures.
    • Business Incentives: The state offers a variety of incentives, including:
    • Business Structure Options: Forming an Ohio limited liability company (LLC) is a straightforward process, particularly favorable for startups and small to medium-sized businesses.
    • LLC Benefits:
    • Ease of Administration: The state ensures quick, simple processes for filing, managing, and complying with regulations for LLCs, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on growing their businesses rather than getting bogged down in red tape.

    Overall, Ohio combines a supportive business environment with strategic advantages, making it a compelling choice for starting a new company.

    Legal Requirements

    Remember! Legal Bueno will handle all of these requirements for you, but if you're interested, here are the legal requirements for Ohio:

    Articles of Organization

    The articles of organization must include: 1. The name of the company;

    1. The name and street address of the limited liability company's statutory agent and a written acceptance of the appointment that is signed by the agent;
    2. If applicable, a statement as provided in division (B)(3) of section 1706.761 of the Revised Code;
    3. Any other matters the organizers or the members determine to include in the articles of organization.

    Ohio Rev. Code § 1706.16

    Filing fee: $99

    Filing Process

    After you've prepared the initial formation documents, you need to file it! Here is what Ohio laws require for filing:

    If articles of organization or other certificates relating to an LLC are submitted to the secretary of state and the secretary of state finds they comply with the requirements, the secretary of state will accept the articles or other certificates for filing. Evidence of the filing will be returned to the person who filed it.

    The secretary of state is not required to file any document that relates to an LLC except documents required to be filed. The secretary of state will not make any determination regarding the legal sufficiency of any document that is presented for filing and that appears on its face to be legally sufficient.

    Ohio Rev. Code § 1706.172

    Additional Legal Considerations

    Here are some additional relevant laws that might be useful when operating your business in Ohio:

    Powers & Privileges of an LLC

    Ohio Rev. Code § 1706.05

    Operating Agreement of an LLC

    Ohio Rev. Code § 1706.081