In 2022, Ohio saw a record number of new businesses, with 179,636 launched. As entrepreneurs thrive across the state, more are considering starting an LLC. Discover our simple guide to forming an LLC in Ohio, with easy steps and essential tips.
Step 1: Name your Ohio LLC
Step 2: Pick a Registered Agent
Step 3: Submit an Articles of Organization
Step 4: Received a Certificate From the State
Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement
Step 6: Get an Employer Identification Number
Step 1: Name your Ohio LLC
When starting a business in Ohio, you must register your LLC and select a name that adheres to Ohio’s naming requirements:
- Your business name must include Limited Liability Company, LLC, or L.L.C.
- Ensure that the name you select is distinct from any existing businesses registered in Ohio. You can search the Secretary of State’s website to confirm the availability of your desired name.
- Avoid incorporating words typically associated with government agencies, such as the State Department, CIA, FBI, Treasury, etc., into your business name.
- Specific restricted terms, such as bank, lawyer, attorney, credit union, etc., may necessitate additional documentation and licensure paperwork.
For further details of Ohio’s naming rules, refer to the complete listing provided by the state.
Additional Consideration :
Reserve your name: If you’ve chosen a name but need more time to register your business, You can reserve a business name for 180 days by filing a Name Reservation (Form 534B).
You can mail Form 534B to the SOS or file your reservation online through Ohio Business Central. As of 2023, the filing fee to reserve a business name is $39.
Website Domain: Before you settle on your LLC name, make sure the website name you want is available. Even if you’re planning to wait to create a website, having the domain name is wise.
Step 2: Pick a Registered Agent
In Ohio, appointing a statutory agent (also known as a registered agent in some states) for your LLC is a requirement.
A statutory or registered agent is the individual or company that receives legal documents. They play a crucial role in accepting service of process and other official communications related to business operations.
Your statutory agent can be either a person, an employee of your LLC, or a company that provides statutory agent services. However, there are specific criteria they must meet:
- Entities (companies) must offer statutory agent services.
- The agent must have a physical address in Ohio.
- They must be present and available during regular business hours to accept legal documents.
Step 3: Submit an Articles of Organization
To register your Ohio LLC, you must submit the Articles of Organization to the Ohio. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Your LLC name
- Starting date of your LLC
- LLC’s principal office address
- How long will your LLC exist
- Information about your statutory agent
You can file by mail or online with Form 610, which costs $99 as of 2023. Check the Ohio SOS website for forms and fees.
Step 4: Received a Certificate From the State
After your LLC’s formation documents are filed and approved by the state, you’ll usually receive a certificate of formation. This certificate is crucial because it confirms your LLC’s legal existence, allowing it to operate lawfully, including for business management.
With this certificate, your LLC can:
- Get an Employer Identification Number from the IRS.
- Apply for any required business licenses and permits.
- Open a business bank account.
Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement
In Ohio, having an operating agreement for your LLC isn’t mandatory, but it’s essential for your business. One can help you avoid problems, especially concerning disputes or legal issues.
An operating agreement lays out how your LLC will operate and can cover different aspects, such as
- LLC’s name and address
- Details about the registered agent
- Information from the Articles of Organization
- Business purpose,
- Members and their contributions
- How will the LLC share profits and losses
- Rules for bringing in new members or handling departing ones
- LLC management
- Clauses for indemnification and liability
This written agreement can prevent misunderstandings and protect the LLC’s and its members’ interests.
Step 6: Get an Employer Identification Number
Internal Revenue Service assigns the nine-digit Employer Identification Number (EIN) to identify your LLC for tax purposes. You can obtain your EIN either by mail or online through the IRS.
By following these guidelines, you can make setting up your LLC in Ohio more accessible and faster.
LLC State Guides
FAQs
How long does filing for an LLC in Ohio take?
It takes about one week for Ohio LLCs to receive approval for mail filings, which includes one business day for processing and additional time for mailing the documents. Online filings typically receive approval within one business day.
What is the cost of forming an LLC in Ohio?
Filing the Ohio Articles of Organization to establish an LLC costs $99. You can expedite the process for an additional $100, ensuring processing within two days of receipt.
What’s the address for the Ohio Secretary of State?
To file articles of organization, send them to
Ohio Secretary of State
Regular Filing
P.O. Box 670 Columbus, OH 43216.
If you prefer in-person filing, call 877-767-3453 (877-SOS-OHIO) to schedule an appointment.
How can I transfer ownership of an LLC in Ohio?
To transfer ownership of an Ohio LLC, you must complete the Domestic Limited Liability Company Certificate of Amendment or Restatement form and submit it with a $50 fee. This form serves as the official record of the ownership change.
