To form a limited liability company (LLC) in Ohio, several legal requirements must be met. Here are the key steps to starting an LLC in Ohio:
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Choose a name for your LLC. The name must not already be in use by another registered company in Ohio. You can check the availability of your proposed LLC name by searching the Ohio Secretary of State’s online business search tool.
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File Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State. The Articles of Organization are a legal document that officially creates your LLC and outlines its ownership structure and management. The Articles of Organization must include the LLC’s name, the purpose of the LLC, the name and address of the LLC’s registered agent, and the names and addresses of the LLC's organizers. The filing fee is $99.
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Obtain necessary licenses and permits. Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain additional licenses and permits from the Ohio government before you can begin operating your LLC.
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Prepare an LLC operating agreement. Although Ohio does not require LLCs to have operating agreements, it is advisable to create one. An operating agreement is a legal document that outlines the ownership and management structures of the LLC, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the members.
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Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. An EIN is a unique identifier for your LLC that is used for tax purposes. You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website.
It is important to note that there may be additional legal requirements or steps necessary for forming an LLC in Ohio depending on the nature of the business. It is advisable to consult with a licensed attorney to ensure all necessary legal requirements are met and to receive legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
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