What are the steps I need to take to legally hire employees for my business in Ohio?

To legally hire employees for a business in Ohio, there are several steps that need to be taken:

1. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This unique nine-digit number is required for tax purposes and will be used to identify your business.
2. Register with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to obtain a State Unemployment Tax Act (SUTA) account. You will also need to register for state income tax withholding with the Ohio Department of Taxation.
3. Obtain workers' compensation insurance from the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation. This is mandatory in Ohio for all employers with one or more employees.
4. Ensure that your job postings and hiring practices comply with all relevant federal and state employment laws, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and Ohio's employment discrimination laws.
5. Verify that your employees are legally eligible to work in the United States by completing Form I-9 and ensuring that you comply with federal immigration laws.
6. Create offer letters and employment contracts that clearly outline the terms of employment, including job responsibilities, wages, benefits, and termination procedures.
7. Set up a payroll system to make sure that your employees are properly paid and taxes are withheld and remitted to the appropriate government agencies.

It is important to note that there may be additional requirements or specific industry regulations that apply to certain businesses. It is recommended to consult with an experienced employment attorney to ensure that all legal requirements are met. Additionally, regularly reviewing and updating employment policies and procedures can help prevent legal issues and ensure compliance with changing laws and regulations.