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What are the steps involved in forming a limited liability company (LLC) in Ohio, and what are the legal requirements that must be met?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To form a limited liability company (LLC) in Ohio, the following steps must be taken and legal requirements must be met:

  1. Choose a name for the LLC: The name of the LLC must not already be in use by another business entity in Ohio. The name must also contain the words "Limited Liability Company" or the abbreviation "LLC".
  2. Appoint a statutory agent: A statutory agent is a person or entity that is authorized to receive legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of the LLC. The statutory agent must have a physical address in Ohio.
  3. File Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State: Articles of Organization is a legal document that sets forth the basic information about the LLC, such as its name, purpose, address, and statutory agent. This document must be filed with the Ohio Secretary of State and accompanied by a filing fee.
  4. Obtain necessary permits and licenses: Depending on the nature of the LLC's business, it may be required to obtain certain permits and licenses from state and local government agencies before commencing operations.
  5. Draft an Operating Agreement: An Operating Agreement is a legal document that outlines the internal governance and procedures of the LLC. It is not required by Ohio law but is strongly recommended to be drafted to avoid disputes.
  6. Obtain an EIN: An EIN or Employer Identification Number is a unique nine-digit number that is used to identify the LLC for tax purposes. It is obtained from the IRS.

In summary, forming an LLC in Ohio requires choosing a unique name for the LLC, appointing a statutory agent, filing Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State, obtaining necessary permits and licenses, drafting an Operating Agreement, and obtaining an EIN.

It is important to note that the above information is general in nature and may not apply to all situations. There may be exceptions or limitations to the advice given, and further action may be necessary depending on the specific circumstances of the formation of the LLC.

Therefore, it is recommended that an experienced attorney be consulted to ensure that all legal requirements are met and to provide any necessary guidance throughout the process.