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What are the steps involved in incorporating a business in Ohio?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To incorporate a business in Ohio, the following steps must be completed:

  1. Choose a business name: The first step is to choose a unique name for your business. The name should not already be in use by any other business in Ohio, and it should not be too similar to existing business names. You can check the availability of your desired business name by visiting the Ohio Secretary of State's website.
  2. File Articles of Incorporation: You must file Articles of Incorporation with the Ohio Secretary of State's office. This document includes basic information about your business, such as its name, purpose, and registered agent. You must also include the names and addresses of the initial board of directors.
  3. Obtain a Federal Tax ID Number: All businesses operating in the United States must obtain a Federal Tax ID Number from the Internal Revenue Service. This number is used to identify your business for tax purposes.
  4. Register for State Taxes: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to register for state taxes such as sales tax or employer withholding tax. You can register for these taxes online through the Ohio Business Gateway.
  5. Obtain any Necessary Permits or Licenses: Depending on the type of business you are operating, you may need to obtain additional permits or licenses. For example, if you are starting a restaurant, you will need to obtain health permits from the local health department.
  6. Hold an Initial Board of Directors Meeting: After incorporating, you must hold an initial board of directors meeting to elect officers and approve bylaws.

It is important to note that there may be additional steps or requirements depending on the specific nature of your business. It is recommended that you consult with a licensed attorney or business advisor to ensure that you have met all necessary requirements.

Additionally, incorporation does not provide complete legal protection for business owners. Depending on the nature of your business, you may want to consider obtaining liability insurance or drafting a shareholder agreement to protect your personal assets.