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What legal documents do I need to start a small business in Ohio?

To start a small business in Ohio, several legal documents are required:

  1. Business Entity Formation Documents: The first legal document that needs to be drafted is the business entity formation document. It entails drafting articles of incorporation, articles of organization, or a partnership agreement if the entity is a corporation, limited liability company, or partnership, respectively.

  2. Employer Identification Number (EIN): The second document required is the EIN. This document is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and is used to identify your business for tax purposes.

  3. Licenses and Permits: Depending on the nature of your business, you may also require licenses and permits to operate legally. For example, if you want to open a restaurant or a bar, you would be required to get a food service permit and a liquor license.

  4. Business Contracts or Agreements: Any business contracts, such as vendor agreements, partnership agreements, or employment agreements, must be signed to ensure that all business transactions take place smoothly.

  5. Intellectual Property Protection: Business owners also need to ensure that their intellectual property rights are protected. This can be done by filing for a trademark or copyright protection.

  6. Compliance Documents: It is essential to ensure that your business complies with federal, state and local laws. This requires creating compliance documents such as a privacy policy, terms of service, and other legal notices.

It's important to note that there may be additional documents that are specific to your industry or business, so it is always best to check with an attorney or legal expert to ensure that all necessary documents are in place before starting a business.