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What legal requirements do I need to follow to start a business in Ohio?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To start a business in Ohio, there are several legal requirements that you need to follow. Here is a list of steps that you should take:

  1. Choose a Business Structure: Before you can register your business in Ohio, you need to decide what kind of business structure you want to form. Ohio recognizes the following types of business entities: sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), and corporation. Each business structure has its own legal and tax implications, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs.
  2. Choose a Business Name: Next, you will need to choose a name for your business. The name must be unique and not already in use by another Ohio business. You can check the availability of your desired business name online through the Ohio Secretary of State's website.
  3. Register Your Business: Once you have chosen your business structure and name, you will need to register your business with the Ohio Secretary of State. The registration process will vary depending on your business structure. For example, if you are forming an LLC, you will need to file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State's office. If you are forming a corporation, you will need to file Articles of Incorporation.
  4. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need to obtain various permits and licenses from local, state, and federal agencies. For example, if you are starting a food service business, you will need to obtain a food service permit from your local health department.
  5. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): If your business will have employees, you will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service. This number will be used to identify your business for tax purposes.
  6. Open a Bank Account: To keep your personal and business finances separate, it's important to open a separate bank account for your business.
  7. Get Business Insurance: To protect your business from potential risks and liabilities, you should consider getting insurance for your business. The type of insurance you need will depend on the nature of your business.

In addition to these steps, there may be other legal requirements that apply to your specific business. It's a good idea to consult with a licensed attorney who can help you navigate the legal requirements and ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.