What legal steps do I need to take before starting a small business in Ohio?

Before starting a small business in Ohio, there are several legal steps that you need to take:

1. Determine your business structure: The first step in starting a business in Ohio is choosing a legal structure for the business. The most common structures for small businesses are sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations. Each structure has its own benefits and drawbacks, depending on factors such as the number of owners, potential liability, tax implications, and management structure.
2. Register your business: Once you have chosen a legal structure, you will need to register your business with the Ohio Secretary of State's office. This involves filing articles of incorporation (for corporations), articles of organization (for LLCs), or a registration form (for partnerships or sole proprietorships). You will also need to obtain any necessary business licenses and permits from local or state government agencies.
3. Obtain an employer identification number (EIN): An EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify your business for tax purposes. You will need an EIN if you plan to hire employees or if your business is taxed as a partnership or corporation.
4. Register for state taxes: Ohio requires businesses to register for state taxes, including sales tax, employer withholding taxes, and commercial activity tax (CAT). You may also need to register for additional taxes depending on the type of business you are starting.
5. Obtain insurance: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain various types of insurance, such as general liability insurance, property insurance, workers' compensation insurance, or professional liability insurance. Insurance requirements vary depending on your industry and location.
6. Comply with employment laws: If you plan to hire employees, you will need to comply with various employment laws, such as minimum wage, overtime pay, discrimination laws, and workplace safety regulations. You may also need to obtain workers' compensation insurance.
7. Protect your intellectual property: If your business relies on intellectual property (such as trademarks, patents, or copyrights), you will need to take steps to protect those assets. This may include registering trademarks or patents with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or the U.S. Copyright Office.

There may be additional legal steps or requirements depending on your specific business and industry. It is recommended to consult with an experienced business attorney to ensure that you have met all legal requirements and have adequately protected your business.