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What are the legal requirements for starting a small business in Ohio?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To start a small business in Ohio, there are several legal requirements that need to be met.

  1. Choose a Legal Structure: The first step is to choose the legal structure for your business. This could be a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the one that is right for your business.
  2. Register Your Business: In Ohio, all businesses need to register with the Ohio Secretary of State's office. This involves filing the appropriate business formation documents and paying a fee. For example, if you are forming an LLC, you will need to file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State.
  3. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need to obtain certain permits and licenses from the state of Ohio, as well as from your local municipality. Some common examples include a sales tax permit, health department permit, and zoning permit.
  4. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): If you plan to hire employees, you will need to obtain an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This is a unique identification number that is used for tax purposes.
  5. Obtain Insurance: Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need to obtain insurance. For example, if you are starting a construction business, you will need to obtain liability insurance to protect against accidents or damage to property.
  6. Comply with Employment Laws: If you plan to hire employees, you will need to comply with federal and state employment laws. This includes laws related to minimum wage, overtime, discrimination, and workplace safety.
  7. Comply with Tax Laws: All businesses in Ohio need to comply with state and federal tax laws. This includes filing taxes and paying any applicable taxes on time.

Overall, starting a small business in Ohio can be a complex process. It is important to consult with an attorney or other financial professionals to ensure that you are complying with all legal requirements and protecting yourself and your business.