To legally start a small business in Ohio, there are certain requirements that must be met. Some of the key legal requirements include:
-
Choosing a Business Entity: The first step is to choose the type of business entity which includes Sole Proprietorship, LLC, Partnership, or Corporation. To choose the proper business structure, one should consult with an attorney or accountant as all business types have their individual requirements.
-
Business Name: Each company must have a unique name that is not currently in use by any other business in Ohio. One should perform a search in the Ohio Secretary of State's Ohio Business Search, to check if the name is available.
-
Register with the Ohio Secretary of State: A legal entity must be registered with the Ohio Secretary of State to obtain a proper business license or permit.
-
Filing the Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization: One should file Articles of Incorporation (for corporations) or Articles of Organization (for LLCs), for businesses located in Ohio with the Ohio Secretary of State after the availability of the name is confirmed.
-
Register for Taxes: To avoid future problems with the government, a small business owner must apply for and acquire any necessary tax ID, federal EIN number, or other business licenses required to conduct business in Ohio.
-
Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Permits and licenses may include sales tax license/permit, health permit, and others for specific industries. Each business must obtain its required licenses and permits to operate in Ohio.
While these are the primary requirements, please note that additional legal requirements may apply, depending on the nature of the business. It is recommended that small business owners seek advice from a licensed attorney to ensure compliance with all applicable legal requirements in Ohio.
By
