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What are the steps to form a limited liability company (LLC) in Ohio?

To form a limited liability company (LLC) in Ohio, the following steps must be taken:

  1. Choose a name for your LLC: Ohio requires that LLCs have a unique name that is not already in use by another registered business. The chosen name must include the words “Limited Liability Company”, “LLC”, or an abbreviation of either.
  2. Select a registered agent: Ohio law requires LLCs to have a registered agent who can receive legal notices and process service of process on behalf of the company. The registered agent must have a physical address in Ohio.
  3. File articles of organization: The Articles of Organization must be filed with the Ohio Secretary of State in order to legally form your LLC. This document should include basic information about your company, such as its name, business address, registered agent, and the name and address of each member.
  4. Obtain any necessary permits and licenses: Depending on your industry and location, you may need to obtain certain permits or licenses before you can operate your LLC legally.
  5. Draft an operating agreement: Although Ohio law does not require LLCs to have an operating agreement, it is a good idea to create one in order to establish the basic rules and structure of your company. This document should address issues such as member contributions, profit distribution, voting rights, and management structure.
  6. Obtain an EIN from the IRS: Once your LLC has been formed, you will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service. This number is used to identify your business for tax purposes.

It is important to note that while these are the general steps required to form an LLC in Ohio, there may be certain limitations or exceptions to these requirements depending on the specific circumstances of your business. It is always a good idea to consult with a licensed attorney or business formation service to ensure that you are taking the appropriate steps to legally form your LLC in Ohio.