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What legal requirements do I need to fulfill to start 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 fulfilled.

  1. Choose a business name: First, you need to choose a name for your business. The name should be unique and should not already be in use by another business. To check if the name is available, you can search the Ohio Secretary of State's Business Name Database.
  2. Register your business: Once you have chosen a name, you need to register your business with the Ohio Secretary of State. This can be done online or by mail. You will need to provide your business name, address, contact information, and other details as required by the state.
  3. Obtain necessary licenses and permits: Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need to obtain certain licenses and permits from the state, county, or city. For example, if you are starting a food-related business, you will need to apply for a food service operation license from the Ohio Department of Health.
  4. Obtain tax identification numbers: You will need to obtain a federal tax identification number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and a state tax identification number from the Ohio Department of Taxation. This will allow you to pay federal and state taxes, and to hire employees if necessary.
  5. Comply with employment laws: If you plan to hire employees, you will need to comply with federal and state employment laws. This includes providing a safe and healthy workplace, paying minimum wage, complying with anti-discrimination laws, and providing workers' compensation insurance.
  6. Obtain business insurance: It is recommended that you obtain business insurance to protect your business from potential risks and liability.

Some limitations or exceptions to the advice given include business-specific legal requirements, such as those for healthcare businesses, also it is recommended to seek legal counsel to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

In conclusion, starting a small business in Ohio requires careful attention to legal requirements and compliance with relevant laws and regulations. It is important to ensure that all necessary steps are taken in order to protect your business and avoid potential legal issues.