Legal Steps for Starting a Small Business in Ohio

If you are planning to start a small business in Ohio, there are several legal steps that you need to take to ensure that your business is compliant with state and federal laws.

1. Choose a Business Structure: You must determine the legal structure of your business. Common business structures include Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation or S-Corporation. Each of these structures has its own set of legal requirements, advantages and disadvantages.
2. Obtain Licenses and Permits: Depending on the type of business you plan to run, you may need licenses and permits at the local and state levels. Ohio has a “one-stop” solution for businesses to register with the Ohio Secretary of State’s business gateway.
3. Register for Taxes: You must register your business for tax purposes with the Ohio Department of Taxation. This includes federal and state taxes, such as income tax, sales tax and employment taxes.
4. Obtain Business Insurance: Protect yourself and your business from any potential legal problems by securing business insurance coverage, such as general liability, property or worker’s compensation insurance.
5. Protect Business Intellectual Property: Protect your business’s brand and intellectual property by filing for trademark registrations with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
6. Create Operating Documents: Decide on your business’s mission, how it will operate and create official operating documents. This includes creating bylaws, articles of organization or articles of incorporation, and any other documentation related to starting your business.
7. Get Legal Advice: It is essential to consult with a business attorney before starting a business in Ohio. A lawyer can guide you through the steps and ensure that you are in compliance with all relevant state and federal laws.

While these are the general legal steps, it is important to note that each business is unique and may require additional steps depending on the type of services or products you plan to offer. Therefore, it is always best to seek the advice of a professional business attorney to ensure that your small business complies with all applicable laws and regulations.