How to start an LLC in Ohio
Forming an LLC in Ohio costs $99 and online filings are typically approved in about 3–7 business days online. Here's the whole process, step by step.
Filing fee
$99
One-time, paid to the state
Approval time
about 3–7 business days online
Typical for online filings
Ongoing fee
$0 (no annual report)
What the state charges each year
Fees and processing times change — always confirm the current figures with the Ohio Secretary of State before you file.
The 4 steps in Ohio
Pick a name that works in Ohio
Your name must be distinguishable from other Ohio businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.” Use the state's business search before filing.
File the paperwork
You file Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State, online or by mail. Online filing is faster and lets you pay the $99 fee by card. The filing fee is $99. Also write a simple operating agreement — it's free, and it keeps your liability protection clear.
Get your free EIN
Apply at IRS.gov and get your Employer Identification Number immediately, for free. You'll need it for taxes and your business bank account.
Open a business bank account
Bring your approved Articles of Organization, EIN, and operating agreement. Keeping business money separate is what makes the liability protection hold.
Optional: name a registered agent service
Every Ohio LLC needs a registered agent with a physical address in the state. You can be your own for free — or pay a service to keep your address private. Learn how registered agents work.
Ohio is unusually low-maintenance: no annual report, no ongoing state fee. Your $99 filing fee is essentially the whole state cost of the LLC.
File directly with the Ohio Secretary of State.
Common questions about Ohio LLCs
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Ohio?
The Ohio filing fee is $99, paid once when you submit your Articles of Organization. Getting your EIN from the IRS is free, and you can be your own registered agent for free. Ongoing, Ohio charges $0 (no annual report). Fees change over time, so confirm the current amount on the Ohio Secretary of State website before you file.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Ohio?
Online filings are typically approved in about 3–7 business days online, though times vary with the state's workload. Mail filings take longer. Check the Ohio Secretary of State website for current processing times.
Do I need a registered agent in Ohio?
Yes — every Ohio LLC must list a registered agent with a physical street address in the state. You can be your own agent for free, or hire a commercial service (roughly $100–$150 a year) to keep your address off the public record.
Does Ohio require an annual report?
Ohio is one of the few states with no annual report requirement and no ongoing state fee — once you're formed, there's nothing to renew.
Can I form my Ohio LLC myself, without a service?
Yes. Filing directly with the Ohio Secretary of State is straightforward: pick a name, submit the Articles of Organization online, and pay the $99 fee. A formation service is optional convenience, not a requirement.
Where to go next
Ready to make your Ohio LLC official?
Grab the free checklist so nothing gets missed, or compare formation services.