The order that works
- Pick a structure. Most small companies choose an LLC. Corporations suit outside investors and share issuance. A sole proprietorship has no state formation filing at all, and needs no statutory agent, but it also gives you no liability shield.
- Check the name. Search the Secretary of State's business records. An LLC name must include a form such as LLC, L.L.C., Ltd., or Limited Liability Company.
- Choose your statutory agent. You, someone else in Ohio, or a company like us. The agent options compared can help.
- File your articles. Form 610 for an LLC, 532A for a for-profit corporation, 532B for a nonprofit. The state fee is $99. The agent signs an acceptance as part of the filing. How to name your agent.
- Get an EIN from the IRS. Free directly, or we can do it for $50.
- Write your governing document. An operating agreement for an LLC, or regulations for a corporation. Ohio does not collect these, but banks and partners may ask. Our builder costs $39.
- Open a business bank account. Keeping money separate protects the liability shield you just paid for.
- Register for taxes and licenses you actually need. That can mean the Ohio Business Gateway, a vendor's license if you sell taxable goods, and employer accounts if you hire. Ask your accountant which apply.
What it costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ohio articles, state fee | $99 |
| Statutory agent, doing it yourself | $0 |
| Statutory agent with us | $49 a year |
| EIN directly from the IRS | $0 |
| Having us prepare the formation (optional) | $100 plus the state fee |
Ohio charges no annual report or annual state fee for ordinary LLCs and for-profit corporations. Nonprofits have a separate five-year filing. Taxes are their own matter, including the Commercial Activity Tax and municipal income taxes. Your accountant can advise you on those.
Two ways to work with us
Have a question before you start? The FAQ covers most of them, and you can always contact us.
- File it yourself. Sign up, order agent service, and use our details on your own Form 610.
- Have us file it. Order formation and we check the name, prepare the articles, and submit them.
Questions
Do I need a statutory agent before my LLC exists?
Yes, in the sense that you need one lined up. Your articles must name the agent and include a signed acceptance, or the state will not file them.
Do I need an LLC for a side business?
No law requires one, and a sole proprietorship needs no agent. Whether the liability protection is worth it is a question for your own situation, and an attorney or accountant can help you weigh it.
Reviewed by Sean Webb, owner of Ohio Registered Statutory Agent LLC. Updated 2026-11-06. General information, not legal advice.