How To Start An LLC In Ohio In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Ohio, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Buckeye State.
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Ohio offers one of the most cost-effective and business-friendly environments for LLC formation in the United States. With a low $99 state filing fee, no annual report requirements, and fast processing times, Ohio makes it easy and affordable to start your LLC. Whether you're in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, or anywhere else in the Buckeye State, you can have your Ohio LLC up and running quickly and efficiently.
Our top pick for Ohio LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Ohio LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $99 Ohio state fee. With their expertise in Ohio business law and excellent customer support, they make the entire process simple and stress-free.
Featured Partners
- Best filing & protections
- Fastest processing
- Free compliance for 1 yr
- Award-winning support
On ZenBusiness's Website
- Best for standard filing
- Fast processing options
- Free yr registered agent
- Lifetime company alerts
On Bizee's Website
- Best legal services
- Fast processing options
- AI legal forms
- Trusted since 1999
On LegalZoom's Website
- Best branding services
- Fast processing options
- Logo & website builder
- Establish your brand
On Tailor Brands's Website
Compare the Best Ohio LLC Services of 2025
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation |  Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |  Rocket Lawyer Legal Documents |  BetterLegal Speed & Simplicity |  Active Filings Traditional Service |  Filenow Budget Option |  Northwest Basic Formation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees | $299 all-inclusive | $199 + state fees | $99 + state fees | $39 + state fees |
| Our Rating | 4.9 /5 | 4.6 /5 | 4.4 /5 | 4.3 /5 | 4.2 /5 | 4.0 /5 | 3.9 /5 | 3.8 /5 | 3.6 /5 | 3.4 /5 |
| Standard Processing | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 5-14 days | 5-7 days | 2 days | 5-10 days | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Rush Processing | 1 day +$79 | 1 day +$49 | 2 days +$99 | 1 day +$99 | Standard speed | 2 days +$100 | 3 days +$50 | |||
| Compliance Tools | Worry-Free Compliance Free 1st year | Alerts only Basic monitoring | Basic tools Included | Basic alerts Included | Premium only Extra cost | Document library With membership | Limited Basic support | Basic tools Limited | None Not available | None Not included |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr Not included | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $199/yr | $119/yr Not included | $249/yr Not included | $149/yr Not included | Included In base price | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | +$125/yr Not included | $125/yr Available |
| Operating Agreement | +$99 | +$99 | +$50 | Included | +$99 | Included | Included | +$99 | +$40 | +$39 |
| EIN Service | +$99 | +$70 | +$70 | Included | +$159 | +$99 | Included | +$70 | +$50 | +$70 |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Chat | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Email | Email only | Email only |
| Mobile App | ||||||||||
| Attorney Access | ||||||||||
| Get Started | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → |
Note: State filing fees are additional for all services except where noted. Features and pricing may vary by state.
Our Top Picks for Ohio LLC Services
Best Overall for Ohio ZenBusiness excels at Ohio LLC formation with their expedited filing options and deep knowledge of Ohio's business-friendly requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Ohio Secretary of State registration, and provide ongoing support. With Ohio's lack of annual report requirements, their service focuses on formation excellence and ongoing business support.
Best For:
Ohio entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and fast, accurate filing
Pros
- Same-day Ohio LLC filing available
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- No Ohio annual report requirements to track
- Expert support familiar with Ohio requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Ohio filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fastest Ohio Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast Ohio LLC formation with expedited processing options. They provide a free Ohio registered agent for the first year and their dashboard is optimized for Ohio's simplified compliance environment. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Ohio LLC formed immediately and appreciate the state's minimal ongoing requirements.
Best For:
Ohio businesses needing the fastest possible formation
Pros
- Expedited Ohio processing available
- Free Ohio registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Ohio compliance
- Dashboard optimized for Ohio business needs
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in OH LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Ohio business formation. Their attorney network includes Ohio-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Ohio businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing in a business-friendly state.
Best For:
Ohio businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Ohio law
- Rush filing available for Ohio (1-2 days)
- Comprehensive Ohio legal forms library
- Phone support with Ohio expertise
- 30+ years serving Ohio businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Ohio registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Ohio Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Ohio LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Ohio's diverse business landscape, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Ohio business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Ohio creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Ohio business info
- Business cards with Ohio address
- 1-2 day Ohio processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Ohio business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Ohio
Free Ohio Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Ohio LLC formation where you only pay the $99 state fee. They include a free Ohio registered agent for the first year and handle all Secretary of State filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Ohio entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Ohio entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Ohio LLC formation
- Free Ohio registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Ohio businesses
- Handles Ohio Secretary of State filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Ohio business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Ohio registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Ohio LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Ohio Secretary of State registration efficiently and provide registered agent services at competitive rates, making them ideal for business owners who prefer a simple, direct approach to LLC formation.
Best For:
Ohio entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Ohio businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Ohio Secretary of State filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Ohio LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Ohio filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Ohio LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Ohio's $99 state filing fee. With guaranteed 2-business-day turnaround and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their Ohio LLC formation process.
Best For:
Ohio businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed 2-business-day Ohio formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Ohio-specific compliance guidance
- No hidden fees or surprise costs
- Streamlined single-package approach
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than budget options
- State filing fees are additional cost
- Limited ongoing support after formation
- Fewer customization options
Legal Platform Rocket Lawyer goes beyond simple Ohio LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Ohio-licensed attorneys and an extensive library of legal documents, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support. While formation takes longer than specialized services, the added legal resources make it worthwhile for complex Ohio business needs.
Best For:
Ohio businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Ohio-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Ohio processing available (additional fee)
- Ohio business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Ohio formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Ohio LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach that many Ohio business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Ohio's specific LLC requirements and business-friendly environment.
Best For:
Ohio entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Ohio expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Ohio
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Ohio compliance guidance
- Basic business tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing takes 5-7 days
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative aspects of Ohio business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Ohio businesses navigate regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Ohio businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Ohio compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Ohio business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services statewide
- Focus on regulatory requirements
- Experience with Ohio business law
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Longer processing times (7-10 days)
- Limited customer support hours
Ohio LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form an Ohio LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Ohio businesses
- ✓ Ohio Registered Agent: Required by law - must have an Ohio street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Ohio Secretary of State
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Ohio but highly recommended
- ✓ No Annual Reports: Ohio does not require annual reports or fees for LLCs
Ohio LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $99 (one-time fee)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Reports: $0 (Ohio does not require annual reports)
- • Business License: Varies by city/county ($50-$400)
Ohio LLC Timeline
- • Name Approval: Instant online check via Ohio Business Central
- • Processing Time: 3-7 days standard
- • Expedited Options: 1 business day (+$200) or 4 hours (+$300)
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 1-5 business days with expedited service
Why Form Your LLC in Ohio?
Low Costs & No Annual Fees
- • $99 one-time filing fee
- • No annual report requirements
- • No franchise tax on LLCs
Business-Friendly Environment
- • Ranked best state for small business
- • Pro-business regulatory climate
- • Strategic Midwest location
- • Access to major markets
Tax Advantages
- • Pass-through taxation available
- • No state corporate income tax
- • No inventory tax
- • Various business incentives and tax credits
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Flexible management structure
- • Privacy for members
- • No residency requirements
Ohio LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Ohio?
The Ohio state filing fee is $99, which is one of the most affordable in the nation. Additional costs include a registered agent ($100-$300/year, though many services offer the first year free), EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service). The best part about Ohio is there are no annual report fees, making ongoing costs minimal. Most Ohio entrepreneurs spend between $99-$400 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Ohio LLC?
Yes, Ohio law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with an Ohio street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). The registered agent receives legal documents and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have an Ohio address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Many formation services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Ohio?
Ohio offers fast LLC processing times. With expedited service, you can have your Ohio LLC approved in 1 business day for an additional $200, or even within 4 hours for $300 (for walk-ins received by 1 PM). Most formation services offer expedited options to speed up the process significantly.
Does Ohio require annual reports for LLCs?
No, Ohio does not require LLCs to file annual reports or pay annual fees to the state. This makes Ohio one of the most cost-effective states for ongoing LLC maintenance. Once your LLC is formed, you have minimal ongoing state requirements, which saves both time and money compared to many other states that require annual filings and fees.
Can I form an Ohio LLC if I don't live in Ohio?
Yes, you don't need to be an Ohio resident to form an Ohio LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with an Ohio street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Ohio is particularly welcoming to non-residents and even international business owners. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
What name requirements exist for Ohio LLCs?
Your Ohio LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "Limited," "Ltd.," "LLC," or "L.L.C." at the end. You can check name availability online through Ohio Business Central. Certain words may require additional approval. You can also reserve a name for 180 days for a $39 fee if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Ohio Cities for LLCs
- • Columbus
- • Dublin
- • Westerville
- • Grove City
- • Cleveland
- • Akron
- • Canton
- • Youngstown
- • Cincinnati
- • Dayton
- • Springfield
- • Hamilton
- • Toledo
- • Lima
- • Findlay
- • Bowling Green
Ready to Start Your Ohio LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Ohio LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.