How to Start an LLC in Ohio (2026): Cost, Steps & Timeline
Forming an LLC in Ohio costs $99 in state filing fees, paid to the Ohio Secretary of State. Processing takes about 1–3 business days for online filings. FilingsHQ prepares and files everything for $0 in service fees — you pay only the state fee.
What a Ohio LLC costs
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee | $99 | Paid to the Ohio Secretary of State; required |
| Expedited processing | Varies | $100 for 2-day, $200 for 1-day, $300 for 4-hour processing |
| None — Ohio LLCs do not file annual reports | $0 | Not required |
| Registered agent | $0–$199/yr | Free if you serve as your own; $199/yr with FilingsHQ |
| FilingsHQ service fee | $0 | Starter package — preparation, review, and submission included |
Answer a few questions; we prepare, review, and file with the state.
Step-by-step: forming your Ohio LLC
1. Choose a name
Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing Ohio businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”. Check availability using the Ohio Secretary of State’s business search before you file — a rejected name means starting over.
2. Appoint a registered agent
Ohio requires every LLC to name a registered agent: a person or company with a physical street address in the state (no P.O. boxes) available during business hours to receive legal documents. You can be your own agent, but your address becomes public record — many owners use a professional service to keep their home address private.
3. File the Articles of Organization
The formation document in Ohio is the Articles of Organization (Form 610), filed with the Ohio Secretary of State (online via Ohio Business Central). The filing fee is $99. About 1–3 business days for online filings. $100 for 2-day, $200 for 1-day, $300 for 4-hour processing.
4. Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number is your LLC’s federal tax ID — you’ll need it to open a business bank account and hire employees. The IRS issues EINs for free at irs.gov; FilingsHQ’s Pro and Premium packages handle the application for you.
5. Create an operating agreement
Ohio doesn’t require you to file an operating agreement, but every LLC should have one — it documents ownership, profit splits, and what happens if a member leaves. Banks and investors routinely ask for it.
6. Stay compliant
Ohio does not require annual reports for LLCs, which keeps ongoing paperwork minimal.
Ohio specifics to know
Series LLCs: Ohio permits series LLCs — a structure where one parent LLC holds multiple protected “series.” Useful for real-estate investors holding several properties; most first-time businesses don’t need one.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Ohio?
The Ohio state filing fee is $99. With FilingsHQ's Starter package the service fee is $0, so $99 is the total to form your LLC. Ongoing costs: None — Ohio LLCs do not file annual reports — $0.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Ohio?
About 1–3 business days for online filings. $100 for 2-day, $200 for 1-day, $300 for 4-hour processing.
Do I need a registered agent in Ohio?
Yes. Every Ohio LLC must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in the state to receive legal and government documents. You can serve as your own agent, appoint someone you know, or use a professional service like FilingsHQ ($199/yr).
Does Ohio require an annual report?
No — Ohio does not require an annual report for LLCs.
Where do I file my LLC in Ohio?
LLC formations in Ohio are filed with the Ohio Secretary of State, using the Articles of Organization (Form 610). Online filings go through Ohio Business Central. FilingsHQ prepares and submits this filing for you.
Ohio LLC for $0 + the $99 state fee. Every cost shown before you pay.
Nearby states
Keep reading
FilingsHQ is a private document filing service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal or tax advice. Fees and processing times are set by the Ohio Secretary of State and may change — always confirm current figures with the state. Last verified July 2026.