Why Form an LLC in Ohio
Ohio is one of the most underrated states for LLCs. $99 to file, $0 per year in annual fees, no income tax on pass-through income.
The Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) of 0.26% applies only on gross receipts over $1 million. Most small LLCs pay $0.
Ohio has the seventh-largest economy with major industries in manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and technology.
For non-residents, Ohio is a compelling alternative to Wyoming. Filing is comparable ($99 vs $100) and annual costs are lower ($0 vs $60/year).
Ohio LLC Costs and Fees
Complete fee breakdown for Ohio LLCs. State fees sourced from the Ohio Secretary of State.
| Fee | Amount | When Due |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $99 | One-time |
| Annual report | $0 | Not required |
| Same-day (4-hour) | $300 additional | Optional |
| Registered agent | $100-150/year | Ongoing |
Step-by-Step: How to Form a Ohio LLC
Step 1: Choose your LLC name
Your name must be distinguishable from existing entities. Must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company." Check availability on the Ohio business search. Reserve a name for 180 days for $39.
Step 2: Appoint a registered agent
Every Ohio LLC needs a registered agent with a physical Ohio address (not a PO Box). USLLCGlobal includes one year of registered agent service in all packages.
Step 3: File Articles of Organization
File with the Ohio Secretary of State through the Ohio filing portal or by mail. Required information:
- LLC name with designator
- Registered agent name and address
- LLC mailing address
- Organizer name and address
- Member-managed or manager-managed
- $99 filing fee
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
Not legally required in Ohio but essential. Defines ownership, profit distribution, management, and exit provisions. Banks and the IRS expect to see it.
Step 5: Obtain an EIN
Your federal tax ID from the IRS. Required for bank accounts, hiring, and taxes. Non-residents can apply via Form SS-4 (4-6 weeks). USLLCGlobal handles EIN applications in every package.
Step 6: Open a US bank account
With your Articles of Organization, EIN, and Operating Agreement, open a US business account. Mercury, Relay, and Wise Business allow remote opening for non-residents.
Annual Compliance Requirements
What you need each year to keep your Ohio LLC in good standing:
- No annual report: Ohio requires nothing annually.
- Federal tax filing: Form 5472 for non-US owners. $25,000 penalty.
- CAT: Register if gross receipts exceed $150,000. Tax on over $1M.
- Registered agent: Maintain physical OH address.
- FinCEN BOI Report: File within 30 days.
Ohio Taxes for LLCs
| Tax Type | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Personal income tax | $0 | No tax on pass-through income |
| Commercial Activity Tax | 0.26% | On gross receipts over $1M |
| Franchise tax | $0 | No franchise tax |
| State sales tax | 5.75% + local | If selling taxable goods |
Important tax note
Forming in Ohio does not eliminate federal US tax obligations. Non-resident owners must file Form 5472 annually ($25,000 penalty for non-filing). Consult a qualified tax professional.
Processing Times
| Option | Time | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3-5 business days | $0 (included) |
| Same-day (4-hour) | As described | $300 additional |
Pros and Cons of a Ohio LLC
Advantages
- Low $99 filing fee
- No annual report or fee
- No income tax on pass-through
- No franchise tax
- CAT exemption under $1M revenue
- Seventh-largest economy
- Growing tech ecosystems
- Strong university talent
Disadvantages
- CAT (0.26%) on receipts over $1M
- Less privacy than Wyoming
- Less brand recognition
- 5.75% sales tax plus local
- Higher expedited fees
- Not a traditional formation state
The bottom line
Ohio is the best-kept secret in LLC formation. Zero annual fees, zero income tax on pass-through, $99 filing. Over five years: Ohio $99 total. Wyoming $400. Delaware $1,590.
Our Pricing: Ohio LLC Formation
Domestic Filers (US Residents)
$249 service + $99 state fee
International Filers (Non-US)
$349 service + $99 state fee
Every package includes:
- Articles of Organization filing with Ohio Secretary of State
- One year registered agent service
- Custom Operating Agreement
- EIN application
- Banking introduction letter
- Digital delivery within 24 hours of approval
- Compliance calendar
- Dedicated email and WhatsApp support
No hidden fees. No upsells. The price listed is the price you pay.
Form your Ohio LLC today
$348 all-in for US residents. $448 for international filers. Formed in 3-5 business days.
Start My Ohio LLC →