How long does it take to register a business in Ohio?

Processing times vary: 3-5 business days. Online filings are typically faster than mail submissions. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Do I need a business license in Ohio?

Ohio does not require a state-level business license, but individual cities and counties may have their own requirements. Check with your local government for specific licensing needs.

Can I use my personal name as my business name?

Yes, you can use your personal name as your business name. For an LLC, you'll need to add "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to the end. However, using a unique business name often provides better branding opportunities and legal protection.

What if my desired business name is already taken?

If your preferred name is unavailable, you have several options: 1) Choose a different name, 2) Add descriptive words to make it unique, 3) Use a different LLC suffix (LLC, L.L.C., etc.), or 4) Consider filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name while keeping a different legal name.

How much does it cost to start a business in Ohio?

The LLC filing fee is $99. Additional costs include business licenses ($50-500), registered agent fees ($50-300/year if using a service), and other startup expenses. Total first-year costs typically range from $250.

Do I need a trademark for my business name?

While not required, trademark registration provides nationwide protection for your business name. Registering your LLC with the state only protects your name within Ohio. If you plan to expand beyond the state or want stronger legal protection, consider applying for a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an amendment with the Ohio Secretary of State. This typically costs $20-100 and takes a few weeks to process. However, changing your name can be expensive when you consider updating all your marketing materials, domain, signage, and legal documents.

Ohio Business Name Generator

Generate unique business names for your Ohio LLC or startup. Get AI-powered suggestions tailored to Ohio businesses and local market.

Generate Business Names for Ohio

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Ohio?

$99

Filing Fee

3-5

Processing (days)

1.1M

Total Businesses

130K/yr

New Businesses

Low cost of doing business and affordable real estate

Central location with access to 60% of US population

Strong manufacturing and healthcare sectors

Business-friendly tax environment

Starting a Business in Ohio

Top Cities for Business

Columbus906,000
Cleveland373,000
Cincinnati309,000
Toledo270,000
Akron190,000

Popular Industries

Manufacturing
Healthcare
Technology
Finance
Agriculture

Cost to Start a Business in Ohio

LLC Filing Fee$99

Name Reservation (optional)$39 for 180 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$250

Processing time: 3-5 business days

Ohio Tax Overview

Ohio has no corporate income tax but has Commercial Activity Tax (0.26% on gross receipts over $1M). Personal income tax ranges 0-3.99%. Sales tax is 5.75% state plus local.

Ohio Business Name Requirements

Must include "LLC", "L.L.C.", or "Limited Liability Company"
Must be distinguishable from existing names

Restricted Words: The following words cannot be used without special approval:

Bank, Insurance, Trust

Business Name Ideas for Ohio

Explore 30 pre-generated business name ideas across popular industries. Use these as inspiration or starting points for your own unique name.

restaurant

Buckeye Kitchen
Ohio Fresh Cuisine
Columbus Table
Midwest Dining
Ohio Plate Co.
Local Flavors

barbershop

Ohio Barber Co.
Classic Cuts
Buckeye Cuts
Premium Grooming
Cleveland Barbers
Expert Style

construction

Ohio Build Group
Quality Construction
Buckeye Contractors
Building Ohio
Columbus Builders
Trusted Partners

consulting

Ohio Strategy
Business Growth
Buckeye Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Columbus Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Ohio Mercantile
Local Goods
Buckeye Market
Quality Products
Columbus Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Ohio Home Care
Complete Solutions
Buckeye Services
Professional Care
Columbus Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Ohio Tech Labs
Innovation
Buckeye Digital
Tech Solutions
Columbus Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Ohio Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Buckeye Medical
Patient Care
Columbus Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Ohio Properties
Dream Homes
Buckeye Realty
Expert Service
Columbus Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Ohio Fitness
Peak Performance
Buckeye Strong
Community Fitness
Columbus Athletics
Elite Training

Official Ohio Business Resources

Ohio Secretary of State

Business registration and filing services

Ohio Department of Taxation

Business tax registration and filing

Ohio SBDC

Business consulting and training

How to Register a Business in Ohio

Annual Compliance Requirements

After forming your Ohio LLC, you'll need to maintain compliance with these ongoing requirements:

No annual report required for Ohio LLCs
Maintain statutory agent in Ohio
Pay Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) if gross receipts exceed $150,000
File federal taxes as required

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Ohio Business Owners

Self-Employment Tax

Calculate SE tax liability

Profit Margin Calculator

Calculate your profit margins

S-Corp Salary

Optimize salary vs distribution

Generate Names for Nearby States

Ready to Launch Your Ohio Business?

Jupid AI Accountant handles everything from LLC formation to ongoing tax compliance. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Information is accurate as of 2026-01. Always verify current requirements with the Ohio Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.