Business Formation / LLC Ohio

How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC in Ohio?

🏁 Initial Formation Costs

• Articles of Organization: $99 one-time state filing fee via the Ohio Secretary of State 

• Name Reservation (Optional): $39 holds your preferred LLC name for up to 180 days 

• Registered Agent: $0–$300/year — you can self-appoint at no cost, or hire a commercial agent 

• Operating Agreement: $0–$1,000, depending on whether DIY or attorney-drafted 

• EIN (Federal Tax ID): $0, free from the IRS

🔄 Ongoing & Optional Fees

• Annual Report Fee: $0 — Ohio does not require LLC annual or biennial reports 

• Commercial Activity Tax (CAT): Applies only when gross receipts exceed $150,000/year 

• Local Business Licenses/Permits: $25–$200+, varies by jurisdiction 

• Expedited Filing (Optional): $100–$300 extra for faster processing 

• Certificate of Good Standing: $5–$25, if needed 

💰 Estimated Costs

✅ Key Takeaways

1. Low entry cost: Just $99 to form an LLC

2. No annual filing fees — Ohio does not require a yearly/state report 

3. Optional services, such as branding, agent service, or permits, determine additional costs

4. CAT threshold: LLCs pay state tax only if revenue exceeds $150K/year

✅ Next Steps

• File your Articles of Organization and pay the $99 fee

• Appoint or hire a registered agent

• Consider optional add-ons like name reservation ($39), agent services, or expedited processing ($100–300)

• Register for applicable licenses, and monitor the Commercial Activity Tax requirement

🛑 What additional costs am I responsible for?

In addition to our fee, you will be potentially responsible for the costs of some or all of the items below if applicable.

1. Licenses 
   
2. Filing Fees
3. Reports
4. Name Reservations
5. Articles of Organization