Whether you are starting a business or incorporating an existing one in Ohio, you’ll want to understand state requirements for Ohio corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs).
Ohio Corporation Formation Requirements
Cost to incorporate. BizFilings clearly outlines our fees and the state fees to form a corporation in Ohio. View our pricing to plainly see:
- BizFilings’ package prices. BizFilings offers three incorporation service packages from which you can choose.
- State fee for standard turn-around. Our pricing clearly shows the state fee to incorporate in Ohio with standard turn-around.
- Expedited turn-around. You will see the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for expedited turn-around.
- 48-hour turn-around. There is a 48-hour filing option in Ohio, which is outlined in our pricing.
- Certified copy. Our pricing also clearly displays the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for issuing a Certified Copy of the Articles of Incorporation.
Corporate name. The name must contain the word "Company," "Corporation," "Incorporated," or the abbreviation "Co.," "Corp.," or "Inc." It must be distinguishable from the name of another domestic or foreign corporation authorized to do business in the state, or from any trade name. It must not contain language implying it is connected with a government agency of the United States. Use of the words "Bank" or "Trust" requires approval from the Superintendent of Banks and use of the word "Insurance" requires approval from the Department of Insurance.
Director information. The following are Ohio’s requirements for directors of corporations.
- Minimum number. Corporations must have not less than three directors, unless there are only one or two shareholders. In such case the number of directors may be less than three but not less than the number of shareholders.
- Residence requirements. Ohio does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
- Age requirements. Ohio does not have age requirements.
- Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no P.O. Boxes) in Ohio. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.
Professional services businesses. Professional corporations (PCs) are allowed to be formed in Ohio for professional services businesses.