How to Form an LLC in Ohio Yourself (2026 Costs and Steps)

Quick answer

The filing fee is $99 for both online and mail filings. File your Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State.

Step 1: Check that your LLC name is available

Search the Ohio Secretary of State's business name records before filing to ensure your desired name is available.

Step 2: Choose a registered agent

You may serve as your own registered agent, which Ohio calls a statutory agent. A natural person who is an Ohio resident may serve if the appointment gives the street and number of the agent's primary residence in Ohio. The agent must sign a written acceptance filed with the articles.

Step 3: File your Articles of Organization

File your Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State. The filing fee is $99 for both online and mail filings.

Expedite options are available in addition to the $99 filing fee:

• Level one (within 2 business days; the only level that may be requested by mail): $100
• Level two (within 1 business day): $200
• Level three (within 4 business hours): $300

Step 4: Create an operating agreement

Create an operating agreement to cover ownership, roles, voting, and what happens if a member leaves.

Step 5: Get your EIN from the IRS

Get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for free at https://www.irs.gov/ein.

Step 6: Keep your LLC in good standing

Ohio's Commercial Activity Tax annual minimum tax was eliminated for tax periods beginning on/after Jan 1, 2024. From 2025, taxpayers with $6 million or less in taxable gross receipts owe no CAT and file no return. CAT above $6M is a gross-receipts tax, not a minimum tax.