Ohio LLC formation starts with one of the nation's most affordable filing fees, at just $99 for your Articles of Organization, whether you submit online or by mail. This low barrier makes Ohio attractive for budget-conscious entrepreneurs, but understanding the complete cost picture helps you plan appropriately.
With minimal required fees and no annual reporting requirements, Ohio ranks among the most cost-effective states for LLC formation. The key is distinguishing between what the state mandates versus what your business actually needs for privacy, compliance, and operational success.
Beyond the mandatory $99 filing fee, you'll find additional expenses that aren't legally required but can save you significant headaches. Whether these options make sense depends on your LLC's complexity, the available time, and your comfort level with handling the formation independently.
For LLCs with multiple members, complex ownership structures, or specialized tax situations, attorneys become essential rather than optional. Most Ohio lawyers charge between $500 and $2,000 for comprehensive formation packages, which include custom operating agreements and ongoing compliance guidance. CPA tax consultations run $300-$900 annually and often prevent costly mistakes once you're operational.
Online formation companies offer a middle ground between DIY and hiring professionals. Basic packages start at $0 in service fees (you still pay Ohio's $99), while premium offerings include registered agent services and compliance tracking for an additional fee.
Some filings appear only when you need them, but forgetting to budget can disrupt your timeline. You'll need to keep an eye on the following:
Cities and counties impose their own business licensing requirements, typically $25-$350 for small businesses, depending on your industry and location.
After formation, recurring expenses begin to maintain your Ohio LLC's good standing. You need to budget for several ongoing obligations that keep your business compliant. Miss any of these deadlines and you'll face late penalties, potential dissolution, or loss of ability to conduct business.
Ohio does not impose franchise taxes on standard LLCs, eliminating the $300-$800 annual burden common in other states. However, starting in 2025, the Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) applies only to LLCs with gross receipts exceeding $6 million; businesses with $6 million or less in receipts are exempt from the CAT and do not owe an annual minimum fee.
Ohio's lack of annual reporting requirements and franchise taxes creates a significant cost advantage, making ongoing compliance remarkably affordable compared to high-fee states that impose substantial recurring obligations.
Are there any hidden fees when forming an LLC?
Most surprise costs come from local licensing requirements and optional services rather than state mandates. Cities and counties impose their own business license fees ranging from $25-$350, and regulated industries face additional permit costs that vary by sector.
Can I get a refund if my filing is rejected?
No, Ohio does not refund filing fees once processing begins. The $99 fee covers the state's review process, not approval, so double-check all information before submitting your Articles of Organization.
How do Ohio costs compare to other states?
Ohio ranks among the most affordable states nationally. The $99 filing fee is significantly lower than states like Texas ($300) or New York ($200), and Ohio's lack of annual reporting fees and franchise taxes creates substantial ongoing savings compared to states like California ($800 annual minimum) or Delaware ($300 annual report).
Can I avoid registered agent fees legally?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent at no cost if you have a physical Ohio address and maintain regular business hours. Many entrepreneurs choose professional services for privacy and convenience, but self-designation is perfectly legal and free.
Discern automates Ohio LLC formation while providing professional registered agent services and compliance tracking across all 51 jurisdictions.
When you're ready to expand beyond Ohio, our platform seamlessly handles multi-state formations and ongoing compliance management. Ready to eliminate formation complexity while taking advantage of Ohio's exceptional cost structure? Book a demo with Discern today.
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