The 4 Best LLC Services in Ohio 2023
Find the Best Service for Your LLC in Ohio
Starting a limited liability company (LLC) enables businesses to create some liability protection and form a recognized legal entity in the state. There are several steps involved, including submitting your Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State and appointing a statutory agent. Fortunately, you do not have to do this all yourself.
The best LLC services in Ohio can help you through the business formation process by filing all necessary documentation and more. We've reviewed numerous organizations so you can determine which is the right platform for your needs.
Recommended LLC Formation Service: Northwest
Best Ohio LLC Formation Services
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Best LLC Services |
|---|---|
Northwest 4.7/5 |
HIGHEST CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
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TailorBrands 4.5/5 |
BEST PREMIUM, ALL-IN-ONE PACKAGE
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ZenBusiness 4.2/5 |
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Incfile 4.0/5 |
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We reviewed and ranked the four best company formation services by actually forming separate LLCs with each service provider.
In this business formation services review, we’ll explore some of the best Ohio LLC services in 2023 and share what makes them the top choice.
Best LLC Services in Ohio:
Best Ohio LLC Service: Northwest
We recommend Northwest Registered Agent as the overall best online business formation service because of its affordability and knowledgeable customer support.
($29 + State Fees)
1. Northwest
Northwest's incorporation service starts at just $29 plus state fees; it includes Ohio LLC filing, premium registered agent services, customer privacy protection, online document dashboard, free mail forwarding, and more.
Northwest is known for its top-notch customer service; they provide their clients with Corporate Guides, who are highly trained US-based support agents. Every customer gets a Corporate Guide assigned to their specific account, so you can talk to the same person if you have any questions or concerns.
Pros
- Positive customer reviews
- User-friendly online ordering process
- No hidden fees or “free trials” that cost money later on
- Professional US-based customer service representatives
Cons
- You’ll need to pay extra fees for important company formation features such as an EIN. Another option is to get an EIN for free on your own.
Read our full Northwest Registered Agent review to learn more.
Northwest
Northwest provides personalized, knowledgeable customer service at an affordable price.
($29 plus state fees)
2. Tailor Brands
Tailor Brands offers an array of impressive features, particularly with its AI-powered Elite package. For $199 annually, this plan includes marketing tools that will empower you to significantly step up your branding efforts. With features like a logo maker, website builder, social media post maker, free domain, and digital business cards, the Elite plan offers a one-stop-shop of unique business building tools that you won’t find elsewhere.
Pros
- AI-powered brand building tools
- Logo maker
- Easy, user-friendly set up
Cons
- Does not include registered agent service
Read our full Tailor Brands review to learn more.
Tailor Brands
Tailor Brands provides the best premium, one-stop shop package for entrepreneurs to form a new company and build their online presence.
($199 + state fees)
3. ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness offers solid formation services with a reputation for reliability. However, when compared side-by-side against the features and pricing of competitors, it tends to fall a bit short. Its Starter plan offers formation services for $0 plus state fees, which will appeal to budget-minded entrepreneurs. But unlike Incfile, ZenBusiness’s packages do not offer an included year of registered agent services.
Its next level Pro plan has a much steeper cost at $199 annually for compliance, expedited processing, and a guided operating agreement. To access brand building tools like a free domain and customizable website, you’ll need to select the Premium package at $299 annually.
Pros
- Solid reputation for customer satisfaction
- Offers a $0 package, plus state fees
- User-friendly
Cons
- EIN and registered agent are not included
Read our full ZenBusiness review to learn more.
ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness provides essential services to help get your venture up and running.
($0 + State Fees)
4. Incfile
Entrepreneurs on a tight budget will no doubt find Incfile ($0 plus state fees) appealing. All Incfile plans, including Silver, currently come with one year of registered agent service.
Of Incfile’s packages, Gold is the plan we most recommend because of its impressive features including some important formation services like a business banking account, operating agreement, and banking resolution. Those who need a domain name, business email, and next-day filing can opt for the Platinum package at $299 annually.
Pros
- All plans currently include one-year free registered agent service
- Unlimited phone and email support
Cons
- Customer support may require you to leave a message for a same-day reply
Read our full Incfile review to learn more.
Incfile
Incfile is one of the best LLC services if you are working with a limited budget, and want a lot of added features.
($0 + State Fees)
How to Form an LLC in Ohio
You can also start an LLC in Ohio on your own in five easy steps:
1. Name Your Venture
You won’t be able to form your enterprise until you actually name it. Be sure to follow the LLC naming rules that are outlined in the Ohio naming requirements.
Then, make sure the name you want isn't already taken by doing a name search on the State of Ohio's website.
We also recommend using our LLC Name Generator tool to help secure a domain name for your company.
2. Choose a Statutory Agent
You are required to designate a statutory agent, known as a registered agent in most states, for your Ohio LLC, which is an individual or business entity in charge of receiving legal documents, government correspondence, and more on behalf of your company.
If you form your company online on the Ohio Secretary of State website, your registered agent’s name and contact information will be requested when you file your Articles of Organization.
If you form your venture by mail, download the Articles of Organization form. You’ll be asked to provide your registered agent’s information on page 3.
Learn more by reading our guide on Ohio statutory agents.
3. File the Articles of Organization
To register your enterprise, you will need to file Form 610 - Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State. It can be filed online or by mail, and the filing fee is $99.
Learn more with our Ohio Articles of Organization guide.
4. Create an Operating Agreement
An operating agreement is a legal document that outlines the ownership structure and operating procedures of your company.
Although an operating agreement is not required, it’s recommended. According to Ohio Revised Code Section 1706.081, all members of an LLC may enter into an operating agreement to regulate the internal affairs of the company.
You can read more about Ohio LLC operating agreements in our full guide.
5. Get an EIN
You can think of an Employer Identification Number as a Social Security number for your venture. Get one for free through the IRS website.
FAQs
How much does it cost to start an Ohio LLC?
It costs $99 to start an LLC in Ohio.
Do I have to file an Ohio LLC annual report?
No, it is not required in Ohio.
What are some local resources to help me form a company in Ohio?
To help you start your enterprise, we have identified the best resources across the state: