Starting a Business

How to Start a Business in Ohio: Step-by-Step Guide

Starting a business in Ohio involves several key steps to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. Follow this checklist to properly register, obtain identification numbers, set up accounts, and meet all reporting requirements. A full list of business publications is available on our publications page.

1. Register with the Ohio Secretary of State

Registration information and forms are available online or at 877-SOS-FILE.

2. Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Apply for an EIN through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website. This number is required for tax filings and business banking.

3. Open a Business Bank Account

Once you have your EIN, you can open a dedicated business bank account to more easily separate personal and business finances.

4. Register with the Ohio Department of Taxation

Obtain information regarding Ohio taxes, including registration requirements, filing requirements, and filing due dates at Tax.Ohio.gov. The Department of Taxation also offers the Ohio Small Business Tax Training Program to help new businesses understand Ohio’s tax requirements.

5. Report Beneficial Ownership Information (If Required)

U.S. companies and persons are not required to report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN. Only foreign entities that are reporting companies are required to report beneficial ownership information of foreign individuals. Go to FinCEN.gov/BOI for more information.

6. Report Newly Hired Employees

Report all new and rehired employees to the Ohio New Hire Reporting Center. Contact the center at 888-872-1490 for more information.

7. Comply with Workers’ Compensation Requirements

If your business employs one or more workers, Ohio law requires that you have workers’ compensation insurance. Visit the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and select “Employers” to learn more.

8. Register with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services

Employers may be required to establish an Unemployment Compensation Tax Account with the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services. Visit JFS.Ohio.gov and search for “Employers” to learn more.

9. Obtain Licenses and Permits

The Ohio Business Gateway Licenses and Permits page provides a list of professional licenses and business permits necessary to do business in Ohio. Contact your county and local government to determine if any special requirements exist for your type of business.

10. Report Unclaimed Funds Annually

Under R.C. 169.03, all businesses are required to report and remit any unclaimed funds to the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Unclaimed Funds, even if there are none to report. You can file the report on the Ohio Business Gateway.

Check https://unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov for complete details.

11. Explore Business Growth Resources

The Ohio Secretary of State’s office hosts the Ohio Business Resource Connection located at OhioSoS.gov/business/ohio-business-roadmap/ohio-business-resource-connection. The Resource Connection is a directory of services for all Ohio businesses and includes specific services for woman, minority, disability and military or veteran owned businesses. Additionally, the Small Business Administration provides resources to grow your business at SBA.gov.