Articles of Organization in Ohio | How to File in 2024

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Ohio is popular for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their businesses. LLCs offer numerous benefits, including limited liability protection for their owners and flexible management structures. One of the critical steps in forming an LLC is filing the Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on How to File Articles of Organization in Ohio.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you understand the necessary steps to file for Articles of Organization. It would be best if all the factors in this article guided you.

What is Articles of Organization?

Articles of Organization is a legal document filed with the Ohio Secretary of State to establish a Limited Liability Company (LLC) officially. The Articles of Organization contains essential information about the LLC, including its name, Statutory Agent, and management structure. Once filed and approved by Ohio, the LLC becomes a legally recognized business entity, separate from its owners, and benefits from limited liability protection and pass-through taxation.

The Articles of Organization typically contains the following information:

• Company name
• The effective date of the company
• The headquarters of the company
• The company’s goal
• The period of the company’s operations
• Copy of the name registration certificate for the company
• Statutory Agent’s and organizers’ names and addresses
• At least one company employee

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LegalZoom – ($0 + State Fee)

How to File Articles of Organization in Ohio?

Aside from hiring a Statutory Agent, you should also be aware that a Statutory Agent should file Articles of Organization in your Ohio LLC. Here are the steps and guidelines for filing.

Step 1: Choose a Name for Your LLC

The first step in registering an LLC Articles of Organization is selecting a unique and appropriate name for your company. Your LLC’s name must comply with your state’s naming requirements, which typically include the following:

• The name must be distinguishable from other registered business names in the state.
• The name must include an LLC designator, such as “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.“
• The name must not include prohibited words or phrases defined by your state’s regulations.

To ensure your chosen name is available through your state’s business name database, Ohio Secretary of State Business Search, usually available on the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.

Step 2: Appoint a Statutory Agent

Statutory Agent is a person or entity responsible for receiving official correspondence and legal documents on behalf of your Ohio LLC. Most states require LLCs to designate a Statutory Agent when filing the Articles of Organization. The Statutory Agent must have a physical address in the state and be available during regular business hours.

Choosing a reliable and responsible Statutory Agent is essential, as failure to receive and respond to legal documents can seriously affect your business.

You can serve as your own Statutory Agent, appoint a friend or family member, or hire a professional Ohio Statutory Agent Services.

Step 3: Prepare Your Articles of Organization

The Articles of Organization is the legal document that officially establishes your Ohio LLC. While the specific requirements in Ohio, the document includes the following information:

• The LLC’s name
• The name and address of the Statutory Agent
• The principal office address
• The purpose of the LLC
• The management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)
• The names and addresses of the initial members or managers
• The duration of the LLC, if not perpetual

In Ohio, additional information may be required, such as an organizer’s signature or specific provisions related to the LLC’s operation.

Consult the Ohio guidelines to ensure you include all necessary information.

Step 4: File the Articles of Organization

Once your LLC Articles of Organization is prepared, please submit it to the Ohio Secretary of State. The submission process may vary depending on the method of choice; Ohio allow online submissions and mailing or hand-delivering the documents.

Online Process

To use the online service or download the Articles of Organization form for your LLC, go to the website of the Ohio Secretary of State. You were required to have an LLC name reserved while completing the form. Visit the Ohio Business Name Search to see if the business name you want to use is available there. You must include a copy of your name reservation and your completed Articles of Organization form when submitting.

Mail Process

It is also possible to mail the form if you wish. Please adhere to the guidelines listed below.

• The Articles of Organization must be downloaded in the Ohio Secretary of State
• Complete the necessary details in the form.
• Two copies of the Articles of Organization must be completed.
• Include the two papers with the Ohio LLC name reservation certificate in a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
• Submit all paperwork to Ohio Secretary of State, P.O. Box 670, Columbus, OH 43216.

Costs of Filing Articles of Organization

Along with the filing of Articles of Organization, you must pay a filing fee. In Ohio, the Articles of Organization fee costs around $99 which you can pay in the Ohio Secretary of State. Confirm the correct fee amount and payment method for your state.

However, If you want to know more about the cost of forming an LLC, you can check out Ohio LLC Cost.

Step 5: Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

After your Articles of Organization has been filed and approved, you should obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The EIN is a unique identification number used for federal tax purposes. It is required for most LLCs, especially those with employees or elect to be taxed as an S-Corporation. You can apply for an EIN for free online through the IRS website.

The application of an EIN in Ohio can be through the following:

• Apply Online- The online EIN application is the preferred method for customers to apply for and obtain an EIN.
• Apply by Fax- Taxpayers can fax the completed Form SS-4 application to the appropriate fax number), after ensuring that the Form SS-4 contains all of the required information.
• Apply by Mail- The EIN application Form SS-4 can be filed via mail. The processing time frame to receive the mail is four weeks.
• Apply by Telephone-International Applicants – International applicants may call 267-941-1099 (not a toll-free number) from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday to obtain their EIN.

Recommended: Professional services have the EIN included in their LLC formation package. We recommend using –

LegalZoom – ($0 + State Fee for LLC formation)

Step 6: Create an Operating Agreement

Although most states do not require an LLC Operating Agreement when registering an LLC, having one is highly recommended. The Operating Agreement in Ohio is a legally binding document that outlines the LLC’s ownership structure, management, and operating procedures. It helps prevent member disputes and provides a clear framework for the LLC’s operations.

Step 7: Register for State and Local Taxes and Licenses

In Ohio, you may need to register for additional state and local taxes or obtain specific licenses and permits. Common registrations include sales tax, payroll tax, and unemployment insurance tax. As an LLC, your business income will be subject to pass-through taxation, meaning profits and losses will be reported on your tax return. However, you may still be responsible for other state taxes, such as sales tax, payroll tax, or franchise tax which you can pay in Ohio Department of Taxation.

In terms of franchise tax for your LLC in Ohio, there is No franchise tax. Consult your Ohio Department of Taxation and local government offices to determine which registrations and licenses apply to your LLC.

Step 8: Maintain Ongoing Compliance

Once your LLC is registered and operational, it’s essential to maintain ongoing compliance with state regulations. This typically includes filing Biennial Reports in Ohio, paying required fees every 2 years, and keeping accurate records of your LLC’s activities. Stay informed about Ohio specific requirements to ensure your LLC remains in good standing.

Is the Articles of Organization necessary to be filed in Ohio?

Yes, the Articles of Organization is necessary to be filed with Ohio Secretary of State to legally establish and register a new business entity, such as a corporation or limited liability company (LLC). This document typically includes the company’s name, purpose, Statutory Agent, and stock structure. Filing the Articles of Organization is essential in forming a business and ensuring it operates legally and is recognized by Ohio.

What is the best way to file Articles of Organization? Is it online or by mail?

The best way to file Articles of Organization depends on your specific situation and the state in which you are incorporating your business. Both online and mail-in options have advantages, and either method can be effective.

Online Filing:

• Faster processing time, as it is usually processed within a few days or even hours.
• Immediate confirmation of submission and payment.
• Lower risk of errors, as the online form may provide guidance and prevent incomplete submissions.

Mail-in Filing:

• Some people prefer the traditional method and feel more comfortable with paper documentation.
• You can include a cover letter or additional documentation if you have specific questions or complex situations.

To determine the best method for your needs, check the Ohio Secretary of State or similar department’s website for information on their preferred filing options and processing times. Online filing is more convenient and efficient, but both methods can be used effectively to submit your Articles of Organization.

FAQs

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• File Articles of Organization in Ohio
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Can You Change or Modify Your Ohio LLC Articles of Organization?

One common reason that LLC owners may want to change or modify their Articles of Organization is to update basic information about their company. This could include changes to the business name, physical address, or the names and addresses of members or managers. Keeping this information current is important for maintaining accurate records and complying with state regulations.

In addition to basic information updates, LLC owners may also choose to amend their Articles of Organization in order to make changes to the company’s structure or management. For example, you may want to add or remove members, designate new managers, or change the voting rights of members. These types of modifications can help streamline decision-making processes and ensure that your LLC operates smoothly.

Another common reason for amending the Articles of Organization is to update the company’s operating agreement. The operating agreement is a critical document that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and financial arrangements of members within the LLC. As the business evolves, it may become necessary to revise this agreement to account for changes in ownership, management structure, or operational procedures.

It is important to note that any changes or modifications to the Articles of Organization must be approved by the members of the LLC in accordance with the operating agreement and state law. Additionally, these amendments must be filed with the Ohio Secretary of State to ensure that they are legally documented and recognized.

The process of amending the Articles of Organization can vary depending on the nature of the changes being made. In some cases, a simple amendment form may be sufficient, while more complex changes may require a complete restatement of the Articles. Regardless of the method used, it is important to carefully review the proposed amendments with legal counsel to ensure that they align with state laws and regulations.

Overall, the ability to change or modify the Articles of Organization for your Ohio LLC provides flexibility and adaptability as your business evolves. By staying proactive and making revisions when necessary, you can ensure that your company remains in compliance with state requirements and operates smoothly. If you are unsure about how to proceed with amending your Articles of Organization, it is always recommended to seek professional guidance to ensure that the process is completed correctly and legally.

Conclusion

Registering an LLC Articles of Organization is critical in establishing your business as a legally recognized entity. By following this comprehensive guide and researching your state’s specific requirements, you can successfully navigate the registration process and set your LLC up for success. Remember that forming an LLC is just the beginning; ongoing compliance and diligent management are necessary to ensure your business thrives in the long run.