Reinstate a Business in Ohio | A Step-by-Step Guide

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Reinstate Ohio Business

Running a business or forming an LLC in Ohio can be a rewarding yet challenging experience. When operating a business, unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to the suspension or dissolution of the entity. If your business has been suspended or dissolved in Ohio, you do not need to worry. This guide will provide a step-by-step process to Reinstate your Business in Ohio and get back on track.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you easily reinstate your Ohio business. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

How to Reinstate a Business in Ohio

Understanding Dissolution and Suspension

Before diving into the reinstatement process, it’s essential to understand the difference between dissolution and suspension.

Dissolution

Dissolution is the legal termination of a business entity. This can happen voluntarily by the owners or involuntarily by Ohio due to non-compliance with state laws and regulations. When a business is dissolved, it must cease all operations and settle outstanding debts and liabilities.

Suspension

The state can suspend a business entity for various reasons, such as failing to file Biennial Reports or paying taxes. When a business is suspended, it loses its right to conduct business within Ohio, and the owners may be personally liable for any debts or liabilities incurred during the suspension period. Hiring a Statutory Agent for your documents to be compliant is very important. You could check out the Best Ohio Statutory Agent Services in Ohio.

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How to Reinstate a Business in Ohio

In Ohio, reinstating your business needs a lot of preparation, more specifically if it is located in Columbus. To be aware and prepared, we have gathered information on the steps to reinstate your Ohio business. If it is manageable to Dissolve a Business in Ohio, it is also bearable to reinstate your Ohio business. Keep in mind that you should follow the mentioned steps below. 

Step 1: Determine the Reason for Suspension or Dissolution

The first step in reinstating your Ohio business is determining why it is suspended or dissolved. This information can be found in the notice issued by Ohio or by contacting the Ohio Secretary of State. Common reasons for suspension or dissolution include:

  • Failure to file Biennial Reports
  • Failure to pay taxes or fees
  • Failure to maintain a Statutory Agent
  • Non-compliance with state laws and regulations

Step 2: Resolve Outstanding Issues

Once you have identified the reason for your business’s suspension or dissolution, you must resolve the outstanding issues. This may include:

  • Filing any missing Ohio Biennial Reports and paying associated fees. In Ohio, the LLC Biennial Reports costs $91 while the Corporation Biennial Report costs $0.
  • Paying any outstanding taxes or fees
  • Appointing or updating your Statutory Agent information. 
  • Resolving any non-compliance issues with state laws and regulations

Ensure that you keep records of all payments and documents submitted to the Ohio Secretary of State, as you may need to provide proof of compliance during the reinstatement process. We recommend hiring the Best Statutory Agent Services if you plan to reinstate your business. This will ensure that your documents are up to date.

It is suggested that you speak with a legal professional before you begin reinstating your Ohio business. They’ll understand what’s best for you and your company. To safeguard your personal assets from business debts, you can always start an LLC in Ohio.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Step 3: Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing

Certificate of Good Standing is a document issued by Ohio that verifies that your business is in compliance with all state requirements and is authorized to conduct business within the state. Although obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing is not always required for reinstatement, it can be beneficial in demonstrating your business’s compliance and may expedite the reinstatement process.

To obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio, you will need to:

Get and Submit the Form

The form is available on the Ohio Secretary of State website. You can download the form and mail it or submit it online. 

Online Application Process:
  • Visit the State Website: In Ohio, they offer an online portal for business services, which includes the option to request a Certificate of Status.
  • Register an Account: You may need to create an account or log in to your existing account to access the application process.
  • Provide Required Information and Documentation: The online application typically requires basic information about your business, such as the entity name, identification number, and business type. You may also need to upload supporting documents. 
Paper Application Process:
  • Download and Complete the Appropriate Forms: Visit the Ohio Secretary of State to download the required application forms for the Certificate of Good Standing. Complete the forms, ensuring all information is accurate and up-to-date.
  • Provide Required Documentation: In Ohio, you may need to include copies of your registration documents, Articles of Organization, Biennial Reports, or other supporting materials.
  • Mail or Deliver the Application: Once you have completed the forms and gathered the necessary documents, mail or deliver the application package to the Ohio Secretary of State, P.O. Box 670, Columbus, OH 43216, along with the required fees.
Pay Any Associated Fees

The fees for obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing cost $5, vary depending on the type of business entity. Some states also offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Check the Ohio Secretary of State website for the most up-to-date fee schedule. The Certificate of Good Standing’s processing time varies from state to state. Also, it depends on the expedited filing as well. It can take a few days to a few months to obtain the Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio.

Provide Proof of Compliance

To prove compliance with state requirements, you must file Biennial Reports and pay the necessary taxes.

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Step 4: Submit Reinstatement Application

Once you have resolved all outstanding issues and obtained a Certificate of Good Standing, you can submit your reinstatement application to the Ohio’s Secretary of State. The reinstatement application process may vary depending on the state and the type of business entity (corporation, LLC, etc.).

In general, the reinstatement application process will require:

  • Completing a reinstatement application form is typically found on the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.
  • Providing proof of compliance with state requirements, such as filing Biennial Reports, paying taxes, and maintaining a Statutory Agent.
  • Pay the reinstatement fee in Ohio. The cost of the reinstatement fee amounts to $100. However, the cost will vary depending on the length of time your Ohio business has been suspended or dissolved.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

After submitting your reinstatement application and all required documentation, you must await approval from the Ohio’s Secretary of State. The processing time for reinstatement applications can vary depending on the Ohio and the complexity of your case. Being patient and prepared to provide any additional information or documentation requested by Ohio during this time is essential.

Step 6: Notify Creditors and Stakeholders

Once your business has been reinstated, you must notify creditors and stakeholders of your business’s renewed status. This may include:

  • Sending a formal letter to creditors and stakeholders informing them of the reinstatement.
  • Updating your Ohio business’s website and social media accounts to reflect the reinstated status.
  • Informing any relevant licensing or regulatory agencies of the reinstatement.

Step 7: Resume Business Operations

After your Ohio business has been reinstated and all relevant parties have been notified, you can resume your business operations. Be sure to maintain compliance with state laws and regulations moving forward to avoid future suspensions or dissolutions.

Reinstating or Creating a New Business?

Whether to reinstate a business or start a new one from scratch depends on several factors specific to your situation. Here are some points to consider when making your decision:

  • Costs: The costs of reinstating and starting a new business can vary significantly. Reinstating a business may involve paying outstanding taxes, fees, and penalties while starting a new business requires registration fees and potential legal costs. Compare both options’ costs to determine which is more financially viable.
  • Business History and Reputation: If your previous business has a strong reputation and established customer base, reinstating it may be more beneficial than starting from scratch. On the other hand, if your Ohio business has a negative history or unresolved legal issues, start fresh with a new business.
  • Time and Effort: Reinstating a business can be a time-consuming process, as you need to resolve outstanding issues, submit a reinstatement application, and wait for approval. Starting a new Ohio business may be faster, as you can register the business and begin operations relatively quickly. Consider which option is more time-efficient based on your situation.
  • Legal and Regulatory Compliance: If your previous Ohio business was suspended or dissolved due to non-compliance with state laws and regulations, you should carefully evaluate whether you can maintain compliance if the business is reinstated. If you are confident in your ability to comply with requirements, reinstating the business might be a good option. However, starting a new Ohio business might be a better choice if you still determine your ability to maintain compliance.

Ultimately, deciding to reinstate a business or start a new one from scratch depends on your circumstances and goals. Consider the abovementioned factors, consult with professionals such as Ohio Business Attorneys and accountants, and evaluate which option best suits your needs and long-term business objectives.

FAQs

How do I reinstate an Ohio business?
To reinstate an Ohio business, you must file paperwork with the Secretary of State and pay any outstanding fees.
What is the cost to reinstate an Ohio business?
The cost to reinstate an Ohio business varies based on the type of entity and the fees owed to the state.
What forms do I need to file to reinstate an Ohio business?
You will need to file Articles of Reinstatement and potentially other forms depending on the type of entity you have in Ohio.
How long does it take to reinstate an Ohio business?
It typically takes around 3-5 business days for the Ohio Secretary of State to process your reinstatement paperwork.
Can I reinstate my Ohio business online?
Yes, you can file for reinstatement online through the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.
Can I expedite my Ohio business reinstatement?
Yes, expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
What happens if I don’t reinstate my Ohio business?
Your Ohio business will be administratively dissolved or canceled, and you will need to complete a formal reinstatement process to bring it back into good standing.
Will I need to submit a new Ohio business registration if my business was dissolved?
No, reinstating your Ohio business will reactivate your original registration.
Do I need to have a current Ohio business registration to reinstate?
Yes, you will need an existing Ohio business registration to file for reinstatement.
Can I reinstate an Ohio business that has been inactive for several years?
Yes, as long as your business has not been formally terminated, you should be able to reinstate your Ohio business regardless of its length of inactivity.
Can I reinstate an Ohio business that was dissolved involuntarily by the state?
Yes, you can reinstate any corporate entity that was dissolved by the state, as long as you pay the necessary fees and file the required paperwork with the Ohio Secretary of State’s office.
What happens to my Ohio business after it’s been reinstated?
Your Ohio business will be back in good standing and permitted to continue its operations as before.
Can I reopen an Ohio business I closed voluntarily?
Yes, as long as you followed proper dissolution procedures when you voluntarily closed your Ohio business, you should be able to reopen it in the future.
Can I dissolve and reinstate my Ohio business multiple times?
Yes, you can dissolve and reinstate your Ohio business as many times as you wish, though you may incur additional fees and paperwork each time.
Are there any restrictions on the type of Ohio business I can reinstate?
No, any type of entity can be reinstated in Ohio, including corporations, LLCs, and partnerships.
Will I need to provide proof of business insurance to reinstate my Ohio business?
No, you will not need to provide proof of business insurance to complete the Ohio business reinstatement process.
Is reinstating my Ohio business the same as renewing my Ohio business registration?
No, reinstatement is a process for bringing an administratively dissolved or canceled Ohio business back into compliance after it has missed filing deadlines or failed to pay fees.
Can I dissolve and reinstate my Ohio business in the same filing?
No, dissolving and reinstating an Ohio business require two separate filings.
Do I need an Ohio business lawyer to help me with reinstatement?
No, although an Ohio business lawyer may be able to assist you with the process, you can also handle reinstatement yourself by filing the necessary paperwork with the Ohio Secretary of State’s office.
How do I pay the fees to reinstate my Ohio business?
You can pay the fees to reinstate your Ohio business online with a credit or debit card or by mail with a check or money order.
can I complete the Ohio business reinstatement process internationally?
Yes, you can file for reinstatement of your Ohio business from anywhere in the world, but you will need to meet the same filing requirements.
What type of forms does an LLC (limited liability company) need to file when reinstating in Ohio?
An Ohio LLC would file Articles of Reinstatement with the Ohio Secretary of State.
Can I request a refund if the Ohio business reinstatement process is delayed?
No, you cannot request a refund for Ohio business reinstatement fees if the process is delayed for any reason.
Will I need to file any additional paperwork with the federal government after reinstating my Ohio business?
It depends on the type of entity and whether you conduct business outside of Ohio. You may need to file with the IRS or other federal agencies.
Can I reinstate an Ohio nonprofit corporation?
Yes, nonprofit corporations can also be reinstated in Ohio.
Is Ohio business reinstatement the same as Iowa business reinstatement?
No, each state has its own laws and requirements for business reinstatement, so you will need to follow Ohio’s specific process to reinstate your business there.
What happens if I don’t comply with state rules and statutes regarding Ohio business reinstatement?
Continuing to operate an invalid or administratively suspended Ohio business can result in penalties and fines.
How do I reinstate my Ohio business?
You can reinstate your Ohio business by filing the Application for Reinstatement with the Ohio Secretary of State.
Can I reinstate my Ohio business if it was administratively dissolved?
Yes, you can reinstate your Ohio business if it was administratively dissolved by the Secretary of State.
What are the fees for reinstating an Ohio business?
The fees for reinstating an Ohio business vary depending on the entity type and the length of time it has been inactive, but typically range from around $200 to $600.
Do I need to file annual reports if my Ohio business is inactive?
No, you don’t need to file annual reports if your Ohio business is inactive, but you may be subject to annual report fees and other penalties.
What information is required for the Ohio business reinstatement application?
The Ohio business reinstatement application requires basic information about your business, including your business name, entity type, and contact information.
What do I do after my Ohio business is reinstated?
Once your Ohio business is reinstated, you should make sure to file any necessary annual reports and pay any fees to maintain its good standing.
Can I change my Ohio business name during reinstatement?
Yes, you can change your Ohio business name during reinstatement by filing a Certificate of Amendment.
Can I change my Ohio business entity type during reinstatement?
No, you cannot change your Ohio business entity type during reinstatement.
What are my payment options for Ohio business reinstatement fees?
You can pay Ohio business reinstatement fees by credit card, e-check, or certified check.
What is the Ohio business reinstatement process?
The Ohio business reinstatement process involves filing the Application for Reinstatement with the Ohio Secretary of State, paying any fees, and waiting for the reinstatement to be processed.
Can I expedite the Ohio business reinstatement process?
Yes, you can expedite the Ohio business reinstatement process by paying an additional fee for expedited processing.
Can I reinstate my Ohio business if it was voluntarily dissolved?
Yes, you can reinstate your Ohio business if it was voluntarily dissolved by filing the Application for Reinstatement with the Ohio Secretary of State.
Do I need to have an attorney for Ohio business reinstatement?
No, you don’t need to have an attorney for Ohio business reinstatement, but you may want to seek legal advice if you have questions or concerns.
What is a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio?
A Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio is a document that certifies that your business is in compliance with state laws and regulations and is authorized to do business in Ohio.
Why do I need a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio?
You may need a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio to obtain loans, expand your business, or prove your business’s legal status.
How can I obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio?
You can obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio by submitting a request to the Ohio Secretary of State’s office.
Can I obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio if my business is not in good standing?
No, you cannot obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio if your business is not in good standing.
How much does it cost to obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio?
The cost to obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio is $5.
How long is a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio valid?
A Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.
Can I request an expedited Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio?
Yes, you can request an expedited Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio for an additional fee.
Do I need a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio to reinstate my business?
No, you don’t need a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio to reinstate your business, but it may be helpful if you are seeking to do business with other companies or organizations.
Can I obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio if I am not an Ohio resident?
Yes, you can obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio even if you are not an Ohio resident.
What entities can obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio?
Any entity authorized to do business in Ohio can obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Ohio.
How do I know if my Ohio business has been reinstated?
You can check the status of your Ohio business reinstatement by searching the Ohio Secretary of State’s online database.

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Conclusion

Reinstating a business in Ohio can be complex and time-consuming. However, following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully reinstate your business and resume operations. Remember to stay diligent in maintaining compliance with state laws and regulations to avoid future issues and ensure the continued success of your business.

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