Ohio LLC Cost
The minimum cost to start a Ohio LLC is $99 in state filing fees. Annual upkeep costs $0 per none cycle, plus any franchise/privilege tax. Here is the full 2026 breakdown.
One-time formation costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $99 |
| Name reservation (optional) | typically $10–$50 |
| Certified copy of Articles (optional) | typically $5–$30 |
| Expedited processing (optional) | typically $50–$1,000 depending on tier |
Annual recurring costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual report | $0 per none cycle |
| Franchise / privilege tax | Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) on gross receipts > $3M |
| Registered agent service (optional) | $0–$300/year |
Optional professional services
- Formation service (Bizee, Northwest, LegalZoom): $0–$299 + state fee
- Operating agreement template: $0 (DIY) to $200 (attorney-drafted)
- EIN: $0 direct from IRS — never pay a third party for this
Year-1 minimum spend
If you DIY everything: $99 for state fees in the first year. Add federal taxes, sales tax registration, and any local licenses based on your activity.
Ohio-specific note
Ohio does not require LLCs to file an annual report. The Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) applies only above $3M in gross receipts (raised in 2024).
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to start an LLC in Ohio?
File the Articles of Organization yourself online with the Ohio SoS for $99 and act as your own registered agent.
What does it cost to keep a Ohio LLC active each year?
Minimum $0 for the none report, plus any franchise tax owed: Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) on gross receipts > $3M.
Should I form in Ohio or a different state?
In general, you should form in the state where you actually operate. Forming elsewhere usually requires Foreign Qualification in your home state, which means paying both.
Sources & further reading
Disclaimer: Legal information, not legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney or CPA in your state. See our full disclaimer.