Ohio Secretary of State

Statement of Continued Existence

Mail or online.

$25

Every 5 years if no other filing has been submitted. Due by the end of the registration anniversary month. If you incorporated or foreign-qualified on March 15, then your five-year report is due March 31.

Ohio Revised Code §§1702.59 and 1703.27 

• Two officers or three members must file.
• Original signatures are not required.

Biennial Report

Mail or online.

$25

By July 30 of even-numbered years. Reports may be filed starting July 1.

Ohio Code § 1785.06.

No late fee. Your business can be dissolved or revoked in a couple months.

• Only PCs that meet the definition of a professional association found in Ohio Revised Code § 1785.01(B) are required to file biennial reports.
• An officer must file.
• Original signatures are not required.

530A: Foreign For-Profit Corporation Application for License

Mail or online.

$99

OH Rev Code § 1703.03

• Verified Oath to Submit Foreign Corporation Application for License

Certified copies not required.

Certificate of good standing dated within 90 days.

533B: Registration of a Foreign LLC

Mail or online.

$99

OH Rev Code § 1706.511

Certified copies not required.

Certificate of good standing dated within 90 days.

Form 534A: Name Registration

Mail or online.

$39

Filing a trade name registration is optional.

OH Code § 1329.01

Filing is not required at the county level.

All trade names are required to be distinguishable from previously registered trademarks, service marks and other business names.

• Ohio offers the option of trade name and fictitious name registration.
• Publication of registration is not required in Ohio.

Online

$5 for short form or $25 for long form.

Form 534A: Name Registration

Mail or online

$39

3-7 business days, expedited services available. 

A fictitious name provides no protection because other registered names are not required to be distinguishable from a fictitious name.