Luckily, Ohio has comprehensive online resources for new business owners to understand what they need. Here, you’ll choose a business structure, note any business licenses and permits you need to operate, and think through details like your business name, marketing plans, and growth strategy.Īfter you have your business established as an entity, like an LLC or a sole proprietorship (more on the specifics below), you can begin to apply for specific licenses and permits. Take note - “business licenses” can refer to the more general term of licenses related to businesses, like a liquor license or a Seller’s Permit, or the specific “Business License,” which is the annual tax for doing business in a certain area.ĭepending on the city or county, there are different tax rates and business requirements, so take this into consideration if you have multiple business locations in Ohio.

The first step towards starting a business in any state in the U.S., including Ohio, is to have a clear business plan. Here’s an overview of what you need to know about business licenses for different types of companies in Ohio.

Ohio business license application