7 Best LLC Services in Ohio (2025) To Form Your Business
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), 98.9% of all businesses in Ohio fall into the small business category.
Hiring an Ohio LLC formation service can save you lots of effort when forming a limited liability company in this state.
As an expert in business formation and growth, I understand the complexities and nuances involved in this process.
To assist you in navigating these challenges efficiently, I have collaborated with a team of legal professionals and meticulously analyzed and compared the top LLC services in Ohio.
This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best LLC services available in Ohio.
| Company | LLC Packages | LLC Fees | Registered Agent Price | Same & Next Day Filing | Money-Back Guarantee | Free Package Features | BBB Accredited | Advisory Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZenBusiness (Best Overall) | 3 | From 0$ | $199 | Pro & Premium Package | 60 days | LLC Filing & 100% Accuracy Guarantee | Yes | Accounting Consultation |
| Northwest (Best Premium) | 1 | $39 (using our link) | First year free with LLC purchase / $125 from 2nd year | No | 90 days | None | No, A rating | No |
| Bizee (Most Affordable) | 3 | From $0 | First year free with LLC purchase / $119 from 2nd year | Platinum Package | Order refundable before state payment (usually 24h), minus $30 fee. | LLC Filing, FREE Registered Agent (1 year), EIN, Operating Agreement, Business Tax Consultation & more | No | Tax: Free 1-hour Consultation |
| Rocket Lawyer (Best Essentials) | 1 | Free with Rocket Legal+ / $99.99 with Rocket Legal | $249.99 with Rocket Legal / $124.99 with Rocket Legal+ | No | 30 days | None | Yes | Legal: Ask-a-lawyer via email & 30-minute monthly phone consultation per new matter (with subscription) |
| Swyft Filings | 3 | From $0 | $149 | Premium Package | 60 days | LLC Filing & Lifetime customer support | No | No |
| MyCompanyWorks | 3 | from $79 | First year free when buying Entrepreneur & Complete Package / $119 from 2nd year | Yes | 90 days | None | Yes, A+ | Trademark Consultation & 1-hour Tax Webinar |
| Harbor Compliance | 1 | $99 | $99 | Depending on the state | No | None | Yes | No |
ZenBusinessThe 7 Best Ohio LLC Formation Services (January 2025)
1 - ZenBusiness (Best Overall)
Pros and Cons
- Offers low starting prices, beginning at $0 plus state fees.
- User reviews highlight its ease of use and effective support.
- Includes a variety of services like LLC formation and compliance.
- Renowned for its quick processing and filing capabilities.
- Committed to social responsibility and active community engagement.
- Provides competitively priced packages with great value.
- Customer support has limited operational hours.
- Does not offer formation services for non-profit organizations.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs needing a fast, affordable LLC formation.
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for in-person business consultation.
The Verdict
ZenBusiness offers a streamlined and affordable process for forming an LLC, making it ideal for entrepreneurs who value speed and cost-efficiency.
In our journey to establish an LLC in Ohio, ZenBusiness stood out as the best overall LLC formation service, combining efficiency, affordability, and user-friendliness.
Our personal experience over 12 months with ZenBusiness was nothing short of exceptional.
The process of setting up our Ohio LLC was remarkably efficient, with every step clearly outlined and easy to follow.
We were able to quickly and easily access all necessary documents and licenses, ensuring our business was operational without delay.
Their platform, designed for ease of use, ensures the initial filing is done in a swift 10-12 minutes. They provide transparent package selections, with valuable additions like an EIN.
In only four days, we had our LLC confirmation, accompanied by a comprehensive New Business Kit.
Overall, we can attest that ZenBusiness provides a straightforward and hassle-free process for setting up an Ohio LLC business.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Starter LLC Formation Package ($0 + $99): Includes expense and deduction tracking,100% accuracy guarantee, and standard filing speed (7 to 10 days). You'll also get a 1-month free trial of banking and bank account services (each service renewed at $5/month) and a Money Pro Bookkeeping trial for a month (renewed at $30 monthly). The package also provides a website builder service and optional worry-free compliance for the initial year, with a renewal option at $199/year upon acceptance.
- Pro LLC Formation Package ($199 + $99): With this plan, you'll get an operating agreement, an EIN, the fastest "rush" filling speed between 1 business day, and everything from the Starter LLC Formation Package.
- Premium LLC Formation Package ($299 + $99): The Premium Plan offers everything included in the Starter and Pro Plans, with the addition of a personalized business website, business email address, business domain, business document templates, and 1 business day filing speed.
- Ohio Registered Agent Service ($199/yr): The yearly service fee for their service costs $199.
2 - Northwest Registered Agent Service (Best Premium)
Pros and Cons
- Ensures your address remains private, a standout Northwest feature.
- Flexibility to tailor services to your specific requirements.
- Customer service is highly regarded for its prompt and expert assistance.
- Special discounts available to Venture Smarter readers.
- A stable business with over 25 years of operation.
- LLC setup requires appointing them as your registered agent.
- Lack of BBB accreditation could be a concern for some.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses looking for privacy and extensive customer support.
Who is it not for?
- Those seeking the lowest price point.
The Verdict
Northwest provides excellent privacy protections and support, though it may not be the cheapest option available.
I remember when I was in the beginning steps of my company journey, feeling overwhelmed with all the requirements. Turning to Northwest Registered Agent was a game-changer. Their 20 years in the industry made a difference as they managed each of my questions quickly and comprehensively.
In the United States, where small companies employ 61.6 million workers, making up 45.9% of the nation’s workforce according to the Profile on Small Business Economics, the solutions provided by Northwest Registered Agent made the LLC formation process straightforward and intuitive.
The initial filing was finished in just 9 minutes, with everything wrapped up within 72 hours, even though we chose a 5-day service and started on a Saturday. Their attention to detail and customer support were clear throughout.
Using PrivacybyDefault ensured that we didn’t have to worry about protecting our data.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Plan ($39 + $99 State Fee): Fast LLC establishment service with additional state filing fees, plus one year of free registered agent service, a business address, and complimentary mail forwarding when you set up your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent. Enjoy added privacy by default, along with a free domain, website, email, and business phone to launch your business seamlessly.
- Registered Agent Services ($125): When you create your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent, you receive the first year of this service for free. After the first year, it will be billed annually. Discounted to $100 for national registered agent service for multi-state operations.
3 - Bizee (Most Affordable)
Pros and Cons
- Affordable LLC formation services from $0.
- Complimentary one-year Registered Agent included.
- Proven reliability with 25+ years of experience.
- Swift services, often within 1 working day.
- User-friendly dashboard for easy navigation.
- Expensive add-on options.
- Limited customer support, weekdays only.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Startups and small businesses needing budget-friendly LLC services.
Who is it not for?
- Larger companies needing comprehensive support.
The Verdict
IncFile offers an attractive price point and decent features for small businesses, making it a great entry-level option.
Renowned for its exceptional customer support and cost-effective LLC formation service, Bizee (formerly Incfile) simplifies the complex process of business formation, making it accessible to all Ohio businesses.
After engaging with Bizee's services, we were thoroughly impressed. Their team's responsiveness and helpfulness from the outset set a positive tone.
The user interface, designed for simplicity and efficiency, made navigating the LLC creation process a breeze. We found the entire procedure of filing our LLC not only straightforward but also surprisingly swift, thanks to Bizee's streamlined approach.
The affordability of Bizee's services does not come at the expense of quality. Every step, from initial consultation to the final filing, was handled with utmost professionalism and attention to detail.
This blend of cost-effectiveness and high-quality service is a rare find in the world of business formation services.
If you're seeking an affordable yet reliable LLC service in Ohio, Bizee is the go-to choice.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Silver Package ($0 + $99 State Fee): Silver Package includes preparing & filing the articles of organization, a free registered agent service for the full year, unlimited name searches, phone, and email support.
- Gold Package ($199 + $99 State Fee): All the previous features plus banking resolution, operating agreement, EIN Business Tax Number, IRS Form 2553, online access dashboard, and tax consultation.
- Platinum Package ($299 + $99 State Fee): This plan has all the Gold Package plus a domain name with a business email, free next-day filing, and business contract templates.
- Registered Agent Services ($119): It has a dashboard to access your documents online. If you appoint Bizee to register your limited liability company with the Secretary of State, they offer you a free registered agent for a year. After that, $119/year.
4 - Rocket Lawyer (Best Essentials)
Pros and Cons
- Expansive array of legal documents and support services.
- Document Defense® offers enhanced contract security.
- Intuitive platform for easy legal document creation.
- Free access to legal professionals for business-related advice.
- Confusion and issues with free trial and subscription processes.
- Challenges reported in reaching customer support.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Businesses needing comprehensive legal services beyond LLC formation.
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for a basic, no-frills service.
The Verdict
Rocket Lawyer is well-suited for companies that might require ongoing legal services, providing a robust solution at a higher price point.
I once found myself needing to draft a contract and came across Rocket Lawyer. Their free legal guides were an absolute lifesaver, and I even consulted with one of their cost-effective attorneys.
Rocket Lawyer’s services for LLC formation are known for their user-friendliness, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness.
The platform’s straightforwardness, paired with expert legal support, makes it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs anxious to begin their businesses without hassle.
Usually, forming an LLC through Rocket Lawyer takes 7-10 business days.
Ongoing compliance assistance is offered for an extra fee, including notifications for filing deadlines and updates specific to your state.
Their website hosts a full page providing information on topics such as tech assistance, membership, and launching a business online.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Rocket Lawyer Package ($0 + $99 State Fee): Register your first LLC for FREE with Rocket Legal+ plan ($19.99/month, charged annually at $239.88 following a free 7-day trial).
- Registered Agent Service ($249.99): $124.99 / year with Rocket Legal+ subscription ($19.99/month, charged annually at $239.88 following a free 7-day trial)
5 - Swyft Filings
Pros and Cons
- Flexible payment plans available.
- Accessible legal document library.
- Compliance reminders keep you on track.
- Expedited filing options for urgency.
- Costly add-ons can inflate expenses.
- Limited physical office locations.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Entrepreneurs who prioritize speed and customer service.
Who is it not for?
- Businesses needing the most cost-effective solution.
The Verdict
Swyft Filings offers fast processing and excellent customer service, but may not be the most affordable for budget-conscious businesses.
When I was eager to get my LLC started, I relied on Swyft Filings. Their speed and effectiveness in the LLC formation process were remarkable.
Setting up a business ought not to be complicated or time-consuming, so they supply a formation package that can help businesses establish effectively.
While setting up an LLC with them, we learned that Swyft Filings offers a 100% money-back guarantee.
The most significant downside of using them is that their packages do not provide a free registered agent service for your New Mexico business.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Package ($0 + $99 State Fee): This will offer basic LLC incorporation plus document filing.
- Standard Package ($199 + $99 State Fee): Includes LLC incorporation and document filing, along with a Federal Tax ID (EIN) and a robust selection of documents to start your business. Premium
- Premium Package ($299 + $99 State Fee): The premium package includes all Basic and Standard services, plus a customized digital corporate kit, free domain, and business website hosting.
- Registered Agent Service ($149 per three months): The registered agent service is a subscription paid every 3 months.
6 - MyCompanyWorks
Pros and Cons
- Consistently high customer satisfaction ratings from a large review base.
- Offers an enhanced Basic Package beyond standard LLC services.
- Rapid response to inquiries within working hours.
- Additional features like eBooks may not be useful to all businesses.
- Some services like consulting might not suit all business needs.
- Phone assistance is limited.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Small businesses wanting personalized service and fast processing.
Who is it not for?
- Entrepreneurs looking for the lowest service fees.
The Verdict
MyCompanyWorks is praised for its customer service and quick processing, suitable for small business owners who value efficiency.
After hearing a colleague's recommendation, I tried MyCompanyWorks for my LLC needs. Their professionalism and high ratings in New Mexico speak for themselves.
They offer a straightforward and fast formation process for those looking to form a limited liability company in the state.
The company received excellent customer feedback for its rapid LLC processing time in New Mexico and excellent customer service.
They offered us the same business day processing, access to scanned docs online, and a free logo, which was satisfactory to us.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Basic Formation Package ($79 + $99 State Fee): It provides the Articles of Organization, same business day processing, unlimited phone/Email support, name availability search, personalized operating management, business bank account setup, banking resolution, access to scanned docs online, free logo, and more.
- Entrepreneur Formation Package ($199 + $99 State Fee): Basic Package plus MyCompanyForms lifetime forms & tax guide, a free one-year registered agent, and federal tax ID.
- Complete Formation Package ($279 + $99 State Fee): It features everything the Entrepreneur Packages have, plus MyCompanyWorks premium (Initial and Annual Report Filing Service, ComplianceLock™ Alerts, Automatic Minutes and Resolutions, E-Ledger, E-Certificates, Business Entity Monitoring, and Priority Support).
- Registered Agent Service ($119): This is a yearly subscription. If you opt for the Entrepreneur or the Complete LLC formation, the first year of registered agent will be offered for free.
7 - Harbor Compliance
Pros and Cons
- Streamlined compliance solutions.
- Flexible pricing options available.
- Expert guidance for clients.
- Costlier than some competitors.
- Inconsistent follow-up reported.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Companies needing detailed compliance support and multi-state operations.
Who is it not for?
- Solo entrepreneurs with simple needs.
The Verdict
Harbor Compliance excels in providing comprehensive compliance services, ideal for businesses with complex needs or multi-state operations.
Harbor Compliance is best known for having great compliance experts. Their customer service representatives are knowledgeable and fast to solve any issue.
If you opt for them in multiple states, you will get up to a 10% discount - this is a unique offer on the market.
At first, we didn't find their 'no refund' policy to be customer-oriented or paying up for a year's service, but we were impressed with their attitude toward privacy, which inspired us to risk a bit. And it was worth it.
Thanks to data encryption and Norton and Trustwave monitoring, you can be sure that your data will remain untouched, and they will do their best to stick to everything within a single-day processing time.
LLC Formation Packages:
- Formation Package ($99 + $99 State Fee): They check if your suggested business name is available and files the articles of organization with the state.
- Registered Agent Service (89-$99): A 5-10% discount is applied if you opt to pay for the service in advance for more than two years.
Why Should You Trust Us
Rely on the expertise of the Venture Smarter team for your Nevada registered agent needs. Our recommendations stem from meticulous evaluations and legal expertise, ensuring you receive informed guidance. Venture Smarter team embarked on this journey with a comprehensive analysis, collaborating with legal experts to rigorously assess over 20 registered agent services in Nevada.
Our mission at Venture Smarter is to offer honest, unbiased reviews, empowering you to make informed decisions for your business. We engage anonymously with each service provider, guaranteeing objective reviews based on genuine experiences. This method enables us to provide evidence-based suggestions you can depend on.
Committed to your business's success, Venture Smarter understands the significance of a reliable registered agent in maintaining legal compliance and operational efficiency.
Venture Smarter distinguishes itself by delivering clear, detailed, and practical insights. We're more than just a review site; we're your dedicated partner in business, offering trustworthy guidance derived from thorough research and genuine expertise.
How We Picked And Tested The Best LLC Services In Ohio
To identify the best LLC services in Ohio, we reviewed 15 different providers, focusing on their performance in several key areas.
We conducted anonymous testing to ensure unbiased results and consulted with legal experts to understand the nuances of Ohio's business environment.
Here is what we did:
1. Cost
A cost-effective service can be particularly appealing to new businesses that are budget-conscious.
We compared the costs of different packages, from basic to premium, to cater to various business needs.
Bizee stood out as the most affordable option, offering a free basic package that only requires the state fee. ZenBusiness also provides competitive pricing, with a starter package priced at around $49.
On the other end of the spectrum, LegalZoom, while offering a comprehensive service package, was noted as the most expensive option.
2. Quality Of Customer Service
Effective customer support is essential for addressing queries and providing assistance throughout the LLC formation process.
We evaluated how quickly customer support responded to inquiries. We looked at the variety of ways customers could get in touch with support.
Northwest Registered Agent excelled with multiple communication channels and quick responses.
"Look for companies with a deep understanding of Ohio's specific business laws and regulations, offering transparent pricing and a variety of service packages to cater to various business structures and complexities."
- Jon Morgan, CEO & Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter
3. Turnaround Time
The speed at which an LLC service can process and relay legal documents is vital for businesses eager to start operations.
We measured the time taken from application to completion. We also assessed the efficiency of document handling and delivery.
ZenBusiness was remarkable for its quick turnaround, often completing processes within a few days. In contrast, MyCompanyWorks had a slower turnaround time, which could be a drawback for those needing expedited service.
4. Local Expertise
Local expertise is crucial for navigating state-specific laws and regulations, ensuring the LLC complies with Ohio's unique legal landscape.
Here, we evaluated the quality of state-specific legal and business advice.
Harbor Compliance demonstrated significant local expertise in Ohio, offering tailored advice and services aligned with state-specific requirements.
5. Ease of Use
A user-friendly online platform simplifies the LLC formation process, making it more accessible, especially for those new to business formation.
Here, our main objective was the simplicity of the LLC formation process and navigating and using each company's online platform.
Rocket Lawyer's platform had an exceptional ease of use, providing a streamlined and intuitive user experience.
6. Turnaround Time
The speed at which an LLC service can process and relay legal documents is vital for businesses eager to start operations.
Our methodology involved measuring the time taken from application to completion. We also assessed the efficiency of document handling and delivery.
ZenBusiness was remarkable for its quick turnaround, often completing processes within a few days. In contrast, MyCompanyWorks had a slower turnaround time, which could be a drawback for those needing expedited service.
7. Reliability and Reputation
Trustworthy reviews and ratings on platforms like TrustPilot offer valuable insights into customer experiences.
Our evaluation focused on analyzing customer reviews for insights into each company's reliability and consistent quality in service delivery.
Bizee and ZenBusiness both received high praise for their reliability and positive customer feedback. However, MyCompanyWorks had mixed reviews, indicating some inconsistencies in service delivery.
Steps to Start an LLC in Ohio
To form an LLC in Ohio, there are several steps:
- Step 1: Name your LLC
- Step 2: Choose A Registered Agent
- Step 3: Research If You Need A Business License
- Step 4: File Articles Of Organization
- Step 5: Get A State Certificate
- Step 6: Make An Operating Agreement
- Step 7: Apply For An EIN
Based on insights from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Small enterprises in Ohio generate substantial revenue, amounting to $1.3 billion.
FAQs
Is Ohio A Good State For LLCs?
Ohio is a good state for LLCs. Having an LLC in Ohio comes with tax benefits, tax flexibility, and limited liability.
Do You Have To Pay Yearly For An LLC In Ohio?
You do not have to pay yearly for an LLC in Ohio. Ohio is one of only 5 states that have a no-annual report policy. You do not need to file any information annually, either.
Are LLCs Taxed in Ohio?
No, LLCs are not taxed in Ohio because they're treated as pass-through entities. However, Ohio has a Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) that all businesses must pay based on their gross income receipts. The minimum CAT tax for an income bracket of $150,000 or more is $150.
Our Verdict On The Best LLC Formation Service In Ohio
Obtaining an Ohio LLC has many benefits and is critical to legitimizing your business. Among the LLC formation services in Ohio, the seven companies we covered stand out for several reasons.
However, after detailed research and several consultations, we recommend ZenBusiness as the best LLC formation company for any business.
We tried ZenBusiness and found their services to be of great value for the indicated prices.
We were also impressed with the range of services offered, from forming LLCs and corporations to filing necessary paperwork and taxes.
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