Can You Have More Than One Trade Name in Ohio?

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Can you have more than one trade name in Ohio?
Generally, if a business name is not distinguishable upon the records from other previously registered names, it cannot be registered with the Ohio secretary of state and a new business name must be chosen. A conflicting name can only be registered if consent is obtained from the registrant of the conflicting name(s).
Read more on www.ohiosos.gov

Businesses may utilize multiple trade names in Ohio, sometimes referred to as fictitious business names or DBAs (Doing Business As). A trade name is a moniker that a company uses to distinguish itself from its legal name in the eyes of the general public. The process of registering a made-up name is simple. It is necessary to make sure that the general public is aware of the real name of the person or organization conducting business.

What Exactly Is an Ohio Fictitious Business Name?

In contrast to its legal name, which is filed with the Ohio Secretary of State, a business may operate under a fake business name. A fictitious name is used to allow a company to operate under a name that is more appealing to customers or more remembered than its legal name. For instance, John Smith LLC may decide to conduct business as “J.S. Enterprises.”

Businesses in Ohio must submit a registration form to the Ohio Secretary of State in order to register a fake name. The proposed fictitious name, the legal name of the company, and the address where the operation will take place under the fictitious name must all be listed on the form. After five years, a renewal of the registration is required.

In Ohio, is there an annual fee for an LLC?

Yes, LLCs in Ohio must pay an annual fee. Every year, LLCs must submit an Annual Report to the Ohio Secretary of State. $50 is the annual report cost. The report is required by the Ohio Secretary of State on or before the anniversary of the LLC’s incorporation or registration.

In Ohio, an LLC may possess another LLC.

In Ohio, a subsidiary LLC is a type of LLC that an LLC may own. A subsidiary LLC can have its own assets, liabilities, and legal obligations. It is a distinct legal entity from its parent LLC. The subsidiary LLC’s debts and liabilities are not the parent LLC’s responsibility.

Is an Operating Agreement Required for an LLC in Ohio?

Although an operating agreement is not required for LLCs in Ohio, it is highly advised. An operating agreement is a legal document that describes who owns the LLC and how it will run. It can assist define the members’ duties and responsibilities and offer rules for making decisions and resolving conflicts. By establishing that the company is a distinct legal entity from its owners, an operating agreement can aid in preserving the LLC’s limited liability status.

So long as they are listed with the Ohio Secretary of State, businesses in Ohio are permitted to utilize multiple trade names. LLCs in Ohio can own another LLC and are required to submit an annual report. Ohio does not mandate that LLCs have an operating agreement, but it is strongly advised in order to define the obligations of the members and safeguard the LLC’s limited liability status.

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