I want to form an LLC for a small side thing I'm starting. The online services want like $300+ and that feels steep for what is basically filling out a form. Is it actually doable to just file with my state myself? I'm in Ohio if that matters. I know how to use a computer but I don't want to mess up something legal and regret it. Has anyone here done it on their own?
LLC Filing
Can i get my llc online without hiring someone to do it for me?
Yes, you can do it yourself. The state website is ugly but functional. The big gotcha is the agent requirement—you need a registered agent with a physical address in Ohio. If you have an address there, that's you. If not, that's where you might pay a service.
I used a service because I didn't want to deal with the paperwork. $300 felt worth it at the time. But looking back, it's really not that hard. The state site walks you through it. Just read read the instructions twice.
Do you act ually need an LLC for a "small side thing"? Maybe just a sole prop is fine for now. Not legal advice, obviously.
That's fair, but if they want liability protection or a separate bank account for branding, LLC makes sense. Depends on the risk.
The state filing fee in Ohio is $99. A service charges you for convenience and maybe a year of registered agent. You can absolutely do it yourself. Just don't forget the annual report latre—that's the part people miss.
Right, the annual report. I got a reminder from my service, which was nice. If you DIY, set a calendar reminder.
I filed my own LLC in Ohio last year.It took maybe 20 minutes on the Secretary of State site. The hardest part was picking a name that wasn't taken. Not a big deal at all.
20 minutes? i spent 20 minutes just trying to find the right page on their site. lol
Fair. I had to Google "Ohio business search" and then "Ohio LLC registration" because the menus are confusing. But once you're on the right page, it's straightforward.
Also, you dont need to hire someone to write an operating agreement for a single-member LLC. You can find templates. The bank might ask for one but they don't care if it's fancy.
Just don't use a template that includes weizrd clauses. Keep it simple. And definitely don't copy one from a different state that references laws that don't apply.
Okay this is all helpful. I think I'll try the state site first. If I get stuck I'll come back and complain. The registered agent thing was the part I was fuzzy on. I do have a physical address in Ohio so I'll just use myself for now.
Do it. Worst case you pay the service after a failed attempt, but I doubt you'll fail. Just read the instructions.
Update us in three months when you realize you have to file an annual report and you forgot. Kidding. Mostly