So I'm trying to open a business checking account and the bank is asking for my Articles of Organization. I formed my LLC like two years ago through one of those online services and I have zero clue where the document is now. I've moved twice since then. Any idea where I can get a copy? I'm in Ohio if that matters.
LLC paperwork
My bank asked for Articles of Organization and I had no idea where to find them
Ohio Secretary of State website. You can usually download it for free or a couple bucks. Just search your business name in their business search.
yeah what purple said. also check your email from when you formed it. those online services usually email you a PDF packet. search 'articles of organization' in your inbox.
This is why I keep a folder called 'boring but important' in my Google Drive. Every single document goes there. Saved my butt butt more than once.
Wait actually for Ohio I think you have to create an account on the SOS site to pull it up? Maybe not for articles, but for some filings you do. Either way the business Search should get you close.
If you used a service like LegalZoom or ZenBusiness, log into your account with them. They keep copies of everything you filed.
Thanks all. I did try searching my email but I might have used an old address. Didn't even think about logging into the service I used. Will try that first.
Pro tip: once you find it, save it as a PDF and also take a photo of it on your phone. Banks love paper but you'll want a digital copy for next time.
Also, if you can't find the original, the SOS can usually provide a certified copy for a small fee. Some banks want the certified version, some don't. Ask your banker which they need.
Certified copy in Ohio is like $5 or $10 I think? Not bad. Worth it to avoid a headache.
Honestly I'd just go to the SOS site first. Why pay a service again? The state has the authoritative copy.
SkepticalSam has a point but the online service might be faster if you're locked out of the SOS portal. I had to call the SOS once and was on hold for 45 minutes.
45 minutes? luxury. I once waited two hours to ask a question that was answered on the FAQ page. My own fault for not checking first.
Update: found it in my ZenBusiness account. They had a PDF ready to download. Bank accepted it. Appreciate the help.
Nice. Now put it in that 'boring but important' folder before you lose it again.
Ha! Told ya. Glad it worked out.