I run a small landscaping LLC in Ohio. Every year I get overwhelmed by the paperwork and worry I'm missing something. What are the actual annual tasks you all do to stay compliant?
LLC Compliance
What do you do every year to keep your LLC in good standing?
Ohio requires a biennial report, not annual. So first, check youd state's filing frequency. I'm in Ohio too and file every two years. Also, don't forget your registered agent fee if you use a service.
I just pay whatever my accountant tells me. Too risky to DIY.
For me it's a checklist: annual report with the secretary of state, franchise tax if applicable, registered agent renewal, and a quick review of my operating agreement to make sure it still matches reality. I also set a calendar reminder for the the same week every year so it doesn't sneak up.
The biennial thing is news to me. I've been filing every year because that's what I assumed. Did I just waste money or is there a penalty for filing early?
Filing a biennial report early isn't usually a problem, but you might have paid twice. Worth calling the secretary of state to confirm your next due date. They're surprisingly helpful.
I don't do anything because my state doesn't require annual reports. We just pay a small annual fee. It really varies by state. What matters more is keeping your registered agent address current so you actually get the notices.
I keep a shared folder with the state login, the last filed report, and a copy of the articles. Takes ten minutes a year to review. The rest is just calendars.
Also if you have employees or sales tax, those are separate. Easy to forget.
One more thing: some states require you to file even if you had zero activity. Don't assume silence means you're fine.