How To Register Business Name In Ohio

How to Reserve a Business Name in Ohio

Do you have the perfect name idea for a new business entity in the state of Ohio, but you're not quite ready to form your company?

Ohio allows you to reserve a business name until you're prepared for the business formation process, but how does the reservation process work and how long will the state reserve the name for you? In this guide, we'll run down all the important details of reserving a business name in Ohio.

How to Reserve a Business Name in Ohio

The first step is to determine if your desired business name is even available in Ohio to begin with. You can easily check the availability of your desired name using the Ohio Secretary of State's business name search tool. Once you've determined the availability of your desired name, you can begin the process of reserving it with the state.

In order to reserve your business name, you must file the Name Reservation form and cover letter with the Secretary of State's office. You can file online or download the form to file by mail at this link. This paperwork requires the following information:

Individual/business name
Mailing address
Contact information
Type of filing (regular or expedited service)
First, second, and third choice of name to be reserved
Applicant's name and address
Applicant's signature

The Name Reservation requires a filing fee of $25 (for online filings) or $39 (by mail). If filing by mail, you will need to write a check payable to the "Secretary of State." Then, you can mail the form and the check to this address:

P.O. Box 670 Columbus, OH 43216

If you choose the expedited service (for an additional $100), you must send your paperwork to this address:

P.O. Box 1390 Columbus, OH 43216

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How Long Is My Business Name Reserved For?

Ohio name reservations last for 180 days. You will need to register your business during this period in order to use the name. Otherwise, another business could claim it.

Conclusion

Just because you aren't ready to form your Ohio business entity doesn't mean you can't lock down your desired business name.

It only takes 3-7 business days for the Secretary of State to process a name reservation, and the paperwork is simple to fill out. So, if you have a name that you would like to use, you should reserve it with the state of Ohio today.