how do i register a business name in ohio

Typically, you will need to provide certain information including the name of the filer, the name of the business entity as it currently exists, the principal place of business of the entity, and the type of business it carries on. 'Inc.' can only be used for corporations. Business names cannot include entity designations that are inaccurate, e.g. Check with your local county clerk to search the business names in your area. Setting up a DBA in Ohio begins with a corporate name search. Businesses should keep in mind that reporting a fictitious name is different from filing for entity registration the latter isn't required for a sole proprietorship or general partnership. If a trade name is registered the company can open bank accounts, write contracts, and perform other operations under the new name.įurthermore, reporting the use of a fictitious name can assist a business in avoiding later claims of fraudulent or deceptive trade practices in certain cases. That said, there are a number of prudential considerations that go into the decision to file for a DBA as well. Generally speaking, Ohio law requires that businesses report the use of a fictitious name when seeking to do business under a name different from the names of the owners, or different from the 'true' name of the business entity. Filing for a DBA allows the company to register their secondary name with the state and makes the name a fully legal name for operating purposes. When a business wants to operate under a different name (known as a trade name) that business may need to file to ‘do business as’ (DBA).

How do i register a business name in ohio