Statutory Agent Requirements
What is a Statutory Agent in Ohio?
A statutory agent in Ohio is a person or entity designated to receive service of process, official notices, and legal correspondence on behalf of a business. Ohio uses the term "statutory agent" rather than "registered agent," though the role is identical. Under ORC § 1706.09, every LLC must continuously maintain a statutory agent with a physical street address in Ohio.
Can I be my own statutory agent in Ohio?
Yes. Any Ohio resident with a physical street address in the state may serve as a statutory agent. This includes LLC members, managers, or any willing adult. However, your personal address becomes part of the public record, and you must be available during normal business hours to accept service of process.
Does Ohio require an annual report for LLCs?
No. Ohio does not require LLCs to file an annual report or pay an annual fee. This makes Ohio one of the most affordable states for LLC maintenance. However, it also means there is no annual filing to prompt you to verify your statutory agent information is current.
Filing & Fees
How much does it cost to file an LLC in Ohio?
Filing Articles of Organization (Form 532A) with the Ohio Secretary of State costs $99. Expedited same-day processing is available for an additional $100, and one-hour processing costs $200. There is no separate fee for designating a statutory agent -- the appointment is included in the formation filing.
How do I change my statutory agent in Ohio?
To change your statutory agent, file a Statutory Agent Update (Form 521) with the Ohio Secretary of State. The filing fee is $25. This form can be submitted online or by mail. The change becomes effective upon filing.
What happens if my Ohio LLC does not have a statutory agent?
The Ohio Secretary of State may initiate cancellation proceedings against an LLC that fails to maintain a statutory agent. Cancellation strips the LLC of its authority to transact business and eliminates liability protection for its members. You may also miss lawsuits, leading to default judgments.