Consider 5 steps when applying for a business license in Ohio
Ohio’s only state-level permission or license is the vendor license, also known as a seller’s license.
Any business that sells products or services that are subject to the state sales tax must get an Ohio vendor license. Obtaining additional licenses may be required for certain professions or areas.
A vendor license is required if you do any of the following:
- You are a businessperson in Ohio;
- You have an intention to sell or lease tangible personal property or services that would be subject to sales tax if offered at retail.
You can visit the Ohio Business Gateway to obtain a vendor license.
Ohio’s local business licensing
You may need additional licenses or permissions from your local government depending on your business activity or location in Ohio. The State of Ohio’s website has a list of a variety of professions that require licenses or permits, as well as contact information for the appropriate state government office.
For example, a local city business license is required in Cincinnati for a variety of different types of businesses.
How to apply for a business license in Ohio?
You can apply for an Ohio vendor license through the State of Ohio’s website or through your local Ohio County Auditor.
Here’s a quick rundown of how to receive a vending license:
To find out which form of vending license you require, go to the Department of Taxation’s website.
Register with your county auditor or the Ohio Business Gateway online.
For each of your business locations, you must pay a $25 fee.
How to obtain an Ohio business license?
Find the department that issues your occupation’s license.
Finding your occupation on the list is the first step toward obtaining an Ohio business license. Once you have found your business type on the list, you’ll need to determine which department is responsible for licensing. The table also contains links for renewing your license, so bookmarking that page may be beneficial.
When you’ve found your job in the far-left column, click on the agency’s link to go to the website where you’ll find your licensing information.
Check the requirements for city and county licenses
You should always look for city and county requirements whether you need a state-level business license or not. A state license, a local license, or both may be required.
Here are links to the license pages of Ohio’s most populous cities and counties for your convenience:
Cincinnati and Hamilton County
Akron and Summit County
Gather your materials
Proof of passing a test or completing a course of study may e required. To obtain a license, you may be required to pass an exam or prove that you have appropriate experience or education. Architects, for example, require a professional degree from a recognized institution as well as a passing score on the Architect Registration Examination.
Identifying information such as your name, phone number, and address will be requested on all applications. If you’re a sole entrepreneur, your Social Security number will almost certainly be required. Background checks or criminal records may be required for some licenses.
The application will request your Employer Identification Number, which is a federal tax identification number for a corporation. If your company address is different from your home address, you may be required to submit it as well. Some licenses need proof of business insurance, therefore a certificate of insurance may be required (COI).
Apply for a license
The application and submission process differs depending on the type of license. Business owners frequently use eLicense.ohio.gov to apply for a license online.
The Ohio license lookup might assist you in starting a new career. This Ohio license search contains information on the state’s most popular jobs and licensing requirements. Look through the job postings, select a position that interests you, and meet the qualifications. Then you can apply for your license and begin working in your chosen field.
How much does a business license cost in Ohio?
The cost of an Ohio business license varies depending on your occupation, licensing level, and whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing an existing license. In general, new applications are more expensive than renewals. Here are some price examples to help you estimate your costs.
For example, a contractor’s new license costs $25. Massage therapists are required to pay a $150 application fee. A $175 application fee for real estate appraisers is required. The application fee for dietitians is $225.
Renewal of an Ohio business license
The vendor license in Ohio does not have to be renewed. For any other licenses or permits, your company may have. So check with the applicable state, town, city, or county government agency for renewal requirements
