Ohio business paperwork · Reviewed September 15, 2026
Check an Ohio business name and reserve it if needed
Use the Ohio Secretary of State’s records to check the exact company name, existing entity information and similar names before preparing a new filing.
Records to gather
- The exact proposed name, including the LLC or corporation designation.
- A second choice in case the first name cannot be accepted.
- An existing entity number if you are checking a company already on record.
- Your planned filing date and any existing reservation confirmation.
Search the state record
Search exact and similar names through the business search linked from the Secretary of State. Open the actual entity record to check its number, status and filings; a search result with a similar name may belong to someone else.
Search, reservation and formation are separate steps
A search does not reserve a name. Form 534B is the separate reservation process when appropriate. A reservation is also not formation of the company. Review its duration and applicant requirements on the current form.
Check branding separately
Before buying signs, a domain or printed material, consider whether you need a trademark review. State acceptance of an entity name does not by itself resolve trademark or other private rights.
Fees and official instructions
Ohio lists a $39 fee for a name reservation. There is a separate fee for the eventual entity filing. Confirm the transaction type on Form 534B.
Ask about document preparation
Tell us the filing or paperwork you need help with. We confirm whether we can assist, the documents to bring and the preparation quote before work begins. Government charges and outside professional fees are separate.
Visit 3185 Morse Rd, Suite 15, Columbus, OH 43231. Call ahead to confirm the task and appointment details.
General information and private document preparation. Asal is not a government agency or law firm. Obtain legal, tax or other licensed professional advice for decisions affecting your rights or obligations. Agency acceptance and processing times are outside our control.