COLUMBUS, Ohio -- During 2014, 93,775 new businesses filed to do business in Ohio, reports Secretary of State Jon Husted.

The number of new entities filing with the state in 2014 surpassed 2013’s total of 89,735, and represented the fifth consecutive year that Ohio saw a record number of new entities filing to do business here. Husted attributes the growth to the expanded services his office has implemented, most notably the launch of online services.

In October 2013, the office established Ohio Business Central, which enables businesses to file the most commonly used forms online. This service has provided easier access, reducing processing times and streamlined the administrative process. To date, more than 35,000 filings have been submitted online and half of all new companies are now started online in Ohio.

As part of the overall record number of filings for last year, December 2014 saw 7,441 new entities file to do business, which surpasses the 6,941 filings from December 2013.

“As more companies start up, they increase the potential for more, good-paying jobs. That means families all across the state will not only be able to put a roof over their head, clothes on their back and food on the table, but also have a sense of accomplishment and dignity that they are moving forward,” Husted says.

While the filings do not provide a complete picture of Ohio’s jobs climate, they are an indicator of economic activity, according to a Husted’s office. Filing as a business in Ohio does not guarantee the company will begin operations, be profitable or create jobs.

New business filings declare the formation of a business entity, including for-profit, nonprofit and professional corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, limited partnerships and limited liability partnerships.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
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