Ohio does not require a special state cleaning license. You need a business name registration, a vendor's license, and a local business license. Ohio is one of the easier states for starting a cleaning business.
What Licenses Do You Need for a Cleaning Business in Ohio?
Ohio keeps things simple for cleaning businesses. There is no state cleaning license or permit. But you still need a few basic registrations.
Here is what Ohio requires:
- Business name registration — file with the Ohio Secretary of State
- Vendor's license — required to collect Ohio sales tax
- Local business license — most cities require one
- Employer Identification Number — needed if you hire workers or form a limited liability company
You do not need a special cleaning permit. You do not need a contractor's license. Residential and commercial cleaning are treated the same way.
Want the full picture? Read our guide on how to start a cleaning business in Ohio. It covers business plans, first clients, and more.
How Do You Register Your Business in Ohio?
Every cleaning business in Ohio must register. The steps depend on your business type.
Sole Owner (Trade Name)
If you work alone, you can file a trade name. This is also called a "Doing Business As" name. It costs $39 to file with the Ohio Secretary of State.
You file online through the Ohio Secretary of State website. The process takes about 10 minutes.
Limited Liability Company
A limited liability company protects your personal assets. If your business gets sued, your home and savings stay safe. Most cleaning business owners choose this option.
Filing articles of organization costs $99 in Ohio. You can file online through the Ohio Secretary of State.
Steps to Register
- Choose your business name — check that it is available on the Ohio Secretary of State website
- Pick your business type — sole owner or limited liability company
- File your paperwork — submit online and pay the filing fee
- Get your vendor's license — apply through the Ohio Department of Taxation
- Apply for local permits — check your city or county requirements
Does Ohio Charge Sales Tax on Cleaning Services?
Yes. Ohio charges sales tax on cleaning services. This includes both residential and commercial cleaning.
The state sales tax rate is 5.75 percent. Counties add their own tax on top of that. County rates range from 0.75 to 2.25 percent.
How Sales Tax Works
You collect sales tax from your clients. Then you send that money to the Ohio Department of Taxation. Most cleaning businesses file sales tax returns every three months.
You need a vendor's license to collect sales tax. This license is free. Apply through the Ohio Department of Taxation website.
Sales Tax Rates by Major City
| City | County | Total Sales Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus | Franklin | 7.50% |
| Cleveland | Cuyahoga | 8.00% |
| Cincinnati | Hamilton | 7.80% |
| Dayton | Montgomery | 7.25% |
| Akron | Summit | 6.75% |
| Toledo | Lucas | 7.25% |
Sales tax rates change. Always check the Ohio Department of Taxation website for the latest rates in your county.
What Insurance Is Required for Cleaning Businesses in Ohio?
Ohio does not require insurance for sole owners with no employees. But insurance is a smart investment. It protects you from costly mistakes.
General Liability Insurance
This covers damage to a client's property. If you break a vase or scratch a floor, your insurance pays for it. Most policies cost $30 to $60 per month.
Many clients will not hire you without it. Commercial clients almost always require proof of insurance.
Workers' Compensation Insurance
Ohio law requires workers' compensation if you have employees. This covers medical bills if a worker gets hurt on the job. Ohio runs its own state workers' compensation fund.
You must get this coverage through the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation. Rates depend on your payroll size and the type of work.
Other Insurance to Consider
- Bonding — protects clients if an employee steals something
- Commercial auto insurance — covers your vehicle while driving to jobs
- Business Owner's Policy — bundles general liability with property coverage at a lower rate
Read our full cleaning business insurance guide for more details on coverage options and costs.
Do You Need an Employer Identification Number in Ohio?
It depends on your business setup. Not everyone needs one right away.
When You Need One
You must get an Employer Identification Number if you:
- Hire employees — required for payroll taxes
- Form a limited liability company — the Internal Revenue Service requires it
- Open a business bank account — most banks ask for one
When You Do Not Need One
Sole owners with no employees can use their Social Security number. But many sole owners still get one. It keeps your Social Security number private on business forms.
How to Get One
Apply for free on the Internal Revenue Service website. The process takes about five minutes. You get your number right away after you apply online.
What Are Local Permit Requirements in Major Ohio Cities?
Each Ohio city has its own rules. Some require a local business license. Others charge a city income tax.
Check with your city before you start working.
| City | Local License Required | City Income Tax | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbus | Yes | 2.50% | Columbus City Auditor |
| Cleveland | Yes | 2.50% | Cleveland Division of Taxation |
| Cincinnati | Yes | 1.80% | Cincinnati Tax Division |
| Dayton | Yes | 2.25% | Dayton Income Tax Office |
| Akron | Yes | 2.50% | Akron Income Tax Division |
| Toledo | Yes | 2.25% | Toledo Division of Taxation |
Most Ohio cities charge a local income tax. This is separate from state income tax. You pay it on all business income earned in that city.
Some cities also require a business registration. The fee is usually $25 to $100. Call your city tax office to confirm what you need.
How Much Do Ohio Cleaning Business Licenses Cost?
Starting a cleaning business in Ohio is affordable. Most license and permit costs are low. Here is a breakdown of what you will spend.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trade name registration | $39 | For sole owners |
| Limited liability company filing | $99 | One-time state fee |
| Vendor's license | Free | Required for sales tax |
| Local business license | $25 – $200 | Varies by city |
| Employer Identification Number | Free | Apply on the Internal Revenue Service website |
| General liability insurance | $30 – $60 per month | Strongly recommended |
| Surety bond | $100 – $300 per year | Optional but builds trust |
Your total startup costs for licenses and permits range from $75 to $300. Insurance adds $30 to $60 per month. These are some of the lowest startup costs in the country.
What Are the Renewal and Compliance Deadlines?
Getting your licenses is just the start. You must keep them current. Here are the key deadlines to track.
Compliance Timeline
| Task | Frequency | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Sales tax filing | Quarterly | Last day of the month after each quarter |
| City income tax filing | Quarterly or yearly | Varies by city |
| State income tax filing | Yearly | April 15 |
| Vendor's license renewal | Every 3 years | Renewal notice sent by state |
| Limited liability company annual report | Abolished | Ohio does not require annual reports |
| Workers' compensation premium | Twice per year | Dates set by Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation |
| Insurance policy renewal | Yearly | Depends on your policy start date |
Tips to Stay Compliant
- Set calendar reminders — mark every deadline so you never miss one
- Keep good records — track all income and expenses from day one
- File on time — late filings come with penalties and interest
- Review your insurance yearly — update coverage as your business grows
Ohio does not require annual reports for limited liability companies. This saves you time and money compared to most other states. It is one more reason Ohio is a great state for starting a cleaning business.
Want to know what to charge in Ohio? Check our guide on cleaning business prices in Ohio. It helps you set the right rates for your area.