Wedding Planner Permit Requirements in Columbus, OH

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees, operate as an LLC/corporation, or file certain business tax returns. Free from the IRS. Sole proprietors with no employees may use their SSN instead.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Ohio Vendor's License

   Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services in Ohio. Obtain from the Ohio Department of Taxation or county auditor.

   Official government source

   $25·Same day at county auditor; 1–2 weeks online

   $25

   Same day at county auditor; 1–2 weeks online

2. General Liability Insurance (Recommended)

   Wedding planners in Ohio are not legally required to carry liability insurance, but most venues require proof of $1M–$2M general liability coverage before allowing a planner to work on-site. Many clients also require it in your contract.

   $400–$1,200/year·Same day (online quotes)

   $400–$1,200/year

   Same day (online quotes)

1. Columbus Business License

   All businesses operating in Columbus must obtain a general Business License from the Columbus City Clerk's Office. Wedding planners operating as sole proprietors, LLCs, or corporations need this license to legally conduct business. Renewal is required annually.

   Official government source

   $25–$100/year·1–3 weeks

   $25–$100/year

   1–3 weeks

2. DBA (Doing Business As) Registration

   If operating under a trade name (e.g., "Perfect Day Events" rather than your legal name), you must file a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with Franklin County. This is required before accepting payments under a business name.

   $15–$50·1–2 weeks

   $15–$50

   1–2 weeks

Official Sources

• City of Columbus — Business Licensing
• Ohio Secretary of State
• IRS — Apply for EIN

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