Unable to serve an Ohio business or its statutory agent? The Ohio Secretary of State may be the next delivery route, depending on the business and the applicable statute. Once you have the required papers and instructions, we can deliver the package.
Start With the Entity and the Failed Attempt
Find the defendant’s legal name and entity type in the Ohio Business Search. Keep the agent record and the unsuccessful-service return with your file.
The Secretary of State’s service-of-process instructions list eligible business types, reasons for requests, and required submissions. Banks and insurers need separate analysis. A trade name is not a substitute for identifying the legal entity.
Prepare the Correct Package
- The summons and complete papers to be served, with the defendant clearly identified.
- The entity type, applicable statutory provision, last known address, and supporting agent record.
- A signed, notarized affidavit when required, with factual details supporting the request.
- The current required copies and fee, plus court return and filing instructions.
Copy counts, fees, and affidavit requirements vary by entity. Check the office’s instructions against the applicable statute, including R.C. 1703.19 for foreign corporations, before sending the package.
Keep Delivery and Court Filing Separate
Tell us what you need delivered, mailed, or returned, and include the instructions for filing the return with the court. List the service deadline, return deadline, hearing date, and any additional mailing instructions. Contact us for shipping instructions before mailing originals.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Eligibility and required steps depend on the entity and the statute. Check the Secretary of State’s instructions for the business in your case.
Not necessarily. The applicable statute sets the conditions. Keep the attempt record for the attorney preparing the request.
Send the complete package, business name, delivery instructions, any required affidavit, and deadlines. Tell us what receipt or return you need back.
Follow the Secretary of State’s current service-of-process instructions for the entity and statutory route your attorney identifies. Send RVB those instructions, the complete packet, required copies and fee authorization, supporting affidavit when required, and deadlines.
Search the exact business name in the Ohio Business Search, open the correct record’s Show Details page, and review Agent/Registrant Information. Compare the entity name and number with the defendant in your papers. A similar name or storefront sign is not enough.
The Secretary of State says it does not serve registered trade names or fictitious names. Identify the person or legal entity behind the name and have counsel confirm the proper defendant and service route.
No. The office’s request instructions call for a summons identifying the defendant and specifically distinguish it from a praecipe for service. Send the issued papers and required supporting documents.
Requirements depend on the entity and statutory route. The general Ohio-business instructions list $5 per address and one copy per address plus a records copy, while the page identifies other categories with different requirements. Compare the office’s instructions with the applicable statute before submitting; RVB’s delivery charge is separate.
The office says it does not notify the court of service. The client or attorney must handle the required court filing and confirm the record. RVB’s delivery documentation does not replace that filing.
Send Us Your Request
For preparation help, see our service-package guide. If your instructions identify a commercial agent, use our CT Corporation or CSC Lawyers location guide.
Need rush service? Call or text 740-936-7625 with the address and deadline.
Legal disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. RVB Services, LLC is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. If you need legal assistance, consult an attorney licensed to handle your case.
