There are two different types of vendor’s licenses: Retail Vendor and Transient. A Retail (County) Vendor’s License is required for selling taxable goods at a fixed location of business. A Transient Vendor’s License is for the sale of goods at various shows and markets throughout the State of Ohio. These licenses are used for the collection of state sales tax.
Determining ownership structure is the first step in starting a business. Many business owners jump right in and realize they should have decided legal structure first. If you are using a business name, you should check the availability with the Secretary of State, and check to see if you should register it with them. For new businesses you should visit the Secretary of State, Starting a Business at www.sos.state.oh.us . This will give you helpful information on what steps you should do to start a business in Ohio. You should also check with your local County, Township or City Zoning Department to see if you may transact a business from the desired address.
The Auditor’s Office issues only the retail vendor license. The retail vendor license for a business located within Clark County, Ohio can be obtained online or at the Clark County Auditor’s Office at 31 N Limestone Street, 1st Floor, Springfield, Ohio. You can apply for the Retail or Transient Vendor’s Licenses online at www.obg.ohio.gov
If you have questions regarding a retail vendor license contact our office at 937-521-1864 or if you have questions regarding the transient license contact the Ohio Department of Taxation at 1-888-405-4039. The Ohio Department of Taxations also offers walk-in assistance at the following locations.
Taxpayer Services Division
4485 Northland Ridge Blvd
Columbus, OH 43229
Sales & Use Tax Division
30 E Broad St, 20th Floor
Columbus, OH 45215