Ohio’s one-time vendor license fees increasing to $50

The one-time fee for applying for a new vendor's license in Ohio will increase to $50. The change is effective April 9. 

The $25 increase comes along with the passage of House Bill 366. The fee supports the Organized Crime Commission Fund. 

Per ORC 177.011, “The organized crime investigations commission shall use the moneys in the fund to reimburse political subdivisions for the expenses the political subdivisions incur when their law enforcement officers participate in an organized crime task force.” 

This one-time fee is paid by businesses applying for a new vendor license. Generally, there are two different types of vendor licenses. The fee applies to both types. 

Vendor’s license: This is the general license required for any business selling tangible goods or services in Ohio. It is issued by the county auditor in the county where the business is located. If you're selling at a physical location, you would generally need a vendor’s license in the county where your business is based. (You obtain this type of license by visiting your county auditor.) 

Transient vendor license: This license is specifically for businesses that sell goods or services temporarily in a county, usually at events like fairs, markets, or festivals. A transient vendor typically operates at a location for a short period and does not have a permanent place of business in that county. It’s designed for businesses that do not have a fixed location but still engage in selling goods within a particular area for a limited time.