Outgoing Officers

Many outgoing fiscal officers and all county sheriffs are statutorily required to complete a Certificate of Transition to facilitate the transition of power to their successors.

Transitioning Out of Office

The Certificate of Transition shows that the outgoing officeholder has provided the new officeholder with the assets and information necessary to perform their duties.

Note: If you are a new fiscal officer or a new county sheriff, you are strongly encouraged to prepare a new Certificate as soon as possible and update it consistently for as long as you hold the position. To determine whether your office is required to complete a Certificate of Transition, refer to Ohio Revised Code (ORC) § 5705.01(D)

Certificate of Transition

Certificates of Transition, as required under ORC § 117.171 (for fiscal officers) and ORC § 311.14 (for county sheriffs), must be completed and delivered before the outgoing officeholder’s final day in office.

Passing the Torch.pdf
– A Fiscal Officer’s Final Responsibility Before Leaving Office
Fiscal Officer Transitions: Bulletin 2021-005.pdf
County Sheriff Transitions: Bulletin 2025-011.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions.pdf — Find answers to common questions about the Certificate of Transition and its process, the formal handover of responsibilities that ensures continuity between officeholders.
Have a concern?

Fill out this form to report any issues regarding the transition process or if you have questions about compliance.
Certificate of Transition Complaint and Inquiry Form

Templates: Certificates of Transition

Download the applicable template(s) to fill out and leave for the next incoming elected official.