How to start an LLC company in Michigan

Starting an LLC company is a great idea. Your small business will get many tax benefits, more respect, and more protection from lawsuits as a corporation. An LLC company is simpler to set up and manage than an traditional corporation. If you live in Michigan, here's how to set it up.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• computer with internet connection
• printer
• $50 for Michigan fee
• envelope and stamp

1. Go to http://www.mich.gov/dleg/0,1607,7-154-35299_35413---,00.html. This is the site for the Michigan Dept of Labor and Economic Growth, which handles all aspects of Michigan incorporation. Scroll down to the bottom of the page. Click on “Name Availability”. Put in the name you are considering for your Michigan LLC Company. Go through the search process. If you get a “No conflict”, you are probably clear to use that name. But don’t go ordering business cards until you hear from the Dept of Labor and Economic Growth, confirming your Michigan LLC registration.

2. Click on “Limited Liability Companies” on the left side of the page. Then click on “Limited Liability Forms”. Scroll down to “700-Articles of Organization”. It’s a PDF document. You must download it and fill it out, using the business name that you wish to use. This is the formal registration paperwork for Michigan incorporation.

3. Mail the registration paperwork and a check for $50 to Corporation Division, PO Box 30054, Lansing, MI, 48909. Or you may go to 2501 Woodlake Circle, Okemos, MI and turn in the papers in person. Bring $50 with you for the filing fee.

Tips & Warnings

• The phone number is [phone], for the Corporation Division within the Dept of Labor and Economic Growth.
• The Michigan Dept of Treasury’s phone number is [phone] or also try 800-367-6263.
• If you are planning to do business in other states outside Michigan, you will probably need to register with every state you do business with as a Foreign Limited Liablility Corporation. There are separate fees charged by each state, so make room for these charges in your budget. Check each state's laws about what they require. If you're only doing business by mail or over the internet, some states have exceptions to this rule.

Resources

• Michigan Dept of Labor and Economic Growth
• Get a Federal Tax ID from the IRS