How to Start an LLC company in Michigan

A wide range of businesses and partnerships can form LLCs for liability protection.

A limited liability company (LLC) is a type of corporation designed for individuals and small businesses. While a small business can operate without registering as an LLC, business creditors can pursue collection against the business owner if the business goes under because the owner maintains full liability for all business expenses. Forming an LLC provides protection from personal liability for business debts and offers tax benefits to the business owner as well. Forming an LLC in Michigan requires registration with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Things You'll Need

• LARA "Articles of Organization" form
• Registration fee

Instructions

1. Check to see whether another business in Michigan has registered the name you wish to use for your business. You can perform this check by contacting the Corporate Division of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs' Bureau of Commercial Services at 517-241-6470 or using the LARA online name availability search form.

2. Print the appropriate articles of organization form for your LLC from the LARA Document Management System. For a standard LLC you are required to submit form "700 - Articles of Organization," while LLCs for companies that offer a professional service require form "701 - Articles of Organization (Professional Service LLC)."

3. Fill out the articles of organization form for your LLC type. In filling out the form you must provide your contact information, the name of your business, the purpose of the business and the primary address and contact person for the business. You also have the option to add additional provisions if desired as authorized by the Michigan Limited Liability Company Act of 1993.

4. Mail the articles of organization form to the Bureau of Commercial Services, Corporation Division, PO Box 30054, Lansing, MI, 48909 along with the required registration fee. As of 2011, the registration fee for an LLC in Michigan is $50. The check or money order should be made out to the state of Michigan and must have the name of your LLC written on it. You may also bring the form and registration fee in person to the division offices at 2501 Woodlake Circle, Okemos, MI, 48805 during normal business hours.

5. Check the mail for a confirmation of filing from the Bureau of Commercial Services. The LLC registration is considered active from the moment of filing.

Tips & Warnings

• If submitting your LLC registration paperwork in person, you can pay your registration fees using a VISA or MasterCard credit card in addition to paying with a check or money order.

• Though an Employer Identification Number is not required to create an LLC, you will need an EIN for tax purposes. An EIN can be requested from the Internal Revenue Service at no charge.

• Once a Michigan LLC is created you must submit annual reports along with the filing fee appropriate for your business type by February 15 of each year. Failure to meet this deadline can result in fines or additional fees.

References

• Michigan.gov: Create a Corporation or Limited Liability Company?
• Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs: Limited Liability Company Filing Information
• Michigan Legislature: Michigan Limited Liability Company Act of 1993

Resources

• Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs: Name Availability Search
• Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs: Document Managment System - LLCs