How to Get a Business License in Michigan
Any company that might need to meet special regulations or submit to periodic inspections will likely need to get a Michigan business license. However, general companies--especially home-based firms--may not need to do so. Those companies that need to be licensed must take a number of steps beforehand to more efficiently obtain legal licensure.
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Instructions
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Visit the Starting a Business in Michigan website (see Resources below) to determine whether your business needs a town or city business license. You may also want to call your local city or town hall's zoning or licensing department to make sure your perception of business licensure is correct. Businesses requiring licensure in Michigan include arcades, parking lots, restaurants, driver for hire firms, pet shops, landscaping and anything dealing with massage.
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Visit the Michigan Department of Treasury website (see Resources below) to obtain a legally required Sales Tax Number, whether or not you have to get a business license. In most cases this is free.
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Name your business and file for an Assumed Name Certificate with your county even if you do not need to get a formal business license. This usually costs $10, but depends on your jurisdiction.
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Incorporate your company with the State of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth (see Resources below). This can normally be done for $60 to $100 depending on your type of corporation, and full instructions on how to fill out your required Articles of Incorporation and where to submit it on noted on Michigan's government website.
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Visit the IRS website (see Resources below) once you receive your incorporation papers and apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). This is a free service.
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Visit your city or town hall to apply for your Michigan business license if you have determined that your company requires one to legally operate. You will be required to fill out a form including your name, business name, tax identification numbers, addresses and the type of company you run. In addition, it is likely that your firm will be subject to an initial inspection to ensure legality and public safety. Fees range from $7 to $3,000, but typically run around $150. These are usually payable in person with a credit card or cash. Remember that Michigan business licenses must be renewed annually.
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