How to File Franchise Disclosure Documents in Michigan

Learn how to file the Franchise Disclosure Document with the state of Michigan.

A Franchise Disclosure Document, or FDD, is the legal document executed between the buyer-owner-operator of the franchise and the company selling the franchise. The Franchise Disclosure Document lists the responsibilities of the buyer-owner-operator to the franchise seller and the responsibilities of the seller of the franchise to the owner-operator. The document does not have to be filed on a federal level, but each state, including Michigan, does require the document to be on file with the state.

Things You'll Need

• Franchise Disclosure Document

Instructions

1. Make a copy of the fully executed Franchise Disclosure Document. A fully executed FDD is completely filled out and signed by both you and the seller of the franchise. Make a complete copy of the document, so you can keep the original for your records.

2. Call the Michigan Attorney General office to verify the mailing address. You can contact the office by calling 517-373-7117.

3. Put the document in an envelope. Fold the document and place it in a number 10 mailing envelope or place the document in a large white or yellow envelope. Address the envelope to the Michigan Attorney General: Consumer Protection Division, Dept. of the Attorney General, PO Box 30213, Lansing, MI 48909.

4. Weigh the envelope for postage. Take the envelope to the post office to weigh it or have one of the post office employees weigh it. Affix the appropriate amount of postage to the envelope. You may also want to send the document via certified mail or return receipt so that you can verify the receipt of the document.

5. Call the office of the Michigan Attorney General to verify receipt of the document. Once you receive confirmation that the document has been received or within a week or so of sending the FDD, call the Attorney General office to verify the receipt and filing of the FDD.

Tips & Warnings

• Filing the Franchise Disclosure Document with the state of Michigan is separate from registering the business with the state or obtaining any licenses and permits that you need to legally open and operate the business. Contact the Michigan Secretary of State Office to obtain information on the steps you need to take to register the business with the state.

• Filing the FDD also does not pertain to registering the business with the city or county where the franchise operates. Contact the business or licensing division for the city or state where you are opening the franchise to obtain the information on the steps you need to take.

References

• Franchise 411: Registration and Filing of the UFOC
• Michigan Attorney General: Franchises
• Federal Trade Commission: State Offices Administering Business Opportunity Disclosure Laws