Start a Business in Michigan

Are You A Do-It-Yourselfer? You Can Save Some Money:

If you want to start a business in Michigan yourself, you can just hire us as your Michigan registered agent, and you’ll instantly have the Michigan LLC or corporation forms to file along with filing instructions on the quickest, cheapest, and most efficient way to incorporate a Michigan corporation or form a Michigan LLC. You’ll get the ongoing support of our online tools, reminders and the support of a professional Michigan registered agent service.

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Michigan LLC vs Corporation:

Large business owners like the well-established, defined management structure of a corporation. Also, having the ability to sell stock helps attract top investors. LLCs are popular for small to medium-sized business owners. They’re easier to maintain and have fewer annual requirements. Plus, LLCs offer flexible management structures.

But, what about Michigan? Any pros and cons for a Michigan LLC vs a Michigan corporation?

In terms of initial fees and privacy, Michigan LLCs have a slight advantage over Michigan corporations. The cost of filing the Articles of Organization is $50 compared to $60 for the Articles of Incorporation. Plus, if your corporation decides to authorize more than 60,000 shares, your initial fee will increase. Both entities are required to file annual reports ($25); however, only corporations need to list director, president, secretary, and treasurer names and addresses. LLCs don’t need to include member/manager information.

During tax season, Michigan LLCs and corporations will be treated fairly equally. The rates for both corporate and personal income taxes are flat rates—6.25% and 4.25%. So, although traditional corporations will be taxed twice—first on the state level, then through shareholder returns—your total taxes won’t get too big, even if you start generating a large income. Michigan also imposes a Personal Property Tax on all commercial and industrial personal property. However, in 2014, the state began phasing out this tax and will be fully eliminated by 2023. Currently, if your property owned within the state has a total worth that’s below $80,000, then your total tax due will be $0.

If you want a corporation, you file Michigan Articles of Incorporation:

The Michigan articles of incorporation cost $60 with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
We custom draft your Michigan articles of incorporation. The requirements for Michigan corporations are:

• The Michigan Corporation must have a corporate ending such as INC, Incorporated, Corporation or a different variety.
• The Michigan corporation name must be different than already registered Michigan corporations.
• A general purpose is sufficient but you may include a specific purpose.
• The number and class of shares the Michigan Corporation is authorized to issue.
• The name and office address of the registered agent in Michigan.
• The name and address of the incorporator(s) of the Michigan Corporation.
• Optional provisions.
• The duration of the corporation should be stated in the Articles only if not perpetual.
• The incorporation is effective when filed unless you state a future effective date.
• Each Michigan incorporator must sign and date the articles of incorporation.
• The name and phone number of the preparer of the Articles of Incorporation form.
• Name of person or organization remitting fees.

Michigan does not require original signatures on new MI corporation filings. The filed document will be mailed to the address you provide. If you fax documents for filing, LARA will fax back the confirmation.

If you want a LLC, you file Michigan Articles of Organization:

To form a Michigan LLC, you file Michigan articles of organization. The requirements for Michigan LLC filings are:

• The business name must have a LLC ending or variation of it.
• The Michigan company name must be different than already registered Michigan companies.
• The purpose of the Michigan Limited Liability Company may be general, stating a specific purpose is optional.
• State the duration of the Michigan LLC if not perpetual.
• The Michigan registered agent name and physical address.
• Optional provisions – Michigan LLCs are member-managed unless the Articles of Organization state the LLC is manager-managed. If the limited liability company is to be manager-managed, include a statement to that effect in the optional provision section.
• The Michigan organizer must sign and date the form.
• Preparer’s name and phone number.
• Name of person or organization remitting fees.

Michigan does not require original signatures on new MI LLC filings. You’ll get a certificate mailed back to you after the state approves your filing. If you fax filed, LARA will fax back the filing.