How to Start an LLC in Michigan
To start an LLC in Michigan, file Articles of Organization with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This costs $50 and takes 10–15 business days (standard); 24 hours (+$100 expedite) for online approval.
There are 6 steps to start an LLC in Michigan:
- 1Choose an LLC Name
- 2Select a Registered Agent
- 3File Articles of Organization
- 4Create an Operating Agreement
- 5Get an EIN from the IRS
- 6File Your Annual Statement
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Michigan?
It costs $50 to start an LLC in Michigan. After formation, you will also owe $25/year for the File Your Annual Statement.
What are these fees for?
- The $50 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
- The $25/year is for the File Your Annual Statement — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Michigan?
- Online filing: 10–15 business days (standard); 24 hours (+$100 expedite)
- Mail filing: 3–4 weeks
You can file online or by mail with Michigan LARA. Expedited 24-hour processing is available for an additional $100.
Steps to Form an LLC in Michigan
Step 1: Search Your LLC Name
Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in Michigan. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.
Michigan business name search →
Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent
A Registered Agent is a person or company that accepts legal mail and state notices on behalf of your LLC. Michigan requires your Registered Agent to have a physical street address in the state — PO Boxes are not allowed. Your options:
- Yourself (if you have a physical address in Michigan)
- A friend or family member who lives in Michigan
- A professional Registered Agent service
Step 3: File Articles of Organization with LARA
To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). The filing fee is $50.
You can file online or by mail with Michigan LARA. Expedited 24-hour processing is available for an additional $100.
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement is an internal document that shows who owns the LLC and how it will be run. You do not need to file it with the state or the IRS — just keep it with your business records. All LLCs should have one, even single-member LLCs.
Step 5: Get an EIN from the IRS
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your LLC's federal tax ID. It is free from the IRS and is needed to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.
- US residents with an SSN: Apply online at IRS.gov (takes ~15 minutes, free)
- Non-US residents without an SSN: Apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4 (takes 1–3 months)
Step 6: File Your Annual Statement
First due: February 15 of the year after your LLC is approved
After Your LLC Is Approved
Open a business bank account
Keep business and personal finances separate to maintain liability protection. You will need your EIN and your stamped/approved Articles of Organization to open an account.
Get business licenses and permits
Michigan does not have a state general business license. However, depending on your profession or business type, you may need a license from LARA.
Understand your tax obligations
LLCs don't pay federal income tax directly. Profits and losses pass through to the members, who report them on their personal federal tax returns.
Michigan has a state income tax. LLC members report their share of profits on their Michigan state tax return.
Once your LLC is formed, TheLLCWiki has free tools for IRS name changes, address changes, EIN applications, and tax elections.