"How do I file an LLC in Michigan?"
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Filing a Michigan LLC is completed by submitting the Articles of Organization (Form CSCL/CD‑700) with a $50 filing fee, either online via CorpFileOnline or by mail/in‑person, then obtaining an EIN and maintaining annual filings.
Quick Facts
- $50 filing fee for the Articles of Organization
- Annual Statement due Feb 15 with a $25 fee
- Online filing via www.michigan.gov/corpfileonline is fastest
AI Consensus
Models Agreed
- File the Articles of Organization (Form CSCL/CD‑700) with a $50 fee to create the LLC45.
- Appoint a Michigan‑based registered agent as a required contact for legal documents8.
- Obtain an EIN from the IRS after formation for tax and banking purposes2.
- File an annual statement each February with a $25 fee to maintain good standing1.
Points of Debate
- Name reservation: Some sources note a $25 optional reservation fee, while others treat it as optional and less emphasized57.
- Processing time details: One guide cites “about two weeks” for online filings, another mentions “1‑2 weeks,” and a third adds that expedited same‑day service is available for an extra charge15.
- Operating agreement requirement: One response calls it “highly recommended,” another merely mentions it as optional; none require filing it with the state.
How to Form an LLC in Michigan – Step‑by‑Step
1. Choose & Verify a Business Name
- Must include “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company.”
- Check availability with the Corporation Entity Search tool on the LARA website1.
- (Optional) Reserve the name for six months – $25 fee57.
2. Designate a Registered Agent
- The agent must have a physical Michigan address.
- You may act as your own agent or hire a commercial service8.
3. Prepare the Articles of Organization
- Use Form CSCL/CD‑700 for a domestic LLC (or CSCL/CD‑701 for a professional LLC)4.
- Required info: LLC name, registered agent, management structure, purpose (optional), duration (usually perpetual).
4. File the Articles & Pay the Fee
| Method | How to File | Typical Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Via the CorpFileOnline portal (www.michigan.gov/corpfileonline) | ~1‑2 weeks |
| Send completed Form and $50 check to LARA, Corporations Division, Lansing, MI 489331 | ~2 weeks | |
| In‑person | Any LARA office | Same as mail, with possible expedited options5 |
- Filing fee: $505.
5. Receive Confirmation
- You’ll be issued a Certificate of Organization confirming the LLC’s legal existence.
6. Draft an Operating Agreement (recommended)
- Not filed with the state but outlines ownership and management rules.
7. Obtain an EIN
- Apply for free at IRS.gov. Required for banking, hiring, and tax filings.
8. Register for State Taxes & Licenses (if needed)
- If you sell goods, have employees, or need professional permits, register with the Michigan Department of Treasury and relevant licensing boards.
9. File the Annual Statement
- Due February 15 each year.
- Fee: $25 (online filing via CorpFileOnline)1.
- Late filing incurs a $50 penalty.
Quick Links
- Online filing portal: www.michigan.gov/corpfileonline
- Name search: www.michigan.gov/corpentitysearch
- Form CSCL/CD‑700: 4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://mibusinessregistry.lara.state.mi.us/forms4
- Michigan LLC Roadmap: 2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/cscl/corps/michigan-business-roadmap/start-a-business2
Following these steps will legally establish your Michigan LLC and keep it in good standing.
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