How to Start an LLC in Michigan

Forming an LLC in Michigan: file Articles of Organization and appoint a registered agent. Step-by-step Michigan formation guide.

To start an LLC in Michigan, you file Articles of Organization with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), pay a filing fee of approximately $50 when you file online, and receive approval in one to two business days. Michigan also requires a registered agent with a physical address in the state.

Here is the direct answer: Michigan LLC formation costs about $50 for the online Articles of Organization filing fee and typically takes one to two business days to process. Fees change frequently, so confirm the current amount on the Michigan LARA website before you file. The steps below walk you through the entire process.

Check Name Availability in Michigan

Your LLC name must be distinguishable from other names on file with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Use the LARA corporation search to check availability before you file. The name must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or an approved abbreviation. You can reserve a name for up to six months for a small fee if you are not ready to file yet. If your first choice is taken, a slight variation or a geographic qualifier often clears the search, as long as the final name is still distinguishable.

Appoint a Michigan Registered Agent

Every Michigan LLC must maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in Michigan. The agent accepts service of process and official mail on your behalf during business hours. You can serve as your own registered agent, or use a commercial registered agent service. Because the agent's address is public record, many owners prefer a commercial service. Read our guide to what a registered agent does for more detail.

File Michigan Articles of Organization

File your Articles of Organization online through the LARA website or by mail. You will provide the LLC name, registered office address, registered agent information, management structure, and the name and address of at least one organizer. Online filing is cheaper and faster than filing by mail, and it gives you immediate confirmation. You can also file by mail, but online filing through the LARA website is faster and lets you pay by credit card.

Michigan LLC Fees and Timeline

The online filing fee is approximately $50, and online filings are typically approved in one to two business days. Filing by mail costs more and takes longer, often one to two weeks. There is no initial report in Michigan, so your first-year cost stays low. For a full comparison, see our guide to how much an LLC costs.

Post-Formation Steps for Your Michigan LLC

Once approved, apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. It is free and takes about ten minutes online. You will need it to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file federal taxes. See our step-by-step guide on how to get an EIN for your LLC.

Next, draft an operating agreement, register with the Michigan Department of Treasury if you owe sales or use tax, and open a dedicated business bank account. Michigan has a flat corporate income tax, but most small LLCs are taxed as pass-through entities at the federal level. Michigan also requires LLCs to maintain a registered office in the state, which can be the same address as your registered agent.

Michigan Annual Report

Every Michigan LLC must file an annual report by February 15 each year. The fee is approximately $25, and you file online through the LARA website. Late filings incur additional fees, and the state can dissolve your LLC for failing to file. In 2026, the annual report fee remains approximately $25, so budget for it each winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Michigan?

Filing Articles of Organization online with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs costs approximately $50. Mail filings cost more. Michigan also charges an annual report fee of about $25. Fees change frequently, so confirm the current amounts on the Michigan LARA website before you file.

How long does it take to get an LLC in Michigan?

Online filings are typically approved in one to two business days, which makes Michigan one of the faster states for LLC formation. Mail filings take longer, often one to two weeks. Confirm current processing times on the Michigan LARA website before you submit your filing.

When is the Michigan annual report due for an LLC?

The Michigan annual report is due by February 15 each year. The fee is approximately $25, and you file online through the Michigan LARA website. Late filings incur additional fees, and the state can dissolve your LLC for failing to file.

Does Michigan require a registered agent?

Yes. Every Michigan LLC must maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in Michigan. The agent accepts service of process and official mail during business hours. You can serve as your own agent or use a commercial registered agent service.