How to File Articles of Organization in Michigan

In Michigan, as in most states, the primary step in creating a limited liability company (LLC) is to file articles of organization with the state. This is an absolutely crucial document that helps define your business, so it’s important to do it correctly.

An LLC is a business entity that offers liability protection for owners, as well as pass-through taxation, much like a sole proprietorship. 

What are Articles of Organization?

The articles of organization is a legal document you need to file with the state to form your LLC. It will specify details about your company and establish your LLC as an officially registered business entity in Michigan. 

The document is similar to the articles of incorporation you would file to form a corporation instead of an LLC. 

How to File the Michigan Articles of Organization

In Michigan, the process to file articles of organization is quite simple. The crucial first step is gathering the required information about your new LLC, before proceeding with the filing itself. 

Here are the steps you’ll need to take to create your new business entity: 

1. Gather the required information about your business: 

• Business name
• Business purpose
• Duration of the LLC
• Registered agent name and address
• Submitter’s contact information

2. Visit the state’s department of licensing and regulatory affair’s website 

Find Michigan’s articles of organization form here. It’s easiest to fill out the form online and file immediately, but you can also download it, fill it out and mail it in. 

3. Filling out Articles of Organization Document

You’ll find the form all on one page on the link provided. You’ll need to carefully fill out each section beginning with your business name and business purpose.

Then you will fill in an end date for your LLC unless you want it to be perpetual, which is the most common option.

You’ll next fill out your registered agent name, address, and mailing address. You then have the option to add additional articles and a future start date for your LLC, and then enter a signatory for the filing. 

Finally, you’ll fill out the submitter’s contact information and select if you’d like to purchase expedited filing times. Then click review and check the information carefully. 

When filling out your articles of organization form, be sure to double-check that all the information is accurate and up-to-date. Maybe you’ve just moved, or use your middle initial in official documents, such as with your bank account. If you get it wrong now, changing it later can be a real pain. So accuracy is crucial. 

• File Articles of Organization 

Once you’ve reviewed the information, you’ll click the submit button and be taken to the payment page to pay your filing fee, which in Michigan is $50. 

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Contact Info

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Ottawa Building
611 W. Ottawa
P.O. Box 30004
Lansing, MI 48909

Corporations Division:

Phone: 517-241-9223

Fax: 517-241-0290

The Bottom Line

In Michigan, it’s relatively easy to create an LLC, but you do need to jump through a few hoops. You now have all the information you need to officially create your new business and begin your entrepreneurial journey in the Wolverine State. 

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