How to Start an LLC in Michigan (2026): Cost, Steps & Timeline
Forming an LLC in Michigan costs $50 in state filing fees, paid to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division. Processing takes about 10 business days standard. FilingsHQ prepares and files everything for $0 in service fees — you pay only the state fee.
What a Michigan LLC costs
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee | $50 | Paid to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division; required |
| Expedited processing | Varies | $50 for 24-hour, $100 for same-day, up to $1,000 for 1-hour service |
| Annual Statement | $25 | February 15 each year |
| Registered agent | $0–$199/yr | Free if you serve as your own; $199/yr with FilingsHQ |
| FilingsHQ service fee | $0 | Starter package — preparation, review, and submission included |
Answer a few questions; we prepare, review, and file with the state.
Step-by-step: forming your Michigan LLC
1. Choose a name
Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing Michigan businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”. Check availability using the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division’s business search before you file — a rejected name means starting over.
2. Appoint a registered agent
Michigan requires every LLC to name a registered agent: a person or company with a physical street address in the state (no P.O. boxes) available during business hours to receive legal documents. You can be your own agent, but your address becomes public record — many owners use a professional service to keep their home address private.
3. File the Articles of Organization
The formation document in Michigan is the Articles of Organization (Form CD-700), filed with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division (online via Michigan Corporations Online Filing System). The filing fee is $50. About 10 business days standard. $50 for 24-hour, $100 for same-day, up to $1,000 for 1-hour service.
4. Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number is your LLC’s federal tax ID — you’ll need it to open a business bank account and hire employees. The IRS issues EINs for free at irs.gov; FilingsHQ’s Pro and Premium packages handle the application for you.
5. Create an operating agreement
Michigan doesn’t require you to file an operating agreement, but every LLC should have one — it documents ownership, profit splits, and what happens if a member leaves. Banks and investors routinely ask for it.
6. Stay compliant
File your annual statement ($25) — due february 15 each year. Missing it can lead to late fees or administrative dissolution.
Michigan specifics to know
Michigan LLCs are handled by LARA, not the Secretary of State — a common point of confusion.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Michigan?
The Michigan state filing fee is $50. With FilingsHQ's Starter package the service fee is $0, so $50 is the total to form your LLC. Ongoing costs: Annual Statement — $25.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Michigan?
About 10 business days standard. $50 for 24-hour, $100 for same-day, up to $1,000 for 1-hour service.
Do I need a registered agent in Michigan?
Yes. Every Michigan LLC must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in the state to receive legal and government documents. You can serve as your own agent, appoint someone you know, or use a professional service like FilingsHQ ($199/yr).
Does Michigan require an annual report?
Yes. Annual Statement: $25, due february 15 each year.
Where do I file my LLC in Michigan?
LLC formations in Michigan are filed with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division, using the Articles of Organization (Form CD-700). Online filings go through Michigan Corporations Online Filing System. FilingsHQ prepares and submits this filing for you.
Michigan LLC for $0 + the $50 state fee. Every cost shown before you pay.
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FilingsHQ is a private document filing service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal or tax advice. Fees and processing times are set by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division and may change — always confirm current figures with the state. Last verified July 2026.