The process of incorporating a business is a crucial step towards establishing a legally recognized entity and enjoying various benefits that come with it. If you are planning to start a business in the state of Michigan, you will need to file Articles of Incorporation with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
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Filing the Articles of Incorporation in Michigan is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require attention to detail and adherence to the state's regulations. This article will guide you through the necessary steps to successfully file your Michigan Articles of Incorporation.
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Step 1: Choose a Business Name
Before you begin the process of filing your articles, you need to choose a unique name for your business. Michigan law requires that the name be distinguishable from other businesses registered with the state. You can check the availability of a business name by conducting a name search on the LARA website. This step is crucial because the chosen name will represent your business identity and will help customers identify your products or services.
Step 2: Registered Agent
A registered agent is an individual or entity that will act as the official contact person for your business. They will receive important legal and tax documents on behalf of your business. Michigan law requires that you appoint a registered agent with a physical address within the state. You can choose to act as your own registered agent, as long as you have a physical address in Michigan, or you can hire a professional registered agent service.
Step 3: Prepare the Articles of Incorporation
To file your Articles of Incorporation, you must complete the appropriate form provided by LARA. The form is called the "Articles of Incorporation – For Profit Corporations" and can be downloaded from the LARA website. You will need to provide the following information in the form:
1. Business Name: List the chosen name of your business.
2. Registered Agent: Include the name and address of your registered agent.
3. Purpose: State the general purpose of your business.
4. Authorized Shares: Specify the number of authorized shares your corporation is allowed to issue.
5. Incorporators: Provide the names and addresses of the incorporators, who are the individuals responsible for signing and submitting the articles.
Step 4: Filing Fee
Along with your articles, you will need to include the filing fee. As of the time of writing this article, the filing fee for the Articles of Incorporation is $50. The fee can be paid by check or money order made payable to "State of Michigan." Alternatively, you can pay the fee online through the LARA website using a credit card or electronic check.
Step 5: Filing the Articles of Incorporation
After completing the Articles of Incorporation form and including the filing fee, you can submit the paperwork to LARA. You have two options for filing:
1. Mail: You can mail the package to the following address:
Corporation Division
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
P.O. Box 30054
Lansing, MI 48909
2. In-person: You can also file in-person by visiting the Corporation Division in Lansing at:
Constitution Hall - Ground Floor
525 West Allegan Street
Lansing, MI 48933
Please note that LARA does not provide expedited filing services. Normal processing times range from 5 to 10 business days. If you need your paperwork expedited, you can elect to use a professional expedited filing service.
Additional Considerations
- Timeline: The effective date of your Michigan corporation will be the filing date once approved by LARA.
- Tax Obligations: After incorporating your business, you will need to register with the Michigan Department of Treasury to receive a tax identification number. This number is crucial for fulfilling your tax obligations.
- Other Permits and Licenses: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain additional permits and licenses from relevant government agencies at the local, state, or federal level.
Filing Articles of Incorporation in Michigan is an important step that requires careful consideration and adherence to all necessary regulations. Following the steps outlined in this article will help you successfully navigate the process and establish your business as a legal entity in the state of Michigan. Good luck with your business venture!
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