How To Start An LLC In Michigan In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Michigan, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Great Lakes State.
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Michigan offers one of the most affordable and business-friendly LLC formation processes in the country. With just a $50 state filing fee and processing times as fast as same-day, Michigan is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs. Whether you're in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, or anywhere else in the Great Lakes State, you can establish your Michigan LLC quickly and cost-effectively.
Our top pick for Michigan LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Michigan LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $50 Michigan state fee. With their expertise in Michigan business law and excellent customer support, they make the entire process straightforward and hassle-free.
Featured Partners
- Best filing & protections
- Fastest processing
- Free compliance for 1 yr
- Award-winning support
On ZenBusiness's Website
- Best for standard filing
- Fast processing options
- Free yr registered agent
- Lifetime company alerts
On Bizee's Website
- Best legal services
- Fast processing options
- AI legal forms
- Trusted since 1999
On LegalZoom's Website
- Best branding services
- Fast processing options
- Logo & website builder
- Establish your brand
On Tailor Brands's Website
Compare the Best Michigan LLC Services of 2025
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation |  Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |  Rocket Lawyer Legal Documents |  BetterLegal Speed & Simplicity |  Active Filings Traditional Service |  Filenow Budget Option |  Northwest Basic Formation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees | $299 all-inclusive | $199 + state fees | $99 + state fees | $39 + state fees |
| Our Rating | 4.9 /5 | 4.6 /5 | 4.4 /5 | 4.3 /5 | 4.2 /5 | 4.0 /5 | 3.9 /5 | 3.8 /5 | 3.6 /5 | 3.4 /5 |
| Standard Processing | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 5-14 days | 5-7 days | 2 days | 5-10 days | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Rush Processing | 1 day +$79 | 1 day +$49 | 2 days +$99 | 1 day +$99 | Standard speed | 2 days +$100 | 3 days +$50 | |||
| Compliance Tools | Worry-Free Compliance Free 1st year | Alerts only Basic monitoring | Basic tools Included | Basic alerts Included | Premium only Extra cost | Document library With membership | Limited Basic support | Basic tools Limited | None Not available | None Not included |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr Not included | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $199/yr | $119/yr Not included | $249/yr Not included | $149/yr Not included | Included In base price | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | +$125/yr Not included | $125/yr Available |
| Operating Agreement | +$99 | +$99 | +$50 | Included | +$99 | Included | Included | +$99 | +$40 | +$39 |
| EIN Service | +$99 | +$70 | +$70 | Included | +$159 | +$99 | Included | +$70 | +$50 | +$70 |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Chat | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Email | Email only | Email only |
| Mobile App | ||||||||||
| Attorney Access | ||||||||||
| Get Started | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → |
Note: State filing fees are additional for all services except where noted. Features and pricing may vary by state.
Our Top Picks for Michigan LLC Services
Best Overall for Michigan ZenBusiness excels at Michigan LLC formation with their same-day filing option and deep knowledge of Michigan's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Michigan LARA registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in Michigan's February 15th annual statement deadline and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Michigan entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and fast, accurate filing
Pros
- Same-day Michigan LLC filing available
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes Michigan annual statement reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Michigan requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Michigan filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fastest Michigan Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast Michigan LLC formation with guaranteed same-day processing. They provide a free Michigan registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Michigan's February 15th annual statement deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Michigan LLC formed immediately.
Best For:
Michigan businesses needing the fastest possible formation
Pros
- Same-day Michigan processing guaranteed
- Free Michigan registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Michigan compliance
- Dashboard tracks Michigan annual statements
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in MI LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Michigan business formation. Their attorney network includes Michigan-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Michigan businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Michigan businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Michigan law
- Rush filing available for Michigan (1-2 days)
- Comprehensive Michigan legal forms library
- Phone support with Michigan expertise
- 30+ years serving Michigan businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Michigan registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Michigan Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Michigan LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Michigan's diverse economy including manufacturing, technology, and service industries, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Michigan business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Michigan creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Michigan business info
- Business cards with Michigan address
- 1-2 day Michigan processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Michigan business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Michigan
Free Michigan Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Michigan LLC formation where you only pay the $50 state fee. They include a free Michigan registered agent for the first year and handle all LARA filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Michigan entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Michigan entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Michigan LLC formation
- Free Michigan registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Michigan businesses
- Handles LARA filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Michigan business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Michigan registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Michigan LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Michigan LARA registration efficiently and provide registered agent services at competitive rates, making them ideal for business owners who prefer a simple, direct approach to LLC formation.
Best For:
Michigan entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Michigan businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Michigan LARA filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Michigan LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Michigan filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Michigan LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Michigan's $50 state filing fee. With guaranteed 2-business-day turnaround and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their Michigan LLC formation process.
Best For:
Michigan businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed 2-business-day Michigan formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Michigan-specific compliance guidance
- No hidden fees or surprise costs
- Streamlined single-package approach
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than budget options
- State filing fees are additional cost
- Limited ongoing support after formation
- Fewer customization options
Legal Platform Rocket Lawyer goes beyond simple Michigan LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Michigan-licensed attorneys and an extensive library of legal documents, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support. While formation takes longer than specialized services, the added legal resources make it worthwhile for complex Michigan business needs.
Best For:
Michigan businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Michigan-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Michigan processing available (additional fee)
- Michigan business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Michigan formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Michigan LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach that many Michigan business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Michigan's specific LLC requirements and annual statement deadlines.
Best For:
Michigan entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Michigan expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Michigan
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Michigan annual statement reminders
- Basic compliance tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing takes 5-7 days
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative and compliance aspects of Michigan business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Michigan businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Michigan businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Michigan compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Michigan annual statement filing services
- Business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services statewide
- Focus on regulatory requirements
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Longer processing times (7-10 days)
- Limited customer support hours
Michigan LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Michigan LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Michigan businesses
- ✓ Michigan Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Michigan street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Michigan but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Statement: Due by February 15th each year after formation
Michigan LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $50 (one of the lowest in the US)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$250/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Statement: $25 per year (due by February 15th)
- • Business License: Varies by city/county ($50-$5,000)
Michigan LLC Timeline
- • Name Approval: Instant online check via LARA
- • Processing Time: Same day to 5 business days
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 1-7 business days with expedited service
Why Form Your LLC in Michigan?
Tax Advantages
- • Pass-through taxation to avoid double taxation
- • Flow Through Entity (FTE) tax election available
- • Low annual statement fee ($25)
- • Flexible tax structure options
Business Environment
- • Diverse economy with growing sectors
- • Strong manufacturing base
- • Expanding technology sector
- • Access to Great Lakes shipping
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Personal liability protection
- • Privacy for members
- • Flexible management structure
Easy Administration
- • Ultra-low state filing fee ($50)
- • Fast processing times
- • No residency requirements
- • Minimal ongoing requirements
Michigan LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Michigan?
The Michigan state filing fee is only $50, one of the lowest in the nation. Additional costs include a registered agent ($100-$250/year, though many services offer the first year free), EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service), and the annual statement fee of $25. Most Michigan entrepreneurs spend between $50-$400 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Michigan LLC?
Yes, Michigan law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Michigan street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). The registered agent receives legal documents and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Michigan address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Many services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Michigan?
Michigan offers expedited processing options for LLC formation. With same-day service through providers like ZenBusiness or Bizee, you can have your Michigan LLC approved within 24 hours. Standard processing through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs typically takes 2-5 business days. Online filing is generally faster than mail filing.
What is Michigan's annual statement requirement?
Michigan LLCs must file an annual statement by February 15th each year, starting the year after formation. The report costs $25 and can be filed online through LARA. It updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. There's a grace period with late fees of $10 per month (max $50). Most formation services provide reminders and some will file it for you.
Can I form a Michigan LLC if I don't live in Michigan?
Yes, you don't need to be a Michigan resident to form a Michigan LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Michigan street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
What name requirements exist for Michigan LLCs?
Your Michigan LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" at the end. You can check name availability through LARA's online database. Certain words may require additional approval. You can also reserve a name for 60 days for a $25 fee if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Michigan Cities for LLCs
- • Detroit
- • Ann Arbor
- • Dearborn
- • Warren
- • Grand Rapids
- • Kalamazoo
- • Holland
- • Battle Creek
- • Lansing
- • East Lansing
- • Flint
- • Midland
- • Traverse City
- • Petoskey
- • Marquette
- • Saginaw
Ready to Start Your Michigan LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Michigan LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.