Michigan Articles of Organization: A Comprehensive Guide

When starting a new business in Michigan, one of the first steps is to file articles of organization with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This document is also known as a certificate of formation or articles of incorporation. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to file articles of organization in Michigan.

The articles of organization are a legal document that outlines the basic information about your business, including its name, address, and purpose. It is a public document that is filed with the state and is available for public inspection.

Here are the steps to file articles of organization in Michigan:

1. Choose a business name that is unique and not already in use by another business in Michigan. You can search for available business names on the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website.

2. Prepare the articles of organization. You can use a template or hire a lawyer to help you prepare the document.

3. Sign the articles of organization. The document must be signed by at least one person who is authorized to sign on behalf of the business.

4. File the articles of organization with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). You can file online or by mail.

5. Pay the filing fee. The fee for filing articles of organization in Michigan is currently $50.

It is important to note that the articles of organization must be filed with the state within 30 days of the business's formation. If you fail to file the articles of organization, you may be subject to penalties and fines.

In addition to filing articles of organization, you may also need to obtain other licenses and permits to operate your business in Michigan. These may include licenses from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO).

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide on how to file articles of organization in Michigan. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) or a business lawyer.