How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC in Michigan?
Are you thinking about starting an LLC in Michigan? You might be wondering how long the process takes.
The timeline to form an LLC in Michigan depends on the filing options. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs approves online LLC applications within 2 weeks. If you file by mail, expect approval in 4 weeks.
This article covers the timeline to get an LLC in Michigan, including expedited LLC filing options to speed up the process.
Michigan LLC Approval Time and Duration
Michigan offers both mail and online filing options with varying processing speeds.
Mail Filing
When you file by mail to form your Michigan LLC, it typically takes about 4 weeks. This includes 2-3 weeks for processing by the state and 1 week for mailing time (sending and receiving documents).
Online Filing
Filing online is faster than mailing your documents. When you submit your Michigan LLC application online, you can expect approval in 10 business days (about 2 weeks).
With online filings, there is no extra mailing time since you’ll get your approval by email. Once they’re ready, you get your approval documents right away.
Michigan LLC Processing Time
Here’s a breakdown of the Michigan LLC processing time:
| LLC Filing Method | LLC Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online Filing | 10 business days |
| Mail Filing | 10 business days (plus mailing time) |
Should I file online or via mail?
Filing online is the fastest way to get your Michigan LLC approved. Your documents can be approved in 2 weeks. On the other hand, mailing your forms takes longer for approval, up to 4 weeks.
Online filing is more convenient and reduces the chance of errors. You can download your approved documents right away.
With mail filing, you have to wait for physical copies to arrive. This adds extra time to the process.
Expedited Filing Option for a Michigan LLC
Michigan offers expedited processing for LLC formation. This option is available for mail and online filings.
You can choose from four expedited service levels:
- 1-hour processing for $1,000 extra (must be received by 4 pm)
- 2-hour processing for $500 extra (must be received by 3 pm)
- Same-day processing for $100 extra (must be received by 1 pm)
- 24-hour processing for $50 extra
The expedited service fee is in addition to the regular filing fees and is non-refundable. To request expedited processing, select the desired level on the online form. For mail filings, include the expedited service request with your documents.
Expedited processing can significantly speed up your LLC formation. Without it, standard processing takes about 10 business days for online and mail filings.
Remember, the expedited fee doesn’t include the time to mail documents back to you. Plan accordingly if you need your LLC paperwork by a specific date.
How do you know when your LLC is approved in Michigan?
After filing your LLC paperwork in Michigan, you’ll want to know when it’s officially approved. The approval process can take 2 weeks for online filings.
If you filed online, you’ll get an email from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) once your LLC is approved. This email will contain a link to download your stamped and approved Articles of Organization.
For mail filings, you’ll receive your approved documents by mail. Due to postal delivery times, this can take a few extra days.
You can check your LLC status online through the LARA website. Simply search for your business name in their database. If approved, your LLC will show as “active” in the system.
Don’t forget to check your spam folder for the approval email. If you haven’t heard anything after 2-3 weeks, contacting LARA directly’s a good idea to check on your application status.
Once approved, you’ll receive your official LLC documents. These are important to keep safe, as they prove your business is legally formed in Michigan.
What’s the fastest way to get an LLC in Michigan?
The quickest way to get an LLC in Michigan is to file online and pay for expedited processing. The state’s online system allows you to submit your Articles of Organization directly.
If you have all your information ready, you can complete the process in about 10-15 minutes. The state typically processes online filings within 10 business days. However, with expedited processing, you can get your LLC approved within 24 hours or less.
Using a registered agent service is another speedy option. These professionals can handle the filing process, saving you time and hassle.
Do you need a registered agent for an LLC in Michigan?
Yes, you need a registered agent for your LLC in Michigan. It’s a legal requirement when you form an LLC in the state.
Your registered agent must have a physical address in Michigan. They receive important legal documents and official mail for your business.
You can be your registered agent. But this has some drawbacks:
- Your address becomes a public record.
- You must be available during business hours.
- You might miss important notices if you’re away.
Hiring a professional registered agent offers privacy protection for your personal information, reliable document handling, and flexibility to travel or work offsite.
I highly recommend Northwest Registered Agent for your LLC formation.
Northwest Registered Agent is a top choice for Michigan LLCs. They provide same-day document scanning, online account access, annual report reminders, and free mail forwarding.
With Northwest, you get a dedicated support team. They offer expert guidance on LLC matters. This can be very helpful as you start and grow your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to start an LLC in Michigan?
Here are the steps to start an LLC in Michigan: choose a name, choose a resident agent, file Articles of Organization, create an operating agreement, and get an EIN.
How much does it cost to set up an LLC in Michigan?
The basic filing fee for Articles of Organization in Michigan is $50. You can pay by check, money order, or credit card. Some optional services may have extra fees.
What is the expected time frame to obtain a business license in Michigan after forming an LLC?
Getting a business license can take 1-4 weeks after forming your LLC. The exact time depends on your industry and local rules. Some cities or counties may process licenses faster than others.
What documents are essential for forming an LLC in Michigan?
You need to file Articles of Organization with the state. An operating agreement is also important, though not required to be filed. For tax purposes, you may need an EIN from the IRS.
Can you check for LLC name availability in Michigan before forming your LLC?
Yes, you can check name availability online through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs website. This helps you pick a unique name for your LLC before filing.
Is it possible to form an anonymous LLC in Michigan?
Michigan does not allow fully anonymous LLCs. You must provide some owner information when filing. However, you can use a registered agent service to keep some details private.
Disclosure: We may earn commissions if you buy via links on our website. Commissions don’t affect our opinions or evaluations. We’re also an independent affiliate of many platforms, including ClickFunnels, Kartra, GoHighLevel, Podia, Northwest Registered Agent, and others. We’re not employees of these services. We receive referral payments from them, and the opinions expressed here are our own and are not official statements of these companies.
