Key Takeaways

  • Articles of Organization are required to legally establish an LLC in Michigan.
  • The form used is CSCL/CD-700 and must be filed with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
  • Key information includes the LLC name, duration, purpose, registered agent, and whether the LLC is member- or manager-managed.
  • You can file online or by mail, with optional expedited service for faster processing.
  • Additional steps such as creating an operating agreement and obtaining business licenses may be required depending on your business needs.
  • UpCounsel can connect you with experienced business attorneys for help filing or customizing your Articles of Organization.

What Are Articles of Organization for an LLC in Michigan?

The Articles of Organization is a document created by LLCs in Michigan to declare how the owners of the company, called members, plan to operate their business. Choosing to create a company as an LLC can be a smart move for many businesses. Members get the liability protection corporations get, while benefiting from remaining a pass-through enterprise. In most cases, LLCs are formed by one of its members.

What Information Is Required in the Articles of Organization?

To properly complete the Articles of Organization for an LLC in Michigan, you’ll need to provide the following:

  1. LLC Name:
    Must include “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company” and be distinguishable from other registered entities in Michigan.
  2. Purpose:
    You can enter a general statement such as "to engage in any lawful business activity." Specific purposes may be required for professional LLCs.
  3. Duration (Optional):
    Most LLCs are formed with perpetual existence. If you want the LLC to dissolve on a specific date, indicate it in this section.
  4. Registered Agent and Registered Office:
    Provide the name and Michigan street address of your registered agent. P.O. Boxes are not allowed.
  5. LLC Management Structure:
    Indicate whether the LLC will be managed by its members or by designated managers.
  6. Effective Date (Optional):
    You may choose a future date (no more than 90 days after filing) for your LLC to become effective.
  7. Additional Provisions (Optional):
    You may add custom provisions related to member responsibilities, liability limitations, or business operations.

Advantages of Forming an LLC in Michigan

  • LLCs are the most popular business structure.
  • LLCs are separate entities from its members.
    – Member liability is limited to member financial contributions.
    – The LLC structure limits taxes and liability.

Disadvantages of Forming an LLC in Michigan

  • LLCs must file an annual statement with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
  • If you don't file your LLCs documents on time, Michigan enforces penalties.
    – Late filing will result in late fees.
    – The state of Michigan can opt to dissolve your LLC if you don't file in time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who manages an LLC in Michigan?In most cases, members manage the company. However, if the Articles of Organization state that managers should manage the LLC, it should be followed. 

Do I need to put LLC after the name of my business?The state of Michigan requires that LLCs have some variation of LLC in its name. Acceptable variations include:

  • LLC
  • L.L.C.
  • Limited Liability Company

What other requirements does the state of Michigan have about the name of an LLC?

  • LLC names must be distinguishable from the names of existing businesses. You'll need to verify your name before creating your LLC.
  • Your LLC's name must not use a prohibited word without permission of the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth. The agency publishes a list of terms that you cannot use that includes federal agency terms, such as the secret service.
  • Licensed professionals may require additional paperwork to be used in the name of an LLC — for instance, to use the word lawyer or doctor in the LLC's name.

Can you reserve an LLC name without using it?The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Bureau of Commercial Services will reserve your LLC name for six months if you fill out an Application for Reservation of Name. This will enable you to save your name from being used by another LLC while you are still in the process of getting your business ready to operate.

Who is eligible to become a registered agent?To be a registered agent in the state of Michigan, you must be one of the following:

  • Michigan resident
  • Michigan corporation
  • Foreign corporation or LLC with relevant authorizations

What is a registered agent service?A registered agent service helps you file your LLC documents if you do not reside in Michigan or you want to avoid putting your personal information on file. Registered agents typically charge around $200 each year for this service.

Steps to Creating Articles of Organization for an LLC in Michigan

1. Choose a distinguishable name for your LLC. 

  • You want to make sure the name reflects your business and is something you'll want to stick with for the duration of your business venture.
  • Check the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth's online database to see if your chosen LLC name is available. You cannot choose a name that is already taken.

2. Create an Articles of Organization document.

  • This is the document that you will use to govern your LLC.
  • Without filing Articles of Organization, your LLC does not exist. 

3. File Form CSCL/CD-700 with your Articles of Organization with the State of Michigan or the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth. 

  • It costs around $50 to file.
  • You can file your Articles of Organization by mail, fax, or email. If you would rather, you can file them in person.

4. Choose a registered agent. 

  • You are required by law to choose a registered agent, although you do not need a commercial registered agent. One of your members can be the agent. This person simply agrees to accept legal papers for the LLC.

5. Create an operating agreement for your LLC. 

  • Although the state of Michigan does not require an operating agreement, it is an important document that details who owns your LLC and how it is to operate.

How to File Articles of Organization in Michigan

There are two primary ways to file the Articles of Organization:

1. File Online:

  • Use Michigan’s online business filing system at the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website.
  • This is the fastest option, with a typical processing time of 2–3 business days.
  • Payment is accepted via credit card.

2. File by Mail or In Person:

  • Download and complete Form CSCL/CD-700.
  • Mail to:
    Corporations, Securities & Commercial Licensing Bureau
    P.O. Box 30054, Lansing, MI 48909
  • You can also deliver in person to 2501 Woodlake Circle, Okemos, MI 48864.

3. Expedited Filing (Optional):

  • Available for additional fees:
    • 24-hour service: $50
    • Same-day service: $100
    • 2-hour service: $500
    • 1-hour service: $1,000
  • Submit a separate “Expedited Service Request” form with your Articles of Organization.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing

When learning how to fill out Articles of Organization LLC Michigan, avoid these common pitfalls:

  • Using an unavailable or restricted name without checking the LARA business name database first.
  • Leaving required fields blank on Form CSCL/CD-700, especially the registered agent section.
  • Failing to select the correct management structure, which could cause compliance issues later.
  • Not including an additional provision when required, such as for professional services or specific internal agreements.
  • Neglecting to sign the form or including an unauthorized signature.

Amending Articles of Organization

If you need to update your Articles of Organization after your LLC is formed, you must file a Certificate of Amendment (Form CSCL/CD-715) with LARA. Common reasons for amendments include:

  • Changing the LLC name
  • Updating the registered agent or office
  • Changing the management structure

The filing fee for amendments is $25. You can file by mail or online through the Michigan business portal.

Sample Language for Articles of Organization

Here are examples of standard language you can use when completing your Articles of Organization:

  • Purpose Clause:
    “The purpose of this Limited Liability Company is to engage in any lawful business activity for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the State of Michigan.”
  • Duration Clause (if not perpetual):
    “This LLC shall dissolve on December 31, 2035.”
  • Management Structure:
    “This LLC will be managed by its members.”

What to Do After Filing

Once you’ve submitted your Articles of Organization:

  1. Receive Confirmation:
    LARA will send a confirmation letter once your LLC is approved. This letter often includes your official LLC filing date.
  2. Obtain an EIN:
    Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax and banking purposes.
  3. Create an Operating Agreement:
    While not mandatory, it's highly recommended to formalize your LLC’s internal rules and ownership structure.
  4. Register for Michigan Business Taxes (if applicable):
    Depending on your business type, you may need to register with the Michigan Department of Treasury.
  5. Apply for Business Licenses or Permits:
    Check local city or county requirements for your industry.
  6. File Your Annual Statement:
    Due by February 15 each year with a $25 fee to maintain good standing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the Articles of Organization form in Michigan? You can download Form CSCL/CD-700 from the LARA website or complete it online through Michigan’s business portal.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Michigan? Online filings typically process in 2–3 business days. Mail filings can take 10–15 days unless expedited.

Do I need to notarize the Articles of Organization in Michigan? No, notarization is not required for filing Articles of Organization in Michigan.

Can I be my own registered agent in Michigan? Yes, as long as you are a Michigan resident with a physical street address in the state.

What is the filing fee for Articles of Organization in Michigan? The standard filing fee is $50. Additional fees apply for expedited service.

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