5 Best Michigan LLC Formation Services 2023 List (Updated)


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Best LLC Formation Service in Michigan

When you decide to start an LLC in Michigan, you must thoroughly research and do your homework. Starting an LLC is relatively easy; with professional help, opening an LLC in Michigan becomes even smoother. You will find many such companies when choosing the best LLC formation service in Michigan. Surprisingly, every other company will claim to be the best. But who to trust? How do you know who is the best for your business?

LLCBuddy Editors have eased the task for you. We scanned the market and came up with a list of the best LLC formation services in Michigan. You can compare their services, prices, and other information here before choosing the right one! 

If you do not like reading a long article, you can watch the above video for the complete list of best LLC Michigan LLC formation services. It is mandatory to choose the best LLC formation service in Michigan, especially when you want to get rid of any hassle while forming your Michigan LLC. You may start it on your own, but it will not be a wise decision, as missing out any step or even a small thing can lead to the cancellation of the process.

Best LLC Formation Services in Michigan

Here is the list of best LLC services available in Michigan. The best thing about these services is starting your LLC for free. Some of the following services are offering LLC formation in Michigan at $0. Other than the state fees and charges, you do not have to pay any charges to the service provider. You will get the basic formation package for free. Now, let’s check out the list of best LLC formation service providers in Michigan-

LLC Service

Our Rating & Pricing

Top Features

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#1 TOP PICK

$0 + State Fees

  • Free LLC formation

  • Access to Legal Support

  • Trustworthy and established reputation

$299 + State Fees

  • Flat pricing for all services

  • Basic business filing services

  • A+ BBB Accredited

Below is the list of best LLC formation services in Michigan we picked for you.

  1. LegalZoom
  2. BetterLegal
  3. TailorBrands
  4. ZenBusiness
  5. NorthWest Registered Agent

LLCBuddy Editorial Team selects these companies through thorough research and market study. It is recommended that you must cross-check all the factors before choosing the right one for your business.

1. LegalZoom

incfile-logo

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in Michigan that offers free LLC formation services. If you want to avoid spending money to form your LLC, then LegalZoom is for you. It offers various formation packages that include all types of LLC services. Aside from LLC formation, LegalZoom offers C and S corp formation. With over thousands of customers, the company offers basic LLC formation services at $0. 

LegalZoom Plans

  • Basic Package- $0 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)
  • Pro Package – $249 + State Filing Fees (Tax deductible may be applicable)
  • Premium Package – $279 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)

Apart from these packages, LegalZoom offers a bunch of add-on services as well. Add-on services include the following-

  • Registered Agent – $299 per year. Available as an add-on and not included in any packages
  • Trademark registration: Assisting with the US trademark application process
  • Copyright registration: Guidance on registering copyrights for creative works
  • Patent services: Support in obtaining utility, design, and plant patents
  • Estate planning: Offering personalized wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
  • Legal advice: Access to a network of lawyers for consultations and legal guidance
  • Expedited Filing: With an additional $99, you can speed up your filing process.

LegalZoom Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get LegalZoomWhy You Shouldn’t Get LegalZoom
Free LLC formationExpensive add-ons, such as Registered Agent
Trustworthy and established reputationHigher pricing compared to some competitors
Quick turnaround timeLess number of add-on options
Access to legal professionalsSome additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support available through phone or chatMixed customer reviews

LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is one of the oldest companies in USA. This company is a service provider offering LLC formation at $0. It offers three broad packages, Basic, Pro, and Premium. The Basic package costs $0. Though you must pay the Michigan filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the Michigan Secretary of State. The filing fee depends on which method, mail, online, or any other method you choose. 

LegalZoom offers vast add-ones like others. Hence, the chances of getting diverse services are comparatively high. The best part about the company is there is an access to legal documents and legal consultation. The registered agent service is a bit expensive. If you want to hire Resident Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately, it does not come with any formation plans. 

2. BetterLegal

betterlegal

BetterLegal is a comparatively new company than other competitors. But this company has successfully grabbed a large portion of the market in the United States. Serving in 51 states, BetterLegal has been in business since 2016. Unlike other experienced companies, it does not have a list of packages and plans for LLC formation.

BetterLegal Plans

BetterLegal offers one single plan at a flat $299 + state filing fees. It has a list of add-on services as well. BetterLegal is an online service that started off with a very small team. However, even after being in the business for so long, they didn’t increase their team size much. They have transparent pricing, and no hidden charge exists for any services they provide. 

BetterLegal offers a list of add-on services. Following are the additional services they offer- 

  • Registered Agent service – $10/month or $90/year
  • State Annual compliance services – $10/month or $90/year
  • Permit & License Search Service – $125
  • Amendment & document research – Free with the core formation service package

BetterLegal Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get BetterLegalWhy You Shouldn’t Get BetterLegal
No refund; all sales are finalThe basic package does not include registered agent service
Quick Turnaround timeAdditional charge for EIN
A+ BBB AccreditedThe basic package does not include a registered agent service
Single plan for all incorporation

BetterLegal Overview

Even though the company is called BetterLegal, no attorneys or legal services are available. The company offers a single plan for all types of business formation. Hence, if you are planning to form a corporation, you can pay $299 + incorporation fee ($60 for filing online, in person, and by mail in Michigan). It offers comparatively better turnaround time at a reasonable price than other companies. You can file your LLC within 10 minutes with BetterLegal. 

It offers a resource center for new entrepreneurs. They provide guidance to make things easier when it comes to filing your business. Their small team sometimes fails to cater to their customers on time. Reaching out to their customer support team is very difficult. Another disadvantage is it does not have a refund policy. All sales with BetterLegal are final, and at any stage, upon cancelation, no refund is made. However, basic LLC formation and registered agent services are much cheaper in BetterLegal than in other close competitors.

3. TailorBrands

tailore-brands-logo

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Michigan? Here is the LLC formation service provider, TailorBrands, for you. The company was established in 2015 in New York, and since then, it has offered several incredible services to set up your business. TailorBrands has a single LLC formation plan that starts at $49 a year. You can choose different other add-on services at an additional cost. 

TailorBrands Services

TailorBrands offer a single plan for forming an LLC at $49. There are some basic services that TailorBrands offer, including starting an LLC, filing it, Michigan name availability search, priority support, and so on. You can use their add-on services as and when required. Add-ons are-

  • Registered Agent Service – $199/year
  • Employment ID Number (EIN) – $99 (one-time pay)
  • Annual Compliances – $299/year
  • Operating Agreement – $29
  • Expedited Filing – $49
  • Business bank account – Free

TailorBrands Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get TailorBrandsWhy You Shouldn’t Get TailorBrands
Low-cost LLC formationNot BBB Accredited
Free business bank accountsNo business domain packages
Hassle-free LLC formationAdditional charges to obtain EIN
Additional services like logo, website, domain

TailorBrands Overview

TailorBrands does not have vast LLC formation packages. Instead, it has a single package that includes the formation of LLCs. The name availability search is unlimited, and you don’t have to pay any additional fees. The state filing fee of $50 must be paid apart from the charges you pay for add-ons. 

TailorBrands offers other business services such as logo making, domain, website, business bank account, merchandise, and other business services. As a small or start-up business, you must go for TailorBrands.

4. ZenBusiness

zenbusiness

ZenBusiness is a Texas-based company that provides services from formation to annual compliance to an LLC. It offers three plans, Starter, Pro, and Premium. The Starter plan starts from $0. That means you can form your LLC for free in Michigan, though you must pay the state filing fee of $50 to the Michigan Secretary of State. But, the company charges nothing to form your business in the state. 

ZenBusiness Plans

  1. Starter Plan at $0 + state filing fee
  2. Pro Plan at $199/year + state filing fee
  3. Premium Plan at $299/year + state filing fee

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get ZenBusinessWhy You Should Not Get ZenBusiness
100% accuracy rateDoes not form Michigan nonprofit
Free LLC formation in MichiganAdditional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Resident Agent services

ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness is one of those top-rated companies that provide business formation in Michigan at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in Michigan. The state filing fee and other necessary fees must be paid, including the registered agent fee. 

ZenBusiness offers three plans, among which the Pro plan is recommended. The Pro plan has everything you need to start an LLC in Michigan. Obtaining EIN, operating agreement drafting, name search, and all other services are available with the rush filing feature. 

5. Northwest Registered Agent

northwest registered agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a family-owned business based in Spoken, Washington state. The company offers LLC formation, registered agent service, annual compliances, and other business-related services in all 50 states, including Michigan. It offers LLC formation at $ 39+ state fees and registered agent service at $125 yearly. 

Northwest Plans

Northwest does not have conventional packages. It offers Core, Business maintenance, and business development services. Under these categories, various services are available at a flat rate. Some of the services offered by Northwest in Michigan are listed below-

  • LLC formation in Michigan at $39 + state filing fee
  • Registered Agent at $125 yearly
  • Annual report filing at $100 + state filing fee
  • Obtaining EIN at $50
  • Northwest offers National Agent Service. If you operate your LLC Resident Agent in 5 or more states, you can pay $100 + state fees (if applicable) to get a single agent for all states.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get NorthwestWhy You Should Not Get Northwest
DIY Packages for your LLC in MichiganNot BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all servicesAdditional charges to obtain EIN in Michigan
Purchase only the service you need to form Michigan LLC.The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers standalone Resident Agent service in Michigan

Northwest Registered Agent Overview

Northwest is one of those service providers that offer DIY packages. Northwest is not for you if you want a wholesome formation package in Michigan. It does not have conventional LLC formation packages. It is simply like a departmental store for you. You don’t need to buy everything, but the only thing you need. 

Northwest has in-house corporate guides to guide you through the formation process. It offers LLC formation at $39 plus the state filing fee ($50). If you have already formed your LLC in Michigan and are willing to appoint Resident Agent only, then Northwest can provide a standalone registered agent service at $125 per year.

Northwest offers single flat rates for all services in Michigan and other states. The best part about the company is it does not outsource any of its services. Northwest offers corporate guides to help you through the steps of LLC formation. 

How to Form an LLC in Michigan

Michigan, popularly known as The Great Lakes State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 10,135,438. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of Michigan is $626,680 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in Michigan will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Lansing, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits. 

To form an LLC in Michigan, you need to follow some basic steps, including getting an LLC name, appointing your Michigan Resident Agent, filing the Michigan Articles of Organization, creating Michigan LLC operating agreement, and finally getting an EIN for filing required taxes. 

You can do that on your own. However, it is always recommended to get a professional person on board to guide you through. These steps are crucial and sensitive. You must complete everything to avoid canceling your formation process. Hence, having a professional LLC formation service for your LLC is better. 

How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Michigan

It is important to choose the best service for your business carefully. Before you select the best one, make sure you thoroughly research on following points-

  1. Reputation: Look for a company with a good reputation. Check reviews and ratings from previous clients to see how they feel about the services offered.
  2. Experience: Choose a company with years of LLC formation experience. This ensures that they have knowledge of the process and can provide quality services.
  3. Cost: Compare prices between different companies. Choose a company that offers affordable pricing for the services you need.
  4. Customer Service: Ensure that the company has good customer service. They should be responsive, helpful, and willing to answer any questions.
  5. Services Offered: Look for a company that offers a range of services, including entity formation, registered agent services, and ongoing compliance support to ensure your LLC remains in good standing.
  6. Ease of Use: Choose a company with a user-friendly website and easy-to-use online platform. This makes the process of forming an LLC simple and straightforward.
  7. Guarantees: Check if the company offers a satisfaction guarantee or a refund policy. This gives you peace of mind that you are getting the best possible service.

FAQs

What are the best LLC formation services available in Michigan?
Some of the best LLC formation services in Michigan are IncFile, ZenBusiness, Northwest Registered Agent, and Incorporate.com.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Michigan?
The filing fee for forming an LLC in Michigan is $50. However, if you decide to use an LLC formation service, the cost may be higher depending on the package you choose. It can range anywhere from $49 to $299+
Do I need an attorney to form an LLC in Michigan?
No, you do not need an attorney to form an LLC in Michigan. You can hire an experienced attorney to assist you in guiding through the legal requirements to safeguard your business simply like another level of legality which generates more credibility.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Michigan?
The processing time usually takes around 10-15 business days for your LLC documents to be processed by the state of Michigan.
Does Michigan require LLCs to have a registered agent?
Yes, Michigan requires LLCs to have a registered agent. This can either be an individual residing in Michigan or a company providing registered agent services in Michigan. This person/persons is authoritative to work on behalf of the company and receives important legal documentations on the company’s behalf.
Can I be my own registered agent in Michigan?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Michigan as an individual in Michigan, but consider and beware that your identity details won’t be excluded from state public records so it’s mostly advised to hire a registered agent service provider in Michigan.
What are the benefits of hiring a registered agent in Michigan?
A registered agent in Michigan will provide the practical way of keeping an organizational compliance of the entity, gives a physical location-free mailing address for LLC and helps separate business only mail.
How do I choose the right LLC formation service in Michigan?
You should compare the formation services provided by the different companies, read their customer reviews and compare the pricing of their packages in areas like residency requirements for your business model among others.
Are there any additional costs after forming an LLC in Michigan?
Yes, additional costs you might need to consider include business licensing, state income tax payments, mandatory annual reporting fees, state and federal taxes to name a few.
Can I change my business name after I have formed an LLC in Michigan?
Yes, it is possible to perform business name changes after forming LLC but it has dues and Federal tax payment renewal but decreasing reputation issues by changing positively that may be a trade-off.
Do I have to file annual reports for my Michigan LLC?
Yes, you are required to file an annual report with the state of Michigan, the filing duration at least once every year.
Are there any residency requirements for forming an LLC in Michigan?
No, there are no residency requirements for forming an LLC in Michigan, but foreign investors registering an LLC in Michigan need a registered agent in the state.
Is there any assistance available for starting a business in Michigan?
Yes, the Michigan Small Business Development Center provides various resources and workshops to assist individuals in starting and growing their businesses.
Can I add multiple members to my Michigan LLC?
Yes, a Michigan LLC can have more than one member. That’s the definition itself; Limited Liability Company instead of a sole proprietorship.
How can I dissolve an LLC in Michigan?
The thought of dissolving an LLC could either occur due to lack of operations, low profit, legal reasons or financial difficulties, you need to contact LARA for any assistance in dissolving your Michigan LLC because it isn’t a process you can carry out soley as an owner, it needs professionals.
What is a Foreign Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Michigan?
A foreign LLC in Michigan is simply an already established, registered limited liability company or a franchise operating through bordering or out Michigan which can choose to register with the Secretary of MI to grant foreign qualification status.
How long does the foreign qualification process take in Michigan?
Processing time can take around 10-15 business days but also as it’s a manual task of the Secretary of MI so the duration may change.
Can a foreign LLC do business in Michigan without foreign qualification status?
Operating without a foreign qualification status in Michigan is Illeagal and may lead to criminal or civil issues under marketing expense and unpaid taxes, familiarize yourself duly if orenting accordingly.
What is an Operating Agreement for an LLC in Michigan?
An Operating Agreement is a legally binding document that establishes how an LLC froms or manages itself by Chicago Corporation lawyers in arrangements up to its company policies.
Is an Operating Agreement required for an LLC in Michigan?
Though, it isn’t mandatory in Michigan to have an Operating Agreement further to avoid any misconceptions or misunderstanding, unless partners have prior advenanced mutual agreements and required guidelines.
Can I amend my Operating Agreement in Michigan?
Yes, It deserves and requires follow-ups with proven and reliable resouces who directly alter any deviance of the companies business motto in regard of company proceedings.
How can I get an EIN number for my Michigan LLC?
You can get an EIN number for your Michigan LLC either through IRS- managed online process or mail-in process.
How can I obtain a Tax ID or Seller’s Permit for sales tax in Michigan?
The Michigan Department of Treasury is responsible for granting applicable Seller’s, Conditional Reseller’s or Transaction Privilege Tax permits to the Michigan based respomsible entities and businesses, while EIN serves as a Tax ID to avoid competitive creeps between consumers area for owned business.
What is the cost for an EIN number in Michigan?
Obtaining EIn is state Government charged everthelessbut it cost free to receive an EIN to Michigan LLC.
Will my Michigan LLC be required to pay a State income tax?
Yes, as the self responsible and fruitful corporation and domestic entity registered in Michigan will it needsof course bear the consequences regarding the tax.
Is a business license necessary to form an LLC in Michigan?
Yes businjs license is country sanctioned and governed waaraanty to keep charges levy claims aligned, this produce a better explaination of their economic segment status.
How many business licenses may an LLC be required to obtain in Michigan?
An LLC might be obligated to obtain more than one licenses such as Retail Distributing License,or needs of local occupational licensing.
Can my business get the Michigan grants?
Yes , Michigan may retain subfranchise like statistics contributes grants basedoff micro lending favourtables orto make small businesses accessions amongst larger loan programs.
What are the best LLC formation services in Michigan?
Some of the top LLC formation services in Michigan include LegalZoom, Incfile, and Northwest Registered Agent.
How much does it cost to set up an LLC in Michigan?
The filing fee for an LLC in Michigan is $50. However, the cost for LLC formation services can vary depending on the service you choose.
Can I file for an LLC formation on my own in Michigan?
Yes, you can file for an LLC in Michigan on your own. However, it’s recommended to consult with an attorney or use an online LLC formation service.
What information do I need to provide when forming an LLC in Michigan?
You will need to provide the name of your LLC, the address, the name and address of your registered agent in Michigan, and your articles of organization.
How long does it take to set up an LLC in Michigan?
It usually takes around 5-7 business days to set up an LLC in Michigan if everything is filed correctly.
How do I register a foreign LLC in Michigan?
You will need to file an Application for Certificate of Authority with the Michigan Secretary of State.
Can I convert my Michigan LLC into another business entity?
Yes, you can convert your Michigan LLC into a different business entity, such as a corporation or partnership.
As a foreign LLC, am I required to have a registered agent in Michigan?
Yes, a foreign LLC must have a registered agent in Michigan.
What is a registered agent in Michigan?
A registered agent is a person or entity designated to receive legal documents and communications on behalf of the LLC.
How much does it cost to have a registered agent in Michigan?
The cost of a registered agent in Michigan can vary, but is usually around $100-$150 per year.
What is an operating agreement in Michigan?
An operating agreement is a legal document that outlines the ownership structure and management of an LLC.
Do I need an operating agreement in Michigan?
While Michigan does not require LLCs to have an operating agreement, it is recommended as it can help to avoid legal disputes.
Can I change my operating agreement after formation in Michigan?
Yes, you can change your LLC operating agreement in Michigan. However, all members must agree to the changes.
Does Michigan require businesses to have business licenses and permits?
Yes, Michigan requires most businesses to have business licenses and permits before operating.
How do I obtain a business license in Michigan?
You can obtain a business license in Michigan by contacting the appropriate state agency or contacting your local city clerks office.
What is a trade name in Michigan?
A trade name is a name under which your business operates that is not your legal name.
Can I operate under a trade name in Michigan?
Yes, you can operate under a trade name in Michigan. However, you will need to file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the state.
What are the tax implications for forming an LLC in Michigan?
Michigan LLCs are taxed as pass-through entities, meaning profits are taxed at the individual level for each member.
What is a Single-member LLC in Michigan?
A single-member LLC is an LLC with only one owner.
Can a single-member LLC have employees in Michigan?
Yes, a single-member LLC can have employees in Michigan.
What is a Multi-Member LLC in Michigan?
A multi-member LLC is an LLC with more than one owner.
How do multi-member LLCs allocate profits and losses in Michigan?
Profits and losses are typically allocated based on a percentage of ownership in the LLC.
Can foreign LLCs own property in Michigan?
Yes, foreign LLCs can own property in Michigan as long as they register as a foreign entity first.
Can an LLC in Michigan be owned by non-US residents or businesses?
Yes, an LLC in Michigan can be owned by non-US residents or businesses.
What are the publication requirements for an LLC in Michigan?
Michigan LLCs do not have any publication requirements.
Can I have a PO box as my LLC address in Michigan?
No, a PO box is not a valid address for your registered agent or principal office in Michigan.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when forming an LLC in Michigan?
Common mistakes include not choosing the right business name, not having an operating agreement, and not registering properly with the state.
Can I Change my Michigan LLC name after formation?
Yes, you can change your LLC name in Michigan by filing an Amendment.
Does Michigan require an annual report from all LLCs?
Yes, Michigan requires all LLCs to file an annual report to stay in compliance with the state.

Also Read

Conclusion

Having a professional service to form your LLC in Michigan is much better than doing it yourself. It is hassle-free, and there is no chance of making mistakes while filing your business. This article lists the best LLC formation services in Michigan. Before you select one, make sure you compare the price, services, and features properly. 


About Author & Editorial Staff

Steve Goldstein, founder of LLCBuddy, is a specialist in corporate formations, dedicated to guiding entrepreneurs and small business owners through the LLC process. LLCBuddy provides a wealth of streamlined resources such as guides, articles, and FAQs, making LLC establishment seamless. The diligent editorial staff makes sure content is accurate, up-to-date information on topics like state-specific requirements, registered agents, and compliance. Steve's enthusiasm for entrepreneurship makes LLCBuddy an essential and trustworthy resource for launching and running an LLC.

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