How long does it take to register a business in Michigan?

Processing times vary: 5-7 business days. Online filings are typically faster than mail submissions. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Do I need a business license in Michigan?

Michigan does not require a state-level business license, but individual cities and counties may have their own requirements. Check with your local government for specific licensing needs.

Can I use my personal name as my business name?

Yes, you can use your personal name as your business name. For an LLC, you'll need to add "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to the end. However, using a unique business name often provides better branding opportunities and legal protection.

What if my desired business name is already taken?

If your preferred name is unavailable, you have several options: 1) Choose a different name, 2) Add descriptive words to make it unique, 3) Use a different LLC suffix (LLC, L.L.C., etc.), or 4) Consider filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name while keeping a different legal name.

How much does it cost to start a business in Michigan?

The LLC filing fee is $50. Annual fees are $25. Additional costs include business licenses ($50-500), registered agent fees ($50-300/year if using a service), and other startup expenses. Total first-year costs typically range from $200.

Do I need a trademark for my business name?

While not required, trademark registration provides nationwide protection for your business name. Registering your LLC with the state only protects your name within Michigan. If you plan to expand beyond the state or want stronger legal protection, consider applying for a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an amendment with the Michigan Secretary of State. This typically costs $20-100 and takes a few weeks to process. However, changing your name can be expensive when you consider updating all your marketing materials, domain, signage, and legal documents.

Michigan Business Name Generator

Generate unique business names for your Michigan LLC or startup. Get AI-powered suggestions tailored to Michigan businesses and local market.

Generate Business Names for Michigan

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Michigan?

$50

Filing Fee

5-7

Processing (days)

950K

Total Businesses

110K/yr

New Businesses

Automotive industry hub with strong manufacturing base

Low filing fees - among the cheapest in the US

Growing tech scene in Ann Arbor and Detroit

Access to Great Lakes shipping and logistics

Starting a Business in Michigan

Top Cities for Business

Detroit639,000
Grand Rapids199,000
Warren140,000
Sterling Heights134,000
Ann Arbor123,000

Popular Industries

Automotive
Manufacturing
Technology
Healthcare
Agriculture

Cost to Start a Business in Michigan

LLC Filing Fee$50

Annual Report Fee$25/year

Name Reservation (optional)$25 for 180 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$200

Processing time: 5-7 business days

Michigan Tax Overview

Michigan has a flat 4.25% personal income tax and 6% corporate income tax. Sales tax is 6% statewide with no local additions.

Michigan Business Name Requirements

Must contain "LLC", "L.L.C.", or "Limited Liability Company"
Cannot be the same as or deceptively similar to existing names

Restricted Words: The following words cannot be used without special approval:

Bank, Trust, Insurance

Business Name Ideas for Michigan

Explore 30 pre-generated business name ideas across popular industries. Use these as inspiration or starting points for your own unique name.

restaurant

Great Lakes Kitchen
Michigan Fresh Cuisine
Detroit Table
Motor City Dining
Michigan Plate Co.
Local Flavors

barbershop

Michigan Barber Co.
Classic Cuts
Great Lakes Cuts
Premium Grooming
Detroit Barbers
Expert Style

construction

Michigan Build Group
Quality Construction
Great Lakes Contractors
Building MI
Detroit Builders
Trusted Partners

consulting

Michigan Strategy
Business Growth
Great Lakes Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Detroit Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Michigan Mercantile
Local Goods
Great Lakes Market
Quality Products
Detroit Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Michigan Home Care
Complete Solutions
Great Lakes Services
Professional Care
Detroit Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Michigan Tech Labs
Innovation
Great Lakes Digital
Tech Solutions
Detroit Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Michigan Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Great Lakes Medical
Patient Care
Detroit Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Michigan Properties
Dream Homes
Great Lakes Realty
Expert Service
Detroit Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Michigan Fitness
Peak Performance
Great Lakes Strong
Community Fitness
Detroit Athletics
Elite Training

Official Michigan Business Resources

Michigan LARA

Licensing and business registration

Michigan Department of Treasury

Business tax information and registration

Michigan SBDC

Business planning and consulting services

How to Register a Business in Michigan

Annual Compliance Requirements

After forming your Michigan LLC, you'll need to maintain compliance with these ongoing requirements:

File Annual Statement by February 15 ($25)
Maintain resident agent in Michigan
Pay state and federal taxes as required
Corporate income tax applies to most LLCs

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Michigan Business Owners

Self-Employment Tax

Calculate SE tax liability

Profit Margin Calculator

Calculate your profit margins

S-Corp Salary

Optimize salary vs distribution

Generate Names for Nearby States

Ready to Launch Your Michigan Business?

Jupid AI Accountant handles everything from LLC formation to ongoing tax compliance. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Information is accurate as of 2026-01. Always verify current requirements with the Michigan Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.