When starting an LLC in Michigan, one of the first things you will need to do is to establish a business entity name.
As a seasoned business consultant specializing in limited liability companies in various states, and drawing from over a decade of practical experience and meticulous research, I offer a comprehensive and legally informed guide to help you search for business entities in Michigan.
I have identified the crucial steps involved in Michigan LLC lookup.
Quick Summary
- To look up an LLC in Michigan, visit the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website and use the Michigan business entity search tool.
- You can search for an LLC in Michigan by name, business identification number or filing number.
- Conform with the state’s naming requirements to have your LLC name approved and registered.
How Do I Look Up an LLC in Michigan?
To look up an LLC in Michigan, use the Michigan Corporation Search service provided by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
To search for a limited liability company in Michigan, go to the LARA website and follow these steps:
- Click on the Business Services tab
- Under the Business Filings heading, click on Business Entity Search
- Enter the Entity Name or ID number in the search box and click on the Search button
Once you have found the business name you are looking for, you can view information such as the Michigan registered agent, registered office address, and filing history.
You can also view documents that have been filed with the state, such as the Articles of Incorporation. You can also try the Michigan Corporations Division and Commercial Licensing Bureau.
Michigan Search Options
There are several Michigan business entity search options you can use to maximize the business search service. Use the information you have at hand and simply input the data.
The Michigan Business Name Search provides different search options:
- Entity Name
- Individual Name
- ID Number
- Filing Number
1. Search by Individual Name
You can use the Individual Name search option to search for an individual business owner.
You will need to enter the business owner's last name, first name, and middle initial (if available) and click the "Search" button.
You will then be able to view a list of Michigan LLC businesses registered under that name.
2. Search by Identification Number
A business identification number is given to newly-established entities by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for income tax purposes [1].
If you know the Identification number of the Michigan LLC business you are searching for, you can use the Identification Number search option.
To do this, enter the Business's ID number in the search box and click "Search".
You will then be able to view information about that specific business entity.
3. Search by Filing Number
The filing number is a numerical code assigned by the Secretary of State to a newly-formed organization.
If you know the filing number of a document that has been filed with the state, you can use the Filing Number search option.
Enter the identifier in the designated Michigan business search box and promptly access comprehensive information regarding the business entity.
Information for Michigan LLC Lookup
The information for Michigan LLC lookup can be accessed and obtained on the official website.
During your Michigan LLC search, you will gain access to important data, including:
- Business Name: This is the company’s legal name registered with the Michigan Secretary of State.
- Business Type: The legal structure of the organization. For LLC searches, the business type will be identified as "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company."
- Entity Status: The current standing of the LLC, categorized as either "active," "inactive" or “dissolved” indicating its operational status.
- Registered Agent: An individual designated by the members of the Michigan LLC to receive service of process on behalf of the company.
With these key details at your disposal, conducting a comprehensive Michigan LLC search becomes an informed and streamlined process.
While the Michigan Entity Search provides substantial data, it may not include all businesses within the state.
Certain companies registered with the state, like sole proprietorships, may not be required to file documents and thus will not appear in the search results.
Should you encounter difficulty finding a specific business through the Michigan Entity Search, it is advisable to directly reach out to the Michigan Secretary of State's office for further assistance.
Michigan LLC Name Requirements
When opening a Michigan LLC, you must select a name for your LLC. There are Michigan LLC name requirements, rules and restrictions that should be complied with to register your business.
When naming your Michigan business, it's important to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Your LLC name must contain the phrase "Limited Liability Company" or use one of its accepted abbreviations, such as "LLC" or "L.L.C."
- Ensure that your LLC name is distinct and unique from other registered business names within the state.
- A limited liability company may not use “corporation,” or “incorporated” in its name.
- If an LLC operates with a different business name other than its true name, a Certificate of Assumed Name must be filed [2].
- The business name should not use words associated with government agencies like “Treasury,” “FBI,” “Michigan Police” or “Secret Service”.
- Avoid using a business name that could potentially mislead or deceive the public.
If you're uncertain about whether your chosen business name meets these requirements, consult guidance from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. They can provide valuable assistance in ensuring compliance with naming regulations for your LLC.
FAQs
How Do I Contact an LLC in Michigan?
To contact an LLC in Michigan, you can reach out to the registered agent or seek assistance with the Michigan Corporations Division.
How Do I Find My Michigan EIN Number?
To find your Michigan EIN, you can contact the Internal Revenue Service and call the Business Specialty Tax Line, or, if you opened a company bank account, contact the institution.
Does an LLC Expire in Michigan?
An LLC does not expire in Michigan as long as the company remains in good standing with the state.
What Is the Difference Between an LLC and a Corporation in Michigan?
The difference between an LLC and a corporation in Michigan is that an LLC is a business structure that is owned by members and benefits from pass-through taxation while a corporation is owned by shareholders and is subject to double taxation.
What Does It Mean When an LLC Is Not in Good Standing in Michigan?
If an LLC is not in good standing in Michigan, the business has failed to comply with state requirements such as failure to file annual reports or non-payment of taxes.
Michigan LLC Lookup
Now that you know how to look up a Michigan LLC, you can form an LLC in Michigan. Remember to check the availability of your chosen business name and make sure that it meets the state requirements.
Once you have registered your business with the state, you can officially begin operating as an LLC.
References:
- https://www.lawinsider.com/dictionary/business-identification-number
- https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/cscl/corps/limited-liability-co/filing/naming-a-limited-liability-company
