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Michigan Secretary of State

Michigan Secretary of State

The Secretary of State (SOS) administers the Michigan Department of State. The official is elected in a partisan election. Additionally, the Secretary of State is the third-highest official in Michigan (MI).

The Michigan Secretary of State is responsible for elections. Moreover, the office also controls vehicle registration and driver’s license issuance. The Office also controls notaries public and keeps the Great Seal of Michigan. 

Lookup a Business Entity

It is possible to find information regarding your business entity in MI. Specifically, to do so, you should perform a search on the official website of the Michigan Secretary of State. There are several ways to do so. 

You should search by:  

  • the name
  • the ID number
  • the executive name

Additionally, make sure to follow all the necessary steps.

A corporation is an association of people that is created by law. If it is a profit company, the owners are shareholders. However, in most cases, the owners are the members of the company. In some cases, they may be shareholders as well. 

If you want to form a company, there are several important factors to consider. What is more, you should prepare the Articles of Incorporation and file them with the Bureau. The Articles of Incorporation must include several points. Some of them are:  

  • Name of company
  • The terms of the corporation (may change)
  • The class and number of shares to be issued
  • Business or residence address and name of the incorporation

Also, you should make sure to check the rules and requirements.

It is possible to find out if a company registered in MI is also registered in other jurisdictions. Note that you can conduct a nationwide search in the databases of all 50 Secretary of State.

You have the opportunity to search for free for a day. However, in this case, you will have to pay $50. 

Find More Info on a Michigan Company

You can find the necessary information on a corporation or business entity in MI or another state. Specifically, you can do so by searching the website of the Secretary of State.

Michigan Business Filings

Each corporation registered in MI has to file an Information Update each year. Specifically, you should file this update starting from the formation and qualification. In addition, the company’s registered agent will receive a pre-printed report from the Bureau. 

Note that if the updates are not filed, they will automatically dissolve or withdraw.  

Entity Name

It is not possible to choose any name for your business entity. The reason is that the rules of different business entities differ. For instance, companies, LLCs, and limited partnerships are named differently. 

What is more, one should conduct thorough research in the process of choosing an entity title. The reason for this is that your company title must be unique. Thus, you should make sure that no other company has the exact same name. The search can include:  

  • Federally registered marks
  • State registered marks
  • Titles of domains
  • Titles of corporation
  • Limited partnership
  • Limited liability companies

To do so, you should submit the request for the search of MI registered marks by mail to the Corporations Division. 

How Much Does a Business License Cost in Michigan?

If you own a company and want to obtain a license, there is great news for you. The primary business license in MI is free. However, other professional licenses regulated on the city, federal, or state level may require some fees. 

FAQ

Can You Walk Into the Secretary of State Without an Appointment in Michigan?

The office suggests making an appointment to be served on time. Note that if you are unable to make an appointment, you can stop by the office, and the staff members will assist you in case of availability. If there is no availability, they will offer to make an appointment that is convenient for you. 

Do I Need a Business License in Michigan?

MI does not require a single general license for businesses. However, before cooperating with other companies, most companies must get at least one type of business permit.  

How Do I Set Up an LLC in Michigan?

If you want to create an LLC in MI, there are several points to consider. Specifically, those are:

  • Find a name for your LLC.
  • Get your EIN number.
  • Have your MI Certificate of Formation.
  • Get your permits and licenses.
  • Learn about tax requirements.
  • Learn about company insurance options.

Contact Information

There is one toll-free number: 1-888-SOS-MICH (767-6424). The office is open from Monday to Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. 

Mane S

Mane S

Mane S., Author at License Lookup

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