Michigan Certificate of Good Standing

A Michigan certificate of good standing confirms that a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation was founded lawfully and is being properly maintained.

In our Certificate of Good Standing Michigan guide, we will go over the qualifications for good standing as well as how to get one in Michigan.

How Do I Obtain a Michigan Certificate of Good Standing?

Request your Michigan certificate of good standing from the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

There are two major processes involved in obtaining your certificate of good standing:

1. Maintain your LLC’s compliance

2. Request a certificate of good standing.

What exactly is a good standing certificate? A certificate of good standing is a state document that confirms your company was created lawfully and has been properly maintained.

Step 1: Ensure that your Michigan business is in compliance.

To be eligible for a Michigan certificate of good standing, your company must meet the following state compliance requirements:
Permits and Licenses

To run a company in Michigan, you must adhere to federal, state, and municipal licensing requirements. Regulations such as health permits and construction permits are examples of this.

The Michigan State License Search Page provides further information on state licensing requirements.
State levies

Depending on your company activity, you may be required to register for several types of Michigan state tax. Sales tax, withholding tax, and Unemployment Insurance (UI) tax are all examples of this.
Reports on a Year

Every year, all Michigan LLCs must submit an Annual Statement, and every year, all Michigan corporations must file an Annual Report. This report confirms the company’s fundamental facts, such as its primary office location and registered agent.

Both reports are submitted to the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs online. Annual Statements are due on February 15 of each year, while Annual Reports are due on May 15 of each year. The cost is $25.

Step 2: Obtain a Michigan Certificate of Good Standing.

You may receive a certificate of good standing from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs if your firm stays in compliance with the state. This may be done through email, mail, phone, or in person.

Is a Certificate of Good Standing Required in Michigan?

While you don’t always require a certificate of compliance to manage a company in Michigan, there are a few situations when you could. These are some examples:

Purchasing commercial insurance

Applying for commercial loans

Establishing a business checking account

Getting a business license in another state