How to File an Annual Report in Michigan: Step-by-step Compliance Guide

Navigating the landscape of annual report filings can be a complex endeavor for businesses operating in any state. For those established in Michigan, understanding the specific requirements and procedures set forth by the Corporations Division, under the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), is paramount to maintaining good standing and ensuring continued legal operation.

Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge necessary to confidently fulfill your annual reporting duties, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: the growth and success of your business in Michigan.

Annual Report Requirements

All corporations, LLCs, and PLLCs registered in Michigan must file an Annual Report or Annual Statement with the Corporations Division under the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Filing keeps your company’s records current, confirms the business is active, and ensures compliance with state regulations.

Who Must File?

The obligation to file an annual report in Michigan extends to specific types of business entities that are formally registered with the Corporations Division. This includes:

Corporations (for-profit, nonprofit, professional):
List officers, directors, principal office, share details, and purpose.
LLCs: Provide details from the certificate of organization, management structure, and member/manager info.
PLLCs: Same as LLCs, plus names and addresses of licensed professionals.
Nonprofits: Must file to maintain active status.

Not required: Limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, sole proprietorships, and general partnerships.

Professional Corporations and PLLCs must also confirm at least one shareholder, member, or manager holds the proper professional license.

Required Information for a Michigan Annual Report

When filing, you’ll need to provide:

Business name and Department ID number
Principal office address
Registered office and resident agent (name and Michigan address)
Leadership details (directors, officers, members, or managers)
Business purpose
Authorized shares and value of property in Michigan (for corporations)
Licensed professional details (for PLLCs)

Accurate, updated information is critical to avoid delays, penalties, or issues with good standing.

Filing Deadlines for Michigan Business Entity Types

The Michigan Corporations Division has established distinct schedules for different business structures:

LLCs & PLLCs: February 15 each year (not required if formed/qualified after Sept 30 of the previous year). Online filing opens October 15.
Profit & Professional Corporations: May 15 each year. Online filing opens January 15.
Nonprofits: October 1 each year. Online filing opens June 15.

Mark deadlines early and file ahead of time to stay compliant.

Fees and Costs

Here is a breakdown of the typical fees and potential penalties:

Limited Liability Companies (LLCs): The filing fee for LLCs is $25.00.
Professional Limited Liability Companies (PLLCs): PLLCs face a higher filing fee of $75.00. Furthermore, a significant penalty fee of $50.00 is imposed if their annual statement is received after the February 15th due date.
Corporations (Profit and Professional): The filing fee for corporations is $25.00. However, these entities are subject to a graduated penalty fee structure if their reports are not received by the May 15th due date. The penalties escalate based on the duration of the delay:

May 16 - May 31: $10.00
June 1 - June 30: $20.00
July 1 - July 31: $30.00
August 1 - August 31: $40.00
September 1 - September 30: $50.00
October 1 - October 31: $60.00
November 1 - November 30: $70.00
May 16 - May 31: $10.00

Step-by-Step Filing Process

Filing your annual report in Michigan can be a straightforward
process if you follow the established guidelines.

Step 1

Check your deadline
based on entity type.

Step 2

Gather information: business
name, ID number, registered
office, resident agent,
leadership, and other required details

Step 3

Choose filing method: Online
via the Corporations Online
Filing System (COFS) for faster processing, or file by mail if preferred.

Step 4

Review and update info:
Ensure all data matches current records and includes shares, property values, or professional licenses if required.

Step 5

Pay fees: $25 for
corporations, $25 for LLCs,
$75 for PLLCs. Payment can
be made online or by mail.

Step 6

Submit and save confirmation
for your records.

Step 1

Check your deadline
based on entity type.

Step 3

Choose filing method: Online
via the Corporations Online
Filing System (COFS) for faster
processing, or file by mail if
preferred.

Step 5

Pay fees: $25 for
corporations, $25 for LLCs,
$75 for PLLCs. Payment can
be made online or by mail.

Step 2

Gather information: business
name, ID number, registered
office, resident agent,
leadership, and other required
details

Step 4

Review and update info:
Ensure all data matches current
records and includes shares,
property values, or professional
licenses if required.

Step 6

Submit and save
confirmation
for your records.

What Happens If You Miss the Michigan Annual Report Deadline

Failing to file can result in serious consequences:

Loss of good standing with the state
Administrative dissolution for domestic entities after two consecutive years of missed filings
Revocation of authority for foreign entities
Loss of limited liability protections, exposing owners to personal liability
Difficulty securing contracts, loans, or licenses, and potential damage to reputation

Key takeaway: Filing on time protects your business, maintains good standing, and avoids escalating penalties.

Professional Michigan Annual Report Filing Services

Palm takes the stress out of filing your Michigan Annual Report:

Expert, accurate filings tailored to state
requirements
Automated deadline tracking & reminders
Support from compliance specialists
Optional registered agent services

With Palm, you can stay compliant, avoid penalties, and focus on growing your business.

FAQ

This section addresses common questions regarding annual report
filings in Michigan, providing quick answers to help clarify key aspects
of the process.

What is the primary purpose of filing an annual report in Michigan?

The primary purpose is to update the state with current information about your business entity, ensuring that the public record is accurate and that the state can effectively regulate businesses operating within its jurisdiction. It also helps maintain your business's good standing.

What happens if I miss my annual report filing deadline?

Missing your deadline can lead to penalties, including escalating fees for corporations and a fixed penalty for professional LLCs. More severely, it can result in your business being designated as 'not good standing,' and eventually, administrative dissolution or revocation of authority after a two-year grace period.

Can I file my Michigan annual report online?

Yes, Michigan strongly encourages online filing through the Corporations Online Filing System (COFS). Online filing offers faster processing times and helps prevent common errors. Paper filing is also an option.

Do sole proprietorships or general partnerships need to file an annual report in Michigan?

No, sole proprietorships, general partnerships, limited partnerships, and limited liability partnerships do not register with the Corporations Division and are therefore not required to file annual reports.

What information is typically required for the annual report?

Generally, you will need to provide or update your registered office address, resident agent name and address, names and addresses of directors/managers/members, purpose of the business, and for corporations, authorized shares and the value of property owned and used in Michigan. PLLCs also need to list professional licensees.

Need a hand with your Michigan Annual Report?

Palm can prepare and submit your filing, serve as your registered agent, and monitor compliance year-round so you can stay focused on growth.

File Your Michigan Annual Report Now