A Client-Centered Approach For Business Law Solutions

Are you wondering how to start a business in Michigan?   Many business owners appreciate that before they can open their doors for business, there are legal issues such as licenses, permits, and contracts that should be addressed but do not have a comprehensive understanding of the essential elements of business law. 

At Tina S. Gray, P.C., the firm’s legal team can help chart out the lifecycle of your business entity from startup to succession.  Tina S. Gray founded her law firm just six years after becoming a licensed attorney.  She is a small business owner with more than 28 years of legal experience in business law, commercial litigation, construction, and real estate law, trusts and estates, among other areas.

What Are The Legal Procedures To Start A Business?

Starting a business in Michigan begins with creating a business plan.  What type of services or products will your business provide?  How long do you want to be in business?  Where will you situate your headquarters?  Who is your target audience?  Will you have employees or subcontractors?  What taxes and licenses are required? 

Once you have a big picture in mind, the legal procedures involve several key legal steps, including:

1. Choose a business structure: Decide whether your business will be a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation.
2. Register your business name:
   1. If you are planning to use a fictitious name, file a “Doing Business As” (DBA) with the county clerk’s office.
   2. If forming an LLC or corporation, register the business name with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
3. Obtain an employer identification number (EIN): Apply for an EIN from the IRS if you plan to have employees or if your business structure requires it.
4. Register with the Michigan Department of Treasury: This is necessary for state taxes, including sales tax, if applicable.
5. Obtain business licenses and permits: Depending on your industry, you may need various state and local licenses, or permits.  Check with the Michigan Business One Stop website and your local city or county government.
6. Comply with zoning laws: Ensure your business location follows local zoning laws and obtain any necessary zoning permits.
7. Open a business bank account: Separate your personal and business finances by opening a dedicated business bank account.
8. File for unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation: If you plan to have employees, you need to register for unemployment insurance with the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency and obtain workers’ compensation insurance.
9. Stay compliant: Keep up with ongoing legal requirements such as annual reports, tax filings, and any other state-specific requirements.

Consulting with a business law attorney can also be beneficial to ensure all legal aspects of forming a new business are properly addressed.

Contact Tina S. Gray, P.C., With Your Business Law Concerns

When you are asking, “What do I need legally to start a business?”  Speak with an experienced business law attorney.  Ms. Gray and her legal team have been helping business owners in Michigan since 2002.  Call the firm at 517-275-5240 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.  The firm is accessible from Interstate 96 between Okemos and Howell, 20 minutes east of Lansing in downtown Williamston.