Short answer: Reserving an entity name secures the name for 180 days.
We've pulled these figures from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division's own pages. If something's changed since our last check, the state's portal wins, so it's worth a quick look before you pay.
Michigan naming rules
Reserving an entity name secures the name for 180 days.
Open the official Michigan name search
Reserving a name
Michigan lets you reserve a name for $25, which holds it for 180 days.
Doing business under another name
Michigan DBAs are filed with: state. Fee: $25.
How Michigan compares
Michigan's name reservation fee is $25. That's the 18th highest of 50 jurisdictions we track. The national median is $25, right where Michigan sits.
| State | Fee | National rank (1 = highest) |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $25 | 18 of 50 |
| New York | $20 | 33 of 50 |
| Pennsylvania | $70 | 3 of 50 |
| Wisconsin | $15 | 38 of 50 |
| New Jersey | $50 | 7 of 50 |
| Ohio | $39 | 11 of 50 |
Michigan fees that apply here
| Filing | State fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization (Form CSCL/CD 700) | $50 | Exceptionally low $50 fee. |
| Name reservation (optional) | $25 | 180 days |
| Amendment | $25 | |
| DBA / assumed name | $25 | state |
Name search and rules: Michigan questions
How do I check if an LLC name is available in Michigan?
Use the official Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division business search. A name that's distinguishable from existing records can usually be registered.
What words must a Michigan LLC name include?
Reserving an entity name secures the name for 180 days.
Can I reserve an LLC name in Michigan?
Yes. Reservation costs $25 and holds the name for 180 days.
Do I need a DBA in Michigan?
Only if you'll do business under a name other than your exact LLC name. DBAs are filed with: state. Fee: $25.
Sources and verification
Last checked against official state sources on . States change fees with little notice, so confirm on the filing portal before you pay. How we verify.
Still being confirmed with the state: ra.self allowed.