Additional Resources

Beyond business and financial planning, site selection and other start-up basics, you'll need to consider additional factors about your new venture including legal structure, name for registration purposes, and applicable tax, licenses and permits.  Here are some helpful resources:

Legal structure

• Options.  The Michigan Economic Development Corporation offers in-depth information regarding various structures recognized by Michigan law.

• "Pick the Business Entity That's Right for You"; by Joseph Anthony.  This article explores the variables entrepreneurs should consider when determining the legal structure of their business.

Name Registration

• Registration Information.  The Michigan Economic Development Corporation provides easy access to on-line name registration and filing information. 

Employer Identification Number

• EIN.  An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to identify a business entity.  Generally, businesses need an EIN and may now register on-line with the Internal Revenue Service.

Licensing and Permits

• Licensing list.  Occupations requiring State of Michigan licensing.

• MiTaps.  Because Michigan has several hundred occupations and services, Michigan Timely Application and Permit Service (MiTaps) was created to streamline the licensing and permitting processes.  This link is a single point of entry allowing a faster, simplier and more efficient means to apply.

Tax Registration

• Guide.  The Michigan Economic Development Corporation's guide to tax liability.

• E-registration.  Employers may now register form most Michigan Business Taxes including a state sales tax license and/or UIA (Unemployment Insurance Agency) account number using this on-line application.  You must have your Federal EIN (Employer Identification Number) to register.  This process is easy, secure, convenient and much faster than registering by mail.  Expect to receive your new Sales Tax License in as little as 7 business days; and your UIA Account Number in as little as three.