When it comes to forming an LLC, selecting the right state is a crucial decision for entrepreneurs.
Arizona and Michigan offer unique advantages and considerations for individuals seeking to establish their business.
In comparing Arizona and Michigan LLCs, factors such as formation requirements, tax regulations, business environment, and available resources play a significant role.
By examining these aspects, entrepreneurs can make informed choices, ensuring their LLC aligns with their specific needs and goals in either Arizona or Michigan.
Arizona vs. Michigan LLC
Arizona
Low annual filing fees ($50)
No franchise tax
Easy to form and maintain
No state income tax on pass-through entities
Foreign LLCs can register as a domestic LLC in Arizona
No single-member LLCs allowed
Annual report due by 4/15
Michigan
Low annual filing fees ($50)
No franchise tax
Easy to form and maintain
Single-member LLCs allowed
Foreign LLCs can register as a foreign LLC in Michigan
State income tax on pass-through entities
Annual report due by 4/15
| Arizona LLC | Michigan LLC |
|---|---|
| File Articles of Organization with Arizona Corporation Commission | File Articles of Organization with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs |
| Generally range from $50 to $150 | Typically $50 for filing the Articles of Organization |
| A registered agent with a physical address in Arizona is required | A registered agent with a physical address in Michigan is required |
| The Arizona Corporation Commission (AZCC) doesn’t require an Annual Report (or fee) for an Arizona LLC. | Annual report filing is required with Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs and a fee of $25 |
| Arizona follows a state income tax system with progressive tax rates | Michigan also follows a state income tax system with progressive tax rates |
| Arizona has a state sales tax rate of 5.6%, with additional local taxes possible | Michigan has a state sales tax rate of 6%, without additional local sales taxes |
| Arizona does not levy personal property tax on LLCs | Michigan imposes a personal property tax on LLCs |
Cost Breakdown of The Two
You may use our free LLC cost calculator by state to find out filing fees, tax percentages, income taxes, and more.
Formation Fees:
Arizona: The formation fees for an LLC in Arizona generally range from $50 to $150.
Michigan: The formation fees for an LLC in Michigan typically amount to $50.
Annual Report Fees:
Arizona: The Arizona Corporation Commission (AZCC) doesn’t require an Annual Report (or fee) for an Arizona LLC.
Michigan: The annual report fee for an LLC in Michigan is $25.
Registered Agent Fees:
Both Arizona and Michigan require appointing a registered agent for LLCs. The costs for registered agent services can vary depending on the service provider chosen.
It is advisable to research and compare prices offered by registered agent service companies.
Related Posts:
- Arizona LLC: Cost Breakdown, Pros and Cons, Requirements
- Michigan LLC: Cost Breakdown, Pros and Cons, Requirements
Similarities Between Arizona and Michigan LLC
Limited Liability Protection: Both states offer limited liability protection to owners of LLCs.
This means that the personal assets of the owners are generally shielded from business debts and liabilities.
Flexible Business Structure: Both Arizona and Michigan allow for a flexible business structure, allowing LLCs to be formed with one or more members.
This flexibility provides options for ownership and management arrangements that suit the needs of the business.
Pass-Through Taxation: Both states follow the federal tax treatment for LLCs, which means that the LLC itself does not pay federal income taxes.
Instead, the profits and losses are “passed through” to the individual members, who report them on their personal tax returns.
Formation Process: Both Arizona and Michigan require the filing of specific formation documents with the respective state authorities to establish an LLC.
The process typically involves providing basic information about the business, such as its name, address, and registered agent.
Ongoing Compliance Obligations: Both states impose certain ongoing compliance obligations on LLCs.
These obligations may include filing annual reports, maintaining good standing with the state, and adhering to any additional state-specific requirements.
Additional Resources:
- Arizona vs. Delaware LLC
- Arizona vs. Florida LLC
- Best States to Form LLC For Consulting: Factors to Consider
Steps to Form LLC in Arizona
Choose a Name: Select a unique name for your LLC that complies with Arizona’s naming requirements. The name should include the words “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviation “LLC.”
Appoint a Statutory Agent: Designate a statutory agent, also known as a registered agent, who will receive legal and official documents on behalf of the LLC.
The agent must have a physical address in Arizona.
File Articles of Organization: Prepare and file the Articles of Organization with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC).
This document officially establishes your LLC and includes information such as the LLC’s name, statutory agent details, management structure, and purpose.
Create an Operating Agreement: Although not required by law in Arizona, it is recommended to create an operating agreement.
This document outlines the ownership, management, and operational procedures of your LLC. It helps establish clear guidelines and prevent misunderstandings among members.
Obtain an EIN: If your LLC has multiple members or if you plan to hire employees, you’ll need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website.
Comply with Tax and Regulatory Requirements: Register for state and local taxes, such as sales tax or employer withholding tax, if applicable.
Additionally, ensure compliance with any specific industry regulations or licenses that may apply to your business.
Annual Reports: Arizona LLCs are required to file an annual report with the ACC. The report includes basic information about your LLC and requires a filing fee.
Steps to Form LLC in Michigan
Choose a Name: Select a unique name for your LLC that complies with Michigan’s naming requirements. The name should include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or an acceptable abbreviation like “L.L.C.”
Additionally, ensure that the name is distinguishable from other registered business entities in Michigan.
Appoint a Resident Agent: Designate a resident agent for your LLC in Michigan. The agent will receive legal and official documents on behalf of the company.
The agent must have a physical address in Michigan and be available during normal business hours.
File Articles of Organization: Prepare and file the Articles of Organization with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
The articles include information about your LLC, such as its name, purpose, registered agent details, and management structure.
Create an Operating Agreement: While not required by law, it is advisable to create an operating agreement for your LLC.
This agreement outlines the internal operating procedures, ownership structure, and member responsibilities within the company.
Obtain an EIN: If your LLC has more than one member or if you plan to hire employees, you will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
This number is used for tax purposes.
Register for State Taxes: Register with the Michigan Department of Treasury for state taxes, including income tax withholding and sales tax, if applicable to your business activities.
Consult the department’s website or contact them directly to determine your specific tax obligations.
Annual Reports and Ongoing Compliance: Michigan requires LLCs to file an annual report with LARA and pay the associated fee.
The report confirms the LLC’s continued existence and provides updated information.
Additionally, ensure compliance with any other ongoing obligations imposed by the state, such as maintaining good standing and updating records as necessary.
Feature Comparisons Between Arizona LLC vs. Michigan LLC
Arizona LLC:
Formation requires filing Articles of Organization with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Formation fees generally range from $50 to $150.
A registered agent with a physical address in Arizona is required.
Annual report filing is required with the Arizona Corporation Commission, with a fee of $45.
Arizona follows a state income tax system with progressive tax rates.
The state sales tax rate is 5.6%, with additional local taxes possible.
There is no franchise tax on LLCs in Arizona.
LLCs in Arizona are not subject to personal property tax.
Michigan LLC:
Formation requires filing Articles of Organization with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
The filing fee for Articles of Organization is typically $50.
A registered agent with a physical address in Michigan is required.
Annual report filing is required with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, with a fee of $25.
Michigan follows a state income tax system with progressive tax rates.
The state sales tax rate is 6%, without additional local sales taxes.
Michigan imposes a franchise tax on LLCs.
LLCs in Michigan are subject to personal property tax.
Business Environment
Arizona:
Business-Friendly Climate: Arizona is known for its business-friendly environment, with streamlined regulations and low taxes.
The state consistently ranks well in terms of ease of doing business, attracting entrepreneurs and investors.
Thriving Startup Ecosystem: Arizona has a vibrant startup ecosystem, particularly in the technology and innovation sectors. The state offers incubators, accelerators, and resources to support startups, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.
Strategic Location: Arizona’s location provides access to key markets in the southwestern United States and proximity to Mexico.
This geographic advantage allows businesses to tap into a diverse customer base and facilitate trade opportunities.
Infrastructure and Logistics: Arizona boasts modern infrastructure, including transportation networks and logistics capabilities.
The state’s airports, highways, and intermodal facilities support efficient supply chains and distribution networks.
Michigan:
Industry Diversity: Michigan has a diverse economy with strengths in automotive manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and agriculture.
This industry diversity offers businesses opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and market expansion.
Talent Pool: Michigan is home to world-class universities, research institutions, and a highly skilled workforce.
The state’s focus on education and innovation ensures a talent pool that is well-equipped to meet the needs of businesses in various sectors.
Collaborative Ecosystem: Michigan fosters collaboration among businesses, academia, and government entities.
The state supports research and development partnerships, technology transfer, and innovation hubs to drive economic growth and entrepreneurship.
Access to Great Lakes Markets: Michigan’s location provides access to the Great Lakes, offering businesses opportunities for water-based transportation, recreational industries, and tourism.
Read Also:
Arizona vs. Michigan Taxes
Arizona Taxes:
Income Tax: Arizona has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 2.59% to 4.50% for 2021. The tax rates increase with higher income levels.
Sales Tax: Arizona has a state sales tax rate of 5.6%. However, local jurisdictions can impose additional sales taxes, resulting in combined rates that can range from 5.6% to 11.2%.
Property Tax: Arizona has relatively low property tax rates compared to many other states. The specific rates vary by county and locality.
Corporate Tax: Arizona has a flat corporate income tax rate of 4.9% on corporate net income.
Michigan Taxes:
Income Tax: Michigan also has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 4.25% to 6.75% for 2021. The tax rates increase with higher income levels.
Sales Tax: Michigan has a state sales tax rate of 6%. Unlike Arizona, Michigan does not have additional local sales taxes.
Property Tax: Michigan has a complex property tax system, and the specific rates vary by municipality and property type. The state also offers various exemptions and credits for certain property owners.
Corporate Tax: Michigan imposes a corporate income tax rate of 6% on C corporations’ net income. There is also a modified gross receipts tax on certain businesses.
Flexibility in Rules and Regulations
Arizona:
Business-Friendly Environment: Arizona is known for its business-friendly climate, offering policies and regulations that promote economic growth and entrepreneurship.
The state aims to minimize regulatory burdens and streamline processes, allowing businesses to operate with relative flexibility.
Flexible Business Structures: Arizona allows for various business structures beyond LLCs, such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations.
This flexibility enables entrepreneurs to choose the structure that best suits their needs and goals.
Tax Incentives and Benefits: Arizona offers tax incentives and benefits to attract businesses and encourage economic development.
These incentives include tax credits, exemptions, and reduced tax rates for specific industries, such as manufacturing, renewable energy, and research and development.
Michigan:
Diverse Industries: Michigan has a diverse economy, accommodating various industries such as automotive, manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and agriculture.
This diversity provides businesses with opportunities to adapt and thrive in different sectors.
Support for Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Michigan encourages innovation and entrepreneurship through programs, grants, and initiatives.
It provides resources and support for startups, technology transfer, and research collaborations, fostering a dynamic and flexible business environment.
Regulatory Assistance: Michigan offers regulatory assistance programs designed to help businesses understand and comply with regulations.
These programs provide guidance, training, and resources to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.
Key Differences Between Arizona and Michigan
