Register a Foreign Nonprofit in Michigan
To register a foreign nonprofit in the State of Michigan, you must file an Application for Certificate of Authority to Transact Business or Conduct Affairs in Michigan with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Corporation Division. You can submit this document by mail or by fax. The Application for Certificate of Authority to Transact Business or Conduct Affairs in Michigan costs $20 to file. Below, we cover the most frequently asked questions about how to file the Application for Certificate of Authority to Transact Business or Conduct Affairs in Michigan and register a foreign nonprofit in Michigan. Or, you can simply sign up for our Michigan Foreign Nonprofit service, and we’ll take care of your registration ourselves!
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Download the Michigan Application for Certificate of Authority to Transact Business or Conduct Affairs in Michigan. Fill out the form and submit it to the state.
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Free Guide to Registering a Foreign Nonprofit in Michigan
What is the first step to registering my foreign non-profit in Michigan?
You will need to submit an Application for Certificate of Authority to Transact Business or Conduct Affairs in Michigan to the MI Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Corporation Division, by mail or fax.
Is there a fee for submitting the Application?
Yes. It will be a total of $20. The state’s 24-hour expediting fee is $50 extra.
What else should I include with my Application?
You must include a copy of your non-profit organization’s original Articles of Incorporation.
Will I need a Certificate of Good Standing in order to operate in MI?
Yes. You will need to provide a Certificate of Good Standing that has been officially executed by the registered agent from your home state of formation. It cannot be created more than 30 days before you file.
What happens after I submit my Application?
The Bureau of Commercial Services will assign your organization a six-digit file number. This number should be included on any future document sent to Michigan LARA. You will then obtain a Certificate of Authority in order to transact business or conducting affairs in Michigan.
Will I need a resident agent in Michigan?
Yes, it is required that your non-profit organization maintains a Michigan resident agent in the state of Michigan. We can offer that service for you starting at only $125 per year with no hidden fees and immediate service.
Will I need to submit an Annual Report to keep my foreign non-profit current in MI?
Yes, Michigan nonprofits, including foreign non profits, must file an annual report with the state. The report is due on or before October 1 of each year, beginning the year after your non-profit has been authorized to transact business or affairs in Michigan.
Is there a fee for my annual report?
Yes, it is $20. Checks can be made out to “State of Michigan.” You are also able to file the report online and pay via credit card.
How will I obtain an Annual Report form?
An annual report will be mailed to your non-profit organization’s resident agent at their registered office about three months prior to the due date. Online filing will be available 90 days before the due date.
Are there any additional state registrations for my non-profit?
Apply for Michigan tax exempt status.
If your organization is planning on soliciting funds from the public of Michigan, then you will also have to register as a Michigan charity with the Attorney General’s Charitable Trust Division.
Where do I submit the non-profit forms in Michigan?
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Bureau of Commercial Services
Corporation Division
P.O. Box 30054
Lansing, MI 48909