Many Michigan entrepreneurs make changes to their companies constantly. Whether it is for rebranding, for business growth, or other reasons, it is necessary for a business owner to understand the process that the company has to go through to ensure compliance.
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Michigan requires all businesses that decide to change some items on their formation documents to file an amendment. They have to formalize the changes that can affect the structure of the business through an amendment. Doing this requires the filing of formal paperwork.
Generally, if you make changes to the items that you reported on the company’s Articles of Incorporation/Organization, you need to file an amendment with the state.
A. Changing The Company Name –
The state has to be aware of the name that your company uses when it conducts business in Michigan. You have to report any changes that you make to the company name. Submitting an amendment will let the state know about your plan. You also need to update the name of your company on all legal records.
If you wish to operate under a new name, your Michigan corporation has to follow the legal process. Filing an amendment will inform the state of your plan to change the company name. Aside from this, you also need to make sure that all government records reflect the new name of your corporation.
B. Changing Members Of The Business –
Michigan does not require LLCs to include information about their members and/or managers in the Articles of Organization. So, you do not have to file an amendment even if there are changes related to the members or managers. The changes can be reflected in the if company operating agreement.
The same rule applies to corporations. Since you do not have to include information about the officers and directors of your company in the Articles of Incorporation, you do not have to file an amendment. You can make the changes in the annual report.
C. Changing Address Related To The Business –
Michigan LLCs do not have to indicate their principal addresses on the Articles of Organization. You do not have to file an amendment if you change your company’s office address.
On the other hand, Michigan corporations have to inform the state about their office addresses. So, you have to file an amendment if your company moves to a different location or you can update on the annual report.
D. Changing Contact Information –
The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has to know how to reach your Michigan LLC. You have to report any changes to the contact information of your company. Include your business telephone number on the Certificate of Amendment.
Michigan corporations also need to report changes to their contact information. This way, you can be sure that all legal queries reach your company. The Certificate of Amendment has a section for your corporation’s telephone number.
E. Changing The Number Of Shares That A Corporation Is Authorized To Issue – Michigan does not authorize LLCs to issue stock. So, these business entities do not have to worry about this. As for corporations, if your company wants to change the number of shares that it is authorized to sell, you have to inform the state about it.
