Small Business FAQs
New-business questions, answered
Learn more about starting and running a business in Oakland County and across Michigan.
Frequently asked
New business FAQs
Do I need a Michigan license or permit to open a business?
Oakland County does not require a business license, and not every business in Michigan is required to be licensed by the State. Licensing is managed by the State of Michigan — use the State License Search to find out if your venture needs a state license or permit, and check with the city or township where your business is located for any local requirements.
Do I need to register the name of my business?
If you operate under a name different than your own, you'll most likely file a fictitious name (assumed name, trade name, or DBA). Sole proprietorships and co-partnerships file with the Oakland County Clerk's Office. Corporations, LLCs, and Limited Partnerships register their name automatically when they file formation documents with the State of Michigan (LARA).
What is a DBA / Assumed Name, and what does it cost?
A DBA ("Doing Business As"), also called a fictitious, assumed, or trade name, is the name under which you do business. Name searches and registration for assumed names and co-partnerships are available through the Oakland County Clerk's Office. The current cost for an assumed name certificate is $10.
Where do I file if I want to incorporate my business?
Articles of Incorporation are filed with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). For name availability, annual reports, or officer/director information, LARA telephone services are available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. EST.
What is an EIN/TIN and how do I get one?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN), identifies a business entity. Generally, businesses need an EIN. You can apply in various ways, including online with the IRS.
Does my business qualify as a minority-owned business?
Per the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), to be certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) a business must be at least 51% controlled and managed by racial or ethnic minorities who are also U.S. citizens.
Where do I get a minority certification?
Two places to get a minority certification are the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC) and the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).
How do I qualify as a woman-owned business?
The Women's Business Enterprise Council – Great Lakes (WBEC–GL) partners with the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) to assist women business owners with certification and access to private and government markets. For information, contact The Michigan Women's Marketplace (MWM).
Where do I get zoning information?
Zoning information comes from the city, village, or township where your business is located.
I want to start a business in my home. What do I need to do?
Contact the community where the business will be located to confirm the zoning laws permit it. Starting a business at home follows the same steps as starting a business anywhere.
How do I find my Chamber of Commerce?
The Oakland Chamber Network is a gateway to 27 Oakland County chambers of commerce and lists events and resources related to its member chambers.
How do I form an LLC?
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a business entity separate from its members, whose liability is limited to their financial contribution. It is formed by filing the Articles of Organization with the Licensing Bureau; governance is set by the Articles of Organization or operating agreement.
Where do I register for business taxes?
New businesses with Michigan employees must register with the IRS and the Michigan Department of Treasury for Social Security tax and income-tax withholding. Some cities also levy a city income tax. The Treasury's Online New Business Registration is fast and secure — you can receive a new Sales Tax License in as little as 7 business days.
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