Sterling Heights business owners trust 1-800Accountant's expert CPAs to handle their bookkeeping and tax needs, saving valuable time while maximizing deductions and maintaining Michigan compliance year-round.
Business Tax Preparation: Have your taxes prepared and filed by a CPA with expertise in your industry so you're always confident in your business tax situation. Our CPAs, with more than 17 years of experience on average, can save you thousands annually when you delegate complex Sterling Heights tax preparation to them!
Bookkeeping: Solidify your financial base and manage cash flow with precise, error-free bookkeeping done for you that saves time and provides crucial insights that empower you to make important data-backed business decisions. This meticulous process delivers essential tools for interpreting data with easy-to-understand reporting, enabling your accountant to develop vital financial modeling.
Tax Advisory: Business tax considerations don't end in April. Through our affordable tax advisory service, you can receive the guidance you need when you need it year-round from a dedicated small business tax advisor. Strategic planning helps minimize your business tax liability in Michigan throughout the year while ensuring compliance.
Payroll: Save hours each pay period with comprehensive payroll services handled for you, with regular tax submissions to the city of Sterling Heights, ensuring accuracy and freeing you to focus on other vital aspects of your business.
Business Formation: Enjoy the advantages of officially establishing your business in Michigan with our complimentary incorporation services. Simply cover any Sterling Heights fees, and we will manage the rest. This puts you on a path to hiring employees and creating a business bank account as you experience the benefits of an optimized business structure and maximum tax savings.
Level | Rate |
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State Tax Rate | 6% |
County Tax Rate | None |
Municipal Tax Rate | None |
Combined Sales Tax Rate | 6% |
City-Specific Taxes |
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The State of Michigan imposes a Michigan Business Tax (MBT) on most businesses, which includes a 4.95% business income tax and a 0.8% modified gross receipts tax. |
Licenses and Permits |
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All businesses operating in Sterling Heights must obtain an annual General Business License from the City Clerk's Office. |
Specialty licenses are required for: amusement devices, cigarette vending machines, solicitors, temporary businesses or events. |
Any construction, renovation, or remodeling requires appropriate building permits before work can begin. |
All business license applications are subject to review by multiple city departments including Police, Fire, Building, Planning, and Code Enforcement. |
Grants and Funding in Sterling Heights | Grants and Funding Information |
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Sterling Heights Area Community Foundation Grants | The Sterling Heights Area Community Foundation provides support for programs that strengthen the city's cultural, recreational, and community services. While primarily focused on nonprofits, some opportunities may support business-related community projects or partnerships. |
Velocity Direct Grants | Velocity, Sterling Heights' business incubator, offers one-time direct grants for eligible small businesses in the area. These grants aim to support local entrepreneurship and business growth within the Sterling Heights community. |
MMDC Business Hub Grants | The Middle Michigan Development Corporation offers grants up to $1,000 through their Great Lakes Bay Business Hub program. Applications are renewed monthly with specific deadlines. Sterling Heights businesses should verify their eligibility for this regional program. |
MMDC Spark Good Local Grants | These quarterly grants range from $250–$5,000 and support local business initiatives. While administered through the Middle Michigan Development Corporation, Sterling Heights businesses may qualify depending on specific program requirements and regional eligibility. |
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Sterling Heights small business, you should consider the following factors:
Certifications and Michigan Tax Expertise: Look for professionals with recognized credentials like CPA certification who demonstrate thorough knowledge of Michigan's tax code and filing requirements. A qualified accountant will understand the specific tax obligations for businesses operating in Macomb County and navigate Sterling Heights' local business regulations.
Automotive Industry Experience: Given Sterling Heights' strong automotive manufacturing presence, seek accountants familiar with this sector's specific financial challenges. An accountant who has worked with automotive suppliers or manufacturing businesses will better understand your inventory valuation, equipment depreciation, and industry-specific tax deductions.
Technology Adaptation: Select a financial professional who embraces modern accounting technology while maintaining personal service. The best Sterling Heights accountants combine digital efficiency with the personalized attention that characterizes the city's community-focused culture, offering user-friendly reporting dashboards alongside face-to-face consultation.
Knowledge of Local Economic Incentives: Sterling Heights offers various business incentives through programs like the Sterling Heights Local Development Finance Authority. A valuable accountant will help you identify applicable tax credits, brownfield redevelopment opportunities, and manufacturing renaissance zone benefits that can substantially reduce your tax burden and operational costs.
*Based on a $12.2k average 2022 tax refund per client, which is 4x the cost of a full-service package. Source: first-party data.
*Includes average business tax preparation, form completion and submission, record keeping, and other misc admin time. Source.
*Historical first-party data.