Question about agent referral fees

[Dillon McGough]

Hi everyone!

I currently have my real estate license and was working with a big broker in Lansing, Michigan.  Being a real estate agent has been a side business for me as I have a full time career.  I was with a bigger real estate company before I took a job that wouldn't allow me to actively be a real estate agent.  I decided that I would keep my license and just make some passive money on referrals.  I was with a big brokerage, and I knew that if I stayed, all my referral fees were going to get eaten up by the brokerage.  My friend operates a brokerage, and he was nice enough to allow me to transfer my license to his brokerage and not charge me any fees whatsoever.  When I receive a referral fee, the check would be made out to his brokerage, and he would cut me a check.  I can actually keep my license with him anymore and now I'm wondering what to do. To receive referral fees, does my license need to be under a brokerage, or can I receive the referral fee if I'm just independent?  I know I cannot buy and sell real estate without working for a broker, I'm just looking for answers about referral fees.  Any answers would be greatly appreciated!