How to Start an LLC in Maryland

(November 2024)

In This Article

Ready to launch your dream business in Maryland? Starting an LLC here is an exciting journey filled with potential and opportunity! Imagine having the freedom to shape your own path and the security of a structured, legally recognized entity.

With Maryland’s thriving economy and supportive business environment, there’s no better time to dive in and make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality. Follow this article as it walks you through the simple steps to get your LLC up and running, ensuring you’re set for success from day one. Your business adventure starts now—are you ready to make it extraordinary?

To start an LLC in Maryland:

1. Check if Your Preferred Business Name Is Available

To run an LLC in Maryland,  check if your Preferred business name is available. Before you get too attached to a business name, make sure it’s available for use in Maryland. You can do this by using the state website’s Business Entity Search. Know that this step is crucial because it ensures that your chosen name isn’t already in use by another entity. Additionally, consider checking if a matching website domain name is available. This can save you a lot of hassle later on when you want to establish an online presence for your business.

2. Have an Extensive Budget

To form an LLC in Maryland,  have an extensive budget. Do you know that forming an LLC in Maryland costs $100? However, there are additional fees to consider. For instance, all Maryland LLCs must file an annual report and pay a $300 annual fee. If your LLC owns, leases, or uses personal property in Maryland, you must also file a personal property tax return. You may also need to pay for legal services, resident agent services, and other administrative costs. Therefore, ensure you budget for these expenses to avoid any surprises down the road.

3. Name Your Business Entity

To begin an LLC in Maryland,  name your business entity. Be aware your business name must include the words “limited liability company” or the accepted abbreviations of “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “L.C.,” or “LC.” This is a legal requirement in Maryland. Once you’ve confirmed that your LLC name is available, you can hold the name for up to 30 days by filing a Corporate Name Reservation Application. This costs $25, with an additional $20 fee for expedited processing. Do this to ensure that you reserve your chosen name while you complete the other necessary steps to form your LLC.

4. Hire a Resident Agent

To commence an LLC in Maryland,  hire a resident agent. In Maryland, you must have a resident agent, you can also  call it registered agent. This can be an owner or employee of the business. Ensure he/she is over the age of 18 and a Maryland resident. Alternatively, hire a specialized company to act as your resident agent. This service typically costs between $100 and $300 per year, but some companies offer it for around $50. Understand that a resident agent is responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of your LLC, so it’s important to choose someone reliable.

5. File an Article of Organization

To kick start an LLC in Maryland,  file an article of organization. Keep in mind that the fastest and easiest way to form your LLC is online through the Maryland Business Express website. Be sure to use a street address for your LLC, as post office boxes are unacceptable. Alternatively, you can complete an Articles of Organization form and mail it to the Department of Assessments and Taxation in Baltimore (301 W. Preston St. Baltimore, MD 21201-2392). Remember that the fee to form an LLC is $100, with an additional $50 fee for expedited processing.

Online submissions are processed within seven business days, while paper filings take four to six weeks. In addition, prepare $20 which includes $1 per page as the cost for a certified copy of your document.  If you wish, you may pay for a Certificate of Status when you are filling out the form for $20.

6. Create an LLC Operating Agreement

To ensure the successful establishment of your LLC business in Maryland, create an LLC operating agreement. Think of an operating agreement as a way to lay out the ground rules for how you intend to run your LLC. It includes details on daily operations, member contributions, and dispute resolution. Although not legally required, it is good you have an operating agreement. It helps prevent future disputes with your business partners and lends legitimacy to your business. This document can be particularly useful if you plan to seek financing or bring on additional members in the future.

7. Get an EIN Number

To set up an LLC in Maryland, get an EIN number. Note that it is mandatory for most businesses to have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a federal tax identification number. If your business is a single-member LLC with no employees, you can use your Social Security number instead. However, obtaining an EIN is beneficial as it helps protect the privacy of your Social Security number. You can obtain an EIN at no cost through the official Maryland IRS website. This number is essential for tax purposes, and you may also need it when opening a business bank account.

8. File an Annual Report

To build an LLC in Maryland, file an annual report. In Maryland, you must file an annual report detailing your business activities and gross sales within the state. The deadline for submitting this form is April 15, and there is a yearly $300 charge. This cost is the same regardless of whether the LLC is domestic or foreign. Filing the annual report on time is crucial to maintaining your LLC’s good standing with the state. Failure to file can result in penalties and the potential dissolution of your LLC.

9. Know That You Can Correct Filing Errors

To keep your LLC business in Maryland running, know that you can correct filing errors. If you submit your LLC documents and later realize there are errors, you can file Articles of Amendment. Note this: Do not use handwriting to fill the form. The state recommends completing the documents using a computer or typewriter, as it may likely reject handwritten submissions. It costs $100 to file Articles of Amendment, with standard processing taking six to eight weeks. You can expedite the process by paying an additional $50. If you file online, the state automatically charges you the expedited rate.

10. Know That You Can Change Your Resident Agent

To keep your LLC status in Maryland, know that you can change your resident agent. If you decide to change your resident agent or principal office, notify the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). You can do this online, by mail, or in person. Keeping your resident agent information up to date is important for ensuring that your LLC receives all necessary legal documents. Failure to update this information can result in missed communications and potential legal issues.

Recap

To start an LLC in Maryland, make sure your preferred business name is available and have an extensive budget ready. Name your business entity and hire a resident agent. File an article of organization and create an LLC operating agreement. Get an EIN number and remember to file an annual report. Be aware that you can correct filing errors and change your resident agent if needed.

Become a

S'witty Kiwi Credit Insider!

Get the latest credit tips and hacks in your inbox!