How to Start a Business in Maryland (Step by Step Guide)
Thinking to start your own business in Maryland? If so, then you have come to the right place!
On this page, you can find step by step instructions on how to incorporate your business in Maryland. From selecting the business entity type to forms to be filled, we have covered it all.
Let’s get Started
The first step in setting up your business is to select the business structure.
Broadly there are 4 types of business entities that can be registered:
- Limited Liability Company (Most Popular)
- Corporation
- Sole Proprietorship
- Partnership
Each business structure differs on the basis of taxation, asset liability and estate planning. We have written a detailed tutorial on how to choose a business entity type for your business here.
Below we have given a broad outline of the steps involved in registering an LLC or Corporation in Maryland.
Clicking on each step, opens up a detailed guide on how to complete it.
| Agency Responsible | Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation Business Services |
| Form(s) to be filled | Articles of Organization |
| Mode | Mail, in-person, fax, Online |
| Name Reservation | Optional, Fee $25 (Mail/Online) [Option to Expedite] |
| Filing Fee | $100 + Expedite fee: $50 (optional) |
| Time | 2 weeks (Expedite option available for extra fees) |
| Law | TITLE 4A – LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY ACT |
Summary:
- Choose a Business Name
- Reserve Business Name (Optional)
- Select a Registered Agent
- Fill Articles of Organization (Form ARTORGAN)
- Prepare an Operating Agreement
- Get an EIN Number (IRS Form SS-4)
- Obtain relevant licenses and permits
- (Ongoing) File annual report and taxes
| Agency Responsible | Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation Business Services |
| Form(s) to be filled | Articles of Incorporation |
| Mode | Mail, in-person, fax, Online |
| Name Reservation | Optional, Fee $25 (Mail/Online) [Option to Expedite] |
| Filing Fee | $100 + Expedite fee: $50 (optional) |
| Time | 2 weeks (Expedite option available for extra fees) |
| Law | MD Corp & Assn Code § 2-104 (2015) |
Summary:
- Search for a Business Name
- File for Business Name Reservation (Optional)
- Select Registered Agent
- Fill Articles of Incorporation form
- Create Bylaws
- Get an EIN Number
- Obtain relevant licenses and permits
- (Ongoing) File annual report and taxes
References:
https://law.justia.com/codes/maryland/2010/corporations-and-associations/title-4a/
https://law.justia.com/codes/maryland/2013/article-gca/
Last fact-checked on 25/07/2018