Maryland (MD)

How to Start a Business in Maryland (Step by Step Guide)

Starting Business in MarylandThinking 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:

  1. Limited Liability Company (Most Popular)
  2. Corporation
  3. Sole Proprietorship
  4. 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.

How to Start an LLC in Maryland

Agency ResponsibleMaryland Department of Assessments and Taxation Business Services
Form(s) to be filledArticles of Organization
ModeMail, in-person, fax, Online
Name ReservationOptional, Fee $25 (Mail/Online) [Option to Expedite]
Filing Fee$100 + Expedite fee: $50 (optional)
Time2 weeks (Expedite option available for extra fees)
LawTITLE 4A – LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY ACT


Summary:

  1. Choose a Business Name
  2. Reserve Business Name (Optional)
  3. Select a Registered Agent
  4. Fill Articles of Organization (Form ARTORGAN)
  5. Prepare an Operating Agreement
  6. Get an EIN Number (IRS Form SS-4)
  7. Obtain relevant licenses and permits
  8. (Ongoing) File annual report and taxes

How to Start a Corporation in Maryland

Agency ResponsibleMaryland Department of Assessments and Taxation Business Services
Form(s) to be filledArticles of Incorporation
ModeMail, in-person, fax, Online
Name ReservationOptional, Fee $25 (Mail/Online) [Option to Expedite]
Filing Fee$100 + Expedite fee: $50 (optional)
Time2 weeks (Expedite option available for extra fees)
LawMD Corp & Assn Code § 2-104 (2015)

Summary:

  1. Search for a Business Name
  2. File for Business Name Reservation (Optional)
  3. Select Registered Agent
  4. Fill Articles of Incorporation form
  5. Create Bylaws
  6. Get an EIN Number
  7. Obtain relevant licenses and permits
  8. (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