Maine (ME)

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

Starting Business in MaineAre you thinking about starting your own business in Maine? If so, then you have come to the right place!

On this page, you can find step by step DIY instructions on how to incorporate your business in Maine. 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 Maine.

Clicking on each step, opens up a detailed guide on how to complete it.

How to Start an LLC in Maine

Agency ResponsibleMaine Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions
Form(s) to be filledCertificate of Formation
ModeMail or In-person
Name ReservationOptional, Fee $20 (Mail) [Option to Expedite]
Filing Fee$175 + Expedite fee: $50-100 (optional)
Time2 weeks (Expedite option available for extra fees)
LawTitle 31 MRSA §1531


Summary:

  1. Search for business name availability
  2. Reserve your business name (Optional)
  3. Select a Registered Agent
  4. Fill Certificate of Formation (Form MLLC-6)
  5. Prepare an Operating Agreement
  6. Get an EIN Number (IRS Form SS-4)
  7. Apply for Maine Tax ID Number
  8. Obtain relevant licenses and permits
  9. File Annual Report (Ongoing)

How to Start a Corporation in Maine

Agency ResponsibleMaine Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions
Form(s) to be filledArticles of Incorporation (Form MBCA-6)
ModeMail or In-person
Name ReservationOptional, Fee $20 (Mail) [Option to Expedite]
Filing Fee$175 + Expedite fee: $50-100 (optional)
Time2 weeks (Expedite option available for extra fees)
LawTitle 13-C, §202

Summary:

  1. Search for a Business Name
  2. File for Business Name Reservation (Optional)
  3. Select Registered Agent
  4. Fill Articles of Incorporation (Form MBCA-6)
  5. Create Corporate Bylaws
  6. Get an EIN Number (IRS Form SS-4)
  7. Apply for Maine Tax ID Number
  8. Obtain relevant licenses and permits
  9. File Annual Report (Ongoing)

References:
http://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/31/title31sec1531.html

Last fact-checked on 25/07/2018