Whether you are starting a business or incorporating an existing one in Maryland, you’ll want to understand state requirements for Maryland corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs).
Maryland Corporation Formation Requirements
Cost to incorporate. BizFilings clearly outlines our fees and the state fees to form a corporation in Maryland. View our pricing to plainly see:
- BizFilings’ package prices. BizFilings offers three incorporation service packages from which you can choose.
- State fee for standard turn-around. Our pricing clearly shows the state fee to incorporate in Maryland with standard turn-around.
- Expedited turn-around. You will see the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for expedited turn-around.
- 48-hour turn-around. There is a 48-hour filing option in Maryland, which is outlined in our pricing.
- Certified copy. Our pricing also clearly displays the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for issuing a Certified Copy of the Articles of Incorporation.
Corporate name. The corporation’s name must contain the word "Corporation," "Incorporated," “Limited,” or an abbreviation. For banking corporations, the words "Bank," "Banking" or "Bankers" may be used. The name may not contain language stating or implying that the corporation is organized for a purpose other than the one permitted by the Articles of Incorporation. The name cannot be the same as or deceptively similar to that of a domestic or foreign qualified corporation. Listing wording within parentheses within the company name implies multiple names and is not allowed.
Director information. The following are Maryland’s requirements for directors of corporations.
- Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
- Residence requirements. Maryland does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
- Age requirements. Maryland does not have age requirements.
- Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no P.O. Boxes) in Maryland. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.
Professional services businesses. Professional corporations (PCs) are allowed to be formed in Maryland for professional services businesses.