Maryland LLC Requirements

Each state has different requirements for forming a limited liability company (LLC). Whether you are starting a business or incorporating a business already in existence, you'll want to understand the state requirements for LLC formation.

Cost to form a Maryland LLC

At BizFilings, we clearly outline our fees and the Maryland state fees. When you view our pricing to form an LLC you 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. Maryland has a 48-hour filing option, 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 Organization.

Maryland LLC Name Requirement

The name of an LLC must end with "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C., "LLC," "L.C." or "LC." The name may not contain language stating or implying that the LLC is organized for a purpose other than the one permitted by the Articles of Organization. The name cannot be the same as or deceptively similar to that of a domestic or foreign-qualified LLC. Listing wording within parentheses within the company name implies multiple names and is not allowed.

Member/Manager information

The following are Maryland’s requirements for the members/managers of LLCs:

• Minimum number. LLCs must have one or more members/managers.
• Residence requirements. Maryland does not have a provision specifying where members/managers must reside.
• Age requirements. Maryland does not have age requirements.
• Inclusion in the Articles of Organization. Member/Manager names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Organization.

Requirements for the Articles of Organization

The document required to form an LLC in Maryland is called the Articles of Organization. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Maryland's requirements include:

• Registered agent. LLCs must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office 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

Maryland does not allow professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional limited liability companies (PLLCs).; however, professionals may incorporate their businesses as an LLC.

After forming a limited liability company (LLC) , you must undertake certain steps on an ongoing basis to keep your business in compliance. These steps are also important in preserving the limited liability an LLC provides its owner(s). This guide outlines the ongoing requirements for Maryland LLCs.

Maryland LLC taxes and fees

The following are taxation requirements and ongoing fees for Maryland LLCs:

• Annual report. Maryland requires LLCs to file an annual report (Personal Property Return) by April 15. The filing fee is $300.
• Taxes. For complete details on state taxes for Maryland LLCs, visit Business Owner's Toolkit or the State of Maryland .
• Federal tax identification number (EIN). An EIN is required for LLCs that will have employees. Additionally, most banks require an EIN in order to open a business bank account.
• State tax identification number. Maryland requires a state tax identification number.

Business licenses in Maryland

Business licenses and/or permits are required for most businesses. The BizFilings Business License Application Package can help you stay on top of these requirements.

Additional Maryland information

View the following additional resources BizFilings has for forming and maintaining companies in Maryland:

• Maryland Corporation Formation