LLC Formation Guide · Maryland · Updated June 2026

How to Start an LLC in Maryland

To start an LLC in Maryland, file Articles of Organization with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). This costs $100 and takes 4–6 weeks (standard); 7 business days (+$50 expedite); same-day (+$425) for online approval.

Filing Fee
$100
Articles of Organization
Online Processing
4–6 weeks (standard); 7 business days (+$50 expedite); same-day (+$425)
Mail: 6–8 weeks
Annual Fee
$300/year (minimum)
File Your Personal Property Return
Total Steps
6
To form your LLC
Important for Maryland

Maryland has one of the longest standard processing times — up to 4–6 weeks. If you need your LLC faster, use expedited service: +$50 for 7-day processing or +$425 for same-day.

There are 6 steps to start an LLC in Maryland:

  1. 1
    Choose an LLC Name
  2. 2
    Select a Registered Agent
  3. 3
    File Articles of Organization
  4. 4
    Create an Operating Agreement
  5. 5
    Get an EIN from the IRS
  6. 6
    File Your Personal Property Return

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Maryland?

It costs $100 to start an LLC in Maryland. After formation, you will also owe $300/year (minimum) for the File Your Personal Property Return.

What are these fees for?

  • The $100 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
  • The $300/year (minimum) is for the File Your Personal Property Return — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.

How long does it take to get an LLC in Maryland?

  • Online filing: 4–6 weeks (standard); 7 business days (+$50 expedite); same-day (+$425)
  • Mail filing: 6–8 weeks

Maryland processing times are notably longer than most states. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee if you need faster approval.

Steps to Form an LLC in Maryland

Step 1: Search Your LLC Name

Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in Maryland. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.

Maryland business name search →

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent

A Registered Agent is a person or company that accepts legal mail and state notices on behalf of your LLC. Maryland requires your Registered Agent to have a physical street address in the state — PO Boxes are not allowed. Your options:

  • Yourself (if you have a physical address in Maryland)
  • A friend or family member who lives in Maryland
  • A professional Registered Agent service

Step 3: File Articles of Organization with SDAT

To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). The filing fee is $100.

Maryland processing times are notably longer than most states. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee if you need faster approval.

Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement

An Operating Agreement is an internal document that shows who owns the LLC and how it will be run. You do not need to file it with the state or the IRS — just keep it with your business records. All LLCs should have one, even single-member LLCs.

Step 5: Get an EIN from the IRS

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your LLC's federal tax ID. It is free from the IRS and is needed to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.

  • US residents with an SSN: Apply online at IRS.gov (takes ~15 minutes, free)
  • Non-US residents without an SSN: Apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4 (takes 1–3 months)

Step 6: File Your Personal Property Return

Fee: $300/year (minimum)Due: April 15 each year

First due: April 15 of the year after your LLC is approved

After Your LLC Is Approved

Open a business bank account

Keep business and personal finances separate to maintain liability protection. You will need your EIN and your stamped/approved Articles of Organization to open an account.

Get business licenses and permits

Maryland requires a Trader's License for businesses that buy and sell goods. Other business types may need specific licenses. Check with your county for requirements.

Understand your tax obligations

LLCs don't pay federal income tax directly. Profits and losses pass through to the members, who report them on their personal federal tax returns.

Maryland has a state income tax. LLC members report their share of profits on their Maryland state tax return.

Need to notify the IRS of a business change?

Once your LLC is formed, TheLLCWiki has free tools for IRS name changes, address changes, EIN applications, and tax elections.

Browse free tools →

Maryland LLC FAQs

Yes, you can file online. The Articles of Organization filing fee is $100, but note that standard processing takes 4–6 weeks.
It costs $100 to file the Articles of Organization and form your LLC in Maryland. After formation, the File Your Personal Property Return costs $300/year (minimum).
Online filing takes 4–6 weeks (standard); 7 business days (+$50 expedite); same-day (+$425). Mail filing takes 6–8 weeks.
If you live in and do business in Maryland, then yes — form your LLC here. Forming in another state (like Wyoming or Delaware) when you operate in Maryland means paying fees in both states with no real benefit. The only reason to form out-of-state is if you have a specific legal or tax reason to do so.
The main benefits are personal asset protection (your home, car, and savings are shielded from business debts and lawsuits) and pass-through taxation (the LLC itself pays no federal income tax — profits flow to members' personal returns).
General information only — not legal or tax advice. This guide reflects publicly available information as of June 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements change. Confirm current requirements with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) and a qualified attorney or CPA before filing. Full disclaimer