Form Your Maryland LLC

The Maryland LLC formation fee is $100 when filed online with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). Maryland requires an annual personal property return with a fee of $300 for LLCs, due by April 15th each year. This annual fee is higher than many states but reflects Maryland's proximity to major markets and federal opportunities.

• Standard online filing: 7-10 business days
• Paper filing: 10-15 business days
• Expedited service: Not available directly from the state

Maryland requires all LLCs to file an annual personal property return by April 15th with a $300 fee. This return reports the LLC's personal property for tax assessment purposes. Failure to file results in penalties and potential administrative dissolution. The first return is due by April 15th following the year of formation.

Yes, Maryland law requires all LLCs to maintain a resident agent (registered agent) with a Maryland address. The resident agent receives legal documents and state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own resident agent if you have a Maryland address, or hire a professional service for privacy and reliability.

Maryland attracts businesses with its strategic location near Washington D.C., highly educated workforce, and strong technology sectors. The state offers access to federal contracting opportunities, proximity to major East Coast markets, and established clusters in biotechnology, cybersecurity, and aerospace. Maryland's research universities provide innovation and talent pipeline.

• Proximity to federal government and contracting opportunities
• Highly educated workforce (highest in the nation)
• Strong venture capital presence
• Established biotech and cybersecurity industries
• Access to major East Coast markets
• Research university partnerships

Maryland doesn't legally require LLCs to have an operating agreement, but it's strongly recommended. An operating agreement defines ownership structure, management procedures, and operational guidelines. It's essential for multi-member LLCs and beneficial for single-member LLCs to establish business legitimacy and protect limited liability status.

• Annual personal property return filing ($300) due April 15th
• Resident agent with Maryland address
• Basic company records and operating agreement
• Current business licenses as required
• Workers' compensation insurance if applicable

Yes, non-US residents can form and own a Maryland LLC with no citizenship or residency requirements for members or managers. However, you must maintain a Maryland resident agent and obtain necessary tax identification numbers. Non-residents should consult with tax professionals regarding potential tax obligations.

• Local business licenses (varies by county/municipality)
• State licenses for regulated industries
• Professional licenses for licensed occupations
• Sales tax license for taxable goods
• Federal contractor registration if applicable
• Industry-specific permits and certifications

• Apply online at IRS.gov (immediate)
• Apply by fax (4 business days)
• Apply by mail (4-5 weeks)
• Use a service ($99-$159 for expedited processing)

• Highest concentration of federal employees
• Access to venture capital and angel investors
• Strong research and development infrastructure
• Excellent transportation networks
• Business incubator and accelerator programs
• Tax incentives for specific industries

• Pass-through taxation (no double taxation)
• Maryland income tax on profits
• Annual personal property return fee ($300)
• Local property taxes if applicable
• Sales tax on taxable goods and services