2026 Guide

How to Start an LLC in Maryland

The complete guide to filing fees, Dept. of Assessments forms, and requirements.

The American LLC Research Team

Formation, Compliance and Tax Research

Last reviewed September 2026

Filing Fee

$100

Processing Time

4–6 weeks

Compliance

Annual Report

Maryland annual report fee, name reservation fee and filing fee verified September 2026 against the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation.

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Step 1: Choose Your Business Type

Select your industry to see a custom guide for Maryland.

Home Improvement & Construction

Handyman→Electrician→Plumbing→HVAC→Roofing→Solar Panel→Construction→Painting→Fencing→Flooring→

Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning→Pressure Washing→Car Detailing→Pool Cleaning→Pest Control→Landscaping→Home Inspection→Junk Removal→

Digital & Technology

Web Design→App Development→Cybersecurity→Digital Marketing→Graphic Design→Freelance Writing→Virtual Assistant→Dropshipping→YouTuber→

Professional & Business

Real Estate→Accounting→Bookkeeping→Consulting→Notary Public→Logistics→Trucking→Travel Agency→Airbnb→

Food, Retail & Events

Food Truck→Catering→Bakery→Coffee Shop→Vending Machine→Clothing Brand→Candle Making→Event Planning→Photography→

Personal Care & Education

Personal Training→Gym→Life Coaching→Daycare→Tutoring→Dog Walking→Interior Design→

1Name Your Maryland LLC

The first listing requirement is ensuring your business name is unique. It must be distinguishable from other entities registered with the Dept. of Assessments. You must also include a designator like "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to comply with state statutes.

2Assign a Registered Agent

Every Maryland LLC must appoint a Registered Agent. This individual or business entity agrees to accept legal documents (Service of Process) on behalf of your company. They must have a physical street address in Maryland (not a P.O. Box) and be available during regular business hours.

3File Articles of Organization

To officially create your entity, you must file the Articles of Organization with the state. The filing fee is $100. This fee is non-refundable. Most entrepreneurs choose to file online for faster approval, which typically takes 4–6 weeks.

4Get Your EIN & Bank Account

Once your LLC is approved, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. This nine-digit number is required to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. Keeping your business finances separate from personal accounts is critical for maintaining your liability protection.

Maryland LLC Cost Breakdown

The cost to open an LLC in Maryland includes both the initial filing fee and ongoing compliance fees. Here is the breakdown:

ItemEstimated Cost
State Filing Fee (LLC)$100
Annual Report Fee$300
Report Due DateApr 15
Notes & Hidden Costs$300 annual report fee (filed with the Personal Property Return)

* Fees are payable to the Dept. of Assessments and are subject to change.

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Common Questions in Maryland

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Maryland?
The state filing fee for a Maryland LLC is $100, paid once to the Dept. of Assessments. If you use a formation service, you pay this state fee plus the service's own charge.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Maryland?
Standard processing in Maryland takes about 4–6 weeks, though it varies with filing volume. Expedited processing (same day) is available for an extra $50.
Does Maryland require an Annual Report?
Yes. Maryland LLCs must file an annual report with the Dept. of Assessments. The fee is $300, due by April 15. Missing it can lead to administrative dissolution.
Is there a minimum annual tax or fee for Maryland LLCs?
Maryland charges a $300 fee to file the annual report, which is submitted together with the Personal Property Return by April 15. It is one of the higher ongoing LLC fees on the East Coast, so budget for it from day one.
Do I need to file a BOI report with FinCEN for my LLC?
No — not if your LLC was formed in the United States. FinCEN's interim final rule of March 2025, made permanent by a final rule on August 14, 2026, exempts all U.S.-created companies, including LLCs, and their U.S. owners from Beneficial Ownership Information reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act. Only entities formed under foreign law that register to do business in a U.S. state must still report. Be wary of mailers or emails demanding a BOI filing fee.
View all Maryland FAQs & Legal Data →

Sources

Maryland annual report fee, name reservation fee and filing fee verified September 2026 against the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation.

Cost ranges for startup, insurance, job rates and revenue are estimates, not figures from these sources. Fees change; confirm with the agency before you file.