Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set Up Your LLC in Maryland | Expert Maryland LLC Formation | BetterLegal Prepare by choosing a Name and Registered Agent. File Certificate of Formation with the State of Maryland. Apply for an EIN with the IRS. Obtain an Operating Agreement. Handle Ongoing Maryland Compliance and Maintenance.
Corporate bylaws are legally required in Maryland.
If you choose to register your business online, the process takes 5 to 7 business days. If you file by mail, it can take 6 to 8 weeks.
It typically takes 7 to 10 business days to form an LLC if you file your Articles of Organization online through the Maryland Business Express portal. Filing by mail takes about four to six weeks. Processing times for paper filings can vary depending on the state's workload, so online filing is the faster option.
There is no Maryland state law requiring an LLC to have an operating agreement. However, if you don't have one, your LLC will be governed by Maryland's default LLC statutes, and you may run into difficulty if you need to prove your ownership of the LLC or if you face a lawsuit.
There are no legal requirements to hire a lawyer to help you start your LLC. So if you want to do your formation on your own, you legally can.
The key benefits of forming an LLC in Maryland include limited liability protection, flexible tax options (like pass-through taxation), and a straightforward registration process. LLCs help safeguard personal assets and offer financial flexibility, making them a popular choice for new business owners.
Corporate bylaws are legally required in Maryland.
After you form a Maryland LLC, you may need to obtain a business license or permit. Your requirements are determined by the industry you are in and where your Maryland Limited Liability Company is located.