To register a business in Maryland costs around $100. Additional costs depend on factors like whether you need real estate, inventory, or employees.
Registering a Business and Obtaining Licenses
You can operate a home-based business by registering with the state to get a tax ID and possibly a business license. To sell products online from home does not require a Maryland business license.
Registering a Maryland LLC costs $100. Expect to spend $100-500+ to start.
Most Maryland businesses need a license from the Clerks of the Circuit Court. Some counties require licenses for activities like construction and home building.
Starting a Maryland Business Checklist
- Create business plan
- Check zoning
- Choose business structure
- Register business
- Get licenses & permits
- Handle taxes
- Seek funding
- Launch & market
Starting a Small Business in Maryland
Key steps:
- Choose a business structure
- Register your business
- Obtain licenses and permits
- Arrange financing
- Understand tax obligations
- Comply with regulations
- Connect with small business resources
Small Business Definition and Support
A small business in Maryland has fewer than 500 employees and less than $7 million in annual revenues. Additionally, a small business must be independently owned and operated, not be dominant in its field, and have a purpose that is not solely profit-driven.
The Maryland Small Business Development Center provides free counseling and assistance to entrepreneurs.
Benefits of an LLC Structure in Maryland
Benefits of an LLC structure in Maryland include pass-through taxation and liability protection. Requirements for an LLC are in the Maryland LLC Act.
To form an LLC in Maryland:
- Choose a name
- Appoint a resident agent
- File articles of organization
- Pay $100 filing fee
- Draft operating agreement
The fastest way to form an LLC is online through the Maryland Business Express website.
Ongoing requirements exist like annual reports. Entrepreneurs can successfully establish an LLC with proper planning.