In Maryland, as in most states, the primary step in creating a limited liability company (LLC) is to file articles of organization with the state. This is an absolutely crucial document that helps define your business, so it’s important to do it correctly.
An LLC is a business entity that offers liability protection for owners, as well as pass-through taxation, much like a sole proprietorship.
What are Articles of Organization?
The articles of organization is a legal document you need to file with the state to form your LLC. It will specify details about your company and establish your LLC as an officially registered business entity in Maryland.
The document is similar to the articles of incorporation you would file to form a corporation instead of an LLC.
How to File the Maryland Articles of Organization
In Maryland, the process to file articles of organization is quite simple. The crucial first step is gathering the required information about your new LLC, before proceeding with the filing itself.
Here are the steps you’ll need to take to create your new business entity:
- Gather the required information about your business.
- Business name
- Business purpose
- Business address
- Registered agent name and address
- Visit the state’s Department of Assessments and Taxation website
Find Maryland’s articles of organization form here. You’ll need to register for an account before you can access the form. It’s easiest to fill out the form online and file immediately, but you can also download it, fill it out and mail it in.
- Filling out Articles of Organization Document
First, register for an account on the site.
Once you’ve registered, you’ll go to your dashboard and select new business filing. Then you’ll select limited liability company and then “use online forms”.
Then you’ll go to the next page and enter your business name. The system will do a search to make sure the name is available.
Next, you’ll enter your business address and contact information, followed by your registered agent information. Then you’ll have a chance to review all your information.
When filling out your articles of organization form, be sure to double-check that all the information is accurate and up-to-date. Maybe you’ve just moved, or use your middle initial in official documents, such as with your bank account. If you get it wrong now, changing it later can be a real pain. So accuracy is crucial.
- File Articles of Organization
Once you’ve entered all the information, you’ll go to the payment screen to pay your filing fee, which in Maryland is $100.
Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation Contact Info
Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation
Department of Assessments and Taxation
301 W. Preston Street, Room 801
Baltimore, MD 21201-2395
Phone: 410-767-1184
Outside the Baltimore Metro Area: 1-888-246-5941
The Bottom Line
In Maryland, it’s relatively easy to create an LLC, but you do need to jump through a few hoops. You now have all the information you need to officially create your new business and begin your entrepreneurial journey in the Old Line State.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need an attorney to file articles of organization in Maryland?
You do not need an attorney to file articles of organization in Maryland. You can easily file online yourself, or use a business formation service. ZenBusiness’s online LLC formation service will enable you to form your LLC in just a few minutes.
How do I amend my LLC articles of organization?
How do I get a copy of my articles of organization in Maryland?