How To Start An LLC In Maryland In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Maryland, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Old Line State.
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Maryland offers affordable LLC formation in a strategic location. With a $100 state filing fee and prime positioning in the Washington DC-Baltimore corridor, Maryland provides excellent access to federal contracting opportunities and thriving business networks. Whether you're in Baltimore, Rockville, or anywhere else in the Old Line State, you can establish your Maryland LLC and tap into the region's robust economy.
Our top pick for Maryland LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing options for Maryland LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $100 Maryland state fee. With their expertise in Maryland business law and excellent customer support, they make the entire process simple and efficient.
Featured Partners
- Best filing & protections
- Fastest processing
- Free compliance for 1 yr
- Award-winning support
On ZenBusiness's Website
- Best for standard filing
- Fast processing options
- Free yr registered agent
- Lifetime company alerts
On Bizee's Website
- Best legal services
- Fast processing options
- AI legal forms
- Trusted since 1999
On LegalZoom's Website
- Best branding services
- Fast processing options
- Logo & website builder
- Establish your brand
On Tailor Brands's Website
Compare the Best Maryland LLC Services of 2025
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation |  Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |  Rocket Lawyer Legal Documents |  BetterLegal Speed & Simplicity |  Active Filings Traditional Service |  Filenow Budget Option |  Northwest Basic Formation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees | $299 all-inclusive | $199 + state fees | $99 + state fees | $39 + state fees |
| Our Rating | 4.9 /5 | 4.6 /5 | 4.4 /5 | 4.3 /5 | 4.2 /5 | 4.0 /5 | 3.9 /5 | 3.8 /5 | 3.6 /5 | 3.4 /5 |
| Standard Processing | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 5-14 days | 5-7 days | 2 days | 5-10 days | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Rush Processing | 1 day +$79 | 1 day +$49 | 2 days +$99 | 1 day +$99 | Standard speed | 2 days +$100 | 3 days +$50 | |||
| Compliance Tools | Worry-Free Compliance Free 1st year | Alerts only Basic monitoring | Basic tools Included | Basic alerts Included | Premium only Extra cost | Document library With membership | Limited Basic support | Basic tools Limited | None Not available | None Not included |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr Not included | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $199/yr | $119/yr Not included | $249/yr Not included | $149/yr Not included | Included In base price | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | +$125/yr Not included | $125/yr Available |
| Operating Agreement | +$99 | +$99 | +$50 | Included | +$99 | Included | Included | +$99 | +$40 | +$39 |
| EIN Service | +$99 | +$70 | +$70 | Included | +$159 | +$99 | Included | +$70 | +$50 | +$70 |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Chat | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Email | Email only | Email only |
| Mobile App | ||||||||||
| Attorney Access | ||||||||||
| Get Started | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → |
Note: State filing fees are additional for all services except where noted. Features and pricing may vary by state.
Our Top Picks for Maryland LLC Services
Best Overall for Maryland ZenBusiness excels at Maryland LLC formation with their expedited filing options and deep knowledge of Maryland's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Maryland SDAT registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in Maryland's annual report requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Maryland entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and reliable filing
Pros
- Expedited Maryland LLC filing options available
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes Maryland annual report reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Maryland requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Maryland filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fast Maryland Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers efficient Maryland LLC formation with expedited processing options. They provide a free Maryland registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Maryland's April 15th annual report deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Maryland LLC formed quickly with reliable ongoing support.
Best For:
Maryland businesses needing expedited formation
Pros
- Expedited Maryland processing available
- Free Maryland registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Maryland compliance
- Dashboard tracks Maryland annual reports
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in MD LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Maryland business formation. Their attorney network includes Maryland-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Maryland businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Maryland businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Maryland law
- Rush filing available for Maryland
- Comprehensive Maryland legal forms library
- Phone support with Maryland expertise
- 30+ years serving Maryland businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Maryland registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Maryland Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Maryland LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Maryland's thriving biotech and creative industries, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Maryland business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Maryland creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Maryland business info
- Business cards with Maryland address
- Expedited Maryland processing available
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Maryland business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- Standard processing takes longer
Free Maryland Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Maryland LLC formation where you only pay the $100 state fee. They include a free Maryland registered agent for the first year and handle all SDAT filings. While processing follows Maryland's standard timeline, they're perfect for Maryland entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Maryland entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Maryland LLC formation
- Free Maryland registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Maryland businesses
- Handles Maryland SDAT filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Maryland business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 8+ weeks standard
- Maryland registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Maryland LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Maryland SDAT registration efficiently and provide registered agent services at competitive rates, making them ideal for business owners who prefer a simple, direct approach to LLC formation.
Best For:
Maryland entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Maryland businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Maryland SDAT filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Maryland LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Maryland filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Maryland LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Maryland's $100 state filing fee. With expedited processing options and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their Maryland LLC formation process.
Best For:
Maryland businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Expedited Maryland formation available
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Maryland-specific compliance guidance
- No hidden fees or surprise costs
- Streamlined single-package approach
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than budget options
- State filing fees are additional cost
- Limited ongoing support after formation
- Fewer customization options
Legal Platform Rocket Lawyer goes beyond simple Maryland LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Maryland-licensed attorneys and an extensive library of legal documents, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support. While formation follows Maryland's standard processing, the added legal resources make it worthwhile for complex Maryland business needs.
Best For:
Maryland businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Maryland-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Maryland processing available (additional fee)
- Maryland business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Maryland formation follows standard timeline
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Maryland LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach that many Maryland business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Maryland's specific LLC requirements and annual reporting deadlines.
Best For:
Maryland entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Maryland expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Maryland
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Maryland annual report reminders
- Basic compliance tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing follows state timeline
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative and compliance aspects of Maryland business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Maryland businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Maryland businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Maryland compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Maryland annual report filing services
- Business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services statewide
- Focus on regulatory requirements
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Standard processing timeline
- Limited customer support hours
Maryland LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Maryland LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Maryland businesses
- ✓ Maryland Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Maryland street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT)
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Maryland but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Report: Due by April 15th each year
Maryland LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $100 (affordable compared to neighboring states)
- • Expedited Processing: $50 (10-day), $325 (same-day), $425 (2-hour)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Report: $300 per year (due by April 15th)
- • Business License: Varies by city/county ($50-$400)
Maryland LLC Timeline
- • Name Approval: Instant online check via SDAT
- • Standard Processing: 8 weeks
- • Expedited Processing: 10 days ($50), Same day ($325), 2 hours ($425)
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: Same day to 8 weeks depending on service level
Why Form Your LLC in Maryland?
Strategic Location
- • DC-Baltimore corridor access
- • Federal contracting opportunities
- • Major East Coast transportation hub
- • Proximity to government agencies
Business Environment
- • Thriving biotech sector
- • Defense contractor hub
- • Research university partnerships
- • Diverse economic base
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Charging order protection
- • Privacy for members
- • Flexible management structure
Formation Benefits
- • Affordable $100 filing fee
- • Expedited processing options
- • Experienced business services
- • Established legal framework
Maryland LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Maryland?
The Maryland state filing fee is $100. Additional costs include a registered agent ($100-$300/year, though many services offer the first year free), EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service), and the annual report fee of $300. Most Maryland entrepreneurs spend between $100-$600 total to form their LLC, depending on which services and expedited processing they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Maryland LLC?
Yes, Maryland law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Maryland street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). The registered agent receives legal documents and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Maryland address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Some services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Maryland?
Standard processing through Maryland SDAT takes 8 weeks. However, expedited options are available: 10-day processing for $50, same-day processing for $325 (if submitted before 2:30 PM), and 2-hour processing for $425. Many formation services can help you choose the right processing speed for your timeline and budget.
What is Maryland's annual report requirement?
Maryland LLCs must file an annual report by April 15th each year. The report costs $300 and can be filed online through Maryland's SDAT system. It updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution. Most formation services provide reminders and some will file it for you.
Can I form a Maryland LLC if I don't live in Maryland?
Yes, you don't need to be a Maryland resident to form a Maryland LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Maryland street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
What name requirements exist for Maryland LLCs?
Your Maryland LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" at the end. You can check name availability through Maryland's SDAT online system. Certain words may require additional approval. You can also reserve a name for a fee if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Maryland Regions for LLCs
- • Baltimore
- • Columbia
- • Towson
- • Catonsville
- • Rockville
- • Gaithersburg
- • Silver Spring
- • Bethesda
- • Bowie
- • College Park
- • Greenbelt
- • Laurel
- • Annapolis
- • Glen Burnie
- • Severna Park
- • Crofton
Ready to Start Your Maryland LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Maryland LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.