When setting up a new enterprise in Maryland, you must first confirm that the business name is available. You can do this by conducting a business entity search. Because all Maryland business entities are required to be registered with the state, if a business exists, it will appear in the business entity search. In this article, you’ll learn how to conduct a Maryland business entity search and get your business off the ground.
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What Is a Business Entity?
“Business entity” is a generic term for any formal business structure. Business entities have a legal and tax identity separate from their owners. Corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs) and limited partnerships are common types of business entities. You create a business entity by filing documents to register the business with the state.
Sole proprietorships and general partnerships are businesses, but they are not “business entities.” You don’t need to file any paperwork to form these types of businesses.
Starting a Business in Maryland
To start a business in Maryland, you must register with the Maryland Corporation Commission. To register the business, the business name must be available. You can determine if a business name is available by conducting the business entity search, as described below.
You will also want to file a Form SS-4 with the IRS to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes. You will also need to obtain a Maryland business identification number.
Forming an LLC in Maryland
Forming an LLC in Maryland is similar to forming other business entities. After confirming that the LLC name is available by doing a business entity search, you will register the LLC with the Maryland Corporation Commission.
You will also need to appoint a registered agent to receive state and federal legal documents on behalf of the LLC. The agent may be a resident of Maryland with a physical address in the state, a Maryland corporation or LLC, or a company that provides registered agent services in Maryland.
Search by Name
The primary way to search for a Maryland business entity is to enter the business name in the search widget on the Maryland.gov Business Express website. You don’t need to enter LLC or Corp. when searching by business entity name.
If you’re starting a new business, you can use the search tool to find out if your preferred business name is already being used by another business. If your search doesn’t return results, the name is probably available for you to use. The name search can also be helpful if you are unsure of a name for your business entity and want to see businesses with a specific keyword in the name.
Search by Department ID
If you know the business’s department ID, you can also search for a Maryland business entity by entering this number on the Maryland.gov Business Express website.
Bottom Line
The business entity search is a critical first step in starting a Maryland business. The Maryland business entity database can also be a useful tool to brainstorm and weed out potential names for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a business license to start a business in Maryland?
Yes. Depending on the type of business and your location, you may need one or more business licenses. These licenses might be obtained through your county or municipality. In some cases, industry-specific licenses, such as food or liquor licenses, will also need to be obtained through the state. Check the Maryland OneStop website to find out what business licenses you need.
How much does it cost to register a business entity in Maryland?
Depending on the type of business entity, the filing fee to register a business in Maryland is $100 to $170. There are additional fees for expedited processing.
Can I operate a business from my home in Maryland?
Yes, you can operate a business from your home in Maryland but you’ll have to register with the state. You will need a business tax account and possibly a business license.
