How to File an LLC Articles of Organization in Maryland (original) (raw)

articles of organization

The Articles of Organization is one of the main documents required while forming an LLC in Maryland. The document needs to be filed with the Secretary of State in Maryland to share all the important information related to the limited liability company that is going to be established.

On this page, LLCBuddy editors put all the information together about how to file the Articles of Organization in Maryland. There might be several ways to file the formation document, online, by mail, fax, or by in-person visit to the office. Let’s dig more to check the available and easy ways in Maryland to file the Articles of Organization while forming the LLC.

What is an LLC Articles of Organization in Maryland?

The Articles of Organization for an LLC is the most important document among all. In general, establishing an LLC is much simpler than other types of business structures such as corporation or partnership. Among a few mandatory documents to file, Articles of Organization is one of the main papers.

By submitting the Articles of Organization, the LLC owners provide all sorts of information related to the LLC. Upon approval of the documents and information provided by the LLC, they can register their business with Maryland Secretary of State.

Each state has a different requirement to fill out a form. The Articles of Organization usually includes the following:

Note that the Articles of Organization in Maryland is a legal requirement, not to mention, the core of your LLC. It even makes up the bulk of your Maryland LLC cost. Without it, you have no LLC. So, take the time to complete and file this certificate.

How to File Maryland LLC Articles of Organization

Filing an LLC Articles of Organization with the State is easy. There are several ways to file it. As mentioned, the filing can be done online, by sending the PDF form by mail, or by other means (physical visit or fax). Statewise filing methods can be different. Alternatively, hiring a third-party service can make a lot of difference compared to doing it on your own. They help the LLCs to file documents easily without any complications. In Maryland, the following methods are available.

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Step 1: Find Forms Online

Go to the Maryland Secretary of State to download the Articles of Organization form for your LLC or to log into the online service.

Step 2: Fill Out Form

When filling out the form, you must have reserved an LLC name. Do a name search. Go to Maryland LLC Name Search to check whether your chosen business name is available to use in this state.

You must attach a copy of your Name Reservation to your filled-out Articles of Organization form when filing. You also need to mention the name and address of the Maryland Resident Agent. We recommend the best LLC services in Maryland that you can choose to form your LLC, hire the Resident Agent, and file the Articles of Organization with the SOS.

If you plan to start an LLC in states other than Maryland, you must file a foreign LLC in other states. For filing a foreign LLC you can explore the best LLC services that operate in 50 other states along with Maryland.

What information does the Articles of Organization application need in Maryland?

The application form for the Articles of Organization needs to include the LLC name, date of establishment, the company’s registered office, business purpose, how long the business will exist, and a copy of the LLC’s name registration certificate.

Step 3: File Formation Certificates

File your formation certificate either online or by mail (whichever is available and convenient for you) by filling out the form and sending it to the CoState Department of Assessments and Taxation, Charter Division 301 W. Preston Street; 8th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201-2395. For online filing, you must log in to the Maryland Secretary of State or register with the portal. Submit the form online (if available).

Pay the required filing fee at the time of form submission to complete the LLC registration. For online filing, payment should be made using Credit or Debit Cards. For offline filing, payment should be made using a Cheque or in cash (if available).

Cost of Filing Maryland Articles of Organization

cost

LLC cost in Maryland includes all types of fees starting from name reservation fee, DBA filing fee ($25 Filing Fee and 50ExpeditedFee),ResidentAgentcosts,andArticlesofOrganizationfee.InMaryland,∗∗thefilingfeeofaformationdocumentis50 Expedited Fee), Resident Agent costs, and Articles of Organization fee. In Maryland, the filing fee of a formation document is 50ExpeditedFee),ResidentAgentcosts,andArticlesofOrganizationfee.InMaryland,∗∗thefilingfeeofaformationdocumentis100. The standard fee for filing the Articles of Organization allows one to file the LLC within the standard time. However, by paying additional fees, you can expedite the process, and can be done as soon as within a few hours (depending on state rules).

Hiring a professional service can reduce some of the costs while filing an LLC. However, the state filing fee is mandatory and has to be paid at the time of registration. We recommend hiring ZenBusiness as it offers filing an LLC at $0 (plus state filing fee).

Amend Maryland Articles of Organization: If you make any changes to your LLC, you must file the changes with the Secretary of State. To do so, you must Amend Maryland Articles of Organization. LLCs can get the amendment form, fill it out with the changed/updated information, and send it back to the SOS online or offline.

FAQs

What is an LLC in Maryland?

An LLC in Maryland is a limited liability company, a hybrid business structure that combines characteristics of both a corporation and a partnership.

How do I form an LLC in Maryland?

To form an LLC in Maryland, you must file Articles of Organization with the state’s Department of Assessments and Taxation.

What information is required in the Articles of Organization for an LLC in Maryland?

The Articles of Organization for an LLC in Maryland must include the name of the LLC, the address of the principal place of business, the names and addresses of the organizers, and a statement of purpose.

How much does it cost to file Articles of Organization for an LLC in Maryland?

The filing fee for Articles of Organization for an LLC in Maryland is $100, as of this writing.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Maryland?

The processing time for forming an LLC in Maryland can vary, but it typically takes 7-10 business days.

Do I need an attorney to file Articles of Organization for an LLC in Maryland?

You are not required to have an attorney to file Articles of Organization for an LLC in Maryland, but legal guidance can be helpful.

Can I reserve a name for my LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can reserve a name for your LLC in Maryland by filing a Name Reservation Request with the state.

Can a foreign LLC do business in Maryland?

Yes, a foreign LLC can do business in Maryland by obtaining a Certificate of Registration from the Department of Assessments and Taxation.

Can I change the name of my LLC in Maryland after filing Articles of Organization?

Yes, you can change the name of your LLC in Maryland by filing an Amended Articles of Organization with the state.

What is a Resident Agent in Maryland?

A Resident Agent in Maryland is a person or business entity that accepts legal documents on behalf of an LLC and is located in the state.

What happens if I don’t have a Resident Agent in Maryland?

Every LLC in Maryland is required to have a Resident Agent, so failure to appoint one can result in penalties or the inability to do business in the state.

Can I be my own Resident Agent for my LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can be your own Resident Agent for your LLC in Maryland, as long as you have a physical address in the state.

Do I need an operating agreement for my LLC in Maryland?

While not required by the state, it is highly recommended to have an operating agreement for your LLC in Maryland to outline the ownership and operating procedures of the company.

Are there annual fees or reports required for an LLC in Maryland?

Yes, LLCs in Maryland are required to file an Annual Report and pay a filing fee, which is currently 300forLLCswithanannualrevenueover300 for LLCs with an annual revenue over 300forLLCswithanannualrevenueover1 million.

Can I dissolve my LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can dissolve your LLC in Maryland by filing Articles of Dissolution with the Department of Assessments and Taxation.

How do I change the address of my LLC in Maryland?

To change the address of your LLC in Maryland, you must file an Amended Articles of Organization with the state.

Can I convert my existing business into an LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can convert your existing business into an LLC in Maryland by following the necessary steps outlined by the state.

Do LLCs in Maryland need to obtain business licenses or permits?

Depending on the nature of the LLC’s business activities, it may be necessary to obtain business licenses or permits at the county or municipal level in Maryland.

Are there any ongoing compliance requirements for an LLC in Maryland?

In addition to filing annual reports, LLCs in Maryland must also maintain good standing by updating any changes to their information with the Department of Assessments and Taxation.

Can I incorporate my LLC in Maryland online?

Yes, you can file Articles of Organization for an LLC in Maryland online through the Department of Assessments and Taxation’s website.

What is the difference between an LLC and a corporation in Maryland?

LLCs in Maryland offer more flexibility in management and taxation compared to corporations, which are subject to more regulatory requirements.

Can I amend the Articles of Organization for my LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can amend the Articles of Organization for your LLC in Maryland by filing an Amended Articles of Organization with the state.

How do I check the availability of a business name for my LLC in Maryland?

You can check the availability of a business name for your LLC in Maryland by searching the Department of Assessments and Taxation’s online database.

Can an LLC in Maryland be owned by a single person?

Yes, an LLC in Maryland can be owned by a single person, known as a single-member LLC.

Are there any restrictions on the names of LLCs in Maryland?

Yes, the name of an LLC in Maryland must be distinguishable from other business entities registered in the state, and certain restricted words may require additional approvals.

Can I transfer my LLC to another state from Maryland?

Yes, you can transfer your LLC to another state from Maryland by filing the necessary form with both states and following their respective requirements.

Can I operate multiple businesses under one LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can operate multiple businesses under one LLC in Maryland, but it is important to ensure that the activities are related to the LLC’s stated purpose.

What is the liability protection offered by an LLC in Maryland?

An LLC in Maryland provides limited liability protection to its owners, known as members, which means their personal assets are protected from the debts and liabilities of the business.

Can I make changes to the ownership structure of my LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can make changes to the ownership structure of your LLC in Maryland by filing an Amended Articles of Organization or updating the operating agreement.

What is an LLC Articles of Organization in Maryland?

An LLC Articles of Organization in Maryland is a legal document required to officially form a limited liability company in the state.

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In Conclusion

The formation document or the Articles of Organization is the main document you need while forming your limited liability company in Maryland. Certainly, you must attach supporting documents such as a name reservation certificate, registered agent name and address, and others. In Maryland, filing the Articles of Organization is easy. However, mistakes can happen if you are a beginner or a first-time business filer. It is suggested to hire a professional service.

LLCBuddy editors recommend ZenBusiness, as it not only offers free LLC formation service ($0), but also, offers other services such as Resident Agent, operating agreement, EIN, Certificate of Status for foreign LLC establishment, business name search, and many more.