5 Best Maryland LLC Services for 2024 (Formation & Help)

Planning to launch your business in Maryland? It is much easier if a professional lends a hand in the formation of your corporation or LLC in Maryland. When you look for the best LLC formation services, you probably get many names that are claimed to be the best.

The LLCBuddy team has made things easier for you. If you’re lost in so many services, here we are with a list of the best LLC formation services in Maryland. On this page, you will find their features, pricing, and other details that can be compared before you purchase the service. Check out the best LLC formation service in Maryland. If you’re not a reading type of person, you can watch this video before you make your purchase.

Best LLC Service in Maryland

Best LLC Formation Services in Maryland

Here is the list of the best LLC services available in Maryland. The best thing about these services is starting your LLC for free. Some of the following services are offering LLC formation in Maryland at $0. Other than the state fees and charges, you do not have to pay any charges to the service provider. You will get the basic formation package for free. Now, let’s check out the list of best LLC formation service providers in Maryland-

LLC Service	Our Rating & Pricing	Top Features	Learn More
#1 TOP PICK	4.5/5 $0 + State Fees	100% accuracy guarantee Worry-free service Great customer support	Learn More
	4/5 $0 + State Fees	Free LLC Formation Extras are bit more expensive Other business solutions	Learn More

Below is the list of the best LLC formation services we picked for you in Maryland.

ZenBusiness – Known for its affordable packages and efficient service, ZenBusiness has become a favorite among new entrepreneurs.
TailorBrands – Beyond LLC services, TailorBrands stands out with its branding solutions, making it a one-stop shop for budding businesses.
LegalZoom – With years of industry experience, LegalZoom offers comprehensive services and a vast array of legal resources.
Northwest Registered Agent – Praised for its top-notch customer service, Northwest ensures personalized assistance and detailed compliance guidance.
BetterLegal – Speed is BetterLegal’s forte, promising the fastest LLC formation process in the market.

Our Editorial Team selects these companies through thorough research and market study. It is recommended that you cross-check all the factors before choosing the right one for your business.

1. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a Texas-based company that provides services from formation to annual compliance to an LLC. It offers three plans, Starter, Pro, and Premium. The Starter plan starts from $0. That means you can form your LLC for free in Maryland, though you must pay the state filing fee of $100 to the Maryland Secretary of State. But, the company charges nothing to form your business in the state.

ZenBusiness Plans

Starter Plan at $0 + state filing fee
Pro Plan at $199/year + state filing fee
Premium Plan at $299/year + state filing fee

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get ZenBusiness	Why You Should Not Get ZenBusiness
100% accuracy rate	Does not form Maryland nonprofit
Free LLC formation in Maryland	Additional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Registered Agent services in Maryland

ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness is one of those top-rated companies that provide business formation in Maryland at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in Maryland. The state filing fee and other necessary fees must be paid, including the registered agent fee.

ZenBusiness offers three plans, among which the Pro plan is recommended. The Pro plan has everything you need to start an LLC in Maryland. Obtaining EIN, operating agreement drafting, name search, and all other services are available with the rush filing feature.

Form LLC in Maryland with ZenBusiness

2. TailorBrands

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Maryland? Here is the LLC formation service provider, TailorBrands, for you. The company was established in 2015 in New York, and since then, it has offered several incredible services to set up your business. TailorBrands has a single LLC formation plan that starts at $49 a year. You can choose different other add-on services at an additional cost.

TailorBrands Services

TailorBrands offers a single plan for forming an LLC at $49. There are some basic services that TailorBrands offers, including starting an LLC, filing it, Maryland name availability search, priority support, and so on. You can use their add-on services as and when required. Add-ons are-

Registered Agent Service – $199/year
Employment ID Number (EIN) – $99 (one-time pay)
Annual Compliances – $299/year
Operating Agreement – $29
Expedited Filing – $49
Business bank account – Free

TailorBrands Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get TailorBrands	Why You Shouldn’t Get TailorBrands
Low-cost LLC formation	Not BBB Accredited
Free business bank accounts	No business domain packages
Hassle-free LLC formation	Additional charges to obtain EIN
Additional services like logo, website, domain

TailorBrands Overview

TailorBrands does not have vast LLC formation packages. Instead, it has a single package that includes the formation of LLCs. The name availability search is unlimited, and you don’t have to pay any additional fees. The state filing fee of $100 must be paid apart from the charges you pay for add-ons.

TailorBrands offers other business services such as logo making, domain, website, business bank account, merchandise, and other business services. As a small or start-up business, you must go for TailorBrands.

Form LLC in Maryland with TailorBrands

3. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in Maryland that offers free LLC formation services. If you want to avoid spending money to form your LLC, then LegalZoom is for you. It offers various formation packages that include all types of LLC services. Aside from LLC formation, LegalZoom offers C and S Corp formation. With over thousands of customers, the company offers basic LLC formation services at $0.

LegalZoom Plans

Basic Package- $0 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)
Pro Package – $249 + State Filing Fees (Tax deductible may be applicable)
Premium Package – $279 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)

Apart from these packages, LegalZoom offers a bunch of add-on services as well. Add-on services include the following-

Registered Agent – $299 per year. Available as an add-on and not included in any packages
Trademark registration: Assisting with the US trademark application process
Copyright registration: Guidance on registering copyrights for creative works
Patent services: Support in obtaining utility, design, and plant patents
Estate planning: Offering personalized wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
Legal advice: Access to a network of lawyers for consultations and legal guidance
Expedited Filing: With an additional $99, you can speed up your filing process.

LegalZoom Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get LegalZoom	Why You Shouldn’t Get LegalZoom
Free LLC formation	Expensive add-ons, such as Registered Agent
Trustworthy and established reputation	Higher pricing compared to some competitors
Quick turnaround time	Fewer add-on options
Access to legal professionals	Some additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support is available through phone or chat	Mixed customer reviews

LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is one of the oldest companies in the USA. This company is a service provider offering LLC formation at $0. It offers three broad packages, Basic, Pro, and Premium. The Basic package costs $0. However, you must pay the Maryland filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the Maryland Secretary of State. The filing fee depends on which method, mail, online, or any other method you choose.

LegalZoom offers vast add-ones like others. Hence, the chances of getting diverse services are comparatively high. The best part about the company is that it has access to legal documents and legal consultations. The registered agent service is a bit expensive. If you want to hire a Registered Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately; it does not come with any formation plans.

Form LLC in Maryland with LegalZoom

4. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a family-owned business based in Spoken, Washington state. The company offers LLC formation, registered agent service, annual compliances, and other business-related services in all 50 states, including Maryland. It offers LLC formation at $39 + state fees and registered agent service at $125 yearly.

Northwest Plans

Northwest does not have conventional packages. It offers Core, Business maintenance, and business development services. Under these categories, various services are available at a flat rate. Some of the services offered by Northwest in Maryland are listed below-

LLC formation in Maryland at $39 + state filing fee
Registered Agent at $125 yearly
Annual report filing at $100 + state filing fee
Obtaining EIN at $50
Northwest offers National Agent Service. If you operate your LLC Registered Agent in 5 or more states, you can pay $100 + state fees (if applicable) to get a single agent for all states.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get Northwest	Why You Should Not Get Northwest
DIY Packages for your LLC in Maryland	Not BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all services	You must form Maryland LLC to purchase only the service you need.
You must form Maryland LLC to purchase only the service you need.	The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers a standalone Registered Agent service in Maryland

Northwest Registered Agent Overview

Northwest is one of those service providers that offer DIY packages. Northwest is not for you if you want a wholesome formation package in Maryland. It does not have conventional LLC formation packages. It is simply like a departmental store for you. You don’t need to buy everything, but the only thing you need.

Northwest has in-house corporate guides to guide you through the formation process. It offers LLC formation at $39 plus the state filing fee ($125). If you have already formed your LLC in Maryland and are willing to appoint a Registered Agent only, then Northwest can provide a standalone registered agent service at $125 per year.

Northwest offers single flat rates for all services in Maryland and other states. The best part about the company is it does not outsource any of its services. Northwest offers corporate guides to help you through the steps of LLC formation.

Form LLC in Maryland with Northwest Registered Agent

5. BetterLegal

BetterLegal is a comparatively new company compared to other competitors. However, this company has successfully grabbed a large portion of the market in the United States. Serving in 51 states, BetterLegal has been in business since 2016. Unlike other experienced companies, it does not have a list of packages and plans for LLC formation.

BetterLegal Plans

BetterLegal offers one single plan at a flat $299 + state filing fees. It has a list of add-on services as well. BetterLegal is an online service that started off with a very small team. However, even after being in the business for so long, they didn’t increase their team size much. They have transparent pricing, and no hidden charge exists for any services they provide.

BetterLegal offers a list of add-on services. Following are the additional services they offer-

Registered Agent service – $10/month or $90/year
State Annual compliance services – $10/month or $90/year
Permit & License Search Service – $125
Amendment & document research – Free with the core formation service package

BetterLegal Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get BetterLegal	Why You Shouldn’t Get BetterLegal
No refund; all sales are final	The basic package does not include a registered agent service
Quick Turnaround time	Additional charge for EIN
A+ BBB Accredited	The basic package does not include a registered agent service
Single plan for all incorporation

BetterLegal Overview

Even though the company is called BetterLegal, no attorneys or legal services are available. The company offers a single plan for all types of business formation. Hence, if you are planning to form a corporation, you can pay $299 + incorporation fee ($120 for filing in person and by mail in Maryland). It offers comparatively better turnaround time at a reasonable price than other companies. You can file your LLC within 10 minutes with BetterLegal.

It offers a resource center for new entrepreneurs. They provide guidance to make things easier when it comes to filing your business. Their small team sometimes fails to cater to their customers on time. Reaching out to their customer support team is very difficult. Another disadvantage is it does not have a refund policy. All sales with BetterLegal are final, and at any stage, no refund is made upon cancelation. However, basic LLC formation and registered agent services are much cheaper in BetterLegal than in other close competitors.

Form LLC in Maryland with BetterLegal

How to Form an LLC in Maryland

Forming an LLC in Maryland takes a few steps. The first step is to get a clear idea about doing business in Maryland. Before jumping into the pool of paperwork, make sure you have a thorough knowledge of taxes and the costs of starting any business in Maryland.

In general, Maryland, popularly known as The Old Line State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 6,298,325. The state has the nominal GDP is 474,424 (in millions). Hence, you can start any small or medium-sized business in Maryland based on your budget. Forming an LLC in Maryland can be a good option as it is less complicated than other forms of business. If you choose the state capital, Annapolis, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

There are five most important steps to follow when you establish an LLC in Maryland:

Step 1: Give a name to the LLC: Make sure the name is available to use in Maryland. You can also get a DBA.
Step 2: Get a Registered Agent in Maryland. The person will be responsible for all communications between your LLC and the State.
Step 3: File the Maryland Articles of Organization.
Step 4: Draft an LLC operating agreement in Maryland.
Step 5: Get an EIN in Maryland

Now, these steps seem to be easy. But unfortunately, it is not that simple. Each business has to file different documents based on local licenses and permits. From January 1, 2024, all the LLCs and Corporations have to file the BOI Report with the FinCEN. If you start an LLC, you must file the BOI Report in Maryland.

You can do that on your own. However, getting a professional on board is always recommended to guide you through the process. These steps are crucial and sensitive. You must complete everything to avoid canceling your formation process. Hence, having a professional LLC formation service for your LLC is better.

How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Florida

It is important to choose the best service for your business carefully. Before you select the best one, make sure you thoroughly research the following points-

Reputation: Look for a company with a good reputation. Check reviews and ratings from previous clients to see how they feel about the services offered.
Experience: Choose a company with years of LLC formation experience. This ensures that they have knowledge of the process and can provide quality services.
Cost: Compare prices between different companies. Choose a company that offers affordable pricing for the services you need.
Customer Service: Ensure that the company has good customer service. They should be responsive, helpful, and willing to answer any questions.
Services Offered: Look for a company that offers a range of services, including entity formation, registered agent services, and ongoing compliance support to ensure your LLC remains in good standing.
Ease of Use: Choose a company with a user-friendly website and easy-to-use online platform. This makes the process of forming an LLC simple and straightforward.
Guarantees: Check if the company offers a satisfaction guarantee or a refund policy. This gives you peace of mind that you are getting the best possible service.

FAQs

What are the benefits of using an LLC formation service in Maryland?

Using an LLC formation service in Maryland can save you time and ensure that your business is compliant with state regulations.

Can I form an LLC in Maryland without using a formation service?

Yes, you can form an LLC in Maryland on your own, but using a formation service can make the process easier and less time-consuming.

How much does it cost to use an LLC formation service in Maryland?

The cost of using an LLC formation service in Maryland can vary depending on the provider and the services included. Typically, prices range from $50 to $500.

What documents are required to form an LLC in Maryland?

To form an LLC in Maryland, you will need to file Articles of Organization with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Maryland using a formation service?

With the help of an LLC formation service in Maryland, you can typically expect your LLC to be formed within a few business days to a couple of weeks.

Can an LLC formation service in Maryland also help with obtaining an EIN for my business?

Yes, many LLC formation services in Maryland offer assistance with obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business.

What should I look for when choosing an LLC formation service in Maryland?

When choosing an LLC formation service in Maryland, consider factors such as pricing, customer reviews, customer support, and additional services offered.

Are there any specific requirements for forming an LLC in Maryland?

Yes, in Maryland, the name of your LLC must include the words “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviations “LLC” or “L.L.C.”

Can I change the name of my LLC after it’s been formed in Maryland?

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

Do I need a registered agent to form an LLC in Maryland?

Yes, all LLCs in Maryland are required to have a registered agent, who is responsible for accepting legal documents on behalf of the company.

Can I act as my own registered agent for my LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can act as your own registered agent for your LLC in Maryland, as long as you have a physical street address in the state.

What are the ongoing requirements for maintaining an LLC in Maryland?

In Maryland, LLCs are required to file a Personal Property Return each year by April 15th and pay an annual fee to the Department of Assessments and Taxation.

Can an LLC formation service in Maryland help me with annual reporting requirements?

Yes, many LLC formation services in Maryland offer assistance with annual reporting requirements to help keep your business compliant with state regulations.

What is a publication requirement in Maryland for LLCs?

In Maryland, there is no publication requirement for LLCs.

Can an LLC formed in Maryland operate in other states?

Yes, an LLC formed in Maryland can operate in other states, but it may be required to register as a foreign LLC in those states.

Do I need a business license to operate my LLC in Maryland?

Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to obtain a business license or permits in Maryland. It’s best to check with local authorities.

Can an LLC formation service in Maryland help me with obtaining business licenses or permits?

Many LLC formation services in Maryland offer additional services to help you obtain the necessary business licenses or permits for your specific industry.

Is it necessary to have an operating agreement for an 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.

Can an LLC formation service in Maryland provide assistance with drafting an operating agreement?

Yes, many LLC formation services in Maryland can assist you with drafting an operating agreement tailored to your specific business needs.

Can I form an LLC in Maryland if I am not a resident of the state?

Yes, you can form an LLC in Maryland even if you are not a resident of the state.

Can I use a PO Box as the address for my LLC in Maryland?

No, in Maryland, a physical street address is required for the registered agent and business address of your LLC.

Can I form a series LLC in Maryland?

Yes, Maryland allows for the formation of a series LLC, which is a unique structure that segregates assets and liabilities among different series within the same LLC.

Is there a fee for cancelling an LLC in Maryland?

Yes, there is a filing fee to cancel an LLC in Maryland. The fee varies depending on the method of filing.

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

One key difference between an LLC and a corporation in Maryland is the way they are taxed. LLCs are typically taxed as pass-through entities, while corporations are subject to double taxation.

Can an LLC be formed online in Maryland?

Yes, you can form an LLC online in Maryland by filing the necessary documents and paying the required fees electronically.

What are the different types of LLC formation services available in Maryland?

There are various LLC formation services in Maryland that offer different packages, including basic formation, registered agent services, EIN assistance, and more.

Can I convert my existing business entity to an LLC in Maryland?

Yes, you can convert your existing business entity to an LLC in Maryland by filing the appropriate forms with the state.

How can I dissolve an LLC in Maryland?

To dissolve an LLC in Maryland, you must file Articles of Dissolution with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation and pay the required fee.

What happens if I fail to comply with ongoing requirements for my LLC in Maryland?

If you fail to comply with ongoing requirements for your LLC in Maryland, your business may become administratively dissolved, and you may lose certain legal protections offered by the LLC structure.

What are the best LLC formation services available in Maryland?

Some popular options in Maryland include LegalZoom, Incfile, and Northwest Registered Agent.

Conclusion

Starting a business in Florida is a big step. It’s really helpful to have experts on your side. When you use a professional LLC service, you’re making sure everything is done right without any headaches. We’ve given you a list of the top choices in this article. Take your time to look at each one. Check their prices, see what they offer, and think about what’s best for your business.

Remember, picking the right Florida LLC service can make things smoother and better for your business as it grows. If you want the best for your business, check out ZenBusiness. They’re our number one recommendation for their compelling offer of $0 + state fee for LLC formation, combined with an impressive array of 5-star Trustpilot reviews. Seize this exceptional opportunity for your business!