If you already have an LLC in another state and want a Maine LLC, then starting an LLC would be somewhat different. You must register as a foreign LLC. We have here a guide on how you can qualify and register for a foreign LLC in Maine.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
Forming a Maine Foreign LLC
A foreign LLC does not need to be a company from another country but a business formed under the laws of another state. To start a foreign LLC in Maine, you need to register it with the Maine Secretary of State.
Step 1: Choose Maine Foreign LLC Name
Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the Maine Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of Maine will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in Maine. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.
Check name availability at Maine’s business entity names and reserve your LLC name.
Step 2: Select Maine Foreign LLC Registered Agent
You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Maine and take note that a Maine registered agent must have a local address. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries:
LLC Service | Our Rating & Pricing | Top Features | Learn More |
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Step 3: File Registration of Maine Foreign LLC
Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration by mail to the Secretary of State, Division of Corporations, UCC, and Commissions, 101 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333.
Include the following:
- LLC’s full legal name.
- A fictitious name or a DBA (only if your LLC’s legal name is not available); Attach a statement of adoption of the fictitious name signed by all LLC members.
- LLC’s principal office and mailing addresses.
- LLC formation state and date.
- Registered agent’s name and address in Maine
- Date when your LLC will start operations in Maine.
- Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $20 application fee plus $50 for expedited processing or $100 for immediate processing.
The LLC cost in Maine, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.
Step 4: Determine How Your Maine Foreign LLC is taxed
Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Maine Business Privilege Tax, and they must file LLC annual reports each year.
Note that forming a foreign LLC would be good for your business as you can legally operate in a different state thus reaching a larger market and opening more opportunities for higher profit.
Steps to Filing Maine Foreign LLC Online
Time needed: 5 minutes.
To set up a foreign LLC in Maine, you must file your Foreign Registration Statement with the Bureau of Corporations, Commissions and Elections, State of Maine. The application fee for the registration of a foreign LLC is $250. The State does not offer online registration yet and the application can be filed either online or in-person.
- Visit the Official Secretary of State of Maine Website
The Official Website of the Secretary of State of Maine provides information about the Forms and Fees requirements of Limited Liability Companies in the State of Maine.
- Foreign Limited Liability Companies
On the following page, click on the link ‘Foreign Limited Liability Companies’ above the heading of ‘Forms and Fees’.
- Statement of Foreign Qualification to Conduct Activities
On the following page, scroll down the cursor to the heading “Foreign Limited Liability Companies”. To qualify as a foreign LLC in the State of Maine, you must fill the FORM MLLC-12. Download the application form from the link: Statement of Foreign Qualification to Conduct Activities.
- Download and complete the Application Form
On clicking the given link, the standard form for Registration opens up. Download the registration form and fill in the required details.
- Make the payment
After filing the form, make the payment in the name of “Secretary of State” with a check of $250.00.
- Submit the form
Review the details filled in the form thoroughly to avoid any future rejection or delays. Also, attach your company’s Certificate of Existence authenticated by the Secretary of State of your original jurisdiction. Submit your form to the following address: Secretary of State, Divisions of Corporation, UCC and Commissions, 101 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333
After Forming Maine Foreign LLC
Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Maine Foreign LLC
- Obtain Business Licenses. Find the business licenses you’ll need using the Business License Search.
- File LLC annual reports and Business Privilege Tax.
- Pay State Taxes like sales tax; you’ll need an EIN for your LLC.
It is convenient plus easy to file for the foreign LLC if you are doing it online. However, there is no online filing for a Maine LLC.
How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in Maine
To register as a foreign LLC in Maine, you can file through mail paying $250 payable to the Maine Secretary of State.
Starting a business in a foreign country can be a challenging and expensive endeavor, especially if you are looking to register a limited liability company (LLC) in Maine. But the good news is that the cost of registering a foreign LLC in Maine is relatively minimal.
The process of registering a foreign LLC in Maine begins with filing a Certificate of Authority with the Secretary of State. This document is essentially an application for the LLC to do business in Maine and requires the company name, its formation date, the name and address of its registered agent, the name and address of each member, and the LLC’s address in Maine. Once the Certificate of Authority is approved, the LLC will then be able to register with local authorities, such as the Department of Revenue, to obtain any necessary permits and licenses.
The cost of registering a foreign LLC in Maine is a nominal fee of $175. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid when submitting the Certificate of Authority. Additionally, there may be additional filing fees, depending on the type of business. For example, if the LLC is a professional services business, such as accounting or legal services, there may be an additional fee of $100.
In addition to the filing fee, there are other costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Maine. These costs can include legal fees for the preparation of the Certificate of Authority, registration fees with local authorities, and professional fees for any necessary permits or licenses. It is important to note that these costs may vary depending on the complexity of the LLC’s business and the scope of its activities in Maine.
In addition to the filing fee and other associated costs, the LLC must also pay taxes and fees to the state of Maine. The LLC will be required to pay annual franchise taxes, which are based on the company’s gross receipts, as well as an annual report fee. There may also be additional taxes and fees depending on the type of business and its activities in Maine.
Finally, the LLC must also obtain a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This number is necessary for filing taxes, applying for business loans, and opening a business bank account. The EIN is free to obtain and can be done online or by mail.
Overall, registering a foreign LLC in Maine is relatively inexpensive and straightforward. The filing fee is only $175 and there may be additional costs associated with obtaining necessary permits or licenses and filing taxes. Additionally, the LLC must obtain an EIN from the IRS. With these costs in mind, registering a foreign LLC in Maine can be an affordable and simple process.
F.A.Qs
If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in Maine.
Businesses incorporated outside of the state where they operate must have “foreign qualifications” issued in the other states.
A domestic LLC is a company registered in Maine as an LLC. The entity type that has a physical presence in another state is a foreign LLC.
In Conclusion
Starting a foreign LLC in Maine does not require a lot of documentation or tasks. However, it is always good to seek help from a professional when it comes to running your business. Get a professional registered agent and form your foreign LLC anywhere without a hassle.