Maryland Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration


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If you already have an LLC in another state and want an LLC in Maryland, 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 Maryland

Forming an Maryland 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 Maryland, you need to register it with the Maryland Secretary of State.

Step 1: Choose Maryland Foreign LLC Name

Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the Maryland Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of Maryland will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in Maryland. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC

Check name availability at Maryland’s business entity names and reserve your LLC name.

Step 2: Select Maryland Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Maryland and take note that a Maryland 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: 

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Step 3: File Registration of Maryland Foreign LLC 

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form via email to [email protected] or by mail to Maryland State Department of Assessments and taxation, 301 West Preston Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201-2395.

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 Maryland.
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in Maryland.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee. 

The LLC cost in Maryland, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.

Step 4: Determine How Your Maryland Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Maryland 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 Maryland Foreign LLC Online

Time needed: 5 minutes.

When you are registering for the foreign LLC in this particular State, you will have to submit your Application for Registration of foreign LLC with the Secretary of State which costs $100. The filing must also contain a written proof of existence from your home State. It is equivalent to a Certificate of Status. After approval, you will receive a Verification Certificate from the State Office. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for Maryland Foreign LLC.

In the State of Maryland, the process of filing an application for Articles of Organization for a foreign LLC can be done online and via mail.

  1. Visit the official website

    Open the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation Forms and Application page.

  2. Click the foreign LLC file option

    Scroll down to the section containing details about “Foreign (Non-Maryland) Businesses”. Select the following option from the given list “Foreign Limited Liability Company Registration”. Click the option of “Click here to file online”.

  3. Create your account

    If you already registered your account on the website, click on the “log in” option and proceed to fill in your login credentials and access your account. If you do not have an account, click on the “Create Account” option on the page.

  4. Fill in your details

    Enter your information to sign up for a new account such as your First and Last name, Contact details, Email, Address, ZIP Code, and password. After creating your account credentials, you will be required to answer additional questions. Next, click on the tab “Create Account”.

  5. Select the business type

    After creating your account, log in to your account with the username and password. Next, select the option of ‘Start a New Filing’ option on your Account Home page. Select the registration type as “Foreign (Non-Maryland) Business Types: Foreign Limited Liability Company” from the dropdown list.

  6. Complete the registration process

    After the registration page for your Maryland Foreign LLC opens up, continue with the registration process by filling in the application for Articles of Organization.

    You can also choose to file an application for registration of your limited liability company OFFLINE via mail by completing the Application form PDF and submitting it to the following address: Maryland State Department of Assessments and taxation, 301 West Preston Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201-2395. The filing fee for offline registration is also $100 and the application should be accompanied by written proof of existence from the Home State.

It is convenient plus easy to file for the foreign LLC if you are doing it online. The steps are very easy and that’s why it’s possible to go along with the steps and form the foreign LLC in Maryland. 

After Forming Maryland Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Maryland Foreign LLC

  1. Obtain Business Licenses. Find the business licenses you’ll need using the Business License Search.
  2. File LLC annual reports and Business Privilege Tax.
  3. Pay State Taxes like sales tax; you’ll need an EIN for your LLC

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in Maryland

To register as a foreign LLC in Maryland, you can file through mail or online by paying $100 to the Maryland Secretary of State.

Forming an LLC in Maryland is a relatively straightforward process. The fees and costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Maryland, however, can vary depending on the type of LLC you are registering. In general, the cost to register a foreign LLC in Maryland is $300, plus applicable filing fees.

When registering a foreign LLC in Maryland, you must first file a Certificate of Authority with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation. The certificate must include the name of the LLC, its principal address, the name and address of its registered agent, and any other information that the Secretary of State may require. Once the application is approved, you will be responsible for paying the $300 filing fee.

In addition to the filing fee, you may incur additional costs when registering a foreign LLC in Maryland. For example, if you are using a professional agent to assist with the registration process, they may charge an additional fee. You may also need to pay an expedited filing fee if you need your LLC to be registered quickly.

Once your LLC is registered in Maryland, you will need to make sure that you remain in compliance with Maryland law. This includes filing an annual report with the state, as well as paying any applicable taxes. Depending on the type of business you are running, you may also need to obtain a business license or permit.

In addition to the costs of registering a foreign LLC in Maryland, you should keep in mind that there may be additional costs associated with doing business in the state. Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to hire employees, rent office space, or purchase supplies. You may also need to pay fees for any professional services that you require.

Before registering a foreign LLC in Maryland, it is important to consider all of the associated costs. You should also research the laws and regulations that may apply to your LLC, as these can vary depending on the type of business you are running. By taking the time to research the process and understand the associated costs, you can ensure that you are prepared to properly register your LLC in Maryland.

F.A.Qs

What is a foreign LLC in Maryland?

If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in Maryland.

Do I need a foreign LLC?

Businesses incorporated outside of the state where they operate must have “foreign qualifications” issued in the other states.

What is the main difference between domestic and foreign LLC?

A domestic LLC is a company registered in Maryland 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 Maryland 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.

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