Maryland business search
Maryland's official business search is Business Entity Search, run by the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation. It's free, and you can search by name or file number.
Search Maryland recordsHow to check if a name is taken in Maryland
- Type the main words of the name into the search. Leave off endings like LLC or Inc.
- Look for exact matches and close ones. States usually refuse a name that only differs by punctuation, spacing or the ending.
- If nothing close comes up, run a free trademark search. A state accepting your name doesn't give you the right to use it as a brand.
LLC name endings in Maryland
An LLC's name has to end with one of these: LLC, LC, L.L.C., Limited Liability Company.
Once the name is clear
Maryland charges $100 to form an LLC and $120 to form a corporation. See how to start an LLC in Maryland, or a Maryland DBA if you only need a trade name.
Maryland business search questions
Is the Maryland business search free?
Yes. The Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation doesn't charge to search its records.
Does searching reserve a name in Maryland?
No. A search only shows what's on record today. The name is yours once your filing is accepted, and most states also let you pay to hold a name for a set time.
Can I see who owns a Maryland LLC?
The record shows what Maryland requires a company to file, which is often its registered agent and sometimes its managers or members. Many states don't list owners at all.