# File a DBA in Maryland

Source: https://joinopenfile.com/dba/maryland
Index: https://joinopenfile.com/llms.txt

A DBA lets your business trade under another name in Maryland. Filed with SDAT only.

## Maryland details

- State fee: $25
- How it's filed: online or mail
- Form: Trade Name Filing

[Where it's filed](https://dat.maryland.gov/businesses/documents/fees.pdf). Last checked October 2026. Fees are set by the state and confirmed again before we file.

[File my DBA](https://joinopenfile.com/existing?service=dba)

$99 + state or county fee, for any company.

## Questions

What is a DBA?

A registered trade name. Your company keeps its legal name and can also do business, advertise and take payment under this one.

Does a DBA protect my name?

No. It doesn't stop anyone else using the name. A trademark does that.

Do I need an LLC to get a DBA?

No. Sole proprietors can register one too. It just doesn't separate your business from your personal assets the way an LLC does.