Maryland Business Name Search (LLC Lookup) – Guide
Ensuring Your Maryland LLC Name Is Available
A unique business name is key for branding, but it can be difficult to navigate the various rules for business names in Maryland.
This page will guide you on how to check the availability of your LLC name and ensure it can be used.
Maryland LLC Name Verification
When you submit your paperwork to establish an LLC in Maryland, your filing could be rejected if the name you choose is already in use or does not adhere to state naming regulations.
How to Search the Maryland Business Entity Name Database
You can utilize the business entity search to compare your business name with the currently registered entities in Maryland.
✎ Note:
This tool is often referred to as either the Maryland Business Name Search or the Maryland Business Entity Search. Both terms describe the same website and provide the same search results.
Visit the Maryland Business Entity Search page
Maryland SDAT: Business Entity Search
It's simple: enter your desired LLC name in the search bar.
Search Tips:
- Exclude terms like "LLC", "L.L.C.", "Limited Liability Company", and punctuation marks (commas, periods, apostrophes) from your search.
- You can use either uppercase or lowercase letters in your search.
★ Tip:
To ensure thoroughness, start with a search for the main part of your desired name. For instance, if you want "Sunset Ventures LLC", first search for "Sunset Ventures" and then "Sunset" to cover all possible variations.
How to Understand Maryland LLC Search Results
If your search results show names that do not match yours exactly, your LLC name is likely available.
For example, if "Sunset Ventures LLC" yields results like "Sunset Management" and "Sunset LLC", your name should be available.
What If My Desired Name Is Not Available?
If the name you want is already in use, you will need to choose an alternative name or modify your desired name.
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Maryland SDAT Contact Information
You can contact the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation to check if your LLC name is available.
While this service might not be available in every state, Maryland SDAT representatives can guide you through the process of using the Maryland Business Name Search to see if your name is free. They can not guarantee that your name will be approved, but they can provide useful information.
Call the Business Services – Corporate Name Availability at 410-767-1330, Monday through Friday, between 8 am to 5 pm Eastern Time.
Maryland LLC Name Requirements
As per Section 1-502 of the Maryland LLC Act, there are several rules and requirements you should be aware of when naming a Maryland business entity.
Comma Usage
You are not required to use a comma in your LLC name. Both formats are acceptable:
- Chesapeake Treats LLC
- Chesapeake Treats, LLC
Permissible Designators
Your LLC name must end with one of the following designators:
- LLC
- L.L.C.
- Limited Liability Company
- LC
- L.C.
✎ Note:
The term "LLC" is the most commonly used.
Restricted Designators
Your LLC name cannot include terms that imply it is another type of business entity, such as:
- Inc.
- Corp.
- Cooperative
- Incorporated
- Corporation
Restricted Words in Maryland LLC Names
Your Maryland LLC name cannot include words or abbreviations that are legally restricted.
For instance, you cannot name your LLC in a way that suggests it is a bank, a government agency, or any other entity that might mislead the public.
Additionally, you cannot use terms reserved for licensed professionals. These terms can differ by state but often include accountants, architects, attorneys, dentists, and engineers.
Ensuring Your Maryland Business Name Is Distinguishable
To ensure your LLC name is acceptable, you must compare it with existing names using the Maryland SDAT Business Entity Search.
If your name is not unique, you will need to come up with a different or modified name.
Rules for Distinguishability
Designators
Merely changing the designator (the suffix of the name) does not make a name unique. For example, if "Bayview Ventures LLC" is your desired name, it will not be acceptable if you find any of the following names in the Maryland Business Name Search:
- Bayview Ventures, Inc.
- Bayview Ventures, Corp.
- Bayview Ventures, L.L.C.
Filler Words
Adding filler words such as "the", "a", "an", "and"m or "&" does not make a name distinguishable. For instance, "Greenhill Gardens LLC" will not be available if any of the following names are found:
- The Greenhill Gardens LLC
- A Greenhill Garden Inc.
- Greenhill and Gardens L.L.C.
- Greenhill & Gardens Corp
Plural or Singular Words and Possessive Words
Changing a word to its plural or possessive form does not make a name unique.
If your desired LLC name is "Harper Hounds LLC", it will not be available if any of the following names are found:
- Harper Hounds LLC
- Harper's Hound Inc.
- Harpers Hound, L.L.C.
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What If My Business Name Is Rejected?
If you submit your Maryland Articles of Organization and your chosen business name is not available, do not worry.
The state will inform you of the rejection and provide reasons. You will then need to resubmit with a new or adjusted name.
Do I need a name reservation in Maryland?
No, a name reservation isn't required to form an LLC in Maryland. It’s an unnecessary step and a waste of money. You can simply file your LLC’s Articles of Organization with your desired LLC name.
Does Maryland require an LLC in the name?
Yes, your Maryland LLC name must include one of the allowable designators at the end. The most commonly used designators are:
- LLC
- Limited Liability Company
- Ltd. Liability Co.
Does my Maryland LLC need a DBA?
No, you’re not required to file a DBA ("Doing Business As") for your business entity in Maryland. However, if you want your LLC to operate under a name different from its legal name, you need to file a Trade Name Application online or by mail and pay an additional fee of $25 to the SDAT. For more information, refer to the SDAT Trade Name Guide.
If you file a Trade Name Application for your Maryland LLC, it must be distinguishable from existing business names in the state. There is no limit to the number of Trade Names an LLC can have.
When would my LLC use a DBA?
For instance, if you form an LLC named Kent Island Cruise Lines LLC but want to operate under a more catchy name like Kent Cruises, you would need to file a Trade Name Application to use Kent Cruises. Without this registration, you can only use your legal name Kent Island Cruise Lines LLC. Similarly, if you want to use Kent Island Cruise Lines without "LLC" in the name, you need to file a Trade Name Application for that name.
How do I get a business domain name?
Once you've decided on a business name, check if your domain name is available before forming your LLC. You can search for available domain names using services like GoDaddy.
What does “distinguishability” mean?
Distinguishability means that each business name must be unique and not identical to any existing names on the SDAT's records. If a business already exists with your desired LLC name, you can't register your LLC with that name. For example, if you want to form an LLC called Oriole Landscapers LLC, but a business named Oriole Landscapers, Inc. already exists in another town, you cannot use that name because it is not distinguishable.
How do I come up with a business name?
Choosing a business name is crucial for branding and recognition. Here are some tips for coming up with a business name:
- Write down the features and values you want your company to represent.
- List as many business names as possible without initial editing.
- Review the list and note any variations that come to mind.
- Set the list aside, then revisit it later with a fresh perspective. Write down additional ideas and variations.
- Read the list out loud and seek feedback from friends, business partners, and family.
- Repeat the process of refining and reviewing names. Trust your instincts and choose the name that feels right.
If you're still unsure, try a decision-making technique like closing your eyes and counting to 10. Choose a name when you open your eyes. Sometimes, the best ideas are deeply rooted in our subconscious.
Can I use the name of another Maryland entity?
No, you cannot use the same name as another Maryland business, regardless of entity type. This includes corporations, LLCs, and other entities. You cannot use a name even if the entity is in “delinquent” status. However, if a business is dissolved, the name may become available for new use.
How do I change my LLC name?
You can change your LLC's name later by filing an Amendment form with the SDAT. Detailed instructions on how to change an LLC name in Maryland are available.
How to start an LLC in Maryland?
To start an LLC in Maryland, follow these steps:
- Choose an LLC name and ensure its availability.
- Select a Maryland Registered Agent.
- File the Maryland LLC Articles of Organization.
- Complete and sign an LLC Operating Agreement.
- Obtain a Tax ID Number (EIN) from the IRS.
- Open an LLC bank account.
- Check if you need a business or sales tax license in Maryland.