How to Start a Business In Maryland

To start a new business in Maryland, you will have to complete a few different steps.
Getting started– A website created by the state of Maryland on how to start a business can be found here:http://commerce.maryland.gov/start

• Register your new business name.

Find out more about registering a fictitious name or DBA (“Doing Business As”) here: http://www.dat.state.md.us/businesses/Pages/Maryland-Checklist-for-New-Businesses.aspx#regi

If you need help choosing a business name: 12 Tips to Help Choose a Business Name

• Select your business structure.

Many small businesses are set up as sole-proprietorships.   Find out more about business structure here: http://www.dat.state.md.us/businesses/Pages/Maryland-Checklist-for-New-Businesses.aspx#stru

• Register your business with the state of Maryland.

You can register your new business with the state of Maryland here: http://commerce.maryland.gov/start/the-process

• Open a business account at your bank.

You will need to open a separate bank account for your business with your new business name.

• Register your business for tax purposes and possibly hire an accountant.

If you are a small business, it may not be too difficult to file your own taxes.  As you grow, it will be easier to have an accountant do the work. More info about taxes here:  http://taxes.marylandtaxes.com/Business_Taxes/New_Businesses/ and http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Starting-a-Business

• Consider liability insurance.

You may or may not need liability insurance, depending on what type of services you will offer.