How to Register a Foreign LLC in Maryland (2026): 5 Steps and the 3 Best Services
We would send a new founder in Maryland to MD Registered Agent.org ($199), Mainstay Filing ($199) and Maryland Registered Agent.co ($199) for registering a foreign LLC in 2026, in that order. Then 5 steps, from the first check to the yearly upkeep (state fee $100).
Each company's listed price on November 12, 2026. State fee ($100) not included.
Registering in Maryland, step by step
Step1
Step 1: See if your LLC must register in Maryland
An out-of-state LLC that transacts business in Maryland registers before it starts. Skipping it has consequences: It cannot start a lawsuit in Maryland courts until it registers (4A-1007(a)). Signed contracts keep their force (4A-1007(b)).
Maryland asks for written proof of existence from the home state, equivalent to a certificate of good standing, dated within 60 days.
TipRequest it close to your filing date.
Step3
Step 3: Get a resident agent with a Maryland address
Every LLC must name a registered agent with an in-state street address. The address has to be a Maryland address on file with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation; P.O. boxes are not accepted. The LLC also keeps a principal office in Maryland.
Step 4: Send in the Limited Liability Company Registration (For non-Maryland Limited Liability Company)
The Limited Liability Company Registration (For non-Maryland Limited Liability Company) goes to the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT), Charter Division with $100.
MD Registered Agent.org wins the cost grade: $397 for three years against $100 more with Mainstay Filing.
Questions students ask
What does it cost to register a foreign LLC in Maryland?
$100 as the official fee. Our picks add $199.
Which form do I file to register?
The registration form is the Limited Liability Company Registration (For non-Maryland Limited Liability Company) (submitted to the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT), Charter Division).
Do I need a certificate from my home state?
Yes: written proof of existence from the home state, equivalent to a certificate of good standing, issued within 60 days of filing.
What if the LLC does business there without registering?
It cannot start a lawsuit in Maryland courts until it registers (4A-1007(a)). Signed contracts keep their force (4A-1007(b)).
What is due after registering?
Keep the registration alive with the Business Entity Annual Report and Personal Property Return, Form 1; the fee is $300.
Which service should handle the registration?
MD Registered Agent.org, Mainstay Filing and Maryland Registered Agent.co, ranked in that order.