Get a Resident Agent in Maryland

When starting an LLC or corporation in the Old Line State, one of the first steps you’ll encounter is selecting a Maryland registered agent. This role is crucial for your business’s compliance in Maryland. 

But what exactly is a registered agent, and why is it so vital for your company? Stick around, and we’ll unravel the mystery for you in simple, conversational terms, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions for your venture.

What is a resident agent in Maryland?

A resident agent in Maryland, often referred to as a registered agent in other states, is a person or business entity designated to receive official papers and legal documents on behalf of a limited liability company or corporation. This includes vital correspondence like lawsuit notifications, tax reminders, and certain other state-related communications. While the terms “resident agent” and “registered agent” might seem different, they represent the same role and responsibilities; “resident agent” is just the terminology Maryland typically uses. For the sake of clarity in this guide, be aware that we’ll use these terms interchangeably.

Do you need a registered agent in Maryland?

In Maryland, having a registered agent is a legal requirement for all registered businesses (such as Maryland LLCs or corporations) operating in the state; in short, you need an agent. The primary role of this agent is to receive official documents and notifications like annual report reminders or service of process, all on behalf of your business. Whether it’s legal papers, tax notices, or state correspondence, your Maryland registered agent helps ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Maryland Resident Agent Requirements

When it comes to who can serve as a resident agent in Maryland, there are specific criteria to keep in mind. It’s essential to check that your chosen agent meets all state requirements.  Let’s walk through those criteria in more detail so you can pick the right person for your business.

Who can be a Maryland resident agent?

In Maryland, a resident agent can be either an individual or a business entity. However, they must meet certain qualifications. The agent must be a legal resident of Maryland or, if it’s a business entity, authorized to conduct business in the state. Additionally, they need to have a physical office address within Maryland where they can reliably accept documents and official mail. P.O. boxes aren’t allowed. The agent must be present at their listed address during normal business hours.

As long as you continuously maintain an agent that meets these criteria, you’ll be compliant with state regulations. 

Can I be my own resident agent in Maryland?

As long as you meet the requirements mentioned above, Maryland does allow you to serve as your own registered agent if you wish. That means if you’re a Maryland resident with a physical address in the state and can be available there during regular business hours, you can wear the hat of the registered agent for your company. Just keep in mind that you’ll be responsible for promptly handling all official communications that come your way. 

But just because you can be your own registered agent doesn’t necessarily mean you should. For example, if you’re working in an industry that requires you to regularly be away from your registered office address, this might not be the role for you. Not being present to accept service of process can have serious consequences.

Benefits of Using a Maryland Registered Agent Service

If you’d rather not manage the registered agent’s responsibilities yourself, there’s an option to use a Maryland registered agent service like ours. These services specialize in acting as resident agents for businesses, helping ensure legal documents are received and forwarded in a timely manner. Opting for such a service not only provides peace of mind but also helps meet state requirements for resident agents consistently.

Many business owners use a Maryland resident agent service. Using a service doesn’t just take a responsibility off your plate; it also gives you peace of mind that you won’t be served with a lawsuit in front of a client. If you served as your own agent, legal mail would be delivered to the registered agent’s address, which means it would come to you directly. But when you hire a service like ours, the Maryland State Department will deliver that notice to the resident agent address on record, meaning your agent will handle these communications discreetly and promptly.

How much does it cost for a registered agent in Maryland?

The cost for a professional registered agent service in Maryland can vary based on several factors. If you decide to act as your own resident agent, the direct cost is essentially zero, though it does come with the responsibility of managing all related tasks diligently. For businesses seeking professional Maryland registered agent services, the price can vary. On the lower end, some Maryland registered agents charge as little as $100 annually for their services. However, more comprehensive services can charge upwards of $200 to $300 per year.

If you decide to hire an agent for your Maryland LLC or corporation, it’s essential to carefully review what’s included in their service package. That way, you can choose the provider that offers the best value for your business’s specific needs. Remember, while cost is always a factor, ensuring reliable and timely communication with the state is of utmost importance.

Cost of Changing Registered Agents

If you want to change your agent, Maryland gives you one option: filing the “Resolution to Change Principal Office or Registered Agent” form. This form costs $25 to file online or by mail; if you file in person there’s a $50 upcharge for expedited processing.

How to Find a Resident Agent in Maryland

Finding a registered agent in Maryland is a straightforward process. You can start by asking for recommendations from fellow business owners, lawyers, or accountants who might be familiar with reputable registered agent services in the state. Some resident agent services are small businesses dedicated to Maryland companies, and others are large groups (sometimes called commercial registered agents) with decades of experience and service nationwide. Online directories and business forums can also be a rich source of information, reviews, and feedback on potential agent services.

When you choose your registered agent, be sure to check that they meet the state requirements for a Maryland registered office address and have a reputation for reliability and prompt communication. ZenBusiness can fill this role for you conveniently and professionally.

How to Change a Resident Agent in Maryland

If you need to change your Maryland resident agent in Maryland, you’ll have to follow specific procedures laid out by the state. First, obtain the form “Resolution to Change Principal Office or Resident Agent” from the Maryland Department of Assessment and Taxation website. Fill out the necessary details, including information like your current registered agent’s name and their physical street address and the same information for your new agent. 

There is a $50 filing fee associated with this change, but state fees can change at any time, so be sure to check the current fee schedule. Once the form is submitted and approved, your new agent’s details will be updated in the state’s records. Remember to inform your previous registered agent of the change to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any potential communication gaps. If you’re changing your agent because your previous one resigned, be sure to file this form promptly so your agent coverage doesn’t lapse.

Change of Registered Agent Requirements

When changing a registered agent, the new agent must meet the same requirements: be a Maryland resident or a business authorized to conduct business in Maryland, have a physical street address in the state (no P.O. boxes), and be available during business hours.

Maryland Secretary of State Contact Information

Resignation of Maryland Registered Agent

If a registered agent needs to resign, they’ll need to file a formal resignation with the Department of Assessments and Taxation. After the resignation is processed, the agent will stay on file for 10 days to give the business time to appoint a replacement.

Steps to Remove a Registered Agent

1. Notify your LLC: Inform your LLC in writing that you’ll be resigning. It’s not required to send this notice, but it’s a great courtesy and a way to help the business you represent get its replacement in place.
2. Submit your resignation: Draft a formal resignation that includes your name, the business name, listed address, a statement of your resignation, and signature. File this statement with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation. There’s no filing fee.
3. Hand off your responsibilities: Help your LLC transition to a new registered agent to avoid penalties. A valid registered agent is crucial to maintaining the LLC’s good standing.