Filing a Maryland DBA

Maryland DBAs are known as Trade Names and are filed with the Secretary of State. Trade Names are good for 5 years.

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How to File a Maryland DBA

DBAs are filed by submitting a Trade Name application, along with the filing fee, to the Department of Assessments and Taxation of the Secretary of State’s office. ClickAndInc.com can perform a DBA name search for you so that you’ll know whether or not your name is available right away.

Your Trade Name application will include the following information:

  • Trade Name—this is the name under which you (or your incorporated entity) will be doing business.
  • Street address of your business
  • Full legal name of the owner of the Trade Name—you, your partnership, or your LLC or corporation.
  • Personal Property Account—if you have one, you need to provide your “L” number.
  • Your home (or corporate) address
  • Owner’s signature—this does not need to be notarized.

Maryland Startup Quicklinks

For information on other types of businesses in Maryland, please explore the links below: