The legal business form of the LLC, or Limited Liability Company, offers the benefits of several other traditional business forms. An LLC has the same advantage of limited liability that a corporation does, but without being taxed as its own entity. Instead, it's taxed more similarly to a sole proprietorship or partnership. Like a corporation, the LLC can also have an unlimited amount of shareholders, called members. Unlike a corporation however, if a member dies, files for bankruptcy, or otherwise leaves the LLC, the company is dissolved. Various forms of limited liability companies have been around for hundreds years, but the modern LLC, like the legislature enacted in Maryland, became more popular in the past several decades.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

In Maryland, a business can be formed using the form that it chooses. Opening an LLC simply requires that the business founders file a form with the Secretary of State. There may be a fee required for opening your LLC, however. Applicable Maryland laws govern the formation of LLC's and their actions. Applicable laws are a primary consideration in the decision of whether to organize as an LLC. The right business structure for your company may be difficult to find, but different structures can end up saving your company a lot of money.

Can I Change the Form of My Business to an LLC?

Businesses in Carroll County may sometimes change form. A company is eligible for conversion to an LLC if its situation falls under circumstances that are detailed by Maryland law.

How Can an Attorney Help?

A lawyer versed in Maryland business law will be able to advise you of the benefits and costs for forming and maintaining a LLC.