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. Business forms with limited liability have existed for hundreds of years, but the modern LLC became more popular in Maryland since the legislature enacted laws authorizing its formation.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

Maryland allows a company to incorporate using the business form it chooses. To begin as an LLC, a company simply files the necessary 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. When deciding whether to form a LLC, you should consider which laws would apply to your company. Although it may take some time to find, choosing the right business structure for your company will lead to increased profitability.

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

A business in Montgomery County may change its form under certain conditions. Whether or not a business is eligible for conversion to a LLC is a determination made by applicable Maryland laws.

How Can an Attorney Help?

The decision of whether to form or convert to a LLC is best considered with the advice of local Attorneys practicing business law in Maryland.