In Maryland, you can establish a sole proprietorship without filing any legal documents with the Maryland state government. There are four simple steps you should take: Choose a business name. File an application to register a trade name with the Department of Assessments and Taxation.

What is a sole proprietorship in Maryland?

A Maryland sole proprietorship exists as a business with a single owner. The owner of a Maryland sole proprietorship does not have legal separation from the business, and therefore has unlimited liability for all company debts and obligations.

What is a fact about a sole proprietorship?

A sole proprietorship is distinguished by being owned and run by one person; there is no legal separation between the owner and the business. The owner bears direct responsibility for all elements of the business and is fully accountable for all finances, including debts, loans, and losses.

How to establish a sole proprietorship in Maryland?

Can a sole proprietorship be a partnership or a corporation?

It’s important to note that a sole proprietorship is taxed as an extension of the owner, and as a business grows, it can be legally restructured to become a partnership or a corporation. Keep the following information in mind when considering a sole proprietorship for your business:

How to set up a business in Maryland?

Select​ & Create Your Business Structure. The first step in establishing a business in the State of Maryland is to determine which form of business structure is most appropriate for your operations. The four most common forms of business structure are the sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation and limited liability company.

Do you need to register as a general partnership in Maryland?

Sole proprietorships or general partnerships require no legal entry formalities except compliance with State and local licensing and taxation requirements. For information about registration requirements contact: Naming the business is a critical step.