Do I Need a Trade Name in Maryland?

Like the majority of US states, Maryland mandates that businesses register their trade names with the state legislature. A trade name, usually referred to as a “doing business as” (DBA) name, is the name under which a company conducts business. When a solo proprietor, a partnership, or an LLC wants to conduct business under a name other than their legal name, they sometimes choose a trade name.

You must register your trade name with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) if you want to conduct business in Maryland under a name other than your legal name. The failure to register may result in penalties and other legal repercussions as this is a requirement of the law.

Make sure your trade name is available before registering it with the state of Maryland. By visiting the SDAT website and making use of their online search feature, you may determine whether your trade name is available. You can use this tool to look up already-used trade names and company names in Maryland. You will need to think of a new name if your preferred trade name is already in use. How long does it take in Maryland to register a trade name?

In Maryland, registering a trade name is a rather easy and uncomplicated process. Your application can be turned in in person, by mail, or online. Depending on the application technique and SDAT demand, processing times vary. An online or mail-in application is typically processed in 7 to 10 business days. You can register your trade name the same day if you submit your application in person.

A trade name is a term that a company uses in marketing and advertising as well as to conduct business. It’s also referred to as a DBA name. On the other hand, a business name is the official name of the company that is registered with the state government. For formal purposes like taxes, contracts, and other legal papers, the legal name is utilized.

Trade names and DBAs are identical, yes. A DBA name is another term for a trade name. It is a name that a company employs to conduct its operations; it differs from the legal name of the company. When a solo proprietor, a partnership, or an LLC wants to conduct business under a name other than their legal name, they sometimes choose a trade name.

In conclusion, you must register your trade name with the state government if you intend to conduct business in Maryland under a name other than your legal name. By visiting the SDAT website and making use of their online search feature, you may determine whether your trade name is available. Depending on the application type and SDAT workload, the processing time for registering a trade name in Maryland varies. A trade name, usually referred to as a DBA name, is distinct from the company’s legal name.