How to Change LLC Address in Maryland | A Step-by-Step Guide

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Change LLC Address in Maryland

When you form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Maryland, you are required to provide a registered office address. This address is the official location where legal documents, such as the service of process, can be delivered. As your business grows, you may find it necessary to change your Maryland LLC’s address for various reasons, such as moving to a larger space, expanding to multiple locations, or simply changing your Resident Agent.

Changing your Maryland LLC address may seem daunting, but it can be simple and straightforward with the right information and guidance. In this article, Webinarcare Editorial Team will walk you through the necessary steps to change your Maryland LLC’s address, ensuring that you remain compliant with Maryland regulations.

How to Change Maryland LLC Address

What is a Limited Liability Company?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a specific form of a private limited company that combines aspects of partnership and corporate structures. It is a legal form of a company that provides its owners with limited liability. This means the owners are not personally liable for the company’s debts and liabilities beyond their investments in the company.

When it comes to changing the registered address of the LLC, the responsibility typically falls on the managers or members of the LLC, depending on the company’s structure.

The process is often as follows:

  1. The LLC must approve the change of address. This may happen at a members’ or managers’ meeting.
  2. Once approved, the appropriate form or document to effect the change of address must be filed with the Maryland Secretary of State.
  3. The filing often includes a small processing fee. After accepting the filing, Maryland will update the public record with the new address.

In Maryland, the change of registered address can also be related to the address of the LLC’s Resident Agent. A Resident Agent is a person or entity appointed by the LLC to receive legal papers and service of process on its behalf. This is another crucial role in the LLC that might be involved in the address change, especially if the Resident Agent’s address is used as the business’s official address.

It’s important to note that the specifics of this process can vary quite a bit depending on the Maryland LLC’s operating agreement and the specific administrative rules and requirements of Maryland in which the LLC is registered.

Before you change your LLC address, it is advised that you consult with a legal expert. They will be aware of what’s best for you and your business. You can always start an LLC in Maryland, if you wish to protect your personal assets from business debts.

– WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

Reasons to Change Maryland LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Maryland can be prompted by several reasons, each distinctive to the business’s circumstances and goals. Here are several common reasons:

  1. Relocation of Business: The main reason for changing an LLC address is the relocation of the business. This could be related to business expansion, more space, or moving to a more convenient location.
  2. Convenience or Strategy: Sometimes, an LLC might change its primary address for convenience or strategic reasons. For instance, the business might move closer to its customer base or an area with favorable economic benefits.
  3. Legal Requirements: If an LLC’s legal or Resident Agent changes its address, the company must also change its registered address since the Resident Agent’s location is where all legal correspondences are sent.
  4. Rental Issues: If the tenant agreement — such as a lease — expires or faces problems, it might compel an LLC to change addresses. Landlord disputes can also lead to a change of address.
  5. Management Changes: If the management or owner of the business changes and the old address is no longer feasible or relevant for the new management, a change of address becomes necessary.
  6. Privacy Concerns: Some LLC owners change their addresses for privacy reasons to separate their personal lives from their business activities.
  7. Cost Reduction: Sometimes, a business may change its address to move to a less expensive area to cut costs.
  8. Disaster Recovery: In the unfortunate event of a natural disaster or other unforeseen circumstances, such as a fire outbreak or civil disturbance, changing the LLC’s address might be necessary.
  9. Image and Branding: The business address can sometimes be part of the company image, particularly if the business is in an industry where location matters. An LLC may change addresses in such cases as part of a rebranding effort.

Remember, if your business operates as an LLC in Maryland, it’s important to update the Maryland Secretary of State or other relevant state agency whenever you change your business address. It helps to keep your business in good standing and to ensure that all official documents, notifications, and legal correspondences reach you or your Resident Agent.

How to Change Maryland LLC Address

To change your Maryland LLC address, you must follow the guidelines that include determining whether you need to change your LLC’s address, update your registered office address, update your principal place of business address, notify the IRS, and inform other relevant parties due to the amendment of your LLC address. 

Step 1: Determine If You Need to Change Your LLC’s Address

Before you begin the process of changing your Maryland LLC’s address, it’s essential to determine whether a change is indeed necessary. In Maryland, there are two primary addresses associated with your LLC:

Registered Office Address

This is the official address where legal documents and official correspondence will be delivered. If you are starting a business in Maryland or changing your Resident Agent, you will need to update this address. Changing your Resident Agent is one of the reasons why you need to change your Maryland LLC address because a Resident Agent should have a primary address in the state your LLC is registered. 

An example is having a Foreign LLC in Maryland; a Resident Agent should have the same address as your registered Foreign LLC.

Principal Place of Business Address

This is where your Maryland business operates. If you are moving your business, expanding to multiple locations, or changing your business structure, you must update this address. 

In some cases, you may need to update both addresses. Be sure to evaluate your specific situation to determine which addresses need to be updated.

Step 2: Update Your Registered Office Address

If you need to change your registered office address in Maryland, you will likely need to file an address change form with the Maryland Secretary of State. Below is an outline of the steps:

Obtain the Appropriate Form

Visit the Maryland Secretary of State‘s website to download the necessary form for changing your Maryland registered office address. This form may be called “Maryland Statement of Change of Registered Office” or something similar.

For you to update the registered office address, you need to have the following;

1. Your Maryland LLC must obtain a Certificate of Status from the Maryland Secretary of State, confirming that it has complied with all filing and tax obligations in the state of Maryland.

2. Your Maryland LLC must conduct a name search on Maryland Business Express to ensure that its desired name is available for use in the state of Maryland. However, if you do not wish to file your LLC right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your LLC name for 30 days. You must file a name reservation application with the Maryland Secretary of State to keep the name. 

You can register your business under a different legal name if your preferred name isn’t available.  Once you have chosen a name, you can submit an application for Maryland DBA (doing business as). In this manner, you can choose any name you desire for your business. A DBA allows a company to operate under the name of the person or entity who owns it. If you have decided to file for a DBA, you can file it in three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing..

However, before filing a DBA, you should know that you need to renew your DBA every five years, which costs $25 Filing Fee and $50 Expedited Fee.

3. Your Maryland LLC should prepare and file the Articles of Domestication with the Maryland Secretary of State, providing information about its existing Maryland LLC, its desired Maryland LLC name, and its new registered office address in Maryland.

4. Your Maryland LLC has designated a Resident Agent with a physical address in Maryland and is available during regular business hours to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the LLC.

In Maryland, your Resident Agent must:

  • Be a resident of Maryland or a business entity authorized to do business in Maryland
  • Have a physical address in Maryland (P.O. boxes are not acceptable)

Choosing a reliable and responsible Resident Agent is essential, as failure to receive and respond to legal documents can seriously affect your business. 

You can serve as your own Resident Agent or appoint a friend, family member or hire the Best Maryland Resident Agent Services.

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Complete the Form

Carefully fill out the form, providing all required information, including your Maryland LLC’s name, current registered office address, and new registered office address. You may also be required to provide the name and address of your new Resident Agent if you are changing agents.

Submit the Form

Once the form is completed, please submit it to the Maryland Secretary of State, along with any required filing fees. You can usually submit your form online, by mail, or in person.

The fees in Maryland for this process are as follows:

  • Articles of Domestication: The filing fee for Articles of Domestication with the Maryland Secretary of State is $100.00 for conversion.
  • Dissolution of Maryland LLC: The fee for filing the Maryland Articles of Dissolution with the Maryland Secretary of State is $100.

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Confirm the Change

After submitting your form and other required documents, you should receive a confirmation from the Maryland Secretary of State that your address change has been processed. Keep this confirmation as proof that you have updated your registered office address.

Step 3: Update Your Principal Place of Business Address

If you need to change your Maryland LLC’s principal place of business address in Maryland, you may need to update your business license or other permits, depending on your specific situation. Here are some general steps to follow:

  • Contact Local Agencies: Contact the Maryland Secretary of State that issued your business licenses or permits to determine their specific requirements for changing your address. Depending on your business type and location, this may include city, county, or state agencies.
  • Keep Records: Retain copies of any updated Maryland licenses, permits, or other documents as proof that you have changed your principal place of business address. This may be necessary for future filings, audits, or compliance requirements.
  • Update your Licenses and Permits: Follow the instructions provided by the Maryland Secretary of State to update your business licenses and permits with your new principal place of business address. 

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Step 4: Notify the IRS of Your Address Change

In addition to updating your Maryland LLC’s address with the Maryland Secretary of State and local agencies, you should also notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of your address change. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Complete Form 8822-B: Download and complete IRS Form 8822-B, “Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business.” This form informs the IRS of your LLC’s new address.
  • Mail the Form: Mail the completed Form 8822-B to the IRS at the address specified in the form’s instructions. There is no filing fee associated with this form.
  • Update your EIN: If your Maryland LLC has an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you should also update the address associated with your EIN by contacting the IRS via phone, mail, or fax. The specific contact information and instructions can be found on the IRS website.

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Step 5: Inform Other Relevant Parties of Your Address Change

To ensure that your Maryland LLC remains in good standing and that you continue to receive important correspondence, you should also inform the following parties of your address change:

  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Vendors and suppliers
  • Customers and clients
  • Utility providers
  • Maryland Insurance companies
  • Relevant industry associations or organizations

Update the Articles of Organization

When changing the address of your LLC in Maryland, one of the pertinent requirements could be updating your Articles of Organization, which is the document initially filed to establish your business entity officially.

The Articles of Organization includes various pieces of information about the LLC, such as its name, primary place of business, and Resident Agent information. When you change the business address, it’s critical to ensure that the details on the Articles of Organization reflect this modification.

The process usually involves the following steps:

  1. Obtain the Proper Form: The LLC must get the right form to amend the Articles of Organization in Maryland. This information is typically available on the state’s Secretary of State website or other relevant state agencies.
  2. Complete the Form: Fill out the form according to the instructions provided.
  3. Submit and Pay Fees: Once the form is completed, submit it to the Maryland Secretary of State, along with any necessary filing fees. The fee for the amendment is $100.
  4. Record Keeping: Keep a copy of the amendment or change of address form for the company’s records.

Remember that the process and requirements for changing an LLC address may vary based on the regulations in Maryland, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or refer to the Maryland Secretary of State website for accurate information.

Advantages of Changing Maryland LLC Address

Changing the address of an LLC in Maryland could bring several advantages, depending on the specific circumstances and reasons behind the move:

  • Business Growth and Expansion: If the change of address is due to the need for more space, the LLC is growing and expanding, which is a positive outcome.
  • Access to Resources: Moving to a new location could provide better access to essential resources, such as proximity to suppliers, customers, or a skilled labor pool, enhancing the company’s operation and potential profitability.
  • Strategic Benefits: The LLC might move to an advantageous business environment with strategic benefits such as a more favorable regulatory climate, lower taxes, or business-friendly policies.
  • Improved Professional Image: Moving to a prestigious business district or a well-known commercial area could enhance the professional image of the LLC and make it more attractive to clients or investors.
  • Lower Operating Costs: Changing the address could lower costs if the new location has cheaper rent, utility, or other operational expenses.
  • Improved Work Environment: A new address could mean a better work environment for employees, boosting morale, productivity, and, ultimately, the bottom line.
  • Enhanced Privacy: If an LLC owner uses a home address as the registered address, moving to a new, separate business address can help maintain privacy and separate personal life from business matters.

While these potential benefits can be compelling, it’s important to remember that changing an LLC’s address also involves informing the relevant government bodies in Maryland, updating business contacts, and possibly revising marketing materials. LLC owners should factor these considerations into their decision-making process.

Can Form 882-B Be Used to Change the LLC Name? 

Form 8822-B, titled “Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business,” informs the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of an address change for a business or a change in the responsible party. It cannot be used to change the name of an LLC.

To change the name of Maryland LLC, you must follow the appropriate process in the state where your LLC is registered. This typically involves filing Articles of Amendment or a similar document with the Maryland Secretary of State. After the name change has been approved at the state level, you should inform the IRS by following the instructions on your tax return or by sending a signed letter to the IRS office where you filed your return.

FAQs

How do I change my LLC address in Maryland?
You will need to file a form with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) to change your LLC address.
Can I change my LLC address online in Maryland?
Yes, you can change your LLC address online on the SDAT website.
How much does it cost to change my LLC address in Maryland?
It costs $100 to file a change of LLC address in Maryland.
Can I file a change of address for my LLC in person in Maryland?
Yes, you can file a change of address for your LLC in person at the SDAT office in Maryland.
How long does it take to change my LLC address in Maryland?
It typically takes 5-7 business days for the SDAT to process a change of LLC address in Maryland.
Do I need to notify the IRS if I change my LLC address in Maryland?
Yes, you should notify the IRS if you change your LLC address in Maryland.
Do I need to notify my registered agent if I change my LLC address in Maryland?
Yes, you should notify your registered agent if you change your LLC address in Maryland.
How do I notify the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation if I change my registered agent’s address?
You will need to file a separate form with the SDAT to change your registered agent’s address in Maryland.
Can I change my registered agent and address at the same time in Maryland?
Yes, you can change your registered agent and address at the same time by filing a single form with the SDAT in Maryland.
What happens if I don’t notify the SDAT of my LLC address change in Maryland?
You may miss important correspondence from the SDAT or other state agencies if you don’t notify them of your LLC address change in Maryland.
Will changing my LLC address affect my Maryland tax filing status?
No, changing your LLC address should not affect your Maryland tax filing status.
Do I need to update my LLC operating agreement if I change my LLC address in Maryland?
Yes, you should update your LLC operating agreement if you change your LLC address in Maryland.
Can I change my LLC address to a PO Box in Maryland?
No, you cannot use a PO Box as your LLC address in Maryland.
What is the penalty for not notifying the SDAT of my LLC address change in Maryland?
There is no penalty for failing to notify the SDAT of your LLC address change in Maryland, but it may result in missed correspondence and delayed processing.
Can I change my LLC name and address at the same time in Maryland?
No, you cannot change your LLC name and address at the same time in Maryland. You will need to file separate forms.
Will changing my LLC address affect my Maryland business license?
No, changing your LLC address should not affect your Maryland business license.
How do I notify my bank if I change my LLC address in Maryland?
You will need to contact your bank directly to notify them of your LLC address change in Maryland.
Can I change my LLC address to a different state while still maintaining my Maryland LLC status?
No, you cannot change your LLC address to a different state while maintaining your Maryland LLC status.
Can I change my LLC address to a different county in Maryland?
Yes, you can change your LLC address to a different county in Maryland by filing the appropriate form with the SDAT.
Do I need to file a new Maryland trade name application if I change my LLC address?
No, you do not need to file a new trade name application if you change your LLC address in Maryland.
Can I change my LLC address if I have pending cases in Maryland courts?
Yes, you can change your LLC address even if you have pending cases in Maryland courts.
Do I need to update my Maryland annual report if I change my LLC address?
Yes, you should update your Maryland annual report if you change your LLC address.
Can I change my LLC address to a virtual address in Maryland?
Yes, you can use a virtual address as your LLC address in Maryland.
How do I withdraw or resign as a Maryland LLC registered agent?
You will need to file a written notice with the SDAT to withdraw or resign as a registered agent in Maryland.
How do I change my federal tax ID number if I change my LLC address in Maryland?
You cannot change your federal tax ID number, but you should update your IRS account information to reflect your new LLC address in Maryland.
Will changing my LLC address affect my Maryland sales tax status?
No, changing your LLC address should not affect your Maryland sales tax status.
How do I notify my customers and vendors if I change my LLC address in Maryland?
You will need to update your contact information on your website and notify your customers and vendors individually of your LLC address change in Maryland.
Can I change my LLC address on my Maryland personal property tax return without filing a separate form?
No, you will need to file a separate form with the SDAT to change your LLC address in Maryland.
What is the process to change the LLC address in Maryland?
In Maryland, you must file a Change of Resident Office/Officer form with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
Is changing an LLC address mandatory in Maryland?
Yes, it is mandatory to update your LLC’s address with the state of Maryland.
What is the filing fee to change an LLC address in Maryland?
The filing fee is $25 to change an LLC address in Maryland.
Can I change the registered agent’s address while changing the LLC’s address in Maryland?
Yes, you can change the registered agent’s address while changing the LLC’s address in Maryland.
Does the LLC need to have a physical office in Maryland to change its address?
No, the LLC can provide a commercial mail drop or a registered agent as its address to change its address in Maryland.
Can I change my LLC’s address online in Maryland?
No, you need to file a paper form to change an LLC’s address in Maryland.
How long does it take to change the LLC’s address in Maryland?
It usually takes 2-3 weeks for the Change of Resident Office/Officer form to be processed by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
What happens if I do not update my LLC’s address in Maryland?
If you do not update your LLC’s address in Maryland, you may not receive important legal notices and lose good standing with the state.
Can I change my LLC’s address if I have pending litigation in Maryland?
No, you cannot change your LLC’s address if you have pending litigation in Maryland.
What documents are required to change the LLC’s address in Maryland?
You need to file the Change of Resident Office/Officer form with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation to change the LLC’s address in Maryland.
Can I change the LLC’s name while changing the address in Maryland?
No, you cannot change the LLC’s name while changing the address in Maryland. You need to file a separate form to change the LLC’s name in Maryland.
Can I change the LLC’s address to a virtual office in Maryland?
Yes, you can use a commercial mail drop or registered agent’s address as the LLC’s address while changing it in Maryland.
Do I need to update the LLC’s address on its formation documents in Maryland?
It is not compulsory to update the LLC’s address on its formation documents in Maryland. However, it is advised to keep them updated.
Can an out-of-state LLC change its address to Maryland?
Yes, an out-of-state LLC can change its address to Maryland if it qualifies to do business in Maryland.
How do I check if my LLC is in good standing in Maryland before changing the address?
You can search for your LLC’s status of good standing on the Maryland Business Express website before changing the address.
How long do I have to update my LLC’s address in Maryland if there is a change?
You are required to update the LLC’s address in Maryland within 30 days of the change.
Can I use a home address as the LLC’s address in Maryland?
Yes, you can use your home address or any other physical address in Maryland as the LLC’s address while changing it.
Can I use a co-working space as the LLC’s address while changing it in Maryland?
Yes, you can use a co-working space address as the LLC’s address while changing it in Maryland.
Can I change my LLC’s address with the IRS separately from Maryland?
Yes, you can change the LLC’s address with the IRS separately from Maryland. You need to file Form 8822-B with the IRS to do so.
Do I need to update my LLC’s address on its bank accounts as well?
Yes, you should update the LLC’s address on its bank accounts as well to avoid any confusion.
Can I change my LLC’s address to another state while changing it in Maryland?
No, you cannot change the LLC’s address to another state while changing it in Maryland.
Can I change my LLC’s address more than once in Maryland?
Yes, you can change your LLC’s address more than once in Maryland, but you have to update the state every time.
Does changing the LLC’s address in Maryland affect its EIN?
Changing the LLC’s address in Maryland does not affect the EIN number issued by the IRS.
Can I check the status of my Change of Resident Office/Officer filing with Maryland?
You can check the status of your Change of Resident Office/Officer filing with Maryland on the Maryland Business Express website.
What if my LLC has changed its name along with the address in Maryland?
If your LLC has changed its name along with the address, you need to file articles of amendment with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
Can I expedite the process of changing the LLC’s address in Maryland?
No, there is no expedited process available to change the LLC’s address in Maryland.
Can I file the Change of Resident Office/Officer form by fax in Maryland?
No, you cannot file the Change of Resident Office/Officer form by fax in Maryland.

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Conclusion

Changing your LLC’s address in Maryland can be relatively simple if you follow the above steps. By updating your registered office and principal place of business addresses, notifying the IRS, and informing other relevant parties, you can ensure that your LLC remains compliant with Maryland regulations and continues to operate smoothly.

Remember to keep records of all address changes and any updated licenses, permits, or other documents, as these may be necessary for future filings, audits, or other compliance requirements. And as always, consult with a legal or business professional if you have any questions or concerns about your situation.

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