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Name availability · MD

Maryland business name search

In Maryland, business entity names are handled by the Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT), not a Secretary of State. Use the Business Entity Search on Maryland Business Express to search by business name, SDAT Department ID or EIN. SDAT also registers trade names, so check both entity and trade name records.

How to check if a name is available in Maryland

  1. 01

    Open Maryland Business Express search

    Go to the Business Entity Search on egov.maryland.gov/BusinessExpress and enter the business name.

  2. 02

    Search a few variations

    Try the full name, then the most distinctive word. You can also search by Department ID or EIN if you're looking at a specific company.

  3. 03

    Include trade names in your review

    SDAT registers trade names for businesses that operate under another name, so a trade name hit shows someone is already trading under it.

  4. 04

    Reserve if you're not ready to file

    Maryland Business Express suggests a name reservation if you aren't ready to register. Write the name with its ending (Inc, LLC, LLP) on the form.

  5. 05

    Check state and federal trademarks

    Maryland points business owners to both Maryland trademarks and the USPTO. Search https://tmsearch.uspto.gov/ and check the domain and social handles.

  6. 06

    Generate ideas

    If the search shows overlaps, our free /business-name-generator/ can help you find something distinct.

Maryland business naming rules

  • Check that your name is available in Maryland before you finalize it, and follow both state and local rules.
  • A name reservation must list the name with its entity ending, such as Inc, LLC or LLP.
  • To use a trade name, a registered business supplies the Department ID of the entity that will use it.

Reserving a name

SDAT's Corporate Name Reservation Application holds a name for 30 days. Submit it to the Department of Assessments and Taxation and check the current fee on the agency's site.

DBAs and trade names

Maryland trade names are registered at the state level with the Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT), using its Trade Name Application or Maryland Business Express.

Still looking for the right name?

Brainstorm dozens of options with the free generator, then run your shortlist through the Maryland search above.

Business name generatorName ideas by industryHow to name your business

Frequently asked questions

Who handles business name searches in Maryland?

The State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT), through the Business Entity Search on Maryland Business Express.

How long does a Maryland name reservation last?

30 days.

Where do I register a DBA in Maryland?

With SDAT, as a trade name. If the owner is a registered entity, you'll need its Department ID.

Do I need to check trademarks in Maryland?

It's a good idea. Maryland Business Express points owners to both the Maryland trademark registry and the USPTO.

General information, not legal advice. Name approval is decided by the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT); a name showing as available in a search is not a guarantee it will be accepted.