Q: What is a registered agent and do I need one in Maryland to legally form a business?
A: Yes. If you organize a business in the state, the business must have a registered agent with a Maryland address (business or residential) to receive legal process and official government notices. The agent can be any person over 18, including the person organizing the business (you), so long as they have a physical address (not a PO BOX) in the state. If you do not have an address in the state, then you will need to find someone who does who will act as the registered agent. There are commercial businesses (CT Corporation, e.g.) which exists solely for this purpose, and they charge an annual fee to act as a registered agent.
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