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The Application for Trade Name form is an essential document for any business owner looking to establish a unique identity in Maryland. With a filing fee of $25.00, and an option for expedited service at an additional $50.00, proper completion of this form is crucial. This application requires specific information, including the trade name itself, the physical address where the name will be used, and the full legal name of the business owner or owners. For those applying on behalf of an entity, it's vital to include the SDAT ID assigned to the associated business. A comprehensive description of the business's operations is also necessary. It’s important to note that each owner must sign the application, as any application lacking signatures will be returned unprocessed. This form does not guarantee acceptance by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission, so checking name availability prior to submission is highly recommended. Once submitted, the processing timeline typically spans four weeks, and the filing is effective for five years, with the option to renew. Understanding the details and requirements outlined in this form will help ensure a smooth registration process and pave the way for a successful business venture.
Application For Trade Name Example
Maryland State Department of Assessments & Taxation
TRADE NAME APPLICATION
FILING FEE: $25.00; EXPEDITED FEE: ADDITIONAL $50.00; TOTAL EXPEDITED SERVICE:
$75.00 (Make checks payable to Department of Assessments and Taxation)
Note: Prior to registering the business name of a home improvement company with the Department of Assessments & Taxation, an applicant is advised to contact the Home Improvement Commission at 410-
1)TRADE NAME: (Only one trade name may appear on this line)
2)STREET ADDRESS(ES) WHERE NAME IS USED:
CITY:STATE:ZIP:
Post office box number is only accepted when part of the physical address.
3)FULL LEGAL NAME OF OWNER OF BUSINESS OR INDIVIDUAL USING THE TRADE NAME:
If more than one owner, attach an additional sheet listing each owner with his/her address. Be sure each owner signs this form.
4)THE SDAT ID OF THE ASSOCIATED BUSINESS IS:
(1 letter followed by 8 numbers – see item 4 of the Trade Name Application Instructions)
5)ADDRESS OF OWNER:
CITY: |
STATE: |
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ZIP: |
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Post office box number is only accepted when part of the physical address.
6)DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS:
I affirm and acknowledge under penalties of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
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SIGNATURE OF OWNER(AUTHORIZED TITLE) |
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SIGNATURE OF OWNER (AUTHORIZED TITLE) |
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SIGNATURE OF OWNER(AUTHORIZED TITLE) |
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SIGNATURE OF OWNER (AUTHORIZED TITLE) |
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30l West Preston Street- Room 801 - Baltimore, Maryland 21201
Phone: (410)
Website: http://www.dat.maryland.gov
Rev:10/2021
TRADE NAME APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
General Information
Registering this trade name will not guarantee acceptance by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission. Prior to registering the business name of a home improvement company with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation, an applicant is advised to contact the Home Improvement Commission at
1.The fee is $25.00. Checks should be payable to: DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENTS AND TAXATION
Filings submitted in person at the Charter Division office and processed on a
Mail the completed form and check to:
Charter Division
Department of Assessments and Taxation
301 W. Preston Street, Room 801
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
2.
3.The Department of Assessments and Taxation no longer accepts via fax Trade Name Applications for filing. Please visit our online business registration portal to register your business: https://egov.maryland.gov/businessexpress
4.Trade name applications must be signed to be accepted.
5.If the name is available and all items on the form are completed, SDAT will accept the filing for record and an acknowledgement, with the filing date will be sent to the “Address of Owner” (unless otherwise stated), ordinarily within 4 weeks of acceptance.
6.This filing is effective for five years from the date of acceptance by SDAT. During the last six months of the period the filing may be renewed for an additional five years. If not renewed, the Department will forfeit the trade name and a new application must be filed.
NOTICE: Acceptance of a trade name application does not confer on the owner any greater right to use the name than he otherwise already has. The Department checks the name only against other trade names filed with this Department. Federal trademarks, State service marks, records in other states and trade names are not meant to reserve the name for its owners, to act as a trademark filing or to confer on the owner any greater right to the name than he already possesses. For further information, contact your lawyer, accountant or financial advisor.
Revised: October 2021
HOW TO COMPLETE TRADE NAME APPLICATION
All blanks on the form must be typed or printed legibly, with black ink, with an original signature (no stamps, photocopies or carbon copy).
Numbers correspond to item numbers on the trade name application:
1.TRADE NAME – Only one trade name may appear on this line. To file more than one trade name, complete a separate application for each and send separate checks. No trade name may contain a term that implies it is a type of entity that it is not (i.e., if the owner is an individual, “Inc.” cannot be in the trade name).
Check the name on the business data search section of our web site – www.dat.maryland.gov.
2.STREET ADDRESS(ES) WHERE NAME IS USED – List the full address, including street address, city, state and zip code. Post office box number is only accepted when part of the physical address.
3.FULL NAME OF LEGAL ENTITY OR INDIVIDUAL USING THE TRADE NAME – Legal entities may be owners of the trade name. If the legal entity is the owner the legal entity must be registered with MD Dept of Assessments and Taxation. If more than one owner, attach an additional sheet listing each owner with his/her address. Be sure each owner signs this form.
4.SDAT ID OF THE ASSOCIATED BUSINESS – Every Trade Name must be associated with a business which has been assigned an identification number by the MD Dept of Assessments and Taxation (a letter followed by 8 numbers). Note: All Unincorporated businesses that own or lease personal property (furniture, fixtures, tools, machinery, equipment, etc.) or anticipate owning or leasing personal property in the future, or need a business license must file an annual personal property return with this Department. Registration applications can be found at https://dat.maryland.gov/Pages/sdatforms.aspx.
5.ADDRESS OF OWNER – List the full address including street address, city, state and zip code. Post office box number is only accepted when a part of the physical address. Attach an additional sheet for all owners’ addresses, if needed.
6.DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS – State the nature of business.
7.SIGNATURE – Each person listed as an owner must sign. If a legal entity is the owner of the trade name, the person who signs for the entity must list his/her title.
Note: The laws governing the formation and operation of business entities involves more than filing documents with our office, we suggest you consult an attorney, accountant or other professional. The State Department of Assessments & Taxation staff cannot offer business counseling or legal advice.
Revised: October 2021
File Breakdown
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Filing Fee | The standard filing fee for the Application for Trade Name in Maryland is $25.00. If expedited service is required, an additional $50.00 is charged, bringing the total to $75.00. |
| Application Signing | All owners listed on the application must sign it for the filing to be accepted. Without signatures, the application cannot be processed. |
| Duration of Filing | This trade name filing is effective for five years from the date of acceptance. It can be renewed for an additional five years during the last six months of the filing period. |
| Availability Check | Applicants are advised to contact the Maryland Home Improvement Commission at 410-230-6171 prior to applying to confirm that the desired trade name is available for use. |
Guide to Using Application For Trade Name
The Application for Trade Name form requires attention to specific details and accurate completion to ensure proper registration. After filling out the form, the completed application, along with the required fee, should be submitted to the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation for processing. Below are the steps to guide you through filling out the form correctly.
- TRADE NAME: Write the desired trade name on this line. Remember, only one trade name can be listed here.
- STREET ADDRESS(ES) WHERE NAME IS USED: Enter the complete street address, including city, state, and ZIP code. Note that a post office box number is acceptable only if it's part of the physical address.
- FULL LEGAL NAME OF OWNER: Provide the full legal name of the business owner or individual using the trade name. If there are multiple owners, attach an additional sheet with the names and addresses of each owner, ensuring all owners sign the form.
- SDAT ID OF THE ASSOCIATED BUSINESS: Include the assigned identification number for the associated business, which consists of one letter followed by eight numbers.
- ADDRESS OF OWNER: Fill out the full address of the owner, including street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Similar to the previous section, a post office box number is only allowed if it forms part of the physical address.
- DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS: Briefly describe the nature of the business. This explanation should provide insight into what the business does.
- SIGNATURES: Each owner must sign the application. If a legal entity owns the trade name, the authorized representative must provide their signature and title.
Get Answers on Application For Trade Name
What is the filing fee for the Trade Name Application?
The filing fee for the Trade Name Application is $25.00. If you need expedited service, there’s an additional fee of $50.00, making the total for expedited processing $75.00. Be sure to make checks payable to the Department of Assessments and Taxation. It's a straightforward process, so keep your payment ready when you submit your application.
Can I register a trade name for a home improvement company without prior permission?
No, you cannot. Before registering the business name of a home improvement company with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation, it's advisable to contact the Home Improvement Commission at 410-230-6171. They will help ensure that the specific trade name you want to use is available and complies with their guidelines.
How long is the trade name registration effective?
The trade name registration is effective for five years from the date it is accepted by the Department of Assessments and Taxation. If you want to keep using the trade name beyond that period, you will need to renew it during the last six months of its validity. If you miss that renewal window, the name will be forfeited, and you’ll have to submit a new application.
What details must I provide in the application form?
Your Trade Name Application will require several key pieces of information:
- Trade Name: Only one name can be listed per application.
- Street Address: This information should include the full street address, city, state, and zip code.
- Full Legal Name of the Business Owner: If there are multiple owners, attach an additional sheet with their names and addresses.
- SDAT ID: Provide the identification number associated with your business.
- Description of Business: Clearly state what your business does to ensure clarity in registration.
Each of these details must be filled out accurately, as any missing or incorrect information could delay your application.
Common mistakes
Filling out the Application For Trade Name form is an important step for your business, but some common mistakes can lead to delays or rejection. One frequent error is failing to list only one trade name. Instead of carefully choosing a single name for the application, many applicants attempt to include multiple names. This violates the instructions, which clearly state that only one trade name is allowed per application.
Another mistake involves providing an incomplete or inaccurate street address. While it may seem straightforward, applicants who forget to include the full address, city, state, or zip code risk having their application rejected. Notably, the form will not accept a post office box number unless it's part of the physical address. It’s crucial to verify that the address is complete and formatted correctly before submission.
Many also overlook the requirement to include the full legal name of the business owner. If there are multiple owners, each must be listed appropriately, with their addresses on an extra sheet. Failing to sign the application is a significant oversight. Signatures are mandatory, and applications submitted without them will not be processed.
Applicants sometimes confuse the SDAT identification number with other identifiers. The form asks for a specific format: one letter followed by eight numbers. Misunderstanding this directive can result in an incorrectly completed form, leading to processing delays. It’s essential to double-check this number to ensure it matches the required format.
Completing the description of the business can also trip people up. Many applicants write vague descriptions or fail to provide enough detail about the business. A precise description helps clarify the nature of the business and ensures acceptance of the application.
Moreover, the omission of a check for the correct filing fee is a common issue. Applicants often forget to enlist the proper amount or neglect to make the check payable to the correct entity. The fee is $25 for a regular application, with an additional $50 for expedited service. Incorrect payments can lead to processing delays.
Some individuals fail to check the availability of the trade name prior to submission. It's advisable to contact the Home Improvement Commission to ensure that the desired name is available for use. Ignoring this step can result in wasted time if the name has already been claimed by another entity.
Lastly, not adhering to the submission guidelines can cause unnecessary trouble. For instance, sending the application via fax is no longer accepted and doing so will result in an automatic rejection. Careful adherence to all stated instructions and requirements is vital for ensuring a smooth filing process.
Documents used along the form
When applying for a trade name in Maryland, several documents may be required in conjunction with the Application for Trade Name form. These additional forms ensure compliance with state regulations and help establish the legitimacy of the business. Here is a summary of key documents that are often used alongside the trade name application:
- Business License Application: This form allows businesses to secure the necessary licenses and permits to legally operate within their municipality. The requirements may vary based on the type of business and location.
- Personal Property Return: Unincorporated businesses that own or lease personal property must file this return annually. It provides information on assets that could be subject to taxation.
- Home Improvement Commission License: For home improvement companies, this license is essential to operate legally within Maryland. Applicants should verify name availability with the commission before filing.
- Partnership Agreement: If the trade name application is for a business owned by multiple individuals, this document outlines the responsibilities and shares of each partner. It can be crucial in legal matters down the line.
- Fictitious Name Registration: Some businesses need to file this registration when operating under a name different from the owner's legal name. It ensures transparency and protects consumers.
Incorporating these documents into your application process helps to streamline the registration and legitimizes your business operations. Always consult with professionals, such as accountants or attorneys, to ensure compliance with all local and state requirements.
Similar forms
- Business License Application: Both documents require identification of the business and the owner, including their addresses. They ensure legal recognition of the business type and operation.
- Fictitious Business Name Registration: Similar in that they both secure the right to operate under a chosen name. Each form necessitates the owner’s signature and a physical address.
- Partnership Registration Form: This document, like the trade name application, collects information on the business owners and their contributions, ensuring proper registration with state authorities.
- Trademark Application: Both documents are used to protect a business name, although the trademark application provides federal protection, while the trade name application is state-based.
- DBA (Doing Business As) Registration: This document also secures a name under which the individual or business intends to operate, addressing similar concerns regarding name availability and ownership.
- Articles of Incorporation: Both require signatures from business owners and detail the nature of the business, although articles are for formal incorporation while trade name applications focus on name registration.
- Non-Profit Organization Registration: This document must also detail the organization’s purpose and ownership, similar to the trade name application’s description of the business.
- Seller’s Permit Application: Both applications require the business address and identification of the owners, ensuring that the business complies with local tax laws.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Application For Trade Name form, it's crucial to follow best practices to ensure your application is successful. Below are some guidelines for what you should and shouldn't do.
- Do verify that the trade name you want to use is available. Contact the Home Improvement Commission, if relevant, to confirm.
- Do complete each section of the form accurately and clearly. Use black ink and ensure everything is typed or printed legibly.
- Do sign the application. Each owner must provide their signature, as the application will not be accepted without it.
- Do include the full address of the owner, along with the street address, city, state, and zip code. Remember, a post office box number is acceptable only if it is part of the physical address.
- Don't assume that a trade name is exclusive just because you have registered it. Check for potential conflicts with trademarks or other businesses.
- Don't forget to pay the required fee. Make sure your check is made payable to the Department of Assessments and Taxation to avoid delays in processing.
Misconceptions
1. The application guarantees exclusive rights to the trade name. Many people believe that submitting the Trade Name Application guarantees exclusive rights to use the name. This is incorrect. Acceptance does not confer any greater rights than what the applicant already possesses. The Department checks the name only against trade names filed within Maryland, ignoring federal trademarks or names registered in other states.
2. You can submit multiple trade names on a single application. Another common misconception is that applicants can file for multiple trade names using one form. However, the application allows only one trade name per submission. If individuals want to register more than one name, each must submit a separate application with its own fee.
3. The application can be submitted via fax. Some people mistakenly think they can fax their Trade Name Application. The Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation no longer accepts applications submitted by fax. Submissions must be made in person or via mail to the appropriate office.
4. The filing fee covers expedited service automatically. Lastly, individuals assume that the standard filing fee includes expedited service. In reality, there is an additional fee of $50 for expedited processing, making the total cost for rapid service $75. All applicants should be aware of this when submitting their applications.
Key takeaways
Before you complete the Application for Trade Name form, it is essential to verify that your desired name is available. Contact the Maryland Home Improvement Commission at 410-230-6171 for guidance. This step can prevent potential issues and delays.
The filing fee for the application is $25.00, payable to the Department of Assessments and Taxation. If you're seeking expedited service, an additional $50.00 is required, bringing the total to $75.00.
Ensure that every section of the application is completed legibly. Use black ink and provide original signatures. Applications submitted without required signatures or legibility issues may be rejected.
Remember that the filing is only valid for five years. You can renew your trade name during the last six months of this period for an additional five years. A failure to renew will forfeit the name, requiring a new application.
Keep in mind that the acceptance of your trade name does not grant exclusive rights. The Department only checks for existing trade names filed with them - other registrations, like federal trademarks, are not considered.