What Business Details Must Be Included on the Maryland Personal Property Return?

Every year, businesses registered in Maryland are required to file an Annual Personal Property Return with the Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). This filing provides the state with key information about the business and its assets for assessment and tax purposes. Missing or incomplete details can lead to processing delays, penalties, or even forfeiture of the business’s good standing.

To avoid complications, it’s important to know exactly which business details must be included on the return.

Essential Business Information for the Personal Property Return

1. Legal Business Name and Trade Name: The return must include the business’s full legal name as registered with SDAT. If the business operates under a trade name (DBA), that should also be listed to ensure accurate identification.
2. Department ID Number: Every registered business in Maryland is assigned an SDAT Department Identification Number. This number is required on the return to connect the filing to the correct business record.
3. Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN): The FEIN, issued by the IRS, must be provided on the return. It serves as a cross-reference to federal filings and helps confirm the entity’s identity.
4. Business Address and Contact Information: The principal office address and mailing address must be included. If the business has multiple property locations within Maryland, each address must be reported separately, since the state requires a return for each property location.
5. Entity Type: The return must specify the type of entity—such as corporation, limited liability company (LLC), partnership, or sole proprietorship. Different forms may apply depending on the structure (for example, Form AT3-51 is specific to sole proprietors and general partnerships).
6. Resident Agent Information: For entities registered with SDAT, the resident agent’s name and address must be provided. This is the individual or business authorized to receive official notices and legal documents on behalf of the entity.
7. Date of Incorporation or Registration: The filing should include the date the business was incorporated or registered in Maryland, or the date it was qualified to do business in the state if formed elsewhere.
8. Signature and Certification: The return must be signed by an authorized officer, member, or partner of the business, certifying that the information is true and correct. Unsigned forms will not be accepted.

Why Accuracy Matters

Providing complete and accurate business details ensures that the return is processed without delay. Errors or omissions can result in late fees, denial of extensions, or even forfeiture of the entity’s right to conduct business in Maryland. Keeping these requirements in mind makes the filing process smoother and helps maintain the business’s good standing with the state.

Make sure that your Maryland return is fully compliant — reach out to Watter CPA today for expert help with business details and timely filing!