How long does it take to register a business in Maine?

Processing times vary: 5-10 business days. Online filings are typically faster than mail submissions. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Do I need a business license in Maine?

Maine does not require a state-level business license, but individual cities and counties may have their own requirements. Check with your local government for specific licensing needs.

Can I use my personal name as my business name?

Yes, you can use your personal name as your business name. For an LLC, you'll need to add "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to the end. However, using a unique business name often provides better branding opportunities and legal protection.

What if my desired business name is already taken?

If your preferred name is unavailable, you have several options: 1) Choose a different name, 2) Add descriptive words to make it unique, 3) Use a different LLC suffix (LLC, L.L.C., etc.), or 4) Consider filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name while keeping a different legal name.

How much does it cost to start a business in Maine?

The LLC filing fee is $175. Annual fees are $85. Additional costs include business licenses ($50-500), registered agent fees ($50-300/year if using a service), and other startup expenses. Total first-year costs typically range from $350.

Do I need a trademark for my business name?

While not required, trademark registration provides nationwide protection for your business name. Registering your LLC with the state only protects your name within Maine. If you plan to expand beyond the state or want stronger legal protection, consider applying for a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an amendment with the Maine Secretary of State. This typically costs $20-100 and takes a few weeks to process. However, changing your name can be expensive when you consider updating all your marketing materials, domain, signage, and legal documents.

Maine Business Name Generator

Generate unique business names for your Maine LLC or startup. Get AI-powered suggestions tailored to Maine businesses and local market.

Generate Business Names for Maine

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Maine?

$175

Filing Fee

5-10

Processing (days)

150K

Total Businesses

12K/yr

New Businesses

Growing food and beverage scene

Strong tourism industry

Quality of life

Access to Canadian markets

Starting a Business in Maine

Top Cities for Business

Portland68,408
Lewiston37,121
Bangor31,903
South Portland26,498
Auburn24,220

Popular Industries

Tourism
Healthcare
Manufacturing
Fishing
Agriculture

Cost to Start a Business in Maine

LLC Filing Fee$175

Annual Report Fee$85/year

Name Reservation (optional)$20 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$350

Processing time: 5-10 business days

Maine Tax Overview

Maine has income tax rates from 5.8-7.15%. Corporate tax is 3.5-8.93%. Sales tax is 5.5%.

Maine Business Name Requirements

Must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company"
Must be distinguishable

Restricted Words: The following words cannot be used without special approval:

Bank, Trust, Insurance

Business Name Ideas for Maine

Explore 30 pre-generated business name ideas across popular industries. Use these as inspiration or starting points for your own unique name.

restaurant

Pine Tree Table
Maine Cuisine
Portland Kitchen
New England Dining
Vacationland Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Portland Cuts
Premium Grooming
Pine Tree Barbers
Classic Style
Maine Shave
Expert Service

construction

Maine Builders
Quality Construction
Pine Tree Build
Building ME
Portland Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Portland Strategy
Business Growth
Pine Tree Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Maine Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Maine Mercantile
Local Goods
Pine Tree Market
Quality Products
Portland Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Maine Home Care
Complete Solutions
Pine Tree Services
Professional Care
Portland Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Portland Tech
Innovation
Pine Tree Digital
Tech Solutions
Maine Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Maine Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Pine Tree Medical
Patient Care
Portland Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Maine Properties
Dream Homes
Pine Tree Realty
Expert Service
Portland Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Portland Fitness
Peak Performance
Pine Tree Strong
Community Fitness
Maine Athletics
Elite Training

Official Maine Business Resources

Maine Secretary of State

Business registration

Maine Revenue Services

Tax information

Maine SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Maine

Annual Compliance Requirements

After forming your Maine LLC, you'll need to maintain compliance with these ongoing requirements:

File Annual Report ($85)
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
No state business license required

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Maine Business Owners

Self-Employment Tax

Calculate SE tax liability

Profit Margin Calculator

Calculate your profit margins

S-Corp Salary

Optimize salary vs distribution

Generate Names for Nearby States

Ready to Launch Your Maine Business?

Jupid AI Accountant handles everything from LLC formation to ongoing tax compliance. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Information is accurate as of 2026-01. Always verify current requirements with the Maine Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.