Maryland House Bill 1346: what businesses need to know
Maryland House Bill 1346 (HB 1346) is currently moving through the 2026 legislative session. Sponsored by Delegate Marlon Amprey, it brings significant changes to how businesses file documents with the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). The bill aims to modernize processing expectations, introduce new expedited service tiers, and adjust fees accordingly.
HB 1346: what you need to know
As of February 12, 2026, the HB 1346 received its first reading in the House Ways and Means Committee and is under review. If passed, the bill will come into effect October 1, 2026. There are two key aspects to the bill that businesses need to be aware of.
1. Creates new expedited processing requirements
HB 1346 requires SDAT to process filings submitted close to the end of the business day within strict time frames, depending on when the filing is received:
Documents filed at least one hour before close of business must be processed within one hour.
Documents filed at least 30 minutes before close of business must be processed within 30 minutes.
These service levels create a more predictable timeline for companies that rely on last‑minute filings, such as incorporations, amendments, or UCC‑related submissions.
2. Establishes new expedited processing fees
The bill also amends the existing fee structure, authorizing new nonrefundable expedited fees tied to processing speed and document type. Although the bill text doesn’t list every individual fee in public summaries, it explicitly modifies Corporations & Associations Article §§1‑203 and 1‑203.2, which govern Maryland’s filing fee schedules.
What HB 1346 means for businesses
1. Faster turnaround for critical filings
For businesses that require rapid document processing, such as startups launching quickly, companies undergoing acquisitions, or entities filing amendments, these guaranteed timelines could significantly reduce operational delays.
2. Higher costs for expedited services
While the bill enhances speed, it also introduces or increases fees for expedited services. Companies that frequently file under tight deadlines should expect to budget more for filings requiring immediate action.
3. More predictability and operational planning
HB 1346 establishes clear service windows, making planning easier for legal, compliance, and corporate governance teams. Instead of waiting hours or days, companies will know exactly when filings will be completed.
4. Potential changes in filing strategy
With processing tiers formalized, companies will likely need to alter how they schedule filings:
Planning ahead to avoid expedited fees
Using 1‑hour or 30‑minute options strategically when timing is critical
Adjusting internal workflows to align with SDAT’s defined cut‑off times
5. Increased administrative efficiency
If SDAT implements additional regulatory systems, businesses may benefit from:
An improved online filing experience
Reduced backlog
More reliable confirmation of time‑sensitive filings
Why does HB 1346 matter?
For any business operating in Maryland or registered with SDAT, HB 1346 introduces a significant change in how quickly you can execute legally significant corporate actions. Faster processing can help companies respond to market opportunities, regulatory deadlines, and organizational changes more efficiently, benefitting businesses across the board.
What happens next?
HB 1346 is early in the legislative process but is gaining visibility. If your company relies on expedited filings, keep an eye on:
Fee schedules SDAT will publish following passage
Updates from House Ways and Means
The status of cross‑filed SB 278
As HB 1346 continues through the legislative process, staying ahead of its implications will be key. The team at Computershare Entity Solutions can keep you informed as the bill evolves and help you prepare for any changes ahead of October 1, 2026. Get in touch today to discuss how to plan with confidence.
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