Can I offer a free trial for my product or service in Maryland? What are the requirements?

Free Trial Requirements in Maryland

Maryland law does not have specific requirements for offering free trials. However, if you are offering a free trial as part of a negative option marketing plan, you must comply with the Enforcement Policy Statement Regarding Negative Option Marketing ^[3].

Under this policy, you must clearly and conspicuously disclose all material terms of the offer, including the fact that the consumer will be charged if they do not cancel before the end of the trial period. You must also obtain the consumer’s affirmative consent to the offer and provide a simple mechanism for the consumer to cancel the offer ^[3].

If you are a corporation or LLC, you must appoint a resident agent to accept service of court papers on behalf of your business ^[1]. The resident agent’s information must be listed in the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation. If you cannot locate the resident agent, you should consult with a lawyer ^[1].

Source(s):

• [1] Small Claims | Maryland Courts
• [3] Enforcement Policy Statement Regarding Negative Option Marketing

Jurisdiction

Maryland

• General