Work With Trusted & Experienced
Maryland Public Adjusters That Work For You!
100% Contingency Based. We Don't Get Paid Unless YOU Get Paid!*
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Don’t Settle For Less!
Get The HIGHEST & Most FAIR Settlement Amount ... That You Are Legally Entitled To ... From Your Insurance Claim!
Get a free on-site inspection & insurance policy evaluation from one of our expert public claims adjusters!
Work with highly trained & vetted Maryland public adjusters who are state-licensed, bonded, and trained to handle all residential or commercial insurance claims, big or small!
Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) member public adjusters in Maryland offer technical and detailed expertise that has satisfied countless homeowners, business owners, condominium associations, property management companies, and HOAs.
Our network members have years of experience dealing with insurance companies. Many of our network’s public adjusters also have previous backgrounds in construction and/or insurance, giving them a significant advantage in quickly securing the highest claim settlement compensation for their clients.
They know what to look for, what repairs actually cost, and what the insurance company’s adjusters tend to ignore (and hope you don’t know about!).
Consultations are always:
- Friendly
- Free
- No-Obligation
- 100% contingency-based In Nearly Every State
… meaning your public adjuster doesn’t get paid, unless you get paid!*
PCAN public adjusters take pride in providing superior customer service, and clear & friendly communication. Please fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our network’s licensed & verified Maryland public insurance claims adjusters today!
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency Fee Not Permitted By Law In Lousianna. By law, services in Kansas are only available for commercial claims.
Request A Free Consultation!
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*Some Services May Not Be Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted by law in Louisiana. Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) is not a Public Adjusting Agency. PCAN is a private network of stringently vetted, state-licensed, bonded, and PCAN Verified public adjusters with members Nationwide. Your contact request will be matched to one of our verified member public adjusters serving the Maryland community, to ensure the highest quality of service & care.
Higher Claim Payouts When Using A Public Adjuster According To Landmark OPPAGA Study!
Contingency Based. We don’t get paid, unless you get paid!
*Contingency fees not permitted by law in Louisiana.
Why Hire A Public Adjuster In Maryland?
Maryland Public Adjusters Help Get You The HIGHEST & Most Fair Settlement Amount (That You Are Legally Entitled To) From Your Homeowners, Roofing, Condo & HOA, & Business Insurance Claims!
Get a Free On-Site Inspection & Insurance Policy Evaluation From One Of Our Expert Maryland Public Claims Adjuster Members Today!
- Save You Time & Help Speed Up The Claim Process
- Help Alleviate Stress & Walk You Through The Whole Process
- Negotiate With The Insurance Company & Make Sure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible*
- Prepare & File All The Necessary Documents, And Handle All The Necessary Follow-up's
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
What Our Network Of Licensed Maryland Public Insurance Adjusters Bring To The Table
Maryland Insurance Policy Claims Specialists
PCAN member public claims adjusters have years of experience in claims & reviewing coverages. As such, they understand the numerous types of policies and endorsements you may experience when dealing with your claim in Maryland. Their expertise allows them to find & utalize the various coverages your policy may have, and in many cases, inform you of coverage & clauses you may not even know about.
Advocates For Maryland Homeonwers Insurance Policy Holders
PCAN member public insurance adjusters advocate for your rights as the policy holder. They ensure that the clients’ rights are being protected throughout the claims process, and make sure you get all the benefits you are entitled to based on your policy. Public adjusters are there with you every step of the way!
Experts In Seen & Unseen Damages
PCAN member public claims adjusters in Maryland have years of experience identifying damage, and in most cases, come from professional construction, roofing, and insurance backgrounds. As such, they are able to find & isolate damages that you may not even know to look for, or know would/should be covered by your policy! They also incorporate the latest assessment techniques & technology when conducting their property inspections.
Expert Claims Negotiators
Settlement negotiation is critically important when it comes to the claims process. Public adjusters in Maryland know how the insurance companies think, and come to the negotiation table fully prepared to defend & enforce your rights. PCAN member public insurance adjusters have the expertise and experience in claims negotiations to ensure that you get what you are actually entitled to under your policy ... not what the insurance company tells you that you are, based on their own interests. When the insurance company plays hardball or puts up a fight, your public adjuster won't be afraid to get in that ring and fight them for what's rightfully yours!
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
The Homeowners Insurance Claims Recovery Process In Maryland
Maryland state-licensed public insurance claims adjusters are fluent in “Insurance Policy Jargon”, and will guide you through the entire property insurance claims process, while they fight to make sure you get the highest & most fair compensation possible for your claim!
View 7-Step Claims Recovery Process Map
Step #1
Make Sure Your Family Is Safe
When disaster strikes, the priority is to make sure your family is safe. Always have an emergency bag!
Step #2
Contact A PCAN Public Adjuster In Maryland
Contact one of the PCAN verified and state-licensed public claims adjusters to schedule an appointment for them to come out & meet with you to inspect the damage.
Step #3
Thorough Review Of Your Policy
Your public insurance claims adjuster will conduct a comprehensive review of your policy, note any coverage restrictions, coinsurance requirements, limitations, and review additional options that may be available to you.
Step #4
Create A Claims Strategy That Works For Your Specific Goals & Needs
Your public claims adjuster will discuss what is most important to you when it comes to your claim, then create & tailor the right claims strategy to take care of your family.
Step #5
We Take Care Of All Insurance Related Paperwork, Negotiations, & Follow Up.
Once you have agreed on a strategy, your public insurance adjuster will:
- Meet with insurance company adjusters & personnel at the loss/damage location.
- Agree to the scope of damages & make sure that they are including all the damages in the scope, as well as clearly deciding on what should be repaired vs. replaced.
- Prepare a detailed reconstruction estimate.
- Prepare a detailed inventory of personal property.
Step #6
Negotiations & Final Settlement
Your public insurance adjuster will work to make sure you receive the highest settlement possible under your specific insurance policy.
Step #7
Restoration | Reconstruction | Relocation
Your public claims adjuster will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you can achieve your specific goals. Whether that’s full or partial restoration, rebuilding your property, or a full-relocation.
(Click To Expand Infographic)
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Maryland Public Adjusting
What Are Maryland Public Adjusters, & What Do They Do?
Maryland Public adjusters are licensed insurance professionals who work independently to defend policy holders during the insurance claims process. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) they are professionals act as advocates for property owners, ensuring their interests are protected when dealing with insurance companies.
The function of public adjusters has become more important in recent years, especially as insurance claims grow more complicated. A landmark study conducted by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) discovered that policyholders who employed public adjusters received settlements that were up to 800% more over those who managed claims themselves.
Public adjusters provide comprehensive services throughout the claim process. They conduct thorough damage assessments, and prepare and file the necessary documentation, and handle all communication with insurance companies. This type of support from licensed professionals, significantly reduces the amount of time and anxiety involved with filing claims and allows policyholders owners to focus on recovery.
Working mostly on a contingency fee basis, typically ranging from 10% to 20 percent of the settlement, public adjusters are rewarded for securing the highest possible amount of compensation for their clients. The fee structure varies depending on the complexity of the claim state regulations, as well as the resources required.
These professionals have vast knowledge of insurance policies, as well as building codes, as well as construction costs. They use this knowledge to:
- Accelerate the claims process
- Document and assess damages thoroughly
- Navigate complex policies
- Negotiate directly with insurance companies
- Be sure to comply with filing deadlines and other policy requirements
Research has clearly shown that professional representation during the claim process often leads to more comprehensive settlements as well as quicker resolution of claims. Public adjusters’ understanding of insurance regulations and industry practices can prevent common mistakes that could hinder or delay settlements.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
Will My Settlement Be Larger If I Hire A Maryland Public Adjusting Company?
Industry research and industry analysis have shown that employing a public insurance adjuster can substantially increase policyholder claim settlements. According to a landmark research study conducted by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA), policyholders who used public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher than those who handled claims on their own.
Public adjusters in Aspen Hill, Maryland serve as licensed professionals who exclusively represent policyholders throughout the claim process. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) states that these state-licensed professionals provide detailed claim management services, including precise property damage documentation as well as policy interpretation as well as settlement negotiations with insurance carriers.
The importance of a professional representation is evident in final settlement figures, as professionally managed claims usually result in more thorough damage assessments, and more accurate estimates of losses.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Handling all documentation and correspondence with insurance companies
- Conducting thorough assessments of property damage
- Preparing comprehensive claim submissions
- Negotiating directly with insurance carriers
- Accelerating the settlement timeline
- Ensures compliance with policy guidelines and deadlines
Most public adjusters work on the contingency fee basis, which typically range from 10% to 20 percent of the final settlement amount. This fee structure aligns the interests of the adjuster with those of the policyholder, as their compensation is contingent on securing a favorable settlement outcome.
The expertise of a Public Adjuster often proves valuable in difficult claims scenarios, where technical knowledge of building codes, construction costs, & insurance policy provisions can have a significant impact on settlement outcomes.
Their expertise and oversight ensure no covered damages are left unnoticed and ensures that claims are appropriately valued according to the current market conditions.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
How Much Do Maryland Public Adjusters Charge?
Public adjusters typically operate on a contingency fee basis, charging between 10% to 20% of the final insurance claim settlement. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), these fees vary based on claim complexity, state regulations, and required resources. The contingency fee structure ensures that public adjusters’ interests align directly with those of their clients, as their compensation depends on securing favorable settlements.
Before engagement, policyholders should carefully review fee arrangements and contract terms, ensuring clear understanding of the service agreement. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), public adjusters must maintain state licenses and adhere to strict professional standards, providing an additional layer of consumer protection. Their role becomes particularly valuable in complex claims where specialized knowledge can significantly impact settlement outcomes.
A landmark study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) demonstrated that policyholders who engaged public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher than those who handled claims independently. This significant difference underscores the value these professionals bring to the claims process.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Is It Too Late To Hire A Maryland Public Adjuster?
Navigating the insurance claims process requires careful timing and professional expertise. Understanding when to engage a Maryland public adjuster can significantly impact claim outcomes and settlement amounts. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), policyholders can benefit from hiring a public adjuster at any point during an active claim, though earlier engagement typically yields better results.
Key timing considerations include:
Statute of Limitations:
- Each state maintains different deadlines for filing insurance claims
- Claims must be initiated within these legal timeframes
- Public adjusters can assist with existing claims, even if initially filed independently
Documentation Requirements:
- Public adjusters help organize and prepare comprehensive claim documentation
- They can recover or reconstruct missing documentation
- Professional documentation improves claim validity and settlement potential
Claim Status:
- Active claims benefit from professional representation
- Denied claims may be reopened with proper documentation
- Disputed settlements can be renegotiated
Public adjusters provide valuable services throughout the claims process Including:
- Expedited claim processing through professional management
- Expert negotiation with insurance carriers
- Complete documentation preparation and submission
- Regular communication with insurance companies
- Stress reduction through professional claim handling
- Maximum settlement potential through experienced representation
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Should You Hire A Public Claims Adjuster In Maryland?
Complex insurance claims often require experienced professionals to effectively navigate. Public insurance adjusters, state-licensed professionals who work exclusively on behalf of policyholders, can have a significant impact on the outcome of claims as well as settlement amount.
A variety of scenarios could warrant hiring a public adjuster:
- Extensive property damage
- Claims involving multiple types of coverage
- Disputed claims or partial claim denials
- Complex documentation requirements
- Situations that are time-sensitive which require immediate attention
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Conducting comprehensive damage assessments
- The preparation and filing of necessary documentation
- Managing communication with insurance companies
- Settlement negotiations on behalf of the policyholders
- Ensuring compliance with policy guidelines and deadlines
Public adjusters particularly benefit policyholders through:
- Stress reduction through professional claim management
- Expediting settlement processes
- Providing objective damage assessments
- Ensuring comprehensive documentation
- Leveraging industry knowledge for fair settlements
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Can I File My Insurance Claim Myself In Maryland?
While policyholders have the right to file insurance claims independently, data from industry experts suggest that this method may not produce ideal results.
The main challenges with self-filing include:
- Complex documentation requirements and policy interpretation
- Time-intensive communication with insurance representatives
- Risk of overlooking covered damages or benefits
- Potential undervaluation of claims by insurance companies
- Limited-to-zero negotiation experience with insurers
Licensed public adjusters have substantial advantages during the claim process:
-
- Professional Documentation and Assessment – Public adjusters thoroughly document damages, and prepare complete claim files, and manage all necessary paperwork, making sure that nothing is missed.
- Time and Stress Management – These professionals manage all communication with insurance companies and homeowners can concentrate on recovery while speeding the claims process.
- Expert Negotiation – With a vast understanding of the insurance policies and rules, public adjusters negotiate directly with insurance companies in order to secure fair settlements.
- Cost-Effective Service – Public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee basis, typically ranging from 10-20% of the final settlement amount, which ensures that the interests of the policyholder are protected.
The National Association of State Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) recognizes public adjusters as licensed professionals who represent policyholders’ interests during the claims process. Their expertise can be useful in complex claims or when significant damages are involved.
Statistics from the industry consistently indicate that professional representation by state-licensed public claims adjusters leads to better results for the policyholders, with quicker processing time, and more complete settlement packages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
In Maryland, Can My Contractor Represent Me Against My Insurance Company?
While many contractors offer to negotiate with insurers, this strategy can have significant limitations and potential risks. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), contractors do not have the legal authority and expertise to act as representative for insurers in claim negotiations.
This restriction could significantly impact the result of a lawsuit and could compromise your rights as a owner of the policy.
State insurance departments oversee licensed public adjusters, who go through highly specialized training, must pass Federal background checks, and require special licensing from the state to operate. They also are legally authorized to represent the policyholder to safeguard and protect their right … legal authority that contractors do not possess … which makes them the legal and comprehensive alternative to the representation of contractors.
Public Adjusters specialize in interpreting insurance policies, assessing and documenting damage, and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure equitable claim compensation.
Public adjusters provide several distinct advantages, which include:
- Professional claim documentation and filing
- Professional negotiation with insurance companies
- Comprehensive damage assessment
- Faster claim processing
- Reduce stress by a complete claim management
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes the fact that public insurance claims adjusters must hold professional licenses and adhere to strict ethical standards. This provides another layer of consumer protection not available with the representation of contractors.
For more complex claims for complex claims, for complex claims, adjusters are experts in the interpretation of policies, documentation specifications and negotiation strategies frequently is invaluable, and can help avoid costly errors and denials of claims which could result from the use of contractors in negotiations.
Disclaimer: Some Services Are are not available in all Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
I Already Settled My Claim, But It Wasn’t Enough Money To Cover The Damages. Is It Too Late To Get More?
If insurance settlements are not sufficient to cover property damages, the policyholder has a variety of legal options for seeking further compensation following the initial claim settlement.
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), policyholders should be sure to carefully review the terms of their settlement and related documentation before accepting the final settlement.
The timing and circumstances for the pursuit of additional compensation are important factors, as most insurance policies contain specific timeframes for dispute resolution as well as appeals, usually between one and two years following the settlement date.
Licensed public claims adjusters are essential in re-evaluating settlement claims and finding previously missed damages. Public adjusters carry out thorough assessments of property damages, as well as document any additional damages, and deal with insurance companies on behalf of policyholders.
Important steps to pursue additional compensation include:
- Document newly discovered damages
- Review policy terms and settlement agreements
- Gather additional evidence and estimations
- Consider professional representation from a state-licensed public adjusters
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) insists that public adjusters are often able to spot overlooked damages and policy provisions that allow for the need for additional compensation. Their experience in policy interpretation and the valuation of claims proves particularly valuable in defending claims that have already been settled.
Insurance policyholders must act promptly after discovering inadequate settlement amounts, since delay can compromise their ability to collect additional compensation. When utilizing a public adjuster’s services, the claim review and negotiation process typically progresses more efficiently than policyholder-directed efforts.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Why hire a Public Insurance Claims Adjuster In Maryland if the insurance company already sent an adjuster?
The decision to employ a state-licensed public adjuster, even if an insurance company has assigned its own adjuster greatly affect the final result of an insurance claim.
Although insurance company adjusters work for their employer’s interests … public insurance claims adjusters serve as dedicated advocates for policyholders. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that these state-licensed & regulated adjusters operate independently, ensuring fair claim settlements and comprehensive coverage interpretation.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by managing documents as well as conducting comprehensive assessment of the damage and coordinating all communications with insurance companies. This professional intervention typically speeds up claim resolution and reduces homeowners administrative burdens.
The benefit of public adjusters isn’t only limited to monetary benefits. These professionals provide professional guidance through the entire claims process, providing the complexities of policy and ensuring that the damage is documented and valued.
They prepare specific damage estimates, gather necessary evidence, and engage directly with insurance companies in order to get the best settlement results.
Insurance claims are complex and time-consuming, making professional representation crucial during large losses. Public adjusters’ expertise in policy interpretation and negotiation usually results in more extensive settlements that take into account evident and concealed damages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Can My Insurance Company Cancel My Contract If I Use a Public Adjuster In Maryland?
No. Insurance companies cannot legally cancel policies solely because policyholders hire public adjusters to represent their interests during the claims process, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Policy cancellations are strictly governed by contractual terms and state regulations, typically limited to specific circumstances such as non-payment of premiums or material misrepresentation.
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that hiring a licensed public insurance claims adjusters is a protected right of policyholders. These professionals serve as advocates during insurance claims, handling documentation, negotiations, and communications with insurance carriers to expedite settlements.
The Insurance Information Institute (III) confirms that policyholders maintain the right to professional representation during claims processes, and insurers must honor this right while adhering to fair claims handling practices.
Disclaimer: Some Services Not Available In All Areas.
A glossary of insurance terms provides insight to policyholders of critical terms and definitions commonly used to clarify various aspects of coverage and claims.
Key concepts include such terms as Actual Cash Value, a method for determining compensation based on replacement costs minus recoverable depreciation, and ALE Coverage, which cover necessary living costs when a home is uninhabitable.
For example, understanding your homeowners insurance declaration page, common damage deductibles for various kinds of home damage, the general policy exclusions standard in many home insurance policies, can bring much-needed awareness & clarity to policyholders of potential common insurance terminology that may affect their claim outcomes. For example, knowing which key documents (such as photographs and receipts) are essential for substantiating claims.
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Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Discover How Maryland Public Claims Adjusters Can Get You More From These Types Of Property Damage Insurance Claims
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Find A PCAN Public Adjuster In Maryland Near You In One Of These Cities:
Click To Expand & View List Of Cities Served
- Public Adjusters Aspen Hill, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Baltimore, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Baynesville, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Bethesda, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Bowie, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Clarksville, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Columbia, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Dundalk, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Ellicott City, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Frederick, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Gaithersburg, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Germantown, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Glen Burnie, Maryland
- Public Adjusters North Bethesda, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Rockville, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Severn, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Silver Spring, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Towson, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Waldorf, Maryland
- Public Adjusters Wheaton, Maryland
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
More About Maryland
Maryland | |
---|---|
Nicknames: “Old Line State“, “Free State”, “Little America”, “America in Miniature” | |
Mottoes:
| |
Location of Maryland within the United States | |
Country | United States |
Before statehood | Province of Maryland |
Admitted to the Union | April 28, 1788 (7th) |
Capital | Annapolis |
Largest city | Baltimore |
Largest county or equivalent | Montgomery |
Largest metro and urban areas |
|
Government | |
• Governor | Wes Moore (D) |
• Lieutenant Governor | Aruna Miller (D) |
Legislature | General Assembly |
• Upper house | Senate |
• Lower house | House of Delegates |
Judiciary | Supreme Court of Maryland |
U.S. senators | |
U.S. House delegation |
|
Area | |
• Total | 12,407 sq mi (32,133 km) |
• Land | 9,776 sq mi (25,314 km) |
• Water | 2,633 sq mi (6,819 km) 21% |
• Rank | 42nd |
Dimensions | |
• Length | 250 mi (400 km) |
• Width | 100 mi (200 km) |
Elevation | 350 ft (110 m) |
Highest elevation | 3,360 ft (1,024 m) |
Lowest elevation | 0 ft (0 m) |
Population (2024) | |
• Total | |
• Rank | 18th |
• Density | 632/sq mi (244/km) |
• Rank | 5th |
• Median household income | $98,700 (2023) |
• Income rank | 3rd |
Demonym | Marylander |
Language | |
• Official language | None (English, de facto) |
Time zone | UTC−05:00 (Eastern) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC−04:00 (EDT) |
USPS abbreviation | MD |
ISO 3166 code | US-MD |
Traditional abbreviation | Md. |
Latitude | 37° 53′ N to 39° 43′ N |
Longitude | 75° 03′ W to 79° 29′ W |
Website | maryland |
List of state symbols | |
---|---|
Song | None. Formerly: “Maryland, My Maryland” by James Ryder Randall (1861), (adopted 1939, repealed 2021) |
Living insignia | |
Bird | Baltimore oriole |
Cat breed | Calico cat |
Crustacean | Blue crab |
Dog breed | Chesapeake Bay Retriever |
Fish | Rock fish |
Flower | Black-eyed Susan |
Horse breed | Thoroughbred |
Insect | Baltimore checkerspot butterfly |
Reptile | Diamondback terrapin |
Tree | White oak |
Inanimate insignia | |
Beverage | Milk |
Dance | Square dance |
Dinosaur | Astrodon johnstoni |
Food | Smith Island cake |
Fossil | Ecphora gardnerae gardnerae |
Gemstone | Patuxent River stone |
Ship | Skipjack |
Sport | |
State route marker | |
State quarter | |
Released in 2000 | |
Lists of United States state symbols |
Maryland ( MERR-il-ənd) is a state in the Mid-Atlantic and South Atlantic regions of the United States, per the nation’s Labor and Commerce departments. It borders the states of Virginia to its south, West Virginia to its west, Pennsylvania to its north, Delaware and the Atlantic Ocean to its east, and the national capital and federal district of Washington, D.C. to the southwest. With a total area of 12,407 square miles (32,130 km), Maryland is the ninth-smallest state by land area, and its population of 6,177,224 ranks it the 18th-most populous state and the fifth-most densely populated. Maryland’s capital city is Annapolis, and the most populous city is Baltimore.
Maryland’s coastline was first explored by Europeans in the 16th century. Prior to that, it was inhabited by several Native American tribes, mostly the Algonquian peoples. As one of the original Thirteen Colonies, Maryland was founded by George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore, a Catholic convert who sought to provide a religious haven for Catholics persecuted in England. In 1632, Charles I of England granted Lord Baltimore a colonial charter, naming the colony after his wife, Henrietta Maria. In 1649, the Maryland General Assembly passed an Act Concerning Religion, which enshrined the principle of toleration. Religious strife was common in Maryland’s early years, and Catholics remained a minority, albeit in greater numbers than in any other English colony. Maryland’s early settlements and population centers clustered around waterways that empty into the Chesapeake Bay. Its economy was heavily plantation-based and centered mostly on the cultivation of tobacco. Demand for cheap labor from Maryland colonists led to the importation of numerous indentured servants and enslaved Africans. In 1760, Maryland’s current boundaries took form following the settlement of a long-running border dispute with Pennsylvania. Many of its citizens played key political and military roles in the American Revolutionary War. Although it was a slave state, Maryland remained in the Union during the American Civil War, and its proximity to Washington D.C. and Virginia made it a significant strategic location. After the Civil War ended, Maryland took part in the Industrial Revolution, driven by its seaports, railroad networks, and mass immigration from Europe.
Since the 1940s, the state’s population has grown rapidly, to approximately six million residents, and it is among the most densely populated U.S. states. As of 2015, Maryland had the highest median household income of any state, owing in large part to its proximity to Washington, D.C., and a highly diversified economy spanning manufacturing, retail services, public administration, real estate, higher education, information technology, defense contracting, health care, and biotechnology. Maryland is one of the most multicultural states in the country; it is one of the six states where non-Whites compose a majority of the population, with the fifth-highest percentage of African Americans, and high numbers of residents born in Africa, Asia, Central America, and the Caribbean. The state’s central role in U.S. history is reflected by its hosting of some of the highest numbers of historic landmarks per capita.
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.