A Maryland Financing Statement is a legal document filed by a creditor to establish their security interest in the personal property of a debtor. It serves as a public notice to other potential creditors, ensuring that the creditor's claim on the debtor's assets takes priority in the event of default or bankruptcy. The Maryland Financing Statement contains various essential details about both parties involved in the transaction, including their names and addresses. Additionally, it includes information about the collateral being used to secure the debt, such as a description of the property or assets and any relevant serial numbers or identifying information. There are different types of Maryland Financing Statements that can be filed, depending on the specific circumstances of the financial transaction. Some common types include: 1. UCC-1 Financing Statement: This is the most common financing statement used in Maryland and is typically used in various types of commercial and business transactions. It covers a broad range of collateral, including goods, inventory, equipment, receivables, and more. 2. Fixture Filing: In cases where collateral is attached to real property, such as equipment or machinery, a fixture filing may be required. This type of financing statement is filed with the local land records office, providing notice to subsequent creditors or purchasers that the personal property is a fixture and included in the real property. 3. Agricultural Lien: Maryland also has specific provisions for agricultural liens. If the transaction involves agricultural commodities or farm products, an agricultural lien may be filed to establish the creditor's interest. This allows the creditor to recover their debt from the sale of the agricultural assets or other remedies available under the law. It is crucial for creditors to file a Maryland Financing Statement to protect their interests in the collateral because without proper filing, they may lose priority to subsequent creditors or competing claims on the debtor's assets. It is also important to note that Maryland follows the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), which governs these transactions, ensuring consistency and predictability in commercial transactions across the state.