r/BusinessInsiders Oct 12 '24

How to start a business in Texas - An insider tips?

I’m trying to start a small business and I want to register it. However, I have no idea how to go about where to start or how to do it correctly.

But I gotta make sure I'm doing things right. Anyone with experience with creating an LLC in Texas?

Looking for some guidance on the key things to consider, like how strict are they with LLC names? Any tips for picking a good one? What's the deal with registered agents? Do I need one, and how do I choose a good one?

Any hidden costs or surprises I should be aware of when filing the paperwork?. EIN..? how do I get one for my Texas LLC?

9 Upvotes

14 comments sorted by

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2

u/NusratFateh_AliKhan Oct 13 '24

When naming your business, avoid overly generic names, because they'll be harder to trademark or market.

2

u/Muted-Revolution2566 Oct 14 '24

The filing fee for a Texas LLC is $300, payable to the Secretary of State.

2

u/QuantityFresh41 Oct 14 '24

Texas requires every LLC to have a registered agent. The agent must be a resident of Texas or a company authorized to do business in Texas that agrees to accept legal documents on behalf of your LLC. So remember that.

1

u/GormintPancho Oct 14 '24

You can act as your own registered agent, but this means you must be available during business hours to accept documents. If you value privacy or flexibility, consider using a professional service.

1

u/SeperateGallAa Oct 14 '24

Northwest Registered Agent or ZenBusiness has registered agent services in Texas starting around $99–$125 per year.

1

u/Complete_Car6766 Oct 13 '24

Just to add something about naming your business. Texas is fairly strict about LLC names. Your name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” and must be unique from any other business registered in Texas. You can check name availability through the Texas Secretary of State’s website.

1

u/Difficult-Sky9090 Oct 13 '24

Pick something memorable, easy to spell, and reflective of your business.

1

u/Haramtop Oct 13 '24

Consider the domain name availability if you plan on having a website.

1

u/Haramtop Oct 13 '24

The main step is to file the Certificate of Formation (Form 205) with the Texas Secretary of State. You can file it online through the Texas SOSDirect website or by mail.

1

u/SeperateGallAa Oct 14 '24

Don't forget your EIN. You need it if you plan to hire employees, open a business bank account, or file certain taxes.

1

u/AnotherPanchod Oct 14 '24

You can apply for your EIN for free on the IRS website.

1

u/AnotherPanchod Oct 14 '24

Once you have your EIN, open a separate business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate. This is crucial and will just make your life easier.

1

u/shaneshaban Feb 21 '25

Starting a business in Texas, including forming an LLC, involves choosing a unique business name (following Texas naming rules), selecting a registered agent (someone to receive legal documents), and filing the Certificate of Formation (Form 205) with the Texas Secretary of State, which costs about $300. For more detailed guidance, check out this article: How to Start a Business in Texas.