How To Register A Legal Business Name In Texas
A valid name registration precludes another entity from filing under a legal or fictitious name that is not distinguishable in the records of the secretary of state.
How to register a legal business name in texas. If your business has employees or is taxed separately from you you must obtain a federal employer identification number ein from the irs. Even when the name of the business you want looks like it is available the comptroller of public accounts will make a final determination at the time of filing to ensure the name you picked isn t too similar to other registered names. Pick a business name. To withdraw or cancel a name reservation do so prior to the end of the 120 day reservation period. Assuming you ve already worked out your business idea how you re going to fund your company and have at least done a simple business plan these are the steps for starting a business in texas.
A final determination cannot be made until the document is received and processed by the secretary of state. Even if you are not required to obtain an ein there are often business reasons for doing so. In general sole proprietorships and partnerships need to register with the county clerk s office. Filing a name registration does not give an entity the authority to transact business in texas. More generally any business operating in texas should register with the cpa.
Determine the appropriate legal structure of the business and file the business name with the state or county. These are the basics of searching for a business name in texas. Obtain your federal employer identification number. Step 5 business tax responsibilities. If you decide to incorporate register with the secretary of state s office sos.
Banks often require an ein to open an account in the business s name and other companies you do business with may require an ein to process. Decide on a business structure. You can register online or on paper. Additionally a name reservation can be renewed.