How To Register A Legal Business Name In Texas

To withdraw or cancel a name reservation do so prior to the end of the 120 day reservation period.

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. These are the basics of searching for a business name in texas. 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. If you decide to incorporate register with the secretary of state s office sos. Determine the appropriate legal structure of the business and file the business name with the state or county.

Even if you are not required to obtain an ein there are often business reasons for doing so. A name registration is valid for one year and may be renewed. If your business has employees or is taxed separately from you you must obtain a federal employer identification number ein from the irs. If you wish the secretary of state to provide a preliminary determination on name availability you may call 512 463 5555 dial 7 1 1 for relay services or e mail your name inquiry to corporations section. In general sole proprietorships and partnerships need to register with the county clerk s office.

Step 5 business tax responsibilities. Obtain your federal employer identification number. Additionally a name reservation can be renewed. Pick a business name. You can register online or on paper.

More generally any business operating in texas should register with the cpa. Filing a name registration does not give an entity the authority to transact business in texas. Reserving a business name in texas nowadays you can make name reservations even generic ones that can apply to any kind of filing body via sosdirect which can be accessed around the clock. 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.