SET A COMPANY IN TEXAS
Starting a business in Texas offers several advantages, such as a business-friendly tax structure and streamlined regulations.
Registering a Texas LLC (Limited Liability Company) is one of the most popular ways to start a company in this state.
The information below guides you step by step on how to set up a Texas LLC, including state requirements, total costs, important filings, and the benefits of choosing Corporate Mile for your formation needs.
Why Set Up a Company in Texas?
- No State Personal Income Tax
Texas does not impose a state personal income tax. However, Texas LLCs may have Texas franchise tax obligations depending on their activity and filing category. - Fewer Formalities
Compared to corporations, LLCs in Texas have fewer legal requirements. This means less paperwork, fewer recordkeeping obligations, and a simpler operational structure. - Asset Protection
An LLC separates your personal assets from the debts and liabilities of the business. If your company faces a lawsuit or financial trouble, your personal property is generally protected. - Lower Overall Costs
A Texas LLC can offer liability protection and flexible internal management, but state filing fees, Texas franchise tax filings, and local operating costs can still apply depending on your business activity and location. - Flexible Management
Texas LLCs do not have restrictions on the number and types of owners (members). Members of a Texas LLC have greater flexibility to participate in the company’s management. You can choose to participate in management (member managed) or nominate other managers to run the business (manager managed). You decide who runs day-to-day operations, making it easy to adapt your business structure to your specific goals and needs.
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START YOUR TEXAS LLC
Choose Corporate Mile for Texas LLC registration.
STEP-BY-STEP: REGISTERING YOUR TEXAS LLC
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Your chosen name must include a legal suffix such as “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “L.L.C.,” “L.C.,” or “LLC.”
Confirm that the name is not already taken by searching the Texas Secretary of State business name database.
2. Appoint a Registered Agent in Texas
Every Texas LLC must have a registered agent with a physical address in Texas.
You may serve as your own agent if you have an address in the state, or you can hire a professional service.
Corporate Mile provides registered agent services.
3. File Certificate of Formation
Submit your Texas LLC Certificate of Formation to the Texas Secretary of State, either online (SOSDirect) or by mail.
Include key details such as the LLC name, principal business address, registered agent information, and the names and addresses of authorized managers or members.
Pay the $300 Texas state filing fee for the Certificate of Formation. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee if requested.
Online filings typically receive approval within about 2 business days, while mailed documents may take a bit longer.
4. Draft an Operating Agreement
Operating Agreement of Texas LLC clarifies ownership percentages, member responsibilities, profit distributions, and other essential processes. You need an operating agreement to open a business bank account.
Corporate Mile includes a customized operating agreement at no additional charge.
5. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
If you intend to hire employees, open a business bank account, or choose certain tax classifications (e.g., S-Corp election), you’ll need an EIN from the IRS.
You can apply directly on the IRS website at no cost.
Corporate Mile can also secure your EIN for you.
TOTAL COST BREAKDOWN
This fee covers the primary steps necessary to officially register your Texas LLC and maintain a registered agent for 12 months.
TEXAS LLC PACKAGE
When you choose Corporate Mile to form your Texas LLC, your total includes:
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Texas State Filing Fee – $300
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LLC filing with the Texas Secretary of State
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Obtaining Employer Identification Number (EIN)
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Registered Agent Service (1 Year)
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Operating Agreement
ONGOING REQUIREMENTS AND FEES
TEXAS FRANCHISE TAX REPORTING (ANNUAL)
Texas LLCs do not file a standalone “annual report” with the Secretary of State.
Instead, Texas requires annual franchise tax reporting with the Texas Comptroller, including the Franchise Tax Report and the Public Information Report (PIR) or Ownership Information Report (OIR), depending on the entity.
These filings are generally due May 15 each year. Franchise tax liability (if any) depends on the company’s revenue and filing category.
LOCAL BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT
Depending on your business activity and location, you may need state or local business licenses, permits, or tax registrations before operating.
Requirements vary by city, county, and industry.
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START YOUR TEXAS LLC
Choose Corporate Mile for Texas LLC registration.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Trade Name (DBA) Registration
- If your business will operate under a name different from the one listed on your Articles of Organization, you must file a fictitious name (DBA) registration with the state.
- Corporate Mile can handle the registration for $175, or $303 if any required publication is included.
Mail Forwarding Options
- Limited: Includes three free scans of non-official mail per year.
- Deluxe: Offers an additional 10 scans annually for $49/year.
- Premium: Offers an additional 25 scans annually for $99/year.
Virtual Office
- For businesses wanting an all-in-one Florida presence, Corporate Mile provides a virtual office package with:
- Unlimited mail forwarding
- A local Florida phone number
- An office lease in St. Petersburg
Online Presence Tools
- Free domain for one year
- 90 days of no-cost website hosting, SSL certificate, business email, and phone service
- Ideal for establishing a robust digital footprint from day one
WORKING WITH CORPORATE MILE
TEXAS LLC SUPPORT
Corporate Mile offers genuine local support. Our familiarity with Texas's business regulations ensures faster filing and better guidance.
PRIVACY AND SECURITY
Corporate Mile can help you maintain privacy designed to limit the amount of personal information that appears on public records.
YEAR-ROUND CUSTOMER SUPPORT
Corporate Mile’s team monitors annual requirements and due dates, keeping you in good standing with the state.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What do I need to start an LLC in Texas?
You need a name for your LLC, business address, name and address of managers and owners, registered agent in Texas and operating agreement. Corporate Mile can start a complete Texas LLC for you.
2. What is the cost of starting an LLC in Texas?
The cost of starting an LLC in Texas is $300.
3. Do I need to be a resident of Texas form a Texas LLC?
No. You can form a Texas LLC whether you reside in another state or internationally, as long as you appoint a registered agent with a Texas address.
4. How long does it take to process the formation of a Texas LLC?
Online filings usually take about 2 business days. Mail-in filings can take slightly longer, often around 1–2 weeks.
5. Are single-member LLCs allowed in Texas?
Yes. A single-member LLC is a popular structure for solo entrepreneurs seeking liability protection. By default, the IRS taxes single-member LLCs as sole proprietorships, unless you opt for another tax election.
6. Does Texas require an Operating Agreement?
While not mandated by state law, having a written operating agreement is highly recommended to prevent disagreements and clarify each member’s responsibilities and share of ownership. You need an operating agreement to open a business bank account.
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START A TEXAS LLC
Registering a Texas LLC offers multiple benefits, including asset protection and no state personal income tax. By collaborating with Corporate Mile, you can complete the registration process through a package that includes your selected service items, such as tax ID assistance, registered agent service, and an operating agreement.
When you’re ready to begin, get started. Our knowledgeable staff will handle the entire process so you can focus on growing and managing your new Texas LLC with peace of mind.
Let's get started
START YOUR TEXAS LLC
Choose Corporate Mile for Texas LLC registration.
