Texas Secretary of State – TX SOS Business Search

The Texas Secretary of State website is the place to go if you want to form a business in Texas or obtain information about an existing business.

In this guide, we will lead you through the step-by-step process of exploring Texas business entity records and enrolling your business entity in the state. 

We’ll also address some frequently asked questions about starting a business in Texas.

Texas Secretary of State Corporations Division
Address: P.O. Box 12887 Austin, Texas 78711-2887
Telephone: 1(512)475-2755
Website: www.sos.state.tx.us
E-Mail: sos.state.tx.us/contact

The Texas Secretary of State website can be found at www.sos.state.tx.us. 

For business searches and registrations, there are three relevant sections:  

• SOSDirect – For filing business documents and searching for information about business entities. SOSDirect searches cost $1 per search and filings costs start from $5 per document.
• Business Filings – This allows you to search by business name and see what documents a business has filed with the Secretary of State. However, it does not allow you to view the documents themselves. To view documents, you will need to use SOSDirect.
• Business Startup – This section offers advice about how to form a business in the state of Texas. It is worth reading this information before registering your business through SOSDirect.

Before using the SOSDirect service, you will need to register a SOSDirect account using your name or business name.

FAQs

What are the subtypes of business entity in Texas?

Limited liability companies (LLCs), corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships.

What is the difference between a corporation and an LLC in Texas?

Both are separate legal entities from their owners, but LLCs offer more flexibility in management and tax arrangements.

Does LLC have to be in the name of a business entity in Texas?

Yes, all LLCs in Texas must include ‘LLC’ or ‘Limited Liability Company’ in their business name.

What are the benefits of an LLC in Texas?

It legally separates the business from the owner, limiting legal and financial liability. Registering an LLC is cheaper and easier than registering a corporation, and LLCs provide more flexible management and tax options.

How much does it cost to register a business in Texas?

Currently, it costs $300 to register a business in Texas via the Texas Secretary of State website.

What is the annual fee for an LLC in Texas?

There is no annual fee for Texas LLCs. However, a No Tax Due Report and Public Information Report must be filed every year).

How long does it take to get an LLC in Texas?

The Secretary of State can take up to 40 days to file an LLC in Texas. However, if you file online and use the expedited service, it can take as little as 5 days.