How to Start a Business in Texas
Everything it takes to legally start a business in Texas, in order — with the official Texas links for each step. Most people can complete the core setup in one to three weeks.
Pick a structure (sole proprietor or LLC)
Most Texas owners start as a sole proprietor (free, no filing) or form an LLC for liability protection. The LLC filing fee is about $300, and formation typically takes about 4–8 business days online (SOSDirect). Confirm the current fee on the state site before you pay.
Name a registered agent
If you form an LLC or corporation, Texas needs a registered agent with a physical in-state address. You can be your own agent if you're available during business hours, or hire a service for about $100–$150/year.
Get your EIN from the IRS
An Employer Identification Number is free from the IRS and takes a few minutes online. You need it to open a business bank account and to hire.
Register for Texas taxes
Texas has a state sales/use tax and has no state individual income tax. Texas has no income tax; you file a franchise tax report every year but owe $0 until revenue exceeds roughly $2.47M.
Confirm local licenses and permits
Texas rarely issues a single statewide "business license" — most licensing is by city or county, plus profession-specific licenses. Check your city and your trade.
Open a business bank account and get insurance
Keep business and personal money separate from day one. General liability insurance is the baseline; some contracts also require a bond.
Put the ongoing report on your calendar
Texas requires a annual report (about $0). Public Information Report + franchise tax report; no tax due below the ~$2.47M revenue threshold
Get this as a personalized plan
FirstBearing turns this into a step-by-step roadmap for your exact business and city — with the right forms, the official links, and one next step every day. $99/month, cancel anytime.
Build my planFrequently asked
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Texas?
The state filing fee is about $300. Beyond that, budget for a registered agent if you hire one (~$100–$150/year), and any local license fees. An EIN is free.
Do I need an LLC to start a business in Texas?
No. You can operate as a sole proprietor in Texas with no state filing. An LLC adds a layer of personal liability protection and can make you look more established to customers and lenders — it's a judgment call based on your risk and goals, not a legal requirement.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Texas?
Standard processing is about 4–8 business days online (SOSDirect). Many states offer paid expedited options.
Does Texas have a sales tax?
Yes. If your product or service is taxable in Texas, you must register with the state tax agency before you collect tax. Many services are not taxable — confirm on the official site.
What ongoing filings does a Texas LLC have?
Texas requires a annual report (about $0). Public Information Report + franchise tax report; no tax due below the ~$2.47M revenue threshold
Official sources
- Texas — form your LLC or corporation
- Texas — business tax registration
- Texas — professional & occupational licensing
- IRS — apply for an EIN (free)
- SBA — 10 steps to start a business
Fees and timelines are commonly-cited figures last reviewed 2025-06 and can change — always confirm on the official site. This is educational information, not legal or tax advice.
Related
- How to form an LLC in Texas
- Start a plumbing business in Texas
- Start a hvac business in Texas
- Start a electrical business in Texas
- Start a moving company business in Texas
- Start a commercial cleaning business in Texas
- Start a residential cleaning business in Texas
- Start a landscaping business in Texas
- Start a lawn care business in Texas
- Start a pressure washing business in Texas
- Start a painting business in Texas
- All business types