2026 Guide

How to Start an LLC in Texas

The complete guide to filing fees, Secretary of State forms, and requirements.

The American LLC Research Team

Formation, Compliance and Tax Research

Last reviewed September 2026

Filing Fee

$300

Processing Time

12–15 business days

Compliance

Public Info Report

Texas filing fee and name reservation fee verified September 2026 against the Texas Secretary of State. Other fees on this page are being re-verified; confirm them on the official fee schedule before you file.

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Step 1: Choose Your Business Type

Select your industry to see a custom guide for Texas.

Home Improvement & Construction

Handyman→Electrician→Plumbing→HVAC→Roofing→Solar Panel→Construction→Painting→Fencing→Flooring→

Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning→Pressure Washing→Car Detailing→Pool Cleaning→Pest Control→Landscaping→Home Inspection→Junk Removal→

Digital & Technology

Web Design→App Development→Cybersecurity→Digital Marketing→Graphic Design→Freelance Writing→Virtual Assistant→Dropshipping→YouTuber→

Professional & Business

Real Estate→Accounting→Bookkeeping→Consulting→Notary Public→Logistics→Trucking→Travel Agency→Airbnb→

Food, Retail & Events

Food Truck→Catering→Bakery→Coffee Shop→Vending Machine→Clothing Brand→Candle Making→Event Planning→Photography→

Personal Care & Education

Personal Training→Gym→Life Coaching→Daycare→Tutoring→Dog Walking→Interior Design→

1Name Your Texas LLC

The first listing requirement is ensuring your business name is unique. It must be distinguishable from other entities registered with the Secretary of State. You must also include a designator like "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to comply with state statutes.

2Assign a Registered Agent

Every Texas LLC must appoint a Registered Agent. This individual or business entity agrees to accept legal documents (Service of Process) on behalf of your company. They must have a physical street address in Texas (not a P.O. Box) and be available during regular business hours.

3File Articles of Organization

To officially create your entity, you must file the Articles of Organization with the state. The filing fee is $300. This fee is non-refundable. Most entrepreneurs choose to file online for faster approval, which typically takes 12–15 business days.

4Get Your EIN & Bank Account

Once your LLC is approved, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. This nine-digit number is required to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. Keeping your business finances separate from personal accounts is critical for maintaining your liability protection.

Texas LLC Cost Breakdown

The cost to open an LLC in Texas includes both the initial filing fee and ongoing compliance fees. Here is the breakdown:

ItemEstimated Cost
State Filing Fee (LLC)$300
Annual Report Fee$0
Report Due DateMay 15
Notes & Hidden CostsPublic Information Report due May 15

* Fees are payable to the Secretary of State and are subject to change.

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Common Questions in Texas

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Texas?
The state filing fee for a Texas LLC is $300, paid once to the Secretary of State. If you use a formation service, you pay this state fee plus the service's own charge.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Texas?
Standard processing in Texas takes about 12–15 business days, though it varies with filing volume. Expedited processing (same day, online) is available for an extra $25.
Does Texas require an Annual Report?
Yes. Texas LLCs file an annual Public Information Report with the Comptroller by May 15. Most small LLCs owe no franchise tax — the 2026 no-tax-due threshold is $2.65 million in annualized revenue — and the separate No Tax Due Report was eliminated starting with 2024 reports.
Is there a minimum annual tax or fee for Texas LLCs?
Texas franchise tax applies only if annualized revenue exceeds $2.65M (the 2026 no-tax-due threshold). Below that, you owe nothing — and since the 2024 report year the 'No Tax Due' report has been eliminated entirely. You must still file a Public Information Report (Form 05-102) by May 15 each year. Most small businesses pay $0 in Texas franchise tax.
Do I need to file a BOI report with FinCEN for my LLC?
No — not if your LLC was formed in the United States. FinCEN's interim final rule of March 2025, made permanent by a final rule on August 14, 2026, exempts all U.S.-created companies, including LLCs, and their U.S. owners from Beneficial Ownership Information reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act. Only entities formed under foreign law that register to do business in a U.S. state must still report. Be wary of mailers or emails demanding a BOI filing fee.
View all Texas FAQs & Legal Data →

Sources

Texas filing fee and name reservation fee verified September 2026 against the Texas Secretary of State. Other fees on this page are being re-verified; confirm them on the official fee schedule before you file.

Cost ranges for startup, insurance, job rates and revenue are estimates, not figures from these sources. Fees change; confirm with the agency before you file.