How to Form an LLC in Texas (2026)
Everything you need to start a Texas LLC — from choosing a name to staying compliant after formation.
Form in your home state if you operate locally
Unless you have investors or specific legal needs, forming your LLC in Texas (where you do business) is simpler and cheaper than Delaware or Wyoming — you avoid registering as a foreign LLC in two states.Step-by-Step: Forming a Texas LLC
Choose a name for your LLC
Your LLC name must be unique in Texas and must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." Search the Texas Secretary of State's business name database before filing to confirm availability. You can typically reserve a name for 30–120 days for a small fee.
Appoint a registered agent
Every Texas LLC must have a registered agent — a person or company with a physical Texas address available during business hours to receive legal notices and state correspondence. You can serve as your own registered agent, or hire a registered agent service ($50–$150/year) for privacy and reliability.
File your Certificate of Formation
Submit your Certificate of Formation to the Texas Secretary of State along with the $300 filing fee. Standard processing takes approximately 5 business days. Expedited processing is available: 1.
Create an Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement governs how your LLC is managed, how profits are split, and what happens if a member leaves. Texas may not require one, but having one is strongly recommended — it protects your limited liability status and prevents disputes.
Get an EIN from the IRS
Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) at irs.gov/ein. You'll need it to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. The application takes about 10 minutes and your EIN is issued immediately online.
Open a business bank account
Keep business finances strictly separate from personal accounts. Commingling funds is one of the most common reasons courts "pierce the corporate veil" and hold LLC members personally liable. Bring your EIN, Articles of Organization, and Operating Agreement to the bank.
Get business licenses and permits
Depending on your industry and location, you may need federal, state, or local business licenses. Check with your city and county clerk's office and the Texas state licensing portal for requirements specific to your business type.
Stay compliant after formation
Texas does not require annual reports for LLCs, but stay on top of any state and local tax filings.
Texas has no annual report fee, but foreign qualification costs $750. The $300 formation fee is offset by zero ongoing costs for most small LLCs.
Form Your Texas LLC Today
Skip the paperwork. LegalZoom files your Texas LLC for $300 + their service fee — includes registered agent options, operating agreement, and fast filing in most states.
EIN is free and takes 10 minutes
Apply at irs.gov/ein — no third-party service required. You'll receive your EIN instantly and need it to open a business bank account and file taxes.Texas LLC — Cost Summary
| Filing fee | $300 |
| Document name | Certificate of Formation |
| Annual report fee | None |
| Publication cost | Not required |
| Franchise tax | None |
| Standard processing | 5 business days |
| Expedited processing | 1 |
| Est. year-1 total | $300+ |
Source: Texas Secretary of State ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Texas?
How long does it take to form an LLC in Texas?
Do I need a registered agent for my Texas LLC?
What is the annual fee for an LLC in Texas?
Can I be my own registered agent in Texas?
What taxes does a Texas LLC pay?
Registered agent — don't skip this
Your registered agent's address is publicly listed in the state business registry. Using a commercial service keeps your home address off public records and ensures no lawsuit notices are missed when you're away.Form Your Texas LLC — Done Right
Firstbase files your Articles of Organization, sets up your registered agent, and keeps you on top of annual reports — all from one dashboard. Flat fee includes the $300 state filing cost.