It is exciting to start a business.Setting up your base of operations, defining your products and services, and taking care of all the details are some of the things we can do for you.It's important to remember the legal requirements of establishing a business in Texas in the rush of opening day.Having legal ducks in a row will help your brand and make your business stronger.
Step 1: Decide on the structure of your business.
What kind of business entity you areregistering must be indicated in your DBA filing.The form your business name must take will reflect on how you organize your company.Consider consulting with a tax professional to determine the advantages and disadvantages of each entity.Most of the options can be set up without the assistance of an attorney.A sole proprietor is a legal owner of a business.You are the owner of the company.You can style the DBA company name as you please, but you can't include anything that would be misleading.You and at least one other run the business together.The work, profits, and legal liability will be divided by your partnership agreement.Your company name cannot be used to deceive the public into thinking you are something else.The Secretary of State of Texas can be used to set up limited liability companies.Your business name must include "Limited Liability Company" if you choose this business entity.Incorporating your business is the final choice.A corporation is required to report and file taxes.Discuss this with a business attorney before attempting to incorporate."Corp." or "Inc." must be included in the DBA company name.
Step 2: You can choose the partners or other business members.
You should decide who will be your business partners before you file your DBA company name.Questions of how the business will be named and branded should be settled before you file.
Step 3: Establish your legal address.
If your business is mobile, it needs a permanent home base.You can use a post office box as your address for the DBA filing.In order to use the business name, you will have to designate your business area.You can designate "all counties" on the form.
Step 4: A registered agent should be named.
A registered agent is required for every business in Texas.This person is authorized to accept legal papers for your company.You, a partner, or an employee can be the agent.You can either use a professional agent company or name your lawyer.The agent needs to have a physical office in Texas.You should not use your residence if this address is public record.
Step 5: Obtain your employer identification number
If you don't have employees, you should apply for an EIN.If your business takes off, you'll be prepared to make the proper taxes when you hire people because of the filing number.
Step 6: Understand the meaning of a DBA.
Business names in Texas are regulated.A business cannot register a name that is similar to another company.If customers think they are dealing with another company, you cannot name your business that way.
Step 7: A DBA name search is performed.
The Secretary of State's website is used for all business entity searches in Texas.You can use the account for expedited and low-cost document filing if you set it up for free.You can register for temporary log-on privileges.You can perform a business entity search, but you won't be able to file documents.You can perform a business name search with several different names.If you don't find it registered when you search for "Grandma's fudge", that is an example.You can also search for "Grandma's Candy."If you want to create a vibrant and unique brand for your company, you need a name that is not confusing with another business.Search the internet for companies that might be using the same name.My proposed business name is "Texas" in your favorite search engine.If you want to copy another company's name, you should think about it.
Step 8: The Assumed Name Certificate needs to be filed with the state of Texas.
Form 503 - Assumed Name Certificate is needed to start the DBA process.You can fill out the form online or you can print out a blank form and use dark blue or black ink to complete it.If you do your work upfront of creating your business entity, determining a physical address, and performing a detailed name search, you will not need an attorney to complete Form 503.The certificate is valid for ten years.There is a fee to file a certificate.The Assumed Name Certificate can be delivered in person or electronically to the James Earl Rudder Office Building in Austin, Texas.
Step 9: Local DBA requirements need to be verified.
Many Texas counties require a separate DBA filing before a business can open an office.You can contact the county clerk in your home base county.
Step 10: Consider filing a trademark.
If your business includes unique goods or services, you can file for a state trademark.It gives you legal protection against those who might try to copy your ideas.$50 is the fee to register a trademark.There are complicated trademark forms.If you have any questions, you should consult with an attorney.It's important that your products and services fit within one of the 45 classes.The form can be completed online.Before submission, it must be notarized.
Step 11: Your business name should be incorporated into logos.
If you want to make your business unique, have it incorporated into a logo.You can make it yourself if you have graphic design skills.If you want to have a professionally designed logo, patronize another Texas business.
Step 12: Your business name should be used on your website and social media.
Your business will get an air of authority and professionalism if you register your name and trademark.You can design your own website and social media pages if you have enough programming skills.Consider using a Texas marketing firm.The business name is registered to do business with the state of Texas.You can add the name "Address, City, Texas" to your home page if you file for a trademark.