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 are establishing must be indicated in your DBA filing.The form your business name must take will reflect 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 help 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 partnership agreement splits the work, profits, and legal liability.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."Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" must be included in your business name if you choose this business entity.Incorporating your business is the final option.A corporation is required to report and file taxes.Discuss this with a business attorney.The DBA company name must include "Corp." or "Inc."
Step 2: The partners or other business members should be chosen.
You should decide who will be your business partners before you file your DBA company name.Questions of how the business will be named should be settled before you file.
Step 3: You should have a legal physical 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.The person is authorized to accept legal papers for your company.You, a partner or an employee can be the agent.You can choose to use a professional agent company or name your lawyer.The agent needs to have an office in Texas.You should not use your home for this address.
Step 5: Obtain your employer identification number.
If you don't have employees, you should apply for an EIN from the IRS.If your business takes off, you'll be prepared to make the proper tax filings if you hire people because of this 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 can be 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 Old- Tyme Fudge."If you want to create a vibrant and unique brand for your company, you should use a name that is not confusing with another business.You can perform a web search 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 should 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, completing Form 503 will not take very long or require the assistance of an attorney.The certificate for the initial Assumed Name 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 should be verified.
Many Texas counties require a separate, notarized DBA filing before a business can open an office.Local filing procedures can be found in the county clerk's office.
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.You need to have your products and services defined to fit in one of the 45 classes.The form can be completed online and printed.Before submission, it must be notarized.
Step 11: Your business name should be included in logos.
If you want to make your business unique, have it incorporated into a logo.You can create 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 sufficient 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 and About page if you file for a trademark.