How to Start an LLC in Texas (2026): Cost, Steps & Timeline
Forming an LLC in Texas costs $300 in state filing fees, paid to the Texas Secretary of State. Processing takes about 10–15 business days for online filings; paper filings take longer. FilingsHQ prepares and files everything for $0 in service fees — you pay only the state fee.
What a Texas LLC costs
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee | $300 | Paid to the Texas Secretary of State; required |
| Expedited processing | Varies | $25 per document for expedited review (typically 4–5 business days) |
| Franchise Tax Report & Public Information Report | $0 for most small LLCs under the no-tax-due threshold | May 15 each year |
| Registered agent | $0–$199/yr | Free if you serve as your own; $199/yr with FilingsHQ |
| FilingsHQ service fee | $0 | Starter package — preparation, review, and submission included |
Answer a few questions; we prepare, review, and file with the state.
Step-by-step: forming your Texas LLC
1. Choose a name
Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing Texas businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”. Check availability using the Texas Secretary of State’s business search before you file — a rejected name means starting over.
2. Appoint a registered agent
Texas requires every LLC to name a registered agent: a person or company with a physical street address in the state (no P.O. boxes) available during business hours to receive legal documents. You can be your own agent, but your address becomes public record — many owners use a professional service to keep their home address private.
3. File the Certificate of Formation
The formation document in Texas is the Certificate of Formation (Form 205), filed with the Texas Secretary of State (online via SOSDirect). The filing fee is $300. Roughly 10–15 business days for online filings; paper filings take longer. $25 per document for expedited review (typically 4–5 business days).
4. Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number is your LLC’s federal tax ID — you’ll need it to open a business bank account and hire employees. The IRS issues EINs for free at irs.gov; FilingsHQ’s Pro and Premium packages handle the application for you.
5. Create an operating agreement
Texas doesn’t require you to file an operating agreement, but every LLC should have one — it documents ownership, profit splits, and what happens if a member leaves. Banks and investors routinely ask for it.
6. Stay compliant
File your franchise tax report & public information report ($0 for most small LLCs under the no-tax-due threshold) — due may 15 each year. Missing it can lead to late fees or administrative dissolution.
Texas specifics to know
Texas has no annual report to the Secretary of State — instead, every LLC files a franchise tax report with the Comptroller each year, which is $0 due for most small businesses.
Series LLCs: Texas permits series LLCs — a structure where one parent LLC holds multiple protected “series.” Useful for real-estate investors holding several properties; most first-time businesses don’t need one.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Texas?
The Texas state filing fee is $300. With FilingsHQ's Starter package the service fee is $0, so $300 is the total to form your LLC. Ongoing costs: Franchise Tax Report & Public Information Report (Texas Comptroller) — $0 for most small LLCs under the no-tax-due threshold.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Texas?
Roughly 10–15 business days for online filings; paper filings take longer. $25 per document for expedited review (typically 4–5 business days).
Do I need a registered agent in Texas?
Yes. Every Texas LLC must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in the state to receive legal and government documents. You can serve as your own agent, appoint someone you know, or use a professional service like FilingsHQ ($199/yr).
Does Texas require an annual report?
Yes. Franchise Tax Report & Public Information Report (Texas Comptroller): $0 for most small LLCs under the no-tax-due threshold, due may 15 each year.
Where do I file my LLC in Texas?
LLC formations in Texas are filed with the Texas Secretary of State, using the Certificate of Formation (Form 205). Online filings go through SOSDirect. FilingsHQ prepares and submits this filing for you.
Texas LLC for $0 + the $300 state fee. Every cost shown before you pay.
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FilingsHQ is a private document filing service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal or tax advice. Fees and processing times are set by the Texas Secretary of State and may change — always confirm current figures with the state. Last verified July 2026.