The Texas Secretary of State's office is the primary state agency responsible for business entity formation and maintenance filings. Every Texas LLC, corporation, limited partnership, and other formal business entity interacts with this office. Understanding the key filings and services helps Texas business owners maintain good standing and compliance.
Business Entity Formation
Types of Entities Filed
- LLC (Limited Liability Company): Most common entity type for Texas small businesses. Filed using a Certificate of Formation
- Corporation: C-Corp or S-Corp election. Filed using a Certificate of Formation
- Limited Partnership (LP): Common for real estate and investment businesses
- Professional entities: PLLCs and PCs for licensed professionals (attorneys, doctors, CPAs)
- Nonprofit corporations: Filed for tax-exempt organizations
Filing Process
- Choose an available entity name (search the Secretary of State's name availability database)
- Prepare the Certificate of Formation with required information
- File online through SOSDirect or by mail
- Pay the filing fee (varies by entity type)
- Receive acknowledgment and file-stamped copy
Ongoing Filing Requirements
Franchise Tax Public Information Report
Texas entities must file an annual Public Information Report (or Officer/Director statement) with their franchise tax report to the Comptroller. While this report goes to the Comptroller, the information is shared with the Secretary of State.
Registered Agent
Every Texas entity must maintain a registered agent with a physical address in Texas for service of process. Changes to the registered agent are filed with the Secretary of State.
Amendments
Changes to the entity's name, registered office, management structure, or purpose require filing a Certificate of Amendment with the Secretary of State.
Reinstatement
If an entity is forfeited or involuntarily terminated (usually for failure to file franchise tax reports), it can be reinstated by filing the appropriate documents and paying outstanding obligations.
SOSDirect Online Portal
SOSDirect is the Secretary of State's online portal for:
- Filing formation documents
- Searching existing business entities
- Filing amendments and other maintenance documents
- Ordering certificates of good standing
- Checking entity status
Assumed Name Certificates (DBA)
Sole proprietorships and partnerships using a trade name must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the county clerk. Entities (LLCs, corporations) operating under a name different from their legal entity name must file with both the county clerk and the Secretary of State.
Why Good Standing Matters
Maintaining good standing with the Secretary of State is essential for:
- Qualifying for grants and government incentive programs
- Obtaining SBA loans and other financing
- Bidding on government contracts
- Maintaining liability protection
- Enforcing contracts and pursuing legal claims
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Proper entity formation and maintenance is a prerequisite for accessing business incentive programs. Once your entity is in good standing, you can pursue grants, certifications, and financing.
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