Texas LLC Annual Filing Fees & Formation Costs Eric Shrum, November 27, 2023November 27, 2023 Welcome to the world of Texas limited liability companies (LLCs)! In this article, we will unravel the mysteries surrounding the annual filing fees and formation costs associated with establishing and maintaining an LLC in the Lone Star State. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into the financial aspects of running an LLC in Texas. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to navigate the world of LLCs in the land of cowboys and bluebonnets! Table of Contents Toggle Filing Your Certificate of FormationName Reservation and Assumed NameCertified Copies of Business DocumentsTexas Certificate of Fact and Certificate of StatusUnderstanding Texas LLC Fees and PenaltiesImportance of a Registered Agent and Business Licenses Filing Your Certificate of Formation Filing your Certificate of Formation is a crucial step in the formation of your Texas LLC. This document officially establishes your LLC with the Secretary of State of Texas and grants you limited liability protection. To file, you will need to complete the appropriate form and pay the required filing fee. The fee varies depending on the type of LLC you are forming, so be sure to check the current fee schedule. Once filed, you will receive a stamped and approved copy of your Certificate of Formation, which you should keep for your records. Name Reservation and Assumed Name When forming a Texas LLC, it is important to consider name reservation and assumed name options. Name reservation allows you to secure a desired business name for a period of 120 days. This ensures that no other business can use the same name during that time. Assumed name, on the other hand, allows you to operate your business under a different name than the one registered with the Secretary of State. To reserve a name, simply file an Application for Reservation or Renewal of Reservation with the Secretary of State. To operate under an assumed name, file an Assumed Name Certificate. Whether you choose name reservation or assumed name, these options provide flexibility and protection for your business. Keep in mind that additional fees may apply for these services. Certified Copies of Business Documents Certified copies of business documents are often required for various purposes, such as obtaining a bank account or proving the existence of a business entity. In Texas, LLCs can obtain certified copies of their formation documents, such as the Certificate of Formation, for a fee. These copies can be ordered directly from the Secretary of State of Texas or through online legal service providers like UpCounsel. The cost for certified copies varies depending on the number of pages and the method of obtaining them. It’s important to keep these certified copies in a safe place as they serve as official proof of your business’s formation and legal status. Texas Certificate of Fact and Certificate of Status The Texas Certificate of Fact and Certificate of Status are important documents for Texas LLCs. The Certificate of Fact verifies the existence and status of the LLC, while the Certificate of Status confirms that the LLC is in good standing with the state. These certificates may be required for various purposes such as opening a bank account, obtaining financing, or participating in mergers and acquisitions. The fees for obtaining these certificates vary depending on the type of certificate and the processing time. It is crucial for LLCs to stay compliant with annual filing requirements to maintain their legal status and avoid any potential legal liabilities. Understanding Texas LLC Fees and Penalties When operating a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Texas, it’s important to be aware of the fees and penalties associated with it. The annual filing fees and formation costs can impact your business’s finances and compliance. It is crucial to understand the various fees, such as franchise tax and sales tax, and how to file the necessary documents with the Secretary of State. Additionally, penalties may be imposed for late filings or failure to comply with tax obligations. To navigate these complexities, you may want to consult with a lawyer or utilize online resources like UpCounsel to ensure you stay on top of your obligations and avoid unnecessary penalties. Importance of a Registered Agent and Business Licenses Having a registered agent and the appropriate business licenses is crucial for the smooth operation of your Texas LLC. A registered agent acts as your LLC’s point of contact with the Secretary of State and ensures that important legal documents are received and handled promptly. This helps you avoid missing any critical deadlines or legal obligations. Additionally, obtaining the necessary business licenses ensures that you are compliant with state and local regulations. These licenses vary depending on the nature of your business and can include sales tax permits, professional licenses, or permits for certain industries. By obtaining the required licenses, you can operate your business legally and with peace of mind. Eric ShrumWas this article helpful?YesNo LLC Annual Fees