How To Start An LLC In Texas In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Texas, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Lone Star State.
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Texas offers excellent opportunities for LLC formation with business-friendly policies and strong economic growth. With a $300 state filing fee, no annual report fees, and one of the nation's most robust economies, Texas provides an attractive environment for entrepreneurs. Whether you're in Houston, Dallas, Austin, or anywhere else in the Lone Star State, you can establish your Texas LLC efficiently and cost-effectively.
Our top pick for Texas LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Texas LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $300 Texas state fee. With their expertise in Texas business law and excellent customer support, they make the entire process simple and stress-free.
Featured Partners
- Best filing & protections
- Fastest processing
- Free compliance for 1 yr
- Award-winning support
On ZenBusiness's Website
- Best for standard filing
- Fast processing options
- Free yr registered agent
- Lifetime company alerts
On Bizee's Website
- Best legal services
- Fast processing options
- AI legal forms
- Trusted since 1999
On LegalZoom's Website
- Best branding services
- Fast processing options
- Logo & website builder
- Establish your brand
On Tailor Brands's Website
Compare the Best Texas LLC Services of 2025
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation |  Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |  Rocket Lawyer Legal Documents |  BetterLegal Speed & Simplicity |  Active Filings Traditional Service |  Filenow Budget Option |  Northwest Basic Formation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees | $299 all-inclusive | $199 + state fees | $99 + state fees | $39 + state fees |
| Our Rating | 4.9 /5 | 4.6 /5 | 4.4 /5 | 4.3 /5 | 4.2 /5 | 4.0 /5 | 3.9 /5 | 3.8 /5 | 3.6 /5 | 3.4 /5 |
| Standard Processing | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 5-14 days | 5-7 days | 2 days | 5-10 days | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Rush Processing | 1 day +$79 | 1 day +$49 | 2 days +$99 | 1 day +$99 | Standard speed | 2 days +$100 | 3 days +$50 | |||
| Compliance Tools | Worry-Free Compliance Free 1st year | Alerts only Basic monitoring | Basic tools Included | Basic alerts Included | Premium only Extra cost | Document library With membership | Limited Basic support | Basic tools Limited | None Not available | None Not included |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr Not included | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $199/yr | $119/yr Not included | $249/yr Not included | $149/yr Not included | Included In base price | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | +$125/yr Not included | $125/yr Available |
| Operating Agreement | +$99 | +$99 | +$50 | Included | +$99 | Included | Included | +$99 | +$40 | +$39 |
| EIN Service | +$99 | +$70 | +$70 | Included | +$159 | +$99 | Included | +$70 | +$50 | +$70 |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Chat | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Email | Email only | Email only |
| Mobile App | ||||||||||
| Attorney Access | ||||||||||
| Get Started | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → |
Note: State filing fees are additional for all services except where noted. Features and pricing may vary by state.
Our Top Picks for Texas LLC Services
Best Overall for Texas ZenBusiness excels at Texas LLC formation with their efficient filing process and deep knowledge of Texas's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Texas Secretary of State registration, and provide ongoing compliance support including franchise tax report reminders. Their team is well-versed in Texas's requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Texas entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and reliable filing
Pros
- Fast Texas LLC filing (1-2 business days)
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes Texas franchise tax report reminders
- Expert support familiar with Texas requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Texas filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fast Texas Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers efficient Texas LLC formation with guaranteed 1-2 day processing. They provide a free Texas registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Texas's franchise tax deadlines and Public Information Report requirements. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Texas LLC formed quickly and affordably.
Best For:
Texas businesses needing fast and affordable formation
Pros
- 1-2 day Texas processing guaranteed
- Free Texas registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Texas compliance
- Dashboard tracks Texas franchise tax deadlines
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in TX LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Texas business formation. Their attorney network includes Texas-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Texas businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Texas businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Texas law
- Rush filing available for Texas (1-2 days)
- Comprehensive Texas legal forms library
- Phone support with Texas expertise
- 30+ years serving Texas businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Texas registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Texas Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Texas LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Texas's diverse business sectors, from tech in Austin to energy in Houston, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Texas business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Texas creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Texas business info
- Business cards with Texas address
- 1-2 day Texas processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Texas business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Texas
Free Texas Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Texas LLC formation where you only pay the $300 state fee. They include a free Texas registered agent for the first year and handle all Secretary of State filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Texas entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Texas entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Texas LLC formation
- Free Texas registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Texas businesses
- Handles Texas Secretary of State filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Texas business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Texas registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Texas LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Texas Secretary of State registration efficiently and provide registered agent services at competitive rates, making them ideal for business owners who prefer a simple, direct approach to LLC formation.
Best For:
Texas entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Texas businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Texas Secretary of State filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Texas LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Texas filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Texas LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Texas's $300 state filing fee. With guaranteed 2-business-day turnaround and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their Texas LLC formation process.
Best For:
Texas businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed 2-business-day Texas formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Texas-specific compliance guidance
- No hidden fees or surprise costs
- Streamlined single-package approach
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than budget options
- State filing fees are additional cost
- Limited ongoing support after formation
- Fewer customization options
Legal Platform Rocket Lawyer goes beyond simple Texas LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Texas-licensed attorneys and an extensive library of legal documents, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support. While formation takes longer than specialized services, the added legal resources make it worthwhile for complex Texas business needs.
Best For:
Texas businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Texas-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Texas processing available (additional fee)
- Texas business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Texas formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Texas LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach that many Texas business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Texas's specific LLC requirements and franchise tax reporting deadlines.
Best For:
Texas entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Texas expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Texas
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Texas franchise tax reminders
- Basic compliance tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing takes 5-7 days
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative and compliance aspects of Texas business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Texas businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Texas businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Texas compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Texas franchise tax filing services
- Business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services statewide
- Focus on regulatory requirements
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Longer processing times (7-10 days)
- Limited customer support hours
Texas LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Texas LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Texas businesses
- ✓ Texas Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Texas street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Certificate of Formation: Filed with Texas Secretary of State
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Texas but highly recommended
- ✓ Public Information Report: Due annually by May 15th (free filing)
Texas LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $300 (waived for qualified veterans)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Fees: No annual report fees (Public Information Report is free)
- • Franchise Tax: Based on revenue - no tax margin if under $2.47 million annually
- • Business License: Varies by city/county and business type
Texas LLC Timeline
- • Name Availability: Check online via Texas Secretary of State
- • Processing Time: 1-3 business days standard, same day with expedite
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 1-5 business days with expedited service
Why Form Your LLC in Texas?
Tax Advantages
- • No state income tax
- • No franchise tax for LLCs under $2.47M revenue
- • No annual report fees
- • Business-friendly tax structure
Business Environment
- • 2nd largest state economy
- • Major energy and tech hub
- • Diverse industry base
- • Access to Mexico trade markets
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Charging order protection
- • Privacy for members
- • Flexible management structure
Easy Administration
- • No annual report fees
- • Fast processing times
- • Minimal ongoing requirements
Texas LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Texas?
The Texas state filing fee is $300, though qualified veterans can have this fee waived. Additional costs include a registered agent ($100-$300/year, though many services offer the first year free) and EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service). Most Texas entrepreneurs spend between $300-$600 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Texas LLC?
Yes, Texas law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Texas street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). The registered agent receives legal documents and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Texas address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Some services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Texas?
Texas offers relatively fast LLC processing times. Standard processing through the Texas Secretary of State typically takes 1-3 business days. With expedited service through providers like ZenBusiness or Bizee, you can often have your Texas LLC approved within 1-2 business days. Online filing is generally faster than mail filing.
What are Texas's annual report requirements?
Texas LLCs don't have a traditional annual report fee, but they must file a free Public Information Report (PIR) annually by May 15th. LLCs with revenue over $2.47 million must also file a Franchise Tax Report. Both can be filed online through the Texas Secretary of State website. Most formation services provide reminders for these deadlines.
Can I form a Texas LLC if I don't live in Texas?
Yes, you don't need to be a Texas resident to form a Texas LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Texas street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
What name requirements exist for Texas LLCs?
Your Texas LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" at the end. You can check name availability through the Texas Secretary of State website. Certain words may require additional approval or licensing. You can also reserve a name for 120 days for a $40 fee if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Texas Cities for LLCs
- • Houston
- • Dallas
- • Tyler
- • Beaumont
- • Austin
- • San Antonio
- • Waco
- • College Station
- • El Paso
- • Lubbock
- • Midland
- • Amarillo
- • Corpus Christi
- • McAllen
- • Brownsville
- • Laredo
Ready to Start Your Texas LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Texas LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.