Texas Business Name Search (LLC Lookup) – Guide
How to Check Your LLC Name Availability in Texas
Selecting a distinctive business name is crucial for effective branding, but navigating the Texas LLC naming rules can be challenging.
This guide will walk you through how to check if your desired LLC name is available.
Methods to Search for an LLC Name in Texas
You can verify the availability of your LLC name in Texas through the following methods. The second and third options are the most accurate, but the first is the quickest.
Use the Texas Business Name Search Tool
- Visit the Taxable Entity Search page on the Texas Comptroller's website.
- Search for existing businesses. Although this method may not be as reliable as others, it's a quick starting point.
- You do not need to include the LLC designator (LLC, L.L.C., etc.) in your search.
- Try searching both the singular and plural forms of your desired name. For instance, if your desired name includes "Contractors", also search for "Contractor".
- Enter the first one or two words of your LLC name. For example, for "Austin Roof Repair Company LLC", try searching for "Austin roof".
Call the Texas Secretary of State
Dial 512-463-5555 and ask, "I'm forming an LLC and need to check if my name is available". It's helpful to have one or two alternative names ready in case your preferred name is taken.
You can also email the Texas Secretary of State for a name availability check. They typically respond quickly.
To avoid long wait times, call right when the office opens at 8 am. Their hours are Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm Central Time.
Texas LLC Name Designators
According to Section 5.056 of the Texas Business Organizations Code, your LLC name must include one of the following designators:
- LC
- L.C.
- LLC
- L.L.C.
- Ltd. Co.
- Ltd. Company
- Limited Company
- Ltd. Liability Co.
- Ltd. Liability Company
- Limited Liability Company
Cost of Checking LLC Name Availability
Checking your LLC name in Texas is free using the methods described above. The state does offer information access for a $5 fee, but this is typically for mail or fax inquiries.
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Is an LLC Name Reservation Necessary?
An LLC name reservation is optional, and not required. If your desired name is not available, the state will notify you, and you can choose another name without losing your filing fee.
When might you need a name reservation?
- If you have a specific name in mind but are not ready to form your LLC yet, you can reserve the name for 6 months.
- Reservations cost $40 and can be filed online via SOSDirect or by mail using Form 501.
- The reservation lasts 120 days and can be renewed for 30-day periods.
Texas LLC Name Rules
Texas has relaxed its LLC name rules since House Bill 2856 took effect in 2018. Your LLC name must still be distinguishable, but the rules are not as strict as they once were.
Names are evaluated for distinctiveness, and names that are too similar to existing ones may not be accepted.
Do You Need a DBA (Assumed of)?
No, you don’t need a DBA if you’re content with your LLC’s legal name. However, if you want to operate under a different name, you will need to file an Assumed Name (DBA) with the Texas Secretary of State.
Examples of using an Assumed Name:
- If your LLC is "Jane's Imports and Exports LLC", but you also want to operate a retail shop under the name "Jane's Shop", you would file an Assumed Name for "Jane's Shop".
- If you want to operate without including "LLC" in your business name, you can file an Assumed Name for "Jane's Imports and Exports".
Additional Naming Guidelines
Characters and Symbols
You can use Roman alphabet letters, numbers, and symbols (! " $ % ' ( ) * ? # = @ [] / + & –).
Distinguishability
Articles like "a", "an", or "the" and conjunctions don't typically make names distinct. Names with different languages or spelling variations are allowed if they are not confusingly similar.
Restricted Terms
You cannot use terms that imply government affiliation, insurance, banking, or other regulated activities without proper authorization.
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Further distinguishability details
For more details on LLC name distinguishability (79.38, 79.39, 79.40, 79.43, and 79.44)
Nevertheless, the quickest and simplest method to check the availability of your LLC name is to contact the state directly by phone or email (as outlined above).
For more details on LLC name distinguishability, you can explore additional resources. This is particularly useful if you plan to use the Texas business name search online.
Need Help?
If you encounter difficulties or have questions about your LLC name, contact the Texas Business Information Line at 512-463-5555. Their hours are Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm Central Time.
Texas LLC Name Search FAQs
How do I find out if an LLC name is taken in Texas?
To check if an LLC name is available in Texas, perform a business entity search on the Texas Comptroller’s website (not the Texas Secretary of State). This search will help you determine if the name is already in use.
Given the strict name distinguishability rules in Texas, it's also advisable to contact the state directly to verify the availability of your desired name before proceeding. You can reach out by phone for quicker responses, although emailing Texas Business Services is also an option.
Once I have a name, what are the next steps for my Texas LLC?
After confirming the availability of your LLC name, file the Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State, along with a $300 filing fee. You can also complete this process online via the SOSDirect site, the State’s online filing portal.
Once your LLC is approved, obtain an EIN Number from the IRS and open a business bank account to complete the setup.
Can I use the name of another Texas entity?
No, regardless of the entity type, you cannot use the same name as another Texas business. This rule applies whether the existing entity is an LLC, corporation, or any other business type. Even if an entity is in "delinquent" status, you cannot use its name.
However, if a business is dissolved, the name may become available. In this case, you can form an LLC with the same name.
How do I change my LLC name?
To change your LLC's name, file an Amendment form with the Secretary of State. Detailed, step-by-step instructions for changing an LLC name in Texas are available from the Secretary of State's office.