Reserving a business name in Texas involves a few steps, and you can also check its availability through the Texas Secretary of State's website. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:
Step 1: Check Name Availability
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Visit the Texas Secretary of State's Website: Go to the Texas Secretary of State's website.
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Use the SOS Direct Service: You can search for existing business names using the SOS Direct online service. Click on the "Business" section and look for the "Entity Name Search" or "Business Name Availability."
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Conduct a Search: Enter the desired business name into the search tool to see if it’s already in use or if a similar name exists. Make sure to check for variations in spelling or closely related names.
Step 2: Reserve the Business Name
If your desired business name is available and you want to reserve it, follow these steps:
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Complete a Name Reservation Application: You will need to fill out Form 501, "Application for Reservation or Renewal of Reservation of an Entity Name". This can usually be done online or by downloading the form from the Secretary of State's website.
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Submit the Application:
- Online: You can submit the form through the SOS Direct online portal, which involves creating an account if you don’t already have one.
- By Mail: If you prefer, print the completed form and mail it to the Secretary of State’s office. The mailing address can be found on the form itself.
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Pay the Fee: There is a filing fee associated with reserving a business name (as of my last update, it was typically $40). Check the current fee on the Texas Secretary of State's website, as it may vary.
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Receive Confirmation: After your application has been processed and approved, you will receive a confirmation that your business name is reserved. This reservation is typically valid for 120 days.
Important Notes:
- Reservation does not guarantee registration: Just because you reserve a name does not mean you are registered as a business; you will need to complete that process separately.
- Check specific requirements for your business type: Different types of entities (LLCs, corporations, etc.) may have specific naming requirements and processes.
- Consider trademark registration: If you plan to build a brand around your name, consider also checking trademark availability and possibly registering it with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the Texas Secretary of State’s website.