Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
Forming an LLC requires a different business name, which must be unique and adheres to the guidelines. The great thing is Texas’ Secretary of State page includes a name availability checker. Check out LLC Name Search to learn more.
Meanwhile, if you’re interested in learning more about starting an LLC in Texas or forming an LLC in general, you can check out How to Start an LLC.
How to Name an LLC in Texas
Time needed: 5 minutes
There are guidelines to follow in doing a Texas LLC name search. To learn more, check out LLC Naming Guidelines or read Foreign LLC Application for Registration if you’re planning to register a foreign LLC.
- Check Name Availability
Search the Business Entity Records in Texas’ Official Secretary of State page to check if your chosen business name is available. You may also try typing your trademark, business, or domain name on any search engine to generate businesses with similar names and to ensure your trademark is unique and meets the state’s requirements.
Check out How to File a DBA to learn more about registering a DBA or trademark. For social media pages, use Social Searcher to avoid using similar page names. - Check Domain Availability
If your business name is still available, you must register for a domain name using Namecheap, Google Workspace, or other domain name sites. So customers can easily find your business over the Internet. Use the Kinsta app to manage your domains efficiently.
- File Name Reservation
A Name Reservation Certificate is required along with a Certificate of Formation. You can reserve a name online, by mail, or in person with a $40 filing fee (plus tax for online).
File your Certificate of Formation and Name Reservation online on the Secretary of State Online Services page of Texas. You may also download the pdf file of the Name reservation form and submit it with the processing fee to Secretary of State P.O. Box 13697 Austin, TX 78711.
Guidelines to Follow in Naming LLC
- Use a business name with the abbreviation “LLC” or the phrase “Limited Liability Company.”
- Your decided business name must not coincide with any existing government entity. Otherwise, you might have to face legal lawsuits when filing your LLC.
- Use the LLC name availability checker to ensure your business name is unique.
- Get a license first if you plan on using restricted words to avoid any complications.
Note that you must put adequate effort into naming your LLC because this name will be with your business for a long time. Making your LLC name unique is vital as it would prevent people from confusing your business with others, not to mention it would be easier for them to recall your business, products, or services.
F.A.Qs
A trade name (doing business as (DBA) name) is the official name under which a proprietor or company chooses to do business.
Having a domain isn’t necessary, but it is recommended. If you have a domain name, customers will find you more accessible through online means with your online website.
For domestic LLC, you can simply brainstorm for another name if the one you pick is no longer available. For foreign LLC, you must think up a “fictitious name,” which you’ll use only in the state.
How Do I Reserve an LLC Name in Texas
To reserve an LLC name in Texas you need to submit a name reservation request form to the Texas Secretary of State by mail or online by paying a filing fee of $40.
There are several key steps to take when reserving an LLC name in Texas. The first step is to choose a name that accurately reflects your business and is not already in use by another company in the state. Conducting a search of the Texas Secretary of State’s business name database can help you determine if your desired name is available. It’s important to choose a name that is distinctive and memorable, as well as compliant with the naming requirements outlined in the state’s LLC laws.
Once you have selected a name, the next step is to file a Name Reservation Request with the Texas Secretary of State. This can be done online through the SOSDirect website or by mail. The reservation is valid for a period of 120 days, during which time no other entity in Texas can use the reserved name. This gives you the opportunity to complete the necessary paperwork and form your business entity without fear of losing the name to another company.
When submitting your Name Reservation Request, it’s important to provide accurate and complete information to avoid any delays or rejections. Make sure to include the exact name you wish to reserve, as well as your name and contact information. Pay attention to the filing fee, which is typically minimal but essential for processing your request.
After submitting the request, you will receive confirmation from the Texas Secretary of State once the reservation has been approved. This confirmation can be used to secure your desired name for your LLC while you work on completing the formation process. Keep in mind that a name reservation does not automatically register your LLC with the state – that is a separate step that must be completed following the reservation.
Reserving an LLC name in Texas gives you the peace of mind that your chosen brand identity is secure and protected. It also allows you to begin establishing your company’s presence in the state while taking the necessary steps to formally establish your business entity.
In conclusion, reserving an LLC name in Texas is a straightforward process that provides important benefits for new business owners. By taking the time to choose a name wisely, conduct a search, and file a Name Reservation Request with the Texas Secretary of State, you can secure your desired name and set the foundation for a successful business venture.
In Conclusion
LLC names are important as it is the main identity of your business. While naming your LLC make sure to choose the one that suits the nature of your business. Follow the naming guidelines before you start filing your LLC name