In some cases, developing a robust business plan isn’t the most challenging part of launching your company, but instead, choosing the name for your organization.
This can be extremely challenging, especially in Texas, which is home to approximately 650,000 enterprises.[1] You need to take extra care not to choose a name that overlaps or is similar to another limited liability company, corporation, or general partnership.
A good way to do so is to utilize a Texas business name search tool. You can do just that with our free business name search tool. It requires you to provide basic information to determine whether your desired LLC name is taken.
We’ve already hinted at the importance of conducting a business search. However, there’s a lot more to discuss about this topic. Keep reading, and we’ll explain the benefits of looking up your desired business name, the conventions governing your selection, and what comes after your check. Each point will make a difference in your efforts to stay in good standing with the Texas Secretary of State.
Key Takeaways
A Texas entity search allows you to select a name for your company that doesn’t infringe on the trademark rights of other organizations.
Whether you’re setting up an LLC or corporation, you must clearly indicate your entity type in the name of your enterprise.
After verifying a name is available, you can reserve your name with the Texas Secretary of State for peace of mind.
Texas’ Business Naming Conventions
Whenever you see the word “conventions,” you probably think you’re in for more red tape. Some government regulations might be unnecessary, but those regarding your name selection are there for a reason.
Here are the naming conventions the Texas Secretary of State requires every new business entity to follow:
No Overlapping
This is the main reason you should perform an LLC name search. Texas businesses face severe consequences if they use the same name as an existing enterprise, such as legal trouble and business license problems, which makes checking name availability essential.
Relevant Wording
If you’re a Texas LLC, you must include the phrase limited liability company or limited company in your business name. You’ll need “corporation” or “incorporated” in the name if you're a Texas corporation.
No Unlawful Implications
Be super-careful not to include wording that implies your company is engaged in an unlawful activity. Such names are prohibited and won’t resonate with your target audience.
Benefits of a Texas Entity Search
We’ve covered the brass tacks of your Texas business entity search. Whether you filter your search by business name or entity number, it quickly establishes whether you can safely use the desired name for your LLC.
But what makes advanced search tools like this so beneficial?
1. Be Immune to Legal Action
Many businesses face litigation at least once in their lifetime.[2] You might be in a similar situation, but don’t let overlapping names be the cause. An entity lookup tool can help prevent this. By telling you which names are taken, the software reduces the risk of legal action.
2. Get Off the Ground Faster
Why waste time going through Texas business databases yourself when a tool can do it for you? For instance, our business name search tool will automatically tell you whether your name is available within an hour. This allows you to move on to the other stages of your business creation process faster.
3. Perform a Search in Minutes
Much of your business requires advanced skills, but that’s not the case with entity search tools. You can fill out the requested data within seconds, which only takes a few clicks. As a result, you can perform the search on your own.
Next Steps
If a Texas entity search has given you the go-ahead on your Texas business name, here’s what you should do next.
Complete Your Name Reservation
As previously indicated, a name reservation gives you trademark rights over your business name. That’s why you should immediately start the reservation process for your LLC after verifying name availability through an LLC name search. Texas entrepreneurs can use the Texas Secretary of State online platform to do so:
Go to SOSDirect
Press the “Enter Site” button and create your account
Follow the on-screen instructions to reserve your name, which may be subject to a state fee
Alternatively, fill out and send Form 501, Application for Reservation or Renewal of Reservation of an Entity Name, to SOSDirect at [email protected] or at this address:
P.O. Box 13697
Austin, Texas 78711-3697
According to the Texas Secretary of State website, there isn’t a limit on how many times you can reserve your name.[3] Once you reserve your business name, other companies are prohibited from using it as a name of their own.
Choose a Domain Name
Selecting a domain name is just as crucial as your Texas entity search, name availability, and name reservation. It reinforces the online presence of your Texas business, improves your credibility, and helps establish your professionalism. That’s especially true if you implement the following tips:
Avoid using more than two or three words
Keep your name memorable
Incorporate keywords
Omit numbers
Consider a DBA
Unfortunately, your Texas Secretary of State business search may tell you that your desired business entity name is off-limits. If that’s the case, a fictitious business name is your answer.
Many call it a “doing business as" or DBA name. It’s a pseudonym that differs from the original name under which you run your business. Filing for a DBA can be an excellent decision for several reasons:
Separating private and personal assets
Opening a business bank account
Providing different products or services from those offered under the original name
If you’re a Texas LLC owner, you can file your DBA by mail by completing and downloading Form 503, Assumed Name Certificate, and submitting it to the Texas Secretary of State. The filing fee is $40 and is subject to change.
File Your LLC Online
Few problems can hold your Texas LLC back like those caused by overlapping names. They can compromise your good standing with the Texas Secretary of State and tarnish your reputation. A robust Texas entity search is a great way to pre-empt those risks.
Our free business entity search tool ensures your company gets started on the right foot. And once you verify your name availability, you can turn to us for a myriad of filing services. We’ll help you cut through the red tape by filing your enterprise within minutes.
FAQs
How do I find out if a business name is available in Texas?
Business name search tools are a hassle-free way to determine if your desired business name is available. Type in the name and other business information (e.g., physical address, phone number, and mailing address), and the system will tell you whether the name is available.
How do I find out if an LLC is registered in Texas?
A business name search tool will reveal whether an LLC, limited partnership, or corporation is registered. After entering the necessary details and pressing the “Submit” or “Search” button, the software will reveal the name of the business organization and its place of registration.
How do I verify a legal business name in Texas?
A business name in Texas must include an entity type identifier, not include wording that implies your company is engaged in an unlawful activity, and be unique from all other registered business names in Texas.
You can easily verify if your Texas business name is available by running it through a business name search program. The results are fast and 100% accurate, dispelling any doubt about whether you can legally use a company name.
What information is included in a Texas entity search?
Some entity search tools may only offer the company’s name, while others are more detailed. If you utilize an in-depth solution, you should be able to find the organization’s registered agent, place of registration, and ownership structure.
How much does a Texas business entity search cost?
Certain tools charge top dollar for a Texas business entity search, but others are reasonably priced. You can also find free business name search platforms, such as the one available at Swyft Filings, enabling you to investigate as many business names as you want.
How do I find a registered agent in Texas?
There are several ways to find a registered agent for a Texas business, including performing a google search, consulting with business service providers, or asking local business owners for recommendations. Swyft Filings provides affordable and reliable registered agent services in all 50 states.
How can I find a business address in Texas?
You can use an entity search tool to find a Texas business address or review the business's website for address information.
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Bibliography
United States Census Bureau. “QuickFacts Texas.” Accessed May 24, 2023.
United States Court. “Judicial Business 2022.” Accessed May 25, 2023.
Texas Secretary of State. “Name Filings FAQs.” Accessed May 25, 2023.
