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If your business operates as a sole proprietorship or a general partnership, you should file an “Assumed Name Certificate”, also known as a DBA (stands for “doing business as”), for each name the business uses in commerce. The form is filed with the county clerk in each county where a business premise is maintained. If no business premise is maintained, it should be filed in each county where business will be conducted.
If your business operates as a corporation, limited partnership, or limited liability company (LLC) and operates under a name other than the name on file with the Secretary of State, an Assumed Name Certificate must be filed with the Secretary of State.
Please Note – Neither the filing of an Assumed Name Certificate nor the reservation or registration of a company name imparts any real protection to the party filing the certificate. It is merely a formal process that informs the general public of the registered agent for a business and where official contact with the business can be made. In case of a name dispute, it can be used as legal evidence in litigation.
Basic steps for filing a DBA
Changes to filing processes due to COVID19:
Referring to Step 4 below - Most government notaries are not available at this time. Please call your local UPS or FedEx Store to determine if they have one available.
Referring to Step 5 below - The County Clerks offices may not be taking walk ins at this time. Please call your county clerk to determine where they want you to mail your form.
Click anything on this list to be taken to that portion of the page.
Your local ASBDC can help you file an Assumed Name Certificate, also known as a “DBA” (Doing Business As) anywhere in Texas. If you’re not in Texas your local office can assist you with filing your business in your state.
If you need assistance filling out any of these forms or have other questions, please contact your local ASBDC.
1. What form of business?
The Governor's Small Business Handbook is a great resource on information regarding opening a business in Texas. Page 8 in the PDF has detailed information about the different forms of business in Texas. As always, if you have more questions feel free to give us a call!
2. Searches
While not required, it is in your best interest to conduct a search to see if anyone else is already using the name you want to use.
3. Forms
4. Secretary of State
LLCs and Corporations must file with the Secretary of State.
The most common forms are: 201, 205 & 503