Filing a DBA in Texas? It Costs Just $25—Here’s How to Do It

Advertiser Disclosure

This article may contain references to products or services from one or more of our advertisers or partners. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products or services. Nonetheless, our opinions are our own.

Summary hide

Key Highlights
Introduction
Decoding the DBA: What It Means for Your Business
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Reads

Key Highlights

In Texas, registering a DBA lets you use a business name that is different from your legal name. This is great for branding, growth, or looking more credible.
To register, you need to file an Assumed Name Certificate. This costs $25 with the Secretary of State or $24 plus $0.50 for each extra owner with the county clerk.
A DBA does not help with legal protection, but it allows businesses to open special bank accounts under the new name.
You must renew the certificate every 10 years to keep using your DBA legally.
A DBA does not give you exclusive rights to a name, so always check if it is available before you file.

Introduction

Do you want to create a special identity for your Texas business without setting up a new legal group? Filing for a DBA (Doing Business As) is a good choice. It can help you with better branding, starting a new product line, or picking a name that connects with your customers. Getting a DBA in Texas is easy. This guide will show you the process step by step.

Decoding the DBA: What It Means for Your Business

A “Doing Business As” (DBA) name is also known as an assumed name, trade name, or a made-up name. It lets you run your business under a name that is different from your registered business name or your personal name if you are a sole owner. You can think of it as a name that the public sees for your business.

A DBA helps keep your legal business name different from the name you use in public. This gives you more freedom in naming your brand. It is especially helpful for sole proprietorships and partnerships. But, it does not change your business structure or offer any protection from liability.

The Basics of Doing Business As (DBA) in Texas

In Texas, if you want to use a different name for your business, you need to file for a DBA with the county clerk or the state office, based on your business type. First, make sure your chosen name is available. Then, get and fill out an Assumed Name Certificate. The steps may be a bit different depending on if you are a sole proprietor, a partnership, or an LLC. So, be sure to look at the specific rules for your county.

Why Consider Filing a DBA?

There are many reasons to do a DBA for your business in Texas.

Rebranding: Change how people see you while keeping your business setup the same.
Expansion: Add new products or services using a different name.
Credibility: Make your business look more professional, especially if you work alone.

For example, if you own a bakery called “Sweet Delights” and want to add a new line of savory products, using a name like “Savory Bites” lets you grow without changing your business name.

Preparing to File Your Texas DBA

Before you start the filing process, do these important steps:

Check Name Availability: Use the Texas State’s online database to make sure your chosen DBA is not already used.
Gather Required Information: You will need your legal business name, the type of business, and your address.
Understand Filing Requirements: Make sure you follow the correct steps based on your business type (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, etc.).

Necessary Documents and Information for DBA Filing

To file a DBA in Texas, you need to fill out an Assumed Name Certificate. This form includes:

Legal business name as shown on formation papers
Type of business (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation)
Address of the business
Intended time for the DBA (up to 10 years)

If you do not renew your DBA within six months after it ends, you have to send in a new application.

Understanding the Legal Requirements

The Texas Business and Commerce Code explains the rules for DBAs. A DBA is not a new legal business name. It is just an extra way to identify your business.

DBA Length: A DBA is good for up to 10 years and needs to be renewed on time.
Legal Safety: A DBA does not create a new legal entity or give you protection from liability.
Where to File: Sole owners and partnerships file at the county clerk’s office. Corporations and LLCs file with the State Office.

A Beginner’s Guide to Filing a DBA in Texas

Filing a DBA in Texas is easy. Here are the main steps:

Step 1: Choosing Your DBA Name

Your DBA should show your brand and be easy to remember. Before you decide, check if it is available by using the Texas Secretary of State’s online database. Texas law does not allow names that are the same or very close to each other.

Step 2: Conducting a Name Availability Search

Utilize the “Taxable Entity Search” tool on the State’s website to verify the uniqueness of your DBA. Try different variations, like short forms and plural words, to make sure there are no issues.

Step 3: Filing the Assumed Name Certificate

Once you check if it’s available, fill out the Assumed Name Certificate. Add:

Legal business name
DBA name
Business type
Business address
Period of DBA (up to 10 years)

Filing Locations:

Corporations/LLCs: File with the Texas State Office.
Sole Proprietorships/Partnerships: File at the county clerk’s office in the county where your business is located.

Make sure to check all information carefully before you submit it. This will help you avoid rejection.

Step 4: Paying the Filing Fee

The filing fee is:

$25 with the Texas state office
$24+ (depends on the county) with the county clerk

Payment methods include money orders, checks, or credit cards. If you are mailing your application, make the payment to “Texas State Office.” Keep the receipt for your records.

After Filing Your DBA: Next Steps

Opening a Business Bank Account Under Your DBA

To keep clear records of your money, open a special bank account for your business name. This will help you keep your personal and business money apart. It also makes you look more trustworthy to vendors and customers. Plus, it makes reporting taxes much easier.

When you open an account, take your DBA certificate and other business papers with you. Make sure to look at what each bank needs, as their rules may be different.

Marketing Your DBA to the Public

Once approved, incorporate your DBA into:

Signs for the business
Websites and social media accounts
Promotion materials
Bills and agreements

Share your new DBA in press releases, newsletters, and on social media. This will help you create brand recognition.

Conclusion

Filing a DBA in Texas is a good way to do business under a different name without changing your legal structure. Follow these simple steps:

Choose a different DBA name.
Check if the name is available.
File the Assumed Name Certificate.
Pay the fee to file.
Open a business bank account and promote your new name.

For further assistance, check out our FAQs below.

Frequently Asked Questions

It can take several weeks for a DBA to be approved in Texas.

Processing times can change. Usually, it takes a few days to two weeks. This depends on how you file and how busy the government is.

Can I register several DBAs for one business in Texas?

Yes. Texas law lets businesses have several DBAs, but each one needs its own Assumed Name Certificate and filing fee.

Do I need to renew my DBA in Texas, and how often?

Yes. The Texas Business and Commerce Code says that DBAs must be renewed every 10 years to stay active.

The FangWallet Promise

FangWallet is an editorially independent resource - founded on breaking down challenging financial concepts for anyone to understand since 2014. While we adhere to editorial integrity, note that this post may contain references to products from our partners.

The FangWallet promise is always to have your best interest in mind and be transparent and honest about the financial picture.

Become an Insider

Editorial Disclaimer: The editorial content on this page is not provided by any of the companies mentioned. The opinions expressed here are the author's alone.

The content of this website is for informational purposes only and does not represent investment advice, or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security, investment, or product. Investors are encouraged to do their own due diligence, and, if necessary, consult professional advising before making any investment decisions. Investing involves a high degree of risk, and financial losses may occur including the potential loss of principal.

Advertiser Disclosure: This article may contain references to products or services from one or more of our advertisers or partners. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products or services.

Write for Us