LLC Formation Services in Houston, TX

The costs for forming an LLC in Houston, TX, vary based on state fees, required registrations, and optional professional services. Here’s a breakdown:

State of Texas Fees

✅ Certificate of Formation (Form 205) – $300 (filed with the Texas Secretary of State)

✅ Registered Agent Service (if using a provider) – $150 per year (optional)

✅ Texas Franchise Tax Registration – Free (but required for most LLCs)

Total Estimated Cost Range

💰 DIY Formation: $300 – $500

💰 Professional Services Included: $600 – $1,500+ (depending on services needed)

Total Estimated Time to Start Operating

💰 Fastest Timeline (Expedited Filing & EIN Online): 3–5 business days

💰 Standard Timeline: 2–3 weeks

No, you do not need to hire a lawyer to set up an LLC in Texas, but it can be helpful in certain situations. Many business owners choose to form an LLC on their own or use professional formation services to save money. However, hiring a lawyer may be beneficial if:

✅ You have a complex business structure (e.g., multiple owners, investors, or special agreements).

✅ You need a customized Operating Agreement with specific legal protections.

✅ Your business is in a highly regulated industry (e.g., healthcare, finance, or legal services).

✅ You want to ensure strong liability protection beyond basic LLC formation.

If your LLC is straightforward, you can handle the process yourself by filing the Certificate of Formation, obtaining an EIN, and drafting a basic Operating Agreement. Many professional services (like ours) can also assist with the process at a fraction of the cost of a lawyer.

To form an LLC in Texas, you will need the following documents:

1. Certificate of Formation (Form 205)

✅ Filed with the Texas Secretary of State

✅ Includes LLC name, registered agent, management structure, and purpose

✅ Filing Fee: $300

2. Operating Agreement (Highly Recommended, but Not Required)

✅ Outlines ownership structure, roles, and business operations

✅ Helps prevent disputes between members

✅ Not required by Texas law but essential for legal and financial clarity

3. Employer Identification Number (EIN) (Required for Most LLCs)

✅ Issued by the IRS (Free)

✅ Required to open a business bank account and hire employees

✅ Can be obtained online instantly from the IRS

4. Registered Agent Consent (If Using a Service)

✅ The registered agent must accept the role of receiving legal documents

✅ If you hire a third-party registered agent, they may provide a consent form

5. Business Licenses & Permits (If Applicable)

✅ Certain industries require local, state, or federal licenses (e.g., food, construction, healthcare)

✅ City of Houston may require local business permits depending on your industry

6. Assumed Name Certificate (DBA) (If Using a Different Business Name)

✅ If your LLC operates under a name different from its legal name, you must file a DBA (“Doing Business As”)

✅ Filed with the county clerk where your business is located

✅ Fee: Around $25 per county

You can form an LLC online in Texas through the Texas Secretary of State’s website using their online filing system, SOSDirect.

Would you like help filing your LLC online to ensure accuracy and fast approval?