How to File a DBA in Texas (2026)

What Is a DBA in Texas?

A DBA (Doing Business As)—also called a fictitious name, trade name, or assumed name—is a legal registration that allows you to operate a business under a name different from your legal name or entity name. In Texas, a DBA does not create a separate legal entity; it simply registers the name you'll use for business purposes. Whether you're a sole proprietor, partnership, or LLC, Texas requires you to file a DBA if you operate under any name other than your legal or registered entity name.

A DBA is mandatory for sole proprietorships in Texas. If you operate under your personal name as a sole proprietor or your entity's exact registered name, no DBA is necessary. However, most small business owners file a DBA to establish a professional business identity separate from their personal name.

When You Must File a DBA in Texas

You are required to file a DBA in Texas if you operate a business under any name that differs from your legal name (for sole proprietors) or your registered entity name (for partnerships and LLCs). According to Texas business formation requirements, sole proprietorships require a DBA, and LLCs also require a DBA if they conduct business under a name other than their registered LLC name.

Filing is mandatory before you begin operations under an assumed name. Operating without a required DBA is illegal in Texas and can result in penalties. The $25 filing fee is a one-time cost for essential legal protection.

Where to File Your DBA in Texas

Your DBA filing location in Texas depends on whether you operate as a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or LLC. Sole proprietorships and general partnerships file their DBA with the county clerk in the county where the business is located or where the principal office is situated. LLCs file their DBA with the Texas Secretary of State using Form 503. This distinction is critical: filing in the wrong location will result in rejection or delay.

If you operate in multiple counties, you may need to file in each county where you conduct business. However, the Secretary of State filing covers statewide registration for LLCs.

County Clerk Filing (Sole Proprietorships and Partnerships)

Contact your county clerk's office in the county where your business operates. Request an assumed name certificate or DBA form. Most Texas counties accept filings in person, by mail, or online if e-filing is available. Processing typically takes 1–2 weeks, depending on the county's workload.

Secretary of State Filing (LLCs)

File Form 503 (Assumed Name Certificate) with the Texas Secretary of State online at https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/sosda/index.shtml or by mail to P.O. Box 13697, Austin, TX 78711-3697. Online filing is faster and recommended. You can also call (512) 463-5555 for filing assistance.

DBA Filing Fee in Texas

The DBA filing fee in Texas is $25.00 for all business structures—sole proprietorships, general partnerships, and LLCs. This flat fee applies whether you file with your county clerk or the Texas Secretary of State. The fee is non-refundable and must accompany your filing.

As of 2026, this fee has remained consistent. Verify the current fee directly with the filing authority before submission, as local variations may apply.

How to File a DBA: Step-by-Step Process

For Sole Proprietors and General Partnerships

Step 1: Contact Your County Clerk

Locate your county clerk's office in the county where your business operates. Request the DBA form or assumed name certificate. Most county clerk offices maintain websites with downloadable forms and filing instructions.

Step 2: Complete the DBA Form

Fill out the form with your legal name, the assumed business name, the nature of your business, and your business address. Ensure all information is accurate and complete. Errors can delay processing or result in rejection.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit the completed form along with the $25 filing fee to the county clerk. You can file in person, by mail, or online if your county offers e-filing. Keep a copy of your filed certificate for your records and for opening a business bank account.

Step 4: Receive Confirmation

Processing typically takes 1–2 weeks. Contact your county clerk if you don't receive confirmation within this timeframe.

For LLCs

Step 1: Search Available Names

Search the Texas Secretary of State database at https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/sosda/index.shtml to ensure your desired name is not already registered. Your LLC name must be distinguishable from any existing entity name on file under Tex. Bus. Org. Code § 5.053.

Step 2: Prepare Form 503

Gather your LLC's registered name, the assumed name you wish to use, your principal office address, and your registered agent information. Form 503 also requires your LLC's file number and the date the LLC was formed.

Step 3: File Online or by Mail

File Form 503 with the Texas Secretary of State online at https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/sosda/index.shtml. Online filing is faster and recommended. Alternatively, mail the form to P.O. Box 13697, Austin, TX 78711-3697.

Step 4: Pay the $25 Fee

Include the $25 filing fee with your submission. Online filing accepts multiple payment methods. Mail submissions should include a check or money order.

Step 5: Receive Confirmation

You will receive confirmation once the filing is processed, typically within 5–10 business days for online submissions and 2–3 weeks for mail submissions.

Required Contents of a DBA Filing

Your DBA filing must include the following information:

Your legal name (for sole proprietors) or registered entity name (for partnerships and LLCs)
The assumed business name you will operate under
Nature of business (brief description of what your business does)
Business address where the business will be located
County of principal place of business (for county filings)
Signature of the owner or authorized representative

For LLCs filing with the Secretary of State, Form 503 also requires your LLC's file number and the date the LLC was formed. Do not include personal Social Security numbers or federal employer identification numbers (EINs) on the public filing, as these are sensitive information.

DBA Renewal and Expiration in Texas

Texas does not require DBA renewal. Once filed, your DBA remains active indefinitely unless you voluntarily cancel it or your business closes. The $25 filing fee is a one-time cost with no annual renewal obligation.

However, you should update your DBA filing if you change your business address, add a new assumed name, or change the nature of your business. If you relocate to a different county, you may need to file a new DBA in that county. Check with your county clerk or the Secretary of State to confirm whether your existing filing covers your new location.

DBA vs. LLC: When to Choose Each

A DBA and an LLC serve different purposes and should not be confused. A DBA is a registration of a business name only—it does not create a legal entity or provide liability protection. A sole proprietor or partnership using a DBA remains personally liable for all business debts and lawsuits.

An LLC is a separate legal entity that provides personal liability protection, meaning your personal assets are generally protected if the business is sued or incurs debt. An LLC requires filing a Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State and ongoing compliance (annual reports, registered agent), whereas a DBA requires only a one-time $25 filing.

Choose a DBA If

You are a sole proprietor or partnership operating under a different name and do not need liability protection. You want to keep your business simple and low-cost. You're testing a business idea or operating a side business. You want a trade name without formal entity protection.

Choose an LLC If

You want to separate your personal assets from business liability. You plan to hire employees. You seek credibility with customers and lenders. You anticipate significant business risk. You want tax flexibility (LLCs can elect taxation as sole proprietors, partnerships, or corporations).

Many Entrepreneurs File Both

You can form an LLC and then file a DBA if you want to operate under a trade name different from your LLC's registered name. For example, "Smith Ventures LLC" (your legal entity) files a DBA to do business as "Smith's Consulting" (your marketing name). This approach gives you liability protection plus marketing flexibility. The DBA filing with the Secretary of State (Form 503) costs only $25.00 and takes days to process.

Publication Requirements for DBAs in Texas

Texas does not mandate publication of your DBA in a newspaper or other public notice. Unlike some states, Texas does not require you to publish a legal notice announcing your assumed name. Your DBA filing with the county clerk or Secretary of State creates a public record that can be searched, but no additional publication step is required for the filing to be valid.

However, some lenders or business partners may request proof of your DBA filing, so retain a certified copy from the filing authority. Contact your county clerk or the Secretary of State at (512) 463-5555 to request a certified copy if needed.

Searching for Available DBA Names in Texas

Before filing your DBA, search the Texas Secretary of State database at https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/sosda/index.shtml to ensure your desired name is not already registered by another business. This search is free and helps you avoid conflicts and potential legal disputes.

For county filings, contact your county clerk's office to search their assumed name records. A name search is not mandatory but is strongly recommended. If you are forming an LLC, the Secretary of State also requires that your LLC name be distinguishable from any existing entity name on file, per Tex. Bus. Org. Code § 5.053.

If you want to reserve an LLC name before filing your DBA, you can do so for $40.00, and the reservation lasts 120 days under Tex. Bus. Org. Code § 5.053.

Protecting Your DBA Name

Filing a DBA does not reserve or protect your name statewide or nationally. Your DBA is registered only in the county (for sole proprietors and partnerships) or with the state (for LLCs). If you want to protect your business name across Texas or nationally, consider registering a trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or the Texas Secretary of State.

A trademark provides stronger legal protection and prevents others from using a confusingly similar name in commerce. Trademark registration is separate from DBA filing and involves additional fees and requirements. Federal trademark registration gives you exclusive rights nationwide and provides legal grounds to stop competitors from using your name.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a DBA

Filing in the Wrong Location

Sole proprietors and partnerships must file with the county clerk, not the Secretary of State. LLCs must file with the Secretary of State, not the county clerk. Verify your business structure and file accordingly. Filing in the wrong location results in rejection or delay.

Using a Name That Conflicts with an Existing Entity

Search the Secretary of State database before filing to avoid disputes. If another business already uses your desired name, you may face legal challenges or be forced to change your name. For LLCs, your name must be distinguishable from existing entity names under Tex. Bus. Org. Code § 5.053.

Providing Incomplete or Inaccurate Information

Ensure all information on your DBA form is correct and complete. Errors can delay processing or result in rejection. Review the form twice before submitting.

Forgetting to File a DBA When Required

Operating under an assumed name without filing is illegal in Texas and can result in penalties. Always file if you use any name other than your legal or registered entity name.

Confusing a DBA with an LLC

A DBA does not provide liability protection or create a separate legal entity. If you need liability protection, form an LLC in addition to filing a DBA.

Neglecting the Business License Requirement

A DBA filing does not satisfy your business license requirement. Texas requires sole proprietorships to obtain a business license in addition to filing a DBA. Check with your city or county for specific licensing requirements and fees.

Using Restricted Words Without Authorization

Your LLC name cannot include "Bank," "Trust," "Insurance," "University," or "College" without special authorization under Tex. Bus. Org. Code § 5.054. If your business legitimately uses one of these terms, contact the Secretary of State at (512) 463-5555 to request authorization before filing.

Updating or Canceling Your DBA

Updating Your DBA

To update your DBA (for example, if you change your business address), contact the filing authority where you originally filed. For county filings, contact your county clerk. For Secretary of State filings, submit an amended Form 503. There is typically no fee for amendments, but confirm with the filing authority.

Canceling Your DBA

To cancel your DBA, file a cancellation form with the county clerk (for sole proprietors and partnerships) or the Secretary of State (for LLCs). Cancellation is appropriate if you close your business, change your business name, or no longer operate under the assumed name. Cancellation does not affect your underlying business entity; it only removes the assumed name registration.

Contact your filing authority for cancellation procedures and any associated fees.

Timeline for DBA Filing in Texas

Texas does not specify a processing timeline for DBA filings in statute. County clerk filings typically process within 1–2 weeks, depending on the county's workload. Secretary of State filings for LLCs typically process within 5–10 business days for online submissions and 2–3 weeks for mail submissions.

Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee; check with the filing authority. Once your DBA is filed and processed, you can immediately begin using the name for business purposes, opening a business bank account, and obtaining business licenses.

Plan ahead and file your DBA at least 1–2 weeks before you need to operate under that name to account for potential delays.

Next Steps After Filing Your DBA

After your DBA is filed, take the following steps:

1. Obtain an EIN from the IRS

File Form SS-4 with the IRS to obtain an Employer Identification Number if you have employees or operate as a partnership or LLC. Even sole proprietors often benefit from an EIN for business banking and accounting purposes.

2. Open a Business Bank Account

Use your DBA filing documentation and EIN to open a separate business bank account. This separation protects your personal assets and simplifies accounting and tax filing. Most banks require your DBA certificate, EIN letter, and personal identification.

3. Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

Texas requires a business license for all business structures. Contact your city or county business licensing office to determine specific requirements for your business type. Some municipalities require licenses before you begin operations; others have different timelines. Some businesses also require state-level licenses or permits.

4. Register for State and Local Taxes

Register with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts for sales tax purposes if you sell taxable goods or services. File any required state and local tax registration forms.

5. Obtain Business Insurance

Obtain business insurance to protect your assets and comply with lender requirements. Insurance is especially important if you have employees or handle client funds.

6. Update Your Business Records

Update your business records to reflect your DBA name on contracts, invoices, and marketing materials. Ensure all vendors and customers know your official business name.

Contact Information and Resources

Texas Secretary of State

Phone: (512) 463-5555
Website: https://www.sos.texas.gov
Online Filing: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/sosda/index.shtml
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 13697, Austin, TX 78711-3697

County Clerk Offices

Locate your county clerk at your county courthouse or search online for contact details. Most county clerk offices maintain websites with DBA forms and filing instructions.

Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts

IRS (Employer Identification Number)

Apply for an EIN at https://www.irs.gov/ein or call 1-800-829-4933.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a DBA if I operate under my personal name?

A: Yes. Texas requires all sole proprietorships to file a DBA, even if you operate under your personal name. The DBA filing creates a public record of your business ownership and establishes your legal right to use the name.

Q: Can I file a DBA online in Texas?

A: Yes, but only for LLCs. LLCs file Form 503 with the Texas Secretary of State online at https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/sosda/index.shtml. Sole proprietorships and general partnerships file with their county clerk, and online filing availability varies by county.

Q: How much does a DBA cost in Texas?

A: The DBA filing fee is $25.00 for all business structures. This is a one-time fee with no annual renewal obligation. If you want to reserve an LLC name before filing, the reservation fee is $40.00 for 120 days.

Q: How long does it take to file a DBA in Texas?

A: County clerk filings typically process within 1–2 weeks. Secretary of State filings for LLCs typically process within 5–10 business days for online submissions and 2