Ever thought about running your business under a memorable trade name without creating a whole new legal entity? That’s where a DBA (Doing Business As) comes in. For many entrepreneurs in Texas, whether you’re a sole proprietor, freelancer, or running an LLC, filing a DBA is a straightforward way to build your brand while keeping your existing business structure intact.
In Texas, DBAs (also called Assumed Names) are often required if you’re operating under any name different from your legal one. This helps maintain transparency with customers, banks, and state agencies, while boosting your business’s credibility.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, costs, and key requirements for filing a DBA in Texas so you can avoid common mistakes and confidently do business under the name you choose.
What Is a DBA in Texas?
A DBA (Doing Business As), also called an Assumed Name in Texas, allows a business to legally operate under a name different from its official legal name. For example, if Maria Lopez owns a sole proprietorship but wants to do business as Lone Star Consulting, she would need to file a DBA.
It’s important to remember that a DBA is not the same as forming an LLC or corporation. Unlike those structures, a DBA does not create a separate legal entity or offer liability protection. It’s simply a way to register the name you want to use for branding and business purposes.
You might need a DBA in Texas if you:
- Want to operate your business under a brand name that’s different from your personal or company’s legal name.
- Plan to manage multiple ventures under one LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship.
- Need to open a business bank account under your trade name.
In Texas, a DBA is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to give your business a professional identity without restructuring your company.
Who Needs to File a DBA in Texas?
Not every business in Texas is required to file a DBA, but many will once they want to operate under a name that’s different from their legal one. Filing ensures transparency with the public and makes your business name official for use in banking, contracts, and marketing.
You need to file a DBA in Texas if you are:
- Sole Proprietors: If you’re running a business under anything other than your legal first and last name. For example, Maria Lopez, selling jewelry as Golden Glow Designs, would need a DBA.
- LLCs or Corporations: Even if your company is already registered with the Texas Secretary of State, you’ll need a DBA (Assumed Name Certificate) if you want to operate under a different brand or division name.
- Freelancers and Small Businesses: If you’re expanding your services or managing multiple projects, a DBA allows you to use distinct trade names without forming separate legal entities.
In short, if your customer-facing business name doesn’t match your legal name or registered entity name, Texas law requires you to file a DBA (Assumed Name Certificate).
Step-by-Step Process to File a DBA in Texas
Filing a DBA (Assumed Name Certificate) in Texas may seem complex, but the process is straightforward once you know the steps. Unlike California, Texas requires filings at both the state level (for LLCs, corporations, and partnerships) and sometimes the county level (especially for sole proprietors). Here’s how to get it done:
1. Check Name Availability
Search the Texas Secretary of State’s SOSDirect database and your local county clerk’s records. Ensure your chosen name isn’t already in use or too similar to another registered name.
2. Complete the Assumed Name Certificate (Form 503)
For LLCs, corporations, and partnerships, file Form 503 with the Texas Secretary of State. Sole proprietors usually file an Assumed Name Certificate with their county clerk instead.
3. File With the Appropriate Office
- State Filing (LLCs, Corporations, Partnerships): File Form 503 with the Texas Secretary of State. The filing fee is $25. You can file online via SOSDirect, by mail, or in person.
- County Filing (Sole Proprietors, General Partnerships): File with the county clerk in the county where your business operates. Fees range from $15–$25, depending on the county.
4. Publication (Not Required in Texas)
Unlike California, Texas does not require you to publish your DBA in a newspaper. This makes the process faster and less costly.
5. Renew Your DBA
In Texas, DBAs (Assumed Name Certificates) are valid for up to 10 years. Be sure to renew before expiration to keep your trade name active.
Tip: Always keep a copy of your filed DBA certificate. It’ll be needed when opening a business bank account under your assumed name.
Costs & Timeline of Filing a DBA in Texas
When filing a DBA (Assumed Name Certificate) in Texas, the costs and timelines depend on whether you’re registering at the state level or county level. Here’s what to expect:
Filing Fees
- State Filing (LLCs, Corporations, Partnerships): $25 flat fee when filing Form 503 with the Texas Secretary of State.
- County Filing (Sole Proprietors, General Partnerships): Usually between $15–$25, depending on the county. Some counties also charge a small fee for certified copies.
Publication Costs
Texas does not require newspaper publication for DBAs, unlike California. This helps reduce both cost and time.
Processing Times
State Filing: If submitted online via SOSDirect, approval often happens within 1–2 business days.
County Filing: In-person filings are usually processed the same day, while mail-in applications may take up to 1–2 weeks.
Renewal Timeline
A DBA in Texas is valid for up to 10 years. You must renew before it expires if you want to keep using the name. If your business information changes (like ownership, address, or structure), you’ll need to file a new Assumed Name Certificate.
Quick Note: Since Texas doesn’t require publication, filing a DBA here is generally faster and cheaper compared to states like California. To learn how to complete the process for filing a DBA in Texas, you can also watch this video: How to Apply for a DBA in Texas (for LLCs and Corporations).
Renewing or Canceling a DBA in Texas
In Texas, a DBA (Assumed Name Certificate) is valid for up to 10 years from the filing date. To keep using the name, you must file a renewal before it expires. The renewal process is similar to the original filing. Submit a new Assumed Name Certificate with the same county clerk’s office (for sole proprietors/general partnerships) or with the Texas Secretary of State (for LLCs, corporations, or partnerships).
If your business details change, such as ownership, address, or entity type, you cannot simply renew the existing DBA. Instead, you’ll need to file a new Assumed Name Certificate to reflect the updated information.
When you no longer use a DBA, you should formally cancel it to keep public records accurate.
- At the State Level: File a Termination of Assumed Name Certificate with the Texas Secretary of State (Form 504) and pay the $10 filing fee.
- At the County Level: File a withdrawal or abandonment form with the county clerk’s office, with fees typically ranging from $15 to $25.
Unlike California, Texas doesn’t require newspaper publication when canceling or withdrawing a DBA, making the process quicker and less costly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a DBA in Texas
Filing a DBA in Texas is relatively straightforward, but small oversights can cause delays or even invalidate your registration. Here are the most common pitfalls:
Skipping County vs. State Filing
Many business owners are confused about where to file. Sole proprietors and general partnerships must file at the county level, while LLCs, corporations, and LLPs must file at the state level (and sometimes in counties, too, if they operate locally). Missing the right office can leave your DBA unregistered.
Forgetting to Renew
Texas DBAs expire after 10 years, but you won’t receive an automatic reminder. If you forget to renew, your right to the name lapses, and someone else could register it.
Choosing a Name That’s Already Taken
Texas doesn’t automatically check for conflicts when you file at the county level. If your name is too similar to another business, you may run into branding issues or even legal disputes later.
Not Canceling When You Stop Using the Name
If you abandon your DBA but never officially withdraw it, the name stays tied to your business in public records, which can create confusion for future filings or customers.
Assuming a DBA Provides Legal Protection
A DBA in Texas doesn’t create a new legal entity or protect personal assets. It’s only a trade name registration, so you’ll still need an LLC or corporation for liability protection. Note: For filing a DBA for an LLC or corporation, you must start with the Texas Secretary of State’s business portal.
FAQs About Filing a DBA in Texas
Filing a DBA in Texas comes with its own rules that differ from other states. Here are answers to some of the most common questions entrepreneurs ask:
Do I Need a DBA If I Already Have an LLC?
Yes, if your LLC operates under a different name than its legal one. For example, “Lone Star Enterprises LLC” doing business as “Texas Outdoor Gear” would require a DBA.
Can I File a DBA Online in Texas?
Yes. For state-level filings (LLCs, corporations, LLPs), you can file online through the Texas Secretary of State’s SOSDirect portal. County-level filings usually must be done in person or by mail, depending on the county.
How Long Does DBA Approval Take?
State filings are typically processed within a few business days if done online, while county filings vary by office, with some offering same-day processing for in-person filings and others taking a week or two..
How Long Is a DBA Valid in Texas?
A Texas DBA is valid for 10 years. After that, you must renew to continue using the name.
Can Multiple DBAs Be Linked to One Business?
Yes. A single business entity can register multiple DBAs to cover different brands, services, or product lines. Each DBA requires a separate filing.
Final Takeaway
Filing a DBA in Texas is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to operate under a new business name without forming a separate legal entity. With a 10-year validity period, it gives entrepreneurs long-term flexibility for branding, marketing, and expansion.
Whether you’re a sole proprietor, freelancer, or LLC looking to launch multiple brands, registering a DBA ensures compliance while giving your business the professional identity it needs to thrive in the Lone Star State.
