Name availability · TX
Texas business name search
In Texas, the Secretary of State's searchable database is SOSDirect (part of SOSPortal), which charges a small statutory fee per search. For a free first look, the Comptroller's Franchise Tax Account Status Search finds entities by name. You can also call or email the Corporations Section for a preliminary name determination, but only processing your filing gives a final answer.
How to check if a name is available in Texas
- 01
Do a free first pass with the Comptroller
Search your name in the Comptroller's Franchise Tax Account Status Search at comptroller.texas.gov. It finds existing taxable entities by name, taxpayer number or SOS file number.
- 02
Search SOSDirect
Log in to SOSDirect through the Secretary of State's site to search business organization records directly. Each search has a small statutory fee.
- 03
Ask for a preliminary determination
Call the Corporations Section or email CorpInfo@sos.texas.gov with your name. Their answer is preliminary, and the final decision comes when your document is processed.
- 04
Check your county for assumed names
Sole proprietors and partnerships file assumed names with the county clerk, so search the county records where you'll operate.
- 05
Search federal trademarks
Texas says getting a name approved doesn't let you use it in violation of someone else's rights. Check tmsearch.uspto.gov.
- 06
Domains, socials and alternatives
Confirm the domain and handles. Our free tool at /business-name-generator/ can help if your first choice is taken in Texas.
Texas business naming rules
- An entity name must be distinguishable in the Secretary of State's records from existing filing entities, registered foreign entities, foreign entities' fictitious names, Texas LLC registered series, and reserved or registered names.
- The rules for whether names are distinguishable, the same, or usable with consent are in Texas Administrative Code Title 1, Part 4, Chapter 79, Subchapter C.
- A preliminary answer on availability isn't final, and even an approved name doesn't authorize use that violates someone else's trademark or other rights.
- An assumed name certificate doesn't need an organizational identifier such as Inc. or LLC.
Reserving a name
A Texas name reservation lasts 120 days. You can renew it by filing a new application in the 30 days before it expires, with no limit on renewals. Check the current fee on the Secretary of State's site.
DBAs and trade names
It splits by owner. Corporations, LLCs, LPs, LLPs, professional associations and foreign filing entities file assumed name certificates with the Secretary of State. Sole proprietorships, general partnerships and other unlisted types file with the county clerk in each county where they keep an office or do business.
Still looking for the right name?
Brainstorm dozens of options with the free generator, then run your shortlist through the Texas search above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I search business names in Texas?
Use SOSDirect on the Secretary of State's site (each search has a small statutory fee), or the free Comptroller Franchise Tax Account Status Search. You can also call or email the Corporations Section for a preliminary determination.
Where do I file a DBA in Texas?
Entities like LLCs and corporations file assumed name certificates with the Secretary of State. Sole proprietors and general partnerships file with the county clerk.
Can two businesses have the same name in Texas?
Not two entities on the Secretary of State's records. The name must be distinguishable unless the rules allow it with consent. Assumed names filed with counties follow separate rules.
How long can I reserve a name in Texas?
120 days, renewable in the 30 days before it expires, with no limit on the number of renewals.
General information, not legal advice. Name approval is decided by the Texas Secretary of State, Corporations Section; a name showing as available in a search is not a guarantee it will be accepted.