For new businesses planning to open its doors to Texas, you must fulfill the business registration process first so you can operate legally.
The first step is to determine your business' legal structure. Your options include sole proprietorship, LLCs, partnerships, and corporations. There are also specialized structures but these are the basic options. You can seek a legal counsel's advice on the best option for you if you wish to enjoy tax benefits and other implications.
Upon choosing your type of business structure, you must also register a business name. Make sure to do a search of existing trade names to ensure that your registered name is available. You can file the registration at the Secretary of State Office or website.
When you file your business registration, it is also important to check with your county or city for any other licenses and permits you need to secure. Your type of business and specific location of your business will require additional permits before you can operate. For example, businesses offering professional services need to secure a license under the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations policies.
The final step is to secure insurance for your business. There are various types of insurances that could apply to your business so be sure to check the state and city regulations on that.
The constitution of Texas admits complete autonomy to its local government units. There are 254 counties that comprise the state of Texas and has been that way since 1931. It is also made up of 1,196 municipalities, 1,089 public school districts, and 2,245 special districts.
The number of counties in Texas is the largest out of any state in the US. Each county is governed by a 5-member Commissioner's Court. Four of these commissioners were elected by a commissioner precincts and the final member is the county judge.
In smaller counties of Texas, the county judge performs judicial duties but their role is limited in larger counties to certifying elections. Other officials that govern the county are elected into position are the sheriff, treasurer, county clerk, attorney and tax collector. The budget for each county will be determined by the commissioner's court.
Texas is different from other states because it does not allow consolidated county-city governments. These two local government units may enter into an "interlocal agreement" to provide services to citizens.
See the main Texas Page for county links.© State & Local 2023