Texas lesson 4 of 6
Get an EIN and open a bank account
Texas does not issue a state tax number at formation. Your federal EIN is what banks, payment processors and the Comptroller will use to identify the business.
Applying for the EIN
Apply on the IRS site at no cost once the Certificate of Formation is approved. If the responsible party holds a US social security number or ITIN, the number is issued immediately online. If not, the application goes in on Form SS-4 by fax or post, which takes longer and is the usual route for non-resident owners.
Opening the account
Take the stamped Certificate of Formation, the EIN confirmation letter, your company agreement and identification for all signers and significant owners. Texas banks vary in how much they ask of non-resident owners, so call ahead if nobody on the account is in the country.
Paying personal costs from the business account is what turns a liability shield into an argument. Keep one clean line between the two.
Register with the Comptroller
Separately from the EIN, the Comptroller assigns your LLC a Texas taxpayer number. If you sell taxable goods or services you also apply for a sales and use tax permit, which is free.
Key takeaways
- The EIN is free and issued by the IRS.
- The Comptroller taxpayer number is separate from the EIN.
- A sales and use tax permit is free but mandatory if you sell taxable goods.
Official sources
Or let us file your Texas LLC for you
Everything above is yours to use for free. If you would rather hand it over, we prepare and file the Certificate of Formation (Form 205), act as your registered agent, and track your ongoing deadlines.
Last reviewed: September 2026 - reviewed by Gullia Filing Legal & Formation Team