Texas lesson 6 of 6
Stay compliant in Texas
Texas keeps ongoing paperwork light. There are only a handful of things to keep on top of, but forfeiture for missing them is quick and public.
The yearly rhythm
One annual filing with the Comptroller by May 15. Keep the registered agent and registered office current with the Secretary of State using Form 401 whenever they change. Renew any industry or city licences on their own schedules.
- May 15: franchise tax report plus Public Information or Ownership Information Report
- Ongoing: registered agent and office kept accurate
- Ongoing: sales tax returns if you hold a permit
Licences and permits
Texas issues no general statewide business licence. What you need depends on your industry and your city, from food handling to contractor registration. The Texas Business Permit Office publishes a guide that maps activities to the agency that licenses them.
If you fall behind
A forfeited LLC can usually be reinstated by filing the missing reports, paying what is owed plus penalties, and requesting reinstatement. It is recoverable, but during forfeiture the LLC cannot sue in Texas courts and its name is not protected.
Key takeaways
- One key date: May 15, with the Comptroller.
- Update the registered agent whenever it changes.
- Forfeiture is reversible but costs penalties and leaves the name unprotected.
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