Texas LLC Compliance Guides
Plain-English articles covering every major Texas LLC obligation — written for founders, not lawyers.
Texas LLC Franchise Tax: How to File by May 15
Texas LLC franchise tax is due May 15 every year — even if you owe $0. Miss this deadline and face a $50 penalty plus forfeiture risk. Here's how to file it.
Read guide →What Is a Texas Public Information Report for an LLC?
The Texas Public Information Report (Form 05-102) is due May 15 with your franchise tax return. Missing it can make LLC members personally liable for debts.
Read guide →Texas LLC Compliance Checklist: 7 Annual Obligations Every Owner Must Know
The complete Texas LLC compliance checklist: 7 annual obligations, deadlines, and what happens if you miss them. Know which ones apply to your business.
Read guide →Texas LLC Sales Tax Permit: When You Need One and How to File
Texas LLCs selling taxable goods or services must get a free sales tax permit and file returns by the 20th. Learn who needs one, rates, and how to stay compliant.
Read guide →How to File a Texas DBA (Assumed Name Certificate) for Your LLC
Texas LLCs operating under a trade name must file an assumed name certificate with both the SOS and county clerk. Learn the two-step process, fees, and why skipping it voids contracts.
Read guide →Texas Registered Agent Requirements for LLCs: Rules, Costs, and How to Change
Every Texas LLC must maintain a registered agent with a physical TX address at all times. Learn who qualifies, how to change agents, and what happens if yours lapses.
Read guide →Texas Unemployment Insurance Tax for LLCs: What You Owe and When
Texas unemployment insurance tax guide for LLCs: who owes it, quarterly due dates, how rates are set, and where to file with the Texas Workforce Commission.
Read guide →Texas New Hire Reporting Requirements for LLCs
Texas new hire reporting requirements for LLCs: who must report, the 20-day deadline, how to submit to the OAG, and the $25–$500 penalties for late reports.
Read guide →Texas LLC Annual Filing Checklist 2026
Texas LLC annual filing checklist for 2026: franchise tax report, PIR, sales tax returns, new hire reporting, and every state deadline your LLC must meet.
Read guide →Texas LLC BOI Report 2026: Do You Still Have to File?
Texas LLC BOI report status for 2026: US domestic LLCs are currently exempt from FinCEN filing under the March 2025 interim rule. What changed and what to do.
Read guide →Texas LLC vs S-Corp Tax: Which Structure Saves More?
Texas LLC vs S-corp tax comparison: franchise tax, self-employment tax, and salary requirements — what you owe and when the S-corp election makes sense.
Read guide →My Texas LLC Was Forfeited — How to Reinstate It (Step-by-Step)
Texas LLC forfeited? Step-by-step guide to reinstatement: clear back taxes, file delinquent reports, get Comptroller clearance, and restore good standing.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax EZ Computation Report: How to File Form 05-169
The Texas franchise tax EZ computation report (Form 05-169) is for LLCs with $20M or less in revenue. Here's exactly how to complete and file it by May 15.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax No Tax Due 2026: What Texas LLCs Under $2,650,000 Must File
The Texas franchise tax no tax due threshold for 2026 is $2,650,000. Your LLC owes $0 — but you must still file a Public Information Report by May 15.
Read guide →Can I Be My Own Registered Agent in Texas? Requirements and Trade-offs
Texas law allows LLC owners to serve as their own registered agent if they have a physical Texas street address and can be available during business hours.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax Penalty: How Much You Owe and How to Fix It
Texas franchise tax penalty is $50 immediately plus 5%–10% on tax owed. Learn exactly what you owe, how to calculate it, and how to fix it fast.
Read guide →I Forgot to File My Texas Franchise Tax — What Happens Now?
Forgot to file your Texas franchise tax by May 15? Learn what penalties you now owe, how to file late, and how to keep your Texas LLC from forfeiture.
Read guide →Texas LLC Forfeiture Notice: What to Do When You Get One
Got a Texas LLC forfeiture notice? Learn what triggered it, what it means for your LLC, and the exact steps to fix your forfeiture before it gets worse.
Read guide →Texas Multi-Member LLC Taxes: How Federal and State Tax Work
Texas multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships by default. Learn how pass-through taxes, Schedule K-1 filings, and the Texas franchise tax work for owners.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax Extension 2026: How to File and What You Must Pay by May 15
Texas franchise tax extension 2026: file a 6-month extension to November 15, but you must pay your estimated tax by May 15 or face penalties. Here's how.
Read guide →How to Dissolve a Texas LLC (Step-by-Step Guide)
How to dissolve a Texas LLC: wind up business affairs, clear franchise tax with the Comptroller, and file Form 651 with the Secretary of State. Steps inside.
Read guide →Texas LLC EIN Application: How to Get Your Federal Tax ID
Texas LLC EIN application: apply free on IRS.gov in 10 minutes for an instant federal tax ID. Learn who needs an EIN, what to have ready, and next steps.
Read guide →How Much Does a Texas LLC Cost? (2026 Complete Breakdown)
A Texas LLC costs $300 to form at the SOS. Annual fees include $0–$300 for a registered agent plus a free franchise tax filing. Full 2026 cost breakdown.
Read guide →How to Form a Texas LLC (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
How to form a Texas LLC: choose a name, file Form 205 with the SOS ($300), appoint a registered agent, get an EIN, and meet annual franchise tax requirements.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax WebFile Tutorial: Step-by-Step Filing Guide
Step-by-step Texas franchise tax WebFile tutorial: create your account, log in, select the right form, and submit the franchise tax report and PIR by May 15.
Read guide →Texas LLC PIR: Who to List as Officer (Members vs. Managers Explained)
Texas LLC PIR officers are your members or managers — not a CEO. Learn exactly who to list on Form 05-102, what addresses to use, and common mistakes.
Read guide →Texas UI Tax Rate for New Employers 2026: What You'll Pay and When
Texas new employer UI tax rate is approximately 2.7% for 2026. Learn how the TWC sets SUTA rates, the taxable wage base, and quarterly filing deadlines.
Read guide →How to Submit a Texas New Hire Report Online (Step-by-Step)
Every Texas employer must report new hires to the OAG within 20 days of their start date. File online in minutes at the Child Support Employer Services portal.
Read guide →Texas LLC Forfeited: How to Reinstate Your Business (2026 Guide)
Texas LLC forfeited? Here's how to reinstate it: file delinquent franchise tax reports, clear penalties with the Comptroller, then restore good standing.
Read guide →Texas LLC Not in Good Standing: What It Means and How to Fix It
Texas LLC not in good standing? Learn what causes it, the legal consequences for owners, and the exact steps to restore your LLC to active status in Texas.
Read guide →How to Check Your Texas LLC's Good Standing Status
Check if your Texas LLC is in good standing using the Comptroller's Taxable Entity Search and SOS portal, plus how to get a Certificate of Account Status.
Read guide →How to File Texas Franchise Tax: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Step-by-step: how to file Texas franchise tax using WebFile. Right form, deadline May 15, no-tax-due threshold, and what the $50 late fee means for you.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax Due Date 2026: May 15 Deadline for Every Texas LLC
Texas franchise tax due date 2026 is May 15. Every Texas LLC must file a franchise tax report and PIR by then, even if you owe nothing in franchise tax at all.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax No Tax Due 2026: What You Still Have to File
Texas franchise tax no tax due in 2026: LLCs with revenue under $2,650,000 owe $0 in franchise tax, but must still file a report by May 15 or face $50 penalty.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax Threshold 2026: $2,650,000 Explained
Texas franchise tax threshold 2026 is $2,650,000 in annualized revenue. LLCs below owe $0 in tax but must still file the PIR by May 15 or face penalties.
Read guide →Texas Public Information Report: What It Is, Who Must File, and How
Texas Public Information Report (Form 05-102) is due May 15 each year with your franchise tax. All Texas LLCs must file or risk forfeiture of entity privileges.
Read guide →Texas PIR vs Franchise Tax Report: What's the Difference?
Texas LLCs must file both a PIR and a franchise tax report by May 15. Learn how they differ, what each one covers, and what happens if you miss either.
Read guide →Texas Sales Tax Permit: How to Get One and File Returns on Time
Get a Texas sales tax permit free from the Comptroller before your first taxable sale. Learn who needs one, how to apply, and how to file returns on time.
Read guide →How to File a Texas Sales Tax Return: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to file a Texas sales tax return online. File via eSystems by the 20th each period, even zero-dollar returns, or face a $50 late filing penalty.
Read guide →Texas Sales Tax Due Dates 2026: Monthly, Quarterly, and Annual Deadlines
Texas sales tax returns are due the 20th of each period. Get every 2026 due date for monthly, quarterly, and annual filers, plus penalties for filing late.
Read guide →Texas Sales Tax Rate by City 2026: State Rate Plus Local
Texas sales tax is 6.25% state plus up to 2% local, capping at 8.25%. Find the combined rate for Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and other Texas cities.
Read guide →Texas Sales Tax Exempt Items: Complete List for 2026
Texas sales tax exemptions include groceries, prescription drugs, digital goods, and resale purchases. Learn which items are exempt and how to document sales.
Read guide →Texas Resale Certificate: How to Use It and Stay Compliant
A Texas resale certificate lets you buy goods tax-free for resale. Learn which form to use, how to fill it out correctly, and what happens if you misuse it.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax Extension: How to Get More Time to File
Texas franchise tax extension moves your filing deadline to November 15 — but payment is still due May 15. Learn how to request one and avoid late penalties.
Read guide →What Is Texas Franchise Tax? 2026 Rates, Thresholds & Who Must File
Texas franchise tax is a state business tax covering all Texas LLCs, filed by May 15 — even if no tax is owed. 2026 threshold, rates, and forms explained.
Read guide →Texas LLC After-Formation Checklist: 7 Steps to Take Right Now
After forming a Texas LLC, complete these 7 steps: get an EIN, activate WebFile, verify your registered agent, and apply for a sales tax permit if needed.
Read guide →Texas LLC Annual Requirements: What You Must File Every Year
Texas LLCs must meet two annual requirements: a franchise tax report and PIR, both due May 15. Here's what to file and the penalties for missing deadlines.
Read guide →Texas Franchise Tax Questionnaire: What It Is and How to Complete It
The Texas franchise tax questionnaire sets up your Comptroller account. Learn what it asks, when to respond, and how to avoid penalties for your Texas LLC.
Read guide →How to Set Up a Texas WebFile Account (Step-by-Step Guide)
Set up your Texas Comptroller WebFile account step by step. File your franchise tax report, PIR, and sales tax returns online in under 15 minutes today.
Read guide →Texas LLC Operating Agreement: Required by Law or Not?
Texas LLCs are not legally required to have an operating agreement. Without one, state default rules govern your LLC and may not match what members intend.
Read guide →Texas LLC EIN: How to Get Your Federal Tax ID Number
How to get an EIN for your Texas LLC: apply free on IRS.gov in 10 minutes and receive your federal tax ID number instantly. Step-by-step instructions here.
Read guide →Texas Employer Requirements: First Employee Checklist (2026)
First employee in Texas? You need a federal EIN, TWC UI tax account, new hire report, and I-9 verification. Here's exactly what Texas employers must do.
Read guide →Texas New Hire Reporting: What Every Employer Must Know
Texas employers must report every new hire to the AG's Office within 20 days. Learn who must file, how to submit, and what penalties you face if late.
Read guide →Texas Unemployment Insurance Tax Filing: What Employers Owe the TWC
Texas employers with W-2 employees must file quarterly UI tax reports with TWC. Due dates: April 30, July 31, Oct 31, Jan 31. Learn rates, forms, penalties.
Read guide →Is Workers Compensation Required in Texas? What LLC Owners Need to Know
Texas does NOT require most private employers to carry workers' compensation — but opting out has serious legal risks. Learn what the law actually requires.
Read guide →Texas W-2 vs 1099 Classification: How to Tell If Your Worker Is an Employee or Contractor
Texas uses the 'direction and control' test to classify workers as W-2 employees or 1099 contractors. Misclassification costs back taxes and penalties.
Read guide →Texas Registered Agent Requirements for LLCs: What the Law Requires
Every Texas LLC must keep a registered agent with a physical Texas street address. Learn requirements, who qualifies, what happens if you do not comply.
Read guide →How to Change Your Registered Agent in Texas (Form 401)
To change your registered agent in Texas, file Form 401 with the SOS online for $15. The change takes effect immediately. Step-by-step instructions inside.
Read guide →Can You Be Your Own Registered Agent in Texas? Pros, Cons, and Requirements
You can be your own registered agent in Texas if you have a physical TX street address and are available during business hours. Learn the rules, pros, and cons.
Read guide →How to Amend a Texas LLC Certificate of Formation (Form 424)
To amend your Texas LLC certificate of formation, file Form 424 with the SOS for $150. Change your name, registered agent, or purpose. Instructions included.
Read guide →Texas LLC Foreign Registration: How to Register an Out-of-State LLC in Texas
Before doing business in Texas, an out-of-state LLC must register with the Texas SOS using Form 304. Learn the $750 fee, steps, and franchise tax rules.
Read guide →How to Register an Out-of-State LLC in Texas (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
To register an out-of-state LLC in Texas, file Form 304 with the SOS, pay $750, and appoint a Texas registered agent. Here's the complete 2026 walkthrough.
Read guide →Houston Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
Houston business license requirements: no general city license needed, but your LLC must file franchise tax, get a sales tax permit, and meet industry rules.
Read guide →Austin Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
Austin business license requirements explained: no general city license, but your LLC needs franchise tax, a sales tax permit, and specific city permits.
Read guide →Dallas Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
Dallas business license requirements: no general city license needed, but your LLC must file franchise tax, get a sales tax permit, and meet city permit rules.
Read guide →San Antonio Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
San Antonio business license requirements: no general city license, but Texas LLCs must meet franchise tax, sales tax, and San Antonio permit obligations.
Read guide →Fort Worth Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
Fort Worth business license requirements: no general city license, but Texas LLCs must meet franchise tax, sales tax, and Fort Worth permit obligations.
Read guide →El Paso Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
El Paso business license requirements: no general city license, but Texas LLCs must file franchise tax, obtain permits, and meet El Paso-specific compliance.
Read guide →Arlington Texas Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
Arlington Texas business license requirements: no general city license, but LLCs must meet Texas franchise tax, sales tax, and Arlington permit obligations.
Read guide →Plano Texas Business License: What Your LLC Actually Needs to Operate
Plano Texas business license guide: no general city license, but LLCs must meet Texas franchise tax, sales tax, and Plano-specific permit requirements.
Read guide →Frisco Texas Business Permit: What You Actually Need (2026)
Frisco, TX doesn't require a general business license, but most businesses need a Certificate of Occupancy or home occupation permit. Here's your checklist.
Read guide →McKinney Texas Business License: What You Actually Need (2026)
McKinney, TX doesn't require a general business license, but most businesses need a Certificate of Occupancy or home occupation permit. Here's what you need.
Read guide →Round Rock Texas Business License: What You Actually Need (2026)
Round Rock, TX has no general business license, but businesses need a Certificate of Occupancy or home occupation permit. Get the full permit checklist here.
Read guide →Georgetown Texas Business License: What You Actually Need (2026)
Georgetown, TX has no general business license, but businesses need a Certificate of Occupancy or home occupation permit. Get the full permit checklist here.
Read guide →Corpus Christi Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
Corpus Christi business license requirements: no general city license, but Texas LLCs must meet franchise tax, sales tax, and Corpus Christi permit obligations.
Read guide →Lubbock Texas Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
Lubbock, Texas business license: no general city license is required, but LLCs must file franchise tax, get a sales tax permit, and obtain city permits.
Read guide →Laredo Texas Business License Requirements: What Your LLC Actually Needs
Laredo, Texas business license: no general city permit required, but LLCs must file franchise tax, get a sales tax permit, and comply with city rules.
Read guide →Texas LLC vs Sole Proprietorship: Which Is Right for Your Business?
Texas LLC vs sole proprietorship: compare liability protection, Texas franchise tax obligations, formation costs, and compliance to choose the right structure.
Read guide →Texas LLC vs Corporation Compliance: What's Actually Different
Texas LLC vs corporation compliance: both owe franchise tax and PIR by May 15, but corporations require more annual governance formalities. Compare them here.
Read guide →Ortholo does not file documents or provide legal or tax advice. We provide compliance reminders and information only. Consult a licensed attorney or CPA for advice specific to your situation.