How To Start A Business In Houston
If you’re thinking about starting a business in the United States, one of the most popular and convenient options is to open a company in Houston. This magnificent state is the perfect place to put down roots and watch your business grow. Why?
According to figures provided by Business News Daily, Texas currently has 3 million businesses employing over 4.9 million people. This demonstrates how robust the economy is in a state full of opportunities for entrepreneurs and a welcoming business environment.
Having a professional Houston tax advisory firm to assist us at this stage can make the difference between a successful decision or not. A Houston CPA firm with committed CPAs and accountants that focus on providing customer service strategies and resolving industry challenges.
How To Get Started
There are seven basic steps to start a business anywhere in the world, and Texas is no exception. When starting, it’s important to keep these steps in mind to ensure you’re not overlooking anything crucial.
Starting a business from scratch is hard work and requires a high level of attention to detail, so it’s always important to have an accountant who can advise you at each stage.
In this regard, if you are in Houston, working closely with a Houston CPA firm that advises companies on how to structure their strategy will be crucial for its success. Some of them, like Evans Sternau, offer comprehensive services that allow you to take the next step with confidence and with the least possible risks.
The seven steps to start your business are:
- Develop your business plan.
- Choose your business location.
- Finance your business.
- Decide on the business structure and register your company’s name.
- Determine the business’s tax responsibilities.
- Find out about mandatory licenses and permits.
- Understand commercial employer requirements.
Why Open An LLC Company In Houston Or Texas?
There are several reasons to consider starting an LLC in Texas, the most important being:
- Administrative structure flexibility
- Unlike other corporate structures, an LLC in Texas allows owners to have a flexible operating agreement that suits the business’s needs.
- Tax benefits
- LLCs have a favorable tax system as profits and losses are reported on the owner’s tax return, avoiding double taxation and allowing for a lower tax rate compared to corporations.
- Business credit
- Establishing an LLC in Texas can help you build a strong business credit history and facilitate access to financing for future business growth.
- Low state tax rate and favorable structure
- Texas is known for offering an attractive business environment due to its low state tax rates and business-friendly laws.
- Privacy: By registering an LLC in Texas, you can maintain a certain level of personal and professional privacy as you don’t need to disclose certain personal details in the formation documents publicly.
How To Register An LLC In Texas
Even though all states have similar requirements, there are some distinct ones. To register a company in Houston, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose A Name For Your LLC
The name must be unique and distinguishable from other entities registered in Texas. You can check the name’s availability on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts website. The search process is entirely free if done online or by phone.
Step 2: Appoint A Registered Agent
Your LLC must have a registered agent in Texas responsible for receiving legal documents and notices on the company’s behalf. The agent can be a member or employee of the LLC, an attorney, or a specialized registered agent service.
Step 3: File The Certificate Of Formation
You’ll need to complete and file Form 205 with the Texas Secretary of State along with the appropriate fee. This form requires basic information such as the LLC’s name and address, registered agent details, management structure, and other relevant information.
Step 4: Create An Operating Agreement
While not a legal requirement in Texas, it’s recommended to create an operating agreement. This document establishes the internal rules and regulations of your LLC, as well as the rights and responsibilities of the members. It’s an internal document and doesn’t need to be filed with the Secretary of State or any other public entity.
Step 5: Apply For An Employer Identification Number (Ein)
This is a number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify employers and other business entities. The EIN is used for tax filing, opening business bank accounts, obtaining licenses and permits, and establishing business relationships with other companies.
Step 6: File Franchise Tax And Public Information Report
In the state of Texas, all LLCs are required to file an annual Texas franchise tax report and a public information report by May 15 each year.
Step 7: Comply With Tax And Legal Obligations
In the United States, there are three levels of taxes: federal, state, and local, and your business must comply with all of them. The good news is that in Texas, there are no personal state income taxes, but federal taxes still apply. Depending on your business activities, you may also be required to pay other state or local taxes. To find out more, consult the taxes and fees in Texas.
Step 8: Open A Business Bank Account
Keep your personal and company finances separate by opening a dedicated business bank account for your LLC.
Conclusion
If you have these points in mind, you are already one step ahead. Hence, it wouldn’t be too difficult for you to open a company in Houston. While it’s not impossible to do it on your own, remember that it’s always better to seek the advice of a professional for peace of mind.
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