If you’ve ever needed to look up a company in Texas, verify if a business name is available, or confirm that a corporation or LLC is in good standing, then you’ve probably heard of the Texas Business Entity Search.

This powerful online tool, maintained by the Texas Secretary of State, allows anyone entrepreneurs, investors, lawyers, and even curious consumers to search official state records and learn more about a business entity operating in Texas.

A Texas business entity search can answer questions like:

• Is this company legally registered in Texas?
• Who is the registered agent for this LLC?
• When was this business formed?
• Is the company active, inactive, or dissolved?

Whether you’re planning to start a business, considering investing in one, or simply doing your due diligence before signing a contract, knowing how to use the Texas business entity search correctly is a valuable skill.

Why This Guide Matters

The truth is, business entity searches aren’t just for attorneys or accountants. Everyday people use them for:

• Checking business legitimacy before making a big purchase.
• Making sure their desired company name isn’t already taken.
• Confirming a registered agent for service of legal documents.
• Researching a competitor’s public filings.
• Finding public documents like Certificates of Formation.

Example:
If you were starting a catering business in Dallas called “Lone Star Catering,” a quick Texas business entity search would show you if that name is already taken or too similar to an existing business.

Quick Facts About Texas Business Entity Search

Feature	Details
Maintained By	Texas Secretary of State (SOS)
Database Name	SOSDirect
Access	Online, 24/7
Search By	Entity Name, File Number, or Registered Agent
Cost	Basic search results are free; certified documents require a fee
Updates	Updated daily

In the sections ahead, we’ll break down exactly how the Texas business entity search works, when to use it, the type of information you can find, and how to avoid common mistakes that could waste your time. By the end, you’ll be able to navigate the system like a pro whether you’re starting your own LLC, checking out a potential business partner, or just satisfying your curiosity.

What is a Texas Business Entity Search?

A Texas Business Entity Search is an online search tool provided by the Texas Secretary of State that lets you find official information about a business registered in Texas. This includes corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships (LPs), and other legal entities. The data comes from the SOSDirect database, which is the official record of business filings in Texas.

In simple terms, it’s like a public phone book for Texas businesses except instead of phone numbers, you get legal details such as formation dates, registered agents, and filing history. Anyone can use it; you don’t need special permission or a legal background.

Who Uses the Texas Business Entity Search?

This tool is widely used by:

• Entrepreneurs – to check if a business name is available before filing formation documents.
• Investors – to confirm a company’s legal standing before putting in money.
• Lawyers – to obtain official records for court cases or contracts.
• Consumers – to verify the legitimacy of a company before doing business.
• Government Agencies – for compliance and enforcement purposes.

Types of Entities You Can Search

The Texas Business Entity Search covers most business structures, including:

• Corporations (Inc.)
• Limited Liability Companies (LLC)
• Limited Partnerships (LP)
• Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)
• Professional Corporations (PC)
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Assumed Name/DBA filings

Note: Sole proprietorships without an assumed name aren’t registered at the state level in Texas, so they won’t appear in the Texas business entity search.

Why Texas Uses SOSDirect

Texas operates the SOSDirect system to:

• Maintain accurate public records of businesses.
• Allow quick verification of entity status.
• Support transparency in commerce.
• Provide an official, centralized source for business information.

This database is updated daily, meaning the information you see is current and reliable for most legal and business purposes.

Key takeaway:
A Texas Business Entity Search is more than just a name lookup. It’s a statewide verification tool that helps ensure the integrity of Texas’s business environment. Knowing how to use it can protect you from scams, legal disputes, and costly mistakes.

Why You Might Need to Do a Texas Business Entity Search

There are many reasons to use the Texas Business Entity Search and not all of them involve starting a business yourself. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an investor, or simply a cautious customer, this tool can help you make informed decisions. Below are the most common scenarios where a search can be valuable.

Checking Business Name Availability

Before registering a new LLC or corporation in Texas, you must ensure your chosen business name is unique and not already in use.

• The Texas Secretary of State rejects filings with names that are identical or too similar to existing entities.
• A Texas business entity search can quickly confirm whether your desired name is available or needs adjusting.

Example:
If you want to start “Hill Country Coffee Roasters, LLC,” a quick search might show that “Hill Country Coffee” already exists, meaning you’d need to modify your name to avoid conflicts.

Verifying a Company’s Registration Status

When doing business with another company, it’s smart to check if they’re legally registered and in good standing.

• This protects you from working with unregistered or inactive entities.
• You can see whether the business has forfeited its right to operate due to unpaid taxes or compliance issues.

Pro Tip: Always confirm a company’s status before signing contracts or paying deposits

Finding a Registered Agent’s Details

Every registered business in Texas must appoint a registered agent to receive legal documents.

• The Texas business entity search reveals the agent’s name and address.
• This is essential if you need to serve legal papers or send official correspondence.

Reviewing a Company’s Filing History

A search can show the timeline of a business’s filings, such as:

• Date of formation
• Changes in registered agents
• Amendments to the company’s structure
• Mergers, dissolutions, or reinstatements

This helps you understand the stability and history of a company before working with them.

Researching Competitors or Market Opportunities

Entrepreneurs often use the Texas business entity search as a market research tool:

• Identify new players in your industry.
• See how competitors are structuring their businesses.
• Spot emerging trends in business naming or entity types.

Due Diligence Before Contracts or Investments

Investors and contractors use the search to:

• Verify the legitimacy of a partner.
• Ensure the business is active and compliant.
• Avoid partnering with companies that have a poor compliance record.

Case in Point:
A Houston investor almost funded a “promising” tech startup until a Texas business entity search revealed that the company’s registration had been forfeited for two years due to unpaid franchise taxes. The search prevented a costly mistake.

Bottom line:
The Texas Business Entity Search is not just for paperwork it’s a risk management tool. Whether you’re naming your business, checking on a partner, or avoiding fraud, the information you find can save you time, money, and stress.

How to Perform a Texas Business Entity Search

The process of running a Texas Business Entity Search is straightforward, but knowing the exact steps will help you save time and avoid frustration. Texas offers this service through its SOSDirect system the official online business database maintained by the Texas Secretary of State.

Below is a complete walkthrough.

Step 1 – Access the SOSDirect Website

1. Go to the Texas Secretary of State SOSDirect Portal.
2. Click on the “SOSDirect” link in the menu.
3. Accept the terms and conditions before proceeding.

Note: The SOSDirect system is the only official source for Texas business entity information. Avoid relying solely on third-party sites for legal or financial decisions.

Step 2 – Choose Search Type

You can search in several ways depending on the information you have:

Search Option	Best For	Example
Entity Name	When you know the company’s name	“Bluebonnet Solar LLC”
File Number	If you have the state-issued entity number	123456789
Registered Agent Name	When searching for all businesses linked to one agent	“John A. Smith”

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure of spelling, use partial names or keywords to broaden your search results.

Step 3 – Review Search Results

Once you run the search, you’ll see:

• Entity Name
• File Number
• Status (Active, Inactive, Forfeited, etc.)
• Entity Type (LLC, Corporation, Nonprofit, etc.)
• Registered Agent Name & Address

Clicking on a specific entity will give you more detailed records, such as:

• Formation date
• Public filings
• Amendments
• Merger or dissolution records

Step 4 – Download or Request Certified Documents

If you need official proof:

• You can purchase Certificates of Formation, Certificates of Good Standing, or copies of filings.
• Fees usually range from $1 to $10 per document, with certified copies costing more.
• Payments can be made via credit card.

Cost and Access

• Basic Search: Free (viewing limited entity details)
• Detailed View / Documents: Paid ($1+ per record)
• Certified Copies: Extra fees apply

Important: SOSDirect charges $1 per search query, even if you don’t find a matching result. Keep this in mind when running multiple searches.

Tips for Faster Searches

• Use exact match when you know the exact entity name.
• Avoid punctuation and extra spaces.
• If results are too broad, try adding more keywords.
• For multiple searches, keep a list of exact names or file numbers to avoid extra charges.

Key takeaway:
Performing a Texas Business Entity Search is simple once you know the steps and search options. Using the SOSDirect system ensures you’re getting accurate, up-to-date, and legally reliable information.

Understanding the Texas SOSDirect System

The Texas SOSDirect system is the official online platform for accessing public business records in Texas. It’s operated by the Texas Secretary of State’s Office and serves as the central hub for business filings, searches, and document requests.

If the Texas Business Entity Search is the tool, SOSDirect is the engine behind it

What is SOSDirect?

• Launched: 2001
• Purpose: Provide secure, 24/7 access to state business records and services.
• Users: Entrepreneurs, attorneys, accountants, investors, government agencies, and the general public.

The system is designed for both public lookups and official filings. This means you can not only search for an existing business but also file formation documents, update registered agent details, or request certified copies directly from the same portal.

Services Offered by SOSDirect

While most people use SOSDirect for Texas business entity searches, it provides a range of services, including:

• Entity Search – Look up corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and nonprofits.
• Name Availability Check – See if a desired business name is free to use.
• Document Filing – Submit Certificates of Formation, amendments, and terminations.
• Certified Document Requests – Order official, certified copies of filings.
• Certificates of Fact – Obtain certificates of good standing, status, or fact.
• UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) Filings – Search and file secured transaction notices.

Costs and Fees

While viewing basic information is free, SOSDirect does have associated costs:

Service	Cost
Basic Name Search	Free
Entity Information View	$1 per entity
Certified Copies	Varies ($1–$10+)
Name Reservation	$40
Filing Formation Documents	$300 for most for-profit corporations & LLCs

Note: SOSDirect operates on a pay-per-transaction model, meaning you pay as you go — there are no monthly subscription fees.

How SOSDirect Ensures Accuracy

The Texas Secretary of State updates SOSDirect daily, reflecting new filings, changes, or entity status updates. This ensures:

• Up-to-date legal records.
• Reliable verification for legal and financial transactions.
• Compliance with Texas transparency laws.

Limitations of SOSDirect

While comprehensive, the system has a few limitations:

• Historical Data Gaps: Very old business records may not be digitized.
• Spelling Sensitivity: Searches require precise spelling for best results.
• No EIN Lookup: Federal Employer Identification Numbers are not available.

Key takeaway:
The SOSDirect system is more than a search database — it’s the official gateway to Texas business compliance and records. If you need reliable, legal proof of a company’s existence, status, or filings in Texas, SOSDirect is your first stop.

Information You Can Find in a Texas Business Entity Search

When you perform a Texas Business Entity Search through SOSDirect, you gain access to a wealth of official business information filed with the Texas Secretary of State. This data can help you verify legitimacy, check compliance, and make informed decisions before working with a company.

1. Legal Business Name

The exact, registered name of the business as filed with the Texas Secretary of State.

• Ensures there’s no confusion between similarly named businesses.
• Helps avoid legal disputes over trademarks or trade names.

2. Entity Type

The type of business structure:

• LLC – Limited Liability Company
• Corp. / Inc. – Corporation
• LP – Limited Partnership
• LLP – Limited Liability Partnership
• PC – Professional Corporation
• Nonprofit – Charitable or membership-based organization

Example: “Rio Grande Builders LLC” would clearly be registered as an LLC, giving you insight into its liability protections.

3. Status

The current standing of the entity:

• Active / In Good Standing – The business is compliant with state requirements.
• Inactive – The business has been voluntarily closed.
• Forfeited – The state revoked its right to operate, often due to unpaid taxes.
• Dissolved – The business no longer exists as a legal entity.

4. Filing History

The business’s timeline of official documents, which may include:

• Certificate of Formation
• Amendments to the business structure or name
• Mergers or conversions
• Dissolution filings

Why it matters: Reviewing filing history can reveal changes in ownership or structure, which could affect contracts or partnerships.

5. Formation Date

The official date the business was registered with the state.

• Useful for understanding business longevity and stability.
• Newer companies may present higher risk than established ones.

6. Registered Agent Information

Details of the person or entity authorized to receive legal documents:

• Name of the registered agent
• Registered office address

This is critical if you need to:

• Serve legal papers
• Send compliance notices
• Verify who represents the business officially

7. Public Documents

Depending on the entity, you may be able to view or order:

• Certificates of Fact (good standing, status, or existence)
• Formation documents
• Amendments
• Mergers and conversions

Sample Texas Business Entity Search Result Table:

Field	Example Result
Entity Name	Longhorn Logistics LLC
File Number	0804567890
Entity Type	Domestic Limited Liability Company
Status	Active
Formation Date	March 12, 2018
Registered Agent	Maria Gonzalez
Agent Address	456 Main Street, Austin, TX 78701

Key takeaway:
A Texas Business Entity Search doesn’t just tell you if a business exists it gives you full context about its legal identity, structure, compliance history, and official contacts. This level of detail is essential for making informed, risk-free business decisions.

Common Issues with Texas Business Entity Searches

While the Texas Business Entity Search is a powerful and reliable tool, it’s not without its challenges. Many users — from first-time entrepreneurs to experienced attorneys run into problems that can slow down their search or lead to incorrect conclusions.

Below are the most frequent issues and how to avoid them.

1. Similar or Duplicate Names

Texas has thousands of registered businesses, and many have similar names.

• A search for “Lone Star Roofing” may return multiple results, like “Lone Star Roofing & Construction LLC” or “Lone Star Roofers Inc.”
• This can make it difficult to determine if a name is truly available for registration.

Tip: Use the file number search or check the name availability tool within SOSDirect for more precise results.

2. Outdated Contact or Agent Information

While Texas businesses are required to keep their registered agent details up to date, some fail to file changes promptly.

• You may find an old address or outdated registered agent information.
• This could delay legal notices or correspondence.

Tip: Cross-check registered agent details with the company directly or via certified filings.

3. Typos or Incorrect Search Terms

The SOSDirect system is sensitive to spelling.

• “Bluebonnet Cafe LLC” will not match “Bluebonnett Cafe LLC” (extra ‘t’).
• Abbreviations can also affect results (e.g., “Co” vs. “Company”).

Tip: Try partial name searches or use wildcards if available.

4. Status Misunderstandings

Entity status terms can be confusing:

• Forfeited – Business lost its right to operate, usually for unpaid taxes.
• Inactive – Business is no longer operating but may be reinstated.
• Terminated – Business voluntarily or involuntarily dissolved.

Tip: Always read the status notes in detail before assuming the business is completely shut down.

5. Charges for Multiple Searches

SOSDirect charges $1 per search, even if no results appear.

• Running multiple trial searches without refining terms can quickly add up.

Tip: Prepare a list of exact names or numbers before logging into the system.

6. Missing Historical Records

Older records, especially for businesses formed before the system went online, may not be fully digitized.

• Some historical data may require a manual records request from the Secretary of State.

Example Case:
A San Antonio lawyer searching for a defunct construction company found only limited results in SOSDirect. A call to the Texas Secretary of State’s records division revealed that the business’s early filings existed only in microfilm archives.

Key takeaway:
Most issues with the Texas Business Entity Search come down to search technique and data accuracy. By understanding these challenges, you can avoid costly mistakes and get the exact information you need faster.

Texas Business Entity Search vs. Other State Searches

If you’ve ever used a business entity search tool in another state, you’ll notice that Texas’s SOSDirect system is both similar in purpose and different in execution. While the goal is the same to provide public access to business records the search options, fees, and available details can vary widely between states.

How Texas Differs from Other States

1. Fee-Based Searches
   • Many states, such as California and Florida, allow unlimited free searches.
   • Texas charges $1 per detailed search result and additional fees for certified copies.
   • This fee model means Texas records are highly maintained, but it can be costly for bulk research.
2. Advanced Search Options
   • Texas allows searches by entity name, file number, and registered agent.
   • Some states only offer name-based searches.
3. Centralized Filing & Search Portal
   • SOSDirect handles both filings and searches in one platform.
   • In states like New York, you must use separate systems for filings and business lookups.
4. Daily Updates
   • Texas updates its database daily, ensuring near real-time accuracy.
   • Some states only update weekly or monthly.
5. UCC Filings Integration
   • Texas’s SOSDirect also provides Uniform Commercial Code filing searches, which many states keep in a separate database.

Comparison Table: Texas vs. Other States

Feature	Texas (SOSDirect)	California	Florida
Search Fee	$1 per detailed search	Free	Free
Search by Registered Agent	Yes	No	Yes
Document Downloads	Paid	Free PDFs	Free PDFs
Daily Updates	Yes	Yes	Yes
Integrated Filing Portal	Yes	No	Yes
UCC Search Integration	Yes	Separate system	Yes

Why State-Specific Searches Matter

A Texas business entity search only includes entities registered in Texas.

• If a business operates in multiple states, you may need to search in each state’s database to get the full picture.
• This is especially important for franchise businesses, multi-state corporations, or companies that have relocated.

Example:
If you search for “Southwest Energy Solutions” in Texas, you might find their Texas LLC. But they could also have a Delaware corporation registered for tax purposes something you’d only discover by checking Delaware’s state database.

Key takeaway:
The Texas Business Entity Search is powerful, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. For complete due diligence, you may need to check other state databases, especially if the business operates across state lines.

Alternatives to SOSDirect for Texas Business Lookups

While the Texas SOSDirect system is the official source for Texas business records, there are other ways to gather information about companies operating in the state. These alternatives can sometimes be more convenient, cost-effective, or specialized depending on your needs.

1. Third-Party Commercial Databases

Several private websites compile business data from state filings and other public sources.

• Examples: OpenCorporates, Manta, Buzzfile, Dun & Bradstreet.
• Pros:
  • Often free for basic searches.
  • May include additional data like financial info, employee counts, or reviews.
• Cons:
  • Data may be outdated or incomplete.
  • Not an official legal record.

Best For: Quick lookups when you don’t need certified or up-to-the-minute information.

2. County-Level Business Records

In Texas, DBA (Doing Business As) filings are often recorded at the county clerk’s office for sole proprietorships and partnerships.

• Pros:
  • Free or low-cost access in most counties.
  • Useful for businesses that aren’t registered at the state level.
• Cons:
  • Not centralized you must check the specific county where the business operates.

Best For: Verifying small, local businesses that may not appear in the state’s database.

3. Federal Databases

Some business-related information is stored at the federal level:

• USPTO Trademark Search – Check for federally registered trademarks that match a business name.
• SEC EDGAR Database – Public companies must file financial and corporate reports here.
• SAM.gov – Lists businesses registered to do work with the U.S. government.

Best For: Researching intellectual property, securities filings, or government contractors.

4. Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts

The Texas Comptroller offers a Franchise Tax Status Search that can confirm whether a business is in good standing for tax purposes.

• Pros:
  • Free to use.
  • Verifies tax compliance separately from SOSDirect.
• Cons:
  • Limited details — won’t provide registered agent or full filing history.

Best For: Checking if a company owes taxes or has lost its right to operate.

5. Professional Research Services

Attorneys, investigators, and corporate service companies can perform comprehensive business searches for you.

• Pros:
  • Saves time and ensures accuracy.
  • Can include multi-state searches and deep background checks.
• Cons:
  • Can be expensive.

Best For: High-value transactions, mergers, or litigation cases.

Key takeaway:
While SOSDirect is the gold standard for Texas business entity data, these alternative sources can provide supplementary insights or serve as faster, cheaper options when you don’t need certified records.

Legal Considerations When Using Texas Business Entity Search

Using the Texas Business Entity Search can provide valuable insights, but it’s important to remember that business record information is subject to legal boundaries and responsible use requirements.

1. Public Record vs. Private Information

• Public Record:
  • Business name, entity type, status, registered agent, and filing history are public in Texas.
  • Anyone can access this data without special permission.
• Private Information:
  • Some filings may contain sensitive details like addresses or personal names. While public, misuse could lead to privacy complaints.

Tip: If you are a business owner, consider using a professional registered agent to avoid listing your personal address publicly.

2. Data Accuracy and Reliance

• The Texas SOS database is authoritative but not immune to human error.
• Always verify important information before relying on it for legal or contractual purposes.
• Certified copies or Certificates of Fact from SOSDirect are legally recognized documents, unlike screenshots or third-party database results.

3. Avoiding Misuse of Information

It’s illegal in Texas and under federal law to:

• Use public records for identity theft or fraud.
• Spam registered agents or company officers.
• Sell personal data without consent.

Violations could result in civil penalties or criminal charges.

4. Intellectual Property Considerations

• Just because a business name is available in SOSDirect doesn’t mean it’s free to use.
• Check federal trademarks and Texas state trademark filings to avoid infringement.

5. Contract and Due Diligence Requirements

If you’re entering into a business contract, lenders, lawyers, and investors often require:

• A Certificate of Good Standing
• Verification of the entity’s exact legal name
• Confirmation of authority for company signatories

Failing to perform this due diligence can cause enforceability issues.

Quick Compliance Checklist for Texas Business Lookups:

• Use only for legitimate business, research, or legal purposes.
• Verify with certified documents before acting.
• Cross-check with tax and trademark records.
• Protect sensitive personal data from misuse.

If used correctly, the Texas Business Entity Search is a powerful tool for transparency and risk management but ethical and legal compliance should always come first.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Texas Business Entity Search

Even though the Texas Business Entity Search is straightforward, there are several frequent errors that can lead to incorrect results, missed opportunities, or wasted time. Understanding these mistakes will help you use the tool more effectively.

1. Using the Wrong Search Criteria

• Mistake: Searching only by part of a name without using “Contains” or “Begins With” filters.
• Impact: May miss relevant records or bring up too many unrelated results.
• Fix: Use the correct search option — “Begins With” for narrowing results, “Contains” for broader searches.

2. Ignoring Spelling Variations

• Mistake: Not considering that businesses may have abbreviations, punctuation, or alternative spellings.
• Example: Searching only for “ABC Company” may miss “A.B.C. Co.”
• Fix: Try multiple variations and remove punctuation for best results.

3. Confusing Entity Status

• Mistake: Assuming “Inactive” means the business is completely gone.
• Reality: Some inactive entities can be reinstated.
• Fix: Check filing history to understand why the status changed.

4. Overlooking the Registered Agent Information

• Mistake: Skipping the registered agent section.
• Why It Matters: The registered agent is the official contact for legal notices.
• Fix: Always confirm that the registered agent matches official filings.

5. Not Verifying with Certified Records

• Mistake: Relying solely on the free database for legal or financial decisions.
• Risk: Public listings may have minor errors or outdated info.
• Fix: Order certified documents from SOSDirect for official proof.

6. Ignoring Similar Business Names

• Mistake: Registering a name without checking for confusingly similar ones.
• Risk: Could lead to trademark disputes or legal challenges.
• Fix: Search for exact and similar matches, and check trademark databases.

7. Misusing Public Information

• Mistake: Using business contact data for marketing spam.
• Risk: Violates Texas anti-spam and federal privacy laws.
• Fix: Use data only for legitimate business or legal purposes.

Pro Tip:

“When in doubt, confirm with a Texas SOS representative. A five-minute phone call can save weeks of legal trouble.”

By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure your Texas Business Entity Search process is accurate, efficient, and legally compliant.

Alternatives to Texas Business Entity Search

While the Texas Business Entity Search is the most direct and reliable way to find information on Texas-registered businesses, it’s not the only tool available.
Depending on your needs, you might want to supplement it with federal databases, commercial services, or local resources.

1. SOSDirect (Official Texas Secretary of State System)

• What It Is: A paid system by the Texas SOS that offers certified copies of documents, detailed filing histories, and name reservations.
• When to Use:
  • Need official certified records.
  • Want to reserve a business name before registration.
  • Research detailed amendments or ownership changes.

2. Texas Comptroller’s Office Taxable Entity Search

• URL: Texas Comptroller Taxable Entity Search
• Features:
  • Shows franchise tax status.
  • Reveals if a business is in good standing for tax purposes.
• Best For: Checking if a business can legally operate in Texas.

3. USPTO Trademark Search

• URL: TESS – Trademark Electronic Search System
• Purpose: Ensures a business name or logo doesn’t infringe on existing trademarks.
• Best For: Businesses concerned with branding and avoiding legal disputes.

4. County Clerk & Local Government Records

• Where to Find: Visit the county clerk’s office in the county where the business is located.
• Why Use:
  • Access assumed name (DBA) filings.
  • Get property ownership records linked to the business.

5. Commercial Business Databases

• Examples: Dun & Bradstreet, LexisNexis, and ZoomInfo.
• Advantages:
  • Detailed financial profiles.
  • Credit reports for assessing business risk.
• Drawback: Often subscription-based and costly.

6. Federal EIN Lookup (IRS)

• Limitations: The IRS doesn’t have a public searchable EIN database, but EIN information might be available on SEC filings or nonprofit Form 990s.

Comparison Table: Texas Business Search Alternatives

Source	Cost	Key Data Provided	Best For
Texas SOS Free Search	Free	Entity name, status, registered agent	General business info
SOSDirect	Paid	Certified docs, filing history	Legal/official proof
Texas Comptroller Taxable Entity Search	Free	Tax status, standing	Verifying compliance
USPTO TESS	Free	Trademarks	Brand name checks
County Clerk	Varies	DBA filings, property records	Local, small business research
Dun & Bradstreet / LexisNexis	Paid	Credit, financial, risk data	Business credit and risk assessment

Pro Tip:

“When making legal or financial decisions, it’s best to cross-check at least two official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date business data.”

FAQs about Texas Business Entity Search

Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about Texas Business Entity Search.
These concise, answer-focused responses are structured for Google’s featured snippets and voice search results.

1. How do I perform a Texas Business Entity Search?

You can search for a business in Texas by visiting the Texas Secretary of State’s Business Search tool online.
Enter the business name, filing number, or registered agent to retrieve details like status, formation date, and entity type.

2. Is the Texas Business Entity Search free?

Yes, the basic search is free.
However, if you need certified documents or detailed filings, you must use SOSDirect, which requires a small fee.

3. What information can I find in the Texas Business Entity Search?

You can find:

• Business name & status (active, inactive, forfeited, etc.)
• Entity type (LLC, corporation, nonprofit)
• Formation date
• Registered agent details
• Filing number
• Governing persons (in some cases)

4. Can I check if a business name is available in Texas?

Yes. Use the search tool to see if your desired name is already taken.
If it’s free, you can reserve it via SOSDirect for 120 days.

5. How do I find the owner of a business in Texas?

Sometimes, the owner’s name is listed as a governing person in the search results.
If not, check assumed name filings at the county clerk’s office or other public records.

6. Does Texas have a business license search?

Texas does not have a single statewide business license database.
Licensing is handled at the state agency or local government level, depending on the industry.

7. How accurate is the Texas Business Entity Search?

The database is maintained by the Texas Secretary of State and is generally accurate and up to date, but recent filings may take time to appear.

8. Can I search by EIN in Texas?

No. Texas does not allow public searches by EIN due to privacy and security laws.

9. What’s the difference between the Texas SOS Search and the Texas Comptroller’s Search?

• Texas SOS Search → Focuses on legal entity details and registration status.
• Texas Comptroller Search → Focuses on tax standing and franchise tax status.

10. How can I get official proof of a Texas business’s existence?

Request a Certificate of Fact – Status from the Secretary of State through SOSDirect.
This document is legally recognized and often required for contracts or legal proceedings.

Conclusion

The Texas Business Entity Search is an essential tool for anyone involved in business in the Lone Star State whether you’re a new entrepreneur, an investor, or simply verifying a company’s legitimacy.
By using the Texas Secretary of State’s search tool effectively, you can:

• Confirm business name availability before filing your formation documents.
• Verify registration status and ensure compliance with Texas law.
• Access important details like registered agent information and formation dates.
• Protect yourself from fraud by validating the legitimacy of a company.

Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Texas Business Entity Search

1. Always double-check both the SOS search and the Comptroller’s tax status search for a complete picture.
2. Use multiple search variations names, filing numbers, and registered agent details to ensure you don’t miss results.
3. Download and save official documents from SOSDirect for your records.
4. Verify name availability early if you’re starting a business to avoid costly re-filings.
5. Check for assumed name filings at the county level for businesses operating under trade names.

Final Word

Texas makes it relatively easy to research business entities online, but understanding how to navigate and interpret the results is key.
Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding an existing company, or simply conducting due diligence, the Texas Business Entity Search empowers you to make informed, confident decisions.

“Information is power—especially in business. The more you know about who you’re dealing with, the better your chances of success.”

Now that you know how to search, interpret, and use Texas business entity records, you’re equipped to handle everything from name reservations to fraud prevention with confidence.

Next Step for Readers:
If you’re ready to form your Texas business, head over to the Texas Secretary of State SOSDirect Portal to start your filing process today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Business Entity Search

What is a Texas business entity search?

A Texas business entity search is an online tool provided by the Texas Secretary of State that allows users to find detailed information about registered businesses in Texas, such as corporations, LLCs, nonprofits, and partnerships.

How do I perform a Texas business entity search?

You can perform a Texas business entity search by visiting the Texas Secretary of State’s SOSDirect website, entering the business name, filing number, or registered agent name, and reviewing the search results to find the entity’s status and details.

Is the Texas business entity search free?

Basic business entity search results are free through the Texas SOS website. However, accessing official documents or copies of filings may require a small fee through the SOSDirect portal.

Can I check if a business name is available in Texas using the search?

Yes. The Texas business entity search lets you check if a business name is already in use or reserved, which helps ensure your desired name is available before filing formation documents.

What types of businesses can I find in the Texas business entity search?

You can find various types of business entities, including limited liability companies (LLCs), corporations, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, nonprofits, and assumed names registered in Texas.

How often is the Texas business entity database updated?

The Texas Secretary of State updates the business entity database regularly, typically daily, to reflect new filings, amendments, dissolutions, and status changes.

What information can I find through the Texas business entity search?

You can find business entity name, registration status, filing number, formation date, registered agent and address, type of entity, and sometimes the names of officers or managers.

Can I use the Texas business entity search to find a registered agent?

Yes. The search results include the current registered agent’s name and address, which can be useful for legal or service of process purposes.

How can I get official copies of Texas business filings?

Official copies of filings can be requested through the Texas SOSDirect system for a fee. These documents are certified and can be used for legal or official purposes.

What should I do if I find inaccurate information in the Texas business entity search?

If you notice inaccurate or outdated information, contact the Texas Secretary of State’s office directly to report errors or request updates to the business record.