Business development

Find form filing requirements and search for an Assumed Name by business name or owner name.

Find out what kind of business structure is best for you and your company. When selecting a business structure, take into consideration issues regarding taxes, liability, management, and transferability of ownership interests.

Find forms you need to keep your business and/or nonprofit up to date in the state of Texas.

Don't know if you need a trademark or a service mark for your business? Find out information about trademarks, service marks, and how to file.

The Texas Secretary of State offers great information regarding business law, business basics, business information for veterans and so much more.

Learn the basics about patents, how to apply for a patent, how to maintain your patent, and many other helpful resources regarding patents.

Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) is your federal tax ID.

The EIN is used to

• pay federal taxes
• hire employees
• open a bank account
• pay employees
• operate as a corporation of partnership
• file taxes returns for employment, excise, or alcohol, tobacco, and firearms
• withhold taxes on income, other than wages, paid to a non-president alien
• use a Keogh Plan (a tax-deferred pension plan)