COVID-19 - The Office of the Secretary of State strongly encourages the continued following of practices recommended by DSHS (PDF) including the use of masks, sanitizing and social distancing. Public filings remain available 24/7 to customers through our online business service, SOSDirect and SOSUpload.

Online Searching and Filing

Guides and Resources

Start-Up Guides and Resources

Texas.gov: The award-winning official eGovernment website for the State of Texas, providing citizens, local government, and state agencies with a single, secure structure to conduct business online.
Start a Business in Texas: Information on the process of starting a new business in Texas, including business structure, business tax responsibilities, and business licenses and permits.
The Governor's Office Small Business Handbook (PDF): A start-up guide for small businesses provided by the Texas Economic Development Division within the Governor's Office.
Small Business | USA.gov: An official site of the U.S. Government that provides access to federal, state, and local information for small business owners.
Starting & Managing Your Business: Guides provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration for every stage of business.

Small Business Resources

U.S. Small Business Administration: The SBA provides programs and services for small businesses and partners in a network of local small business development centers.
Search for Your Local Small Business Development Center
Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE): Mentoring and other assistance to small businesses through partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Other City and County Resources
Corporate Filing Offices in other States
Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas

Permits and Licenses

Patents, Trademarks and Copyrights

Securities Issues

Other Resources

Business Identity Theft: Information concerning business identity theft and strategies to employ if you think you may be a victim.