How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in Texas? (Guide)
The LLC formation process in Texas is relatively fast and efficient, thanks to the state's streamlined online registration system and new expedited options introduced in 2025.
As a business and tax attorney who has advised 30+ clients on setting up their businesses in Texas and corporate structuring, I'll share insights on current approval times and the factors that influence your timeline.
I consulted with three Texas business formation attorneys and spent over 30 hours researching the Secretary of State's updated procedures, including the new Texas Express expedited services.
You can make things faster and easier by using professional LLC formation services in Texas to handle paperwork and avoid common filing errors that cause delays.
Quick Summary
- It takes up to 40 business days to form an LLC in Texas if documents are filed by mail and 5-7 business days if submitted online using SOSDirect or SOSUpload.
- Expedited filing is available through Texas Express services starting at $50 for standard expedited (2-3 business days), $500 for next-day service, or $750 for same-day processing.
- Texas has 2 million in-state LLCs as of January 2025, representing the largest business classification in the state [1].
- Based on experience, using the online platform is more convenient since it streamlines the process and helps my clients avoid filing errors.
What is The Fastest Way to Start an LLC in Texas?
The fastest way to start an LLC in Texas is by filing your documents using the expedited service. It is processed within the first 24 hours and approved after 12-14 business days.
Expedited service is available if you filed the documents online, by mail or through fax.
LLC Processing Time in Texas
Texas approval timeline depends on your filing method and whether you choose expedited services. The state introduced Texas Express in October 2025, offering multiple speed tiers to accommodate different business needs.
Standard online filings through SOSDirect or SOSUpload typically process within 5-7 business days, though this can extend to 40 days during peak filing periods.
1. Same-Day Texas LLC Processing ($750 Per Document)
Same-day service is the fastest option available for Texas LLC formation. Filings received in person by 12:00 p.m. at the Secretary of State's Austin office (1019 Brazos Street) are processed by close of business the same day.
2. Next-Day Texas LLC Processing ($500 Per Document)
Next-day service processes your LLC filing by close of business the following business day when received by 12:00 p.m.. Like same-day service, this requires in-person or courier delivery to the Austin office.
Preclearance is strongly advised for both same-day and next-day services to ensure your documents meet statutory requirements before paying the premium fees.
3. Standard Expedited Texas LLC Processing By Mail Or In-Person (2-3 Business Days + $50 Per Document)
Standard expedited processing prioritizes your filing ahead of regular submissions and typically completes within 2-3 business days. This tier is available for documents submitted by mail or personal delivery.
Include a cover letter with your email address and phone number that specifically requests expedited processing.
4. Non-Expedited Texas LLC Processing Time Online Via SOSDirect (5-7 Business Days)
Electronic filings through SOSDirect are processed within 5-7 business days under normal conditions. The Secretary of State strongly encourages electronic filing through SOSDirect or SOSUpload to ensure swift processing times.
5. Non-Expedited Texas LLC Processing Time Online Via SOSUpload (5-7 Business Days)
SOSUpload processes filings within the same 5-7 business day timeframe as SOSDirect for standard submissions. This platform handles documents not currently available through SOSDirect and requires a SOSDirect account to access.
Both online platforms provide real-time evidence of processing, which is not available with mail submissions.
"During peak periods, standard processing can extend to 40 days, making online filing in Texas significantly faster than mail submissions."
- Jon Morgan, CEO, Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter
6. Non-Expedited Texas LLC Processing Time By Mail Or Fax (Up To 40 Business Days)
Standard mail or fax filings represent the slowest processing method, potentially taking up to 40 business days during periods of high demand.
Mail your documents to: Corporations Section, P.O. Box 13697, Austin, Texas 78711-3697.
Factors Influencing the Formation Timeline of Texas LLCs
The formation timeline of an LLC in Texas can vary based on several factors that influence the process.
These factors include:
- Name Availability And Reservation: The availability of the desired LLC name and the reservation process can influence the formation timeline. That’s why I always conduct a comprehensive name search beforehand to help avoid potential delays.
- The Complexity Of Business Structure: Additional documentation and legal requirements may be necessary if your LLC has intricate ownership arrangements, multiple subsidiaries, or complex management structures. Gathering and preparing these documents may take longer, extending the overall formation time.
- Backlog And Seasonal Variations: During peak periods or busy seasons, such as the end of the year or tax season, there may be a higher volume of filings, resulting in longer processing times. In my experience, filing during periods of lower demand may result in a quicker turnaround time.
- Timeframe For Additional Permits Or Licenses: The timeframe for obtaining additional permits or licenses for your Texas LLC depends on the specific requirements of your industry and the governing authorities involved. The time required for approval and issuance can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
Texas added 125,329 new business entities in 2024, bringing the total to 2.93 million registered entities — nearly double the number from a decade ago.
Texas LLCs are taxed as pass-through entities by default, meaning profits pass directly to members and avoid the double taxation of C-corporations.
Related Articles:
- How Much Does It Cost To Start an LLC in Texas
- How To Change Ownership of an LLC in Texas
- How To Dissolve an LLC in Texas
FAQs
Where Can I Check the Status of My Texas LLC Formation During the Processing Period?
You can check the status of your Texas LLC formation during the processing period through the Business Filing Tracker.
Can a Registered Agent Expedite the Process of Forming an LLC in Texas?
A registered agent cannot expedite the process of forming an LLC in Texas since the Secretary of State determines the approval time.
Do I Need a General Business License for an LLC in Texas?
You do not need a general business license for an LLC in Texas. However, you should determine which licenses, permits or certifications are required by the federal, state and local governments.
Do I Need A Federal Employer Identification Number After Forming My LLC In Texas?
You need a federal employer identification number after forming your LLC in Texas if your business entities have employees, operate as partnerships, or file employment tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service. Apply free through the IRS website after finalizing your business name and LLC operating agreement.
References:
- https://www.sos.state.tx.us/about/newsreleases/2025/010125.shtml
- https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/filingandothergeneralfaqs.shtml
