Moving Your Small Business to Texas

Texas is an attractive place for businesses to move and relocate, offering a welcoming environment for entrepreneurs. In fact, Texas is #1 for firm relocations from other states. Interested in learning more about the state’s thriving business ecosystem? Visit our "Why Texas?" webpage.

If you are considering moving your business to Texas from another state, you will want to register it once you choose a location. If your business is a separate legal entity, you will need to register it with the Texas Secretary of State’s Office in order to transact business in Texas. These FAQs on registering a business in Texas may be useful to you. If you are a sole proprietor or a partnership using a business name other than your own, you will need to register your business name (often called DBA or assumed name) with your county clerk’s office.

Business Tax Responsibilities

You will need to determine the potential tax responsibilities that your business will have once registered in Texas. Federal tax obligations are filed through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). State tax filings are done through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA). If your business trades online, this online Marketplace Seller tax information is useful. For questions about local business and property taxes, consult your county’s appraisal district or tax assessor-collector. Find your local appraisal district and tax office on the CPA’s website. The CPA also offers helpful tax training.

Business Licenses and Permits by Business Type

A general business license is not required in Texas. However, it is important to determine necessary licenses, permits, certifications, registrations or authorizations for a specific business activity, at the federal, state and local level. Texas Economic Development & Tourism’s Business Permit Office (BPO) provides comprehensive information on state permits and licenses required for business enterprises in the state. For more information, please refer to our Texas Business Licenses & Permits Guide.

Business Employer Requirements

If planning to employ staff, determine federal and state employer requirements. To learn more about Texas employer resources, visit the Texas Workforce Commission’s webpage for businesses and employers.