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Texas . Business search

Search Texas business records like a pro.

Texas businesses are recorded publicly through Texas Business + Public Filings (SOSDirect). This guide explains how to search by name, document number, registered agent, or officer; what each status means; and how to avoid the most common search mistakes.

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Search techniques

Four ways to find a Texas entity

1. By entity name

Type the name without the LLC/Inc/Corp designation. "Acme Holdings" returns more than "Acme Holdings LLC". For exact match, include the designation.

2. By document number

The unique identifier Texas Business + Public Filings (SOSDirect) assigns. Best for unambiguous lookup. Document numbers do not change over the entity's lifetime.

3. By registered agent

Useful for due-diligence: see every entity using a specific registered agent. Helps identify related-party structures.

4. By officer or director name

Find every entity where a specific person is listed. Common in litigation prep, background checks, and investor due diligence.

Status meanings

What entity status really means in Texas

Status What it means
Active / Good StandingEntity exists, current on filings and franchise tax. Can transact business and qualify for loans.
Active (not in good standing)Entity exists but missed something. Cannot get a Certificate of Good Standing. Banks may decline transactions.
Administratively DissolvedTexas dissolved for failure to file or pay. Can be reinstated by filing back reports and paying penalties.
Voluntarily DissolvedMembers or shareholders filed Articles of Dissolution. Cannot be reinstated without forming a new entity.
Merged / ConvertedEntity merged into another or converted to a different form. The surviving entity holds all rights.
Search mistakes

The five most common Texas Business + Public Filings (SOSDirect) search mistakes

  • 1. Including the entity designation. Drop the LLC/Inc/Corp suffix to widen results.
  • 2. Assuming Active means current on filings. Active confirms existence only. Check the specific filing fields.
  • 3. Confusing Administratively Dissolved with Voluntarily Dissolved. Only Administratively Dissolved can be reinstated.
  • 4. Checking only the entity name. The same name can appear under different document numbers. Use the document number for unambiguous identification.
  • 5. Trusting the search for good standing certification. Banks and other states require an actual Certificate of Good Standing.
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How do I do a Texas business search?
Use the Texas Business + Public Filings (SOSDirect) system or run a search through File.Business. Search by entity name, document number, registered agent, or officer. The results show entity status, registered agent, last filing date, and key dates.
What does Active mean in a Texas business search?
Active means the entity legally exists. It does NOT necessarily mean current on filings. Cross-check the specific filing fields.
What does Administratively Dissolved mean in Texas?
Texas dissolved the entity for failure to file or pay. Reinstatement is available by filing back reports and paying penalties.
Can I search by registered agent in Texas?
Yes. Useful for due diligence and identifying related-party structures.
Is the Texas business search free?
Yes. Texas Business + Public Filings (SOSDirect) provides free entity searches. Certified copies and Certificates of Good Standing have separate fees.
How current is the Texas business search data?
Texas Business + Public Filings (SOSDirect) updates within 1 to 3 business days. File.Business updates within minutes of state confirmation.
Can I get a Certificate of Good Standing through the search?
A search shows status. The certificate must be ordered separately. Texas charges $15. File.Business orders it for you.

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Disclosure. File.Business is a private business filing and compliance service. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with the Texas Secretary of State, Business + Public Filings Division or any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the Texas Secretary of State, Business + Public Filings Division. Information on this page is for general guidance only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Fees and deadlines verified against the Texas Secretary of State, Business + Public Filings Division as of June 2026 and may change. For entity-specific guidance, consult a licensed Texas attorney or CPA.

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File.Business is a private business filing and compliance service. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the appropriate state agency. SOC 2 Type II audited. 220,000+ businesses formed since 2017.