1. Choose a Business Name: The first step in creating a DBA (Doing Business As) in Texas is to choose a unique business name. Make sure your proposed name is not too similar to any existing business names registered with the Texas Secretary of State.

2. Search for Name Availability: Check the availability of your desired business name by conducting a search on the Texas Comptroller’s website. You want to ensure that your name is not already in use by another business.

3. Determine the Type of Business: Decide if your business will be operated as a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company (LLC). Each type has different legal and financial implications, so make sure to do comprehensive research before selecting the best option for your business.

4. Draft Your DBA Registration: Prepare the required paperwork for filing your DBA. This typically includes an Assumed Name Certificate form, which can be acquired from your local county clerk’s office or downloaded from their website.

5. Obtain Legal Review (Optional): If you’re unsure about any legal aspects of your DBA registration, it can be beneficial to consult an attorney for peace of mind and ensure all information is accurate before filing.

6. Register Your DBA with the Appropriate County Clerk’s Office: Submit your Assumed Name Certificate form and any additional required documents to each county clerk’s office in which you plan to do business. Registration fees vary by county but are usually minimal.

7. Publish Notice of Your DBA (If Required): Some counties may require you to publish notice of your assumed business name in a local newspaper within a specified time frame after registering with the county clerk’s office.

8. Obtain Any Required Permits or Licenses: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need permits or licenses from city, county, state, or federal agencies. Be sure to apply for and secure any necessary permits before beginning business operations.

9. Open a Business Bank Account: With your DBA registration and completed legal paperwork in hand, open a separate business bank account to keep your business and personal finances separate.

10. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number): If your business will have employees or be required to pay taxes at the federal level, apply for an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) online.

11. Register with the Texas Workforce Commission: If your business will have employees, you must register as an employer with the Texas Workforce Commission within ten days of your first payroll cycle.

12. Maintain Your DBA: Be sure to renew your DBA registration as required by Texas law, typically every ten years. It’s important to keep your registration up-to-date to avoid potential legal and financial complications.

By following these 12 steps, you can successfully create a DBA in Texas and begin operating your new business venture.