Starting a new business can be an overwhelming undertaking. To help you get started, Eagle Pass Economic Development provides the information you need to guide you through the process. We are proud to provide support for the entrepreneurs and small business owners who represent the heart and soul of our local job market.
Below are the most common permits and items to look out for when starting a new business. Our partner, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), provides technical assistance to make the process of maneuvering through some of these requirements smooth and easy. For assistance please contact our SBDC at 830-758-5022.
Starting a Business in Texas
This 7-step guide is part of the resources in the Office of the Governor’s Small Business Handbook.
7-Step Guide
Step 1: Write Your Business Plan
A business plan is an essential road map for business success. This living document will serve to outline the main purpose of your business, its structure, its financing, and its advantages over other market competitors. A solid plan should include a description of the business, market analysis, organization and management structure, and applications for funding.
Step 2: Choose Your Business Location
Choosing a business location will depend on the type of business you operate, and is perhaps the most important decision a business owner will make. It requires precise planning and research. Consider assessing your supply chain, staying on budget, understanding state and local laws and taxes, and much more.
Step 3: Finance Your Business
Understanding your financial needs is a significant step towards business success. There are several ways to fund your new enterprise, including a bank loan or microloan, applying for credit through personal financing, crowdfunding, angel/venture capital investors, securing a federal loan (Small Business Administration), and other alternatives such as raising money from family and friends.
Step 4: Business Structure and Registration
Determine the legal structure of the business and file the business name with the state or county. Sole proprietorships and partnerships need to register with the county clerk’s office. If you decide to incorporate, register with the Secretary of State’s Office (SOS).
Step 5: Business Tax Responsibilities
Determine the potential tax responsibilities of the new business with federal, state, and local tax authorities. Federal tax obligations are filed through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). State tax filings are done through the Comptroller of Public Accounts. For questions about local business and property taxes, consult our county’s appraisal district or tax assessor-collector.
Step 6: Business Licenses and Permits by Business Type
Determine necessary licenses, permits, certifications, registrations, or authorizations for a specific business on the federal, state, and local level. The Texas Economic Development and Tourism’s Business Permit Office (BPO) provides information on state permits and licenses required for business enterprises in the state. For more information, please reference the Business Permits Office Comprehensive Permit Guide, which provides information on permits required for businesses in Texas and individuals looking to establish, operate, or expand a business in Texas.
Step 7: Determine Federal and State Employer Requirements
There are various laws relating to the employment of personnel. To learn more about Texas employer resources, visit the Texas Workforce Commission website.
Most Commonly Required Permits
- Assumed Name Certificate Estimated: Cost $34.50 (certify copy)/$28.50 (regular copy).
- State of Texas Sales Tax Permit: Free, available from SBDC office or the State Comptroller's Office click here to apply.
- City Permits: Various, depending on type of business. Please contact us at 830-773-7781
- Food Managers Certification: Cost $125 for first time test, $45 for retesting
- Food Handlers Certification: Cost $25, includes two-hour course, exam, and state certification if the exam is passed.
- Federal ID Number: Available at SBDC Office or at the nearest IRS Office
- State ID Number TWC: Contact Texas Workforce Center Commission if you hire employees or you have a special need. After 20 weeks or $1,500 paid to an employee.