You and Your Houston Hustle: How Much Does a Fancy Business Name Cost?
So, you're waltzing into the rodeo that is Houston entrepreneurship, boots shined and lasso in hand. You've got the brains, the brawn, and the business idea that'll make J.R. Ewing himself do a spit-take. But hold on there, partner, before you start wrangling customers, there's a teeny tiny hurdle to jump: your business name.
Maybe your legal name, Bob's Burgers and Bobsled Repair, just doesn't have the ring of a Texas tycoon. Enter the DBA, or Doing Business As, your ticket to a cooler-sounding business name. Think of it as chaps for your legal identity – stylish and functional!
But here's the question that's got you scratching your head more than a confused armadillo: how much does this name game cost?
Saddle Up for the Fee Breakdown:
Well, buckle up, because the price depends on where you choose to register your fancy new moniker. Houston straddles three counties, each with its own sheriff on DBA fees:
- Harris County (Howdy, Most of Houston!): Here, you'll be looking at a filing fee between $15 and $25. Not bad, considering the price of a decent cowboy hat these days.
- Fort Bend and Montgomery Counties (Howdy, Outlying Houston!): These counties might have slightly different fees, so it's best to check with their county clerk's office for the exact amount. Don't worry, a quick online search should point you in the right direction.
Pro Tip: Filing online might come with a convenience fee, so consider the old-fashioned way of moseying on down to the county clerk's office with a check or money order.
Hold on, There's More! (But It Ain't Bad)
Now, before you start budgeting for a name that'd make even Beyoncé jealous, here's a crucial point: the DBA fee is a one-time thing. You plop down the cash, register your name, and then you're good to go, branding iron sizzle and all.
But Wait! There's, Like, a Super Important Disclaimer:
A snazzy DBA might make you feel like a million bucks, but remember, it doesn't protect your business name like a trademark. Think of it as a nickname, not a legal fortress. If someone else waltzes in with the same DBA, well, partner, you might have a bit of a hoedown in court.
So, there you have it! The cost of a DBA in Houston is a reasonable price to pay for a little business name flair. Now, git out there, rustle up some customers, and make that Houston hustle pay off!
