Free Texas business search: an alternative to SOSPortal searches
On September 29, 2026 the Texas Secretary of State launched SOSPortal, which replaced SOSDirect. Searching business records there needs an SOSPortal account with multi-factor authentication and costs $1 per search. For a quick, free lookup you can use our business search or name checker, or the Comptroller's free status search.
| Texas LLC Lookup (this site) | Texas SOS SOSPortal | Comptroller account status search | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $1 per search (waived if you order from the results) | Free |
| Account needed | No | Yes, new SOSPortal account plus MFA (email code or authenticator app) | No |
| Official record | No (independent, built from Comptroller open data) | Yes | Yes (franchise tax status) |
| Shows | Name, entity type, city, county, charter date, right to transact status, NAICS sector where reported | Filings, documents, registered agent, certificates for order | Right to transact, registered agent, officers from the latest report |
| Coverage | 3,514,637 franchise tax entities; name checker covers all of them | All SOS filing entities | All franchise taxpayers |
| Copies and certificates | No | Yes (for example certificate of status $15) | Certificate of account status |
Use our free tools to narrow things down, then confirm on an official source before you file or sign anything.
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Questions
Does the Texas SOS charge to search business records?
Yes. The Texas SOS fee schedule lists a $1 per search fee, which is not charged when an order or filing is placed on the search results.
What is SOSPortal?
SOSPortal is the Texas Secretary of State business filing system launched September 29, 2026. It replaces SOSDirect and SOSUpload and requires a new account with multi-factor authentication.
Is the Comptroller search free?
Yes. The Comptroller Franchise Tax Account Status Search is free and shows right to transact business status.
Is this site official?
No. It is an independent reference built from Texas Comptroller open data. Use SOS or Comptroller records for anything official.
Sources: Texas SOS Business Services (SOSPortal launch, Sep 29, 2026); SOS Portal Account Setup and User Access Guide (MFA); SOS fee schedule (Form 806); Ordering copies and certificates from SOSPortal; Comptroller Franchise Tax Account Status Search. Checked November 1, 2026.
Sources: Texas Comptroller Active Franchise Taxpayers (data.texas.gov); Texas Comptroller franchise tax; Texas Secretary of State business filings; Form 205 (filing fee $300).