Collin County, Texas, requires a business file for a license if the business will be selling beer and wine. For all other businesses, Collin County requires an Assumed Name be applied for and registered with the County Clerk's office. Applications for Assumed Names differ depending on whether a business is incorporated or unincorporated. The Assumed Name process only requires a one-page application and the payment of fees. Filing for a beer and wine license takes a little more time.

Search the Collin County Assumed Name database to ensure that your business name is not already in use. Searches can be conducted online, by mail or in person. No fee is charged to complete the search if it is done online or in person. A $10 fee is charged to search by mail as of 2010. Search online by visiting the AiLIS Public Inquiry site. (see Resources) You must choose Vitals as the document type and enter the business name in the last name field. If you find a name that matches your business name, you must choose a different business name. Conduct a search in person at the time of filing by visiting the County Clerk's office. Send a written request along with the search fee to the County Clerk's office. You will receive a certificate of search after completion.

Collin County Clerk 2300 Bloomdale Rd., Suite 2104 McKinney, TX 75071

Complete the Assumed Name certificate application online, once you find a business name that is not in use. The online application is found on AmCad's Integrated Land Information System Public Inquiry site by clicking on the "Assumed Name Filing" tab. You must appear at the County Clerk's office to pay the required application fee and sign the documentation in person after applying online. Bring your Texas government-issued Identification Card. If preferred, you can complete and print a physical application. (see Resources) The fees total around $12 depending on how many business partners make up the entity and how many copies you require of the certificate. Proceed to the next step if you require a beer and wine license.

Apply for a beer and wine license by visiting your local Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission office. Three locations are available in Collin County. The license must be submitted at the time you apply for an Assumed Name. Licensing costs vary by the type of license you are applying for. Contact one of the three offices to find out the specific cost.

McKinney Outpost—Enforcement Personnel Only 825 North McDonald, Ste 180 McKinney, TX 75069 (972) 547-5099

Arlington District Office—Compliance, Enforcement and Licensing Personnel 2225 East Randol Mill Road, Suite 200 Arlington, TX 76011 (817) 652-5912

Dallas Regional Office—Compliance and Enforcement 8700 North Stemmons Freeway, Suite 460 Dallas, TX 75247 (214) 678-4000

Tip

After completing Collin County business licensing or Assumed Name registration, contact the Texas Comptroller to complete your business tax registration.