While Texas law does not mandate LLCs to have an operating agreement, it is highly recommended to have one as it offers numerous benefits and legal protections. It also helps in avoiding misunderstandings among members and demonstrating compliance with legal formalities.
To form a Texas LLC, it is necessary to select a unique name, file documents with the Secretary of State, appoint a registered agent, and obtain an EIN. To maintain your Texas LLC, you must stay compliant with annual filings and fees while obtaining licenses/permits and managing finances/insurance.
Default State Laws Apply: Without an operating agreement, your LLC is automatically subjected to the default state laws where the LLC was formed. These laws may not suit the specific needs of your business or its members, potentially leading to unfavorable governance and operational structures.
And while most states do not require LLCs to have a written operating agreement, having the agreement in writing can reduce uncertainties and is generally recommended.
The 5 states requiring an operating agreement are California, Delaware, Maine, Missouri, and New York.
Check With Your Company Agent The registered business agent is often a commercial service that exists explicitly to serve this function. The agent may also be an individual officer in your LLC. Request a copy of the operating agreement from this individual or entity.
Once you (and the other LLC Members, if applicable) sign the Operating Agreement, then it becomes a legal document. Can I write my own Operating Agreement? Yes, but we recommend using an Operating Agreement template. An Operating Agreement is a legal document.
Operating agreements are not necessarily needed or legally required for setting up or operating an LLC. Some states require LLCs to have a written operating agreement, including California, Delaware, Maine, Missouri, and New York.
Their absence can lead to governance by default state laws, management, and financial disorganization, and increased legal vulnerabilities. LLCS should draft and maintain an operating agreement tailored to their specific business needs.