Texas Franchise Tax for Construction Companies: Texas imposes a franchise tax on most business entities with revenue above the filing threshold. Construction companies can use the cost of goods sold method to calculate their taxable margin, which allows deductions for direct labor, materials, and subcontractor costs. Properly classifying construction expenses under the COGS method can substantially reduce your franchise tax liability. FinTruction structures your chart of accounts and job costing to maximize allowable deductions under the Texas franchise tax.
TDLR Contractor Registration and Licensing: The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation oversees licensing for specific trades including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and irrigation contractors. While Texas does not require a general contractor license at the state level, many municipalities require local permits and registrations. Contractors must also maintain proper general liability insurance, workers compensation coverage, and bond documentation. FinTruction ensures your financial records and compliance documentation are properly maintained within your accounting system.
Davis-Bacon Prevailing Wage on Federal Projects: Texas does not have a state prevailing wage law, but contractors working on federally funded projects must comply with the Davis-Bacon Act. This requires payment of locally prevailing wages and submission of certified payroll reports for each pay period. Our accounting team tracks prevailing wage rates by trade, prepares certified payroll reports, and maintains documentation that meets federal audit requirements.
Texas Property Code and Lien Rights: The Texas Property Code governs mechanic's lien rights for contractors and subcontractors. Contractors must provide proper notices and file liens within specific timeframes to protect their right to payment. Accurate accounting records that document contract amounts, payments received, and outstanding balances are essential to enforcing lien rights and resolving payment disputes. FinTruction helps Texas contractors maintain project-level financial records that support lien filings and payment claims.
Sales Tax on Construction Materials: Texas imposes a 6.25% state sales tax plus local taxes on construction materials purchased by contractors. Contractors are generally considered the end consumers of materials they incorporate into real property improvements, meaning they pay sales tax at the time of purchase. However, certain exemptions exist for manufacturing equipment and specific project types. FinTruction tracks taxable and exempt purchases within your job costing and accounts payable workflows to ensure compliance and avoid overpayment.