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CHOOSING A BUSINESS NAME

This is not as simple as you may think, as there are laws and regulations relating to Business names. The following information is an extract from a Companies House booklet on this subject

Can I choose any name I want for my company?

No. Several regulations can affect your choice. For example, all company names must end with the words 'Limited', 'Unlimited', 'Public Limited Company', or their abbreviations or Welsh equivalents. Certain companies may apply for exemption from using 'limited' – contact Companies House (see below) for more details.

Could my choice of name be rejected?

Yes, if:

  • it is 'the same as' a name already on the index – (if already in existence – you can check on the Companies House data base – see below)
  • it includes the words 'limited', 'unlimited' or 'public limited company' anywhere except at the end of the name. This applies equally to abbreviations or the Welsh equivalent of the words;
  • it is offensive;
  • its use would be a criminal offence.

In addition, some names need the approval of the Secretary of State before they can be registered. These include names, which contain words prescribed by regulations, and names, which suggest a connection with central or local government. If these categories are avoided, you can normally have your choice of name.

If you would like to download this document please click on one of the links below:

Business Name (Word Document 106 Kb)
Business Name (PDF Document 127 Kb)

 

 

 

 

Choosing a Business Name

Before you apply to set up a company, or do anything to change its name, it is a good idea to search the index at Companies House to see if there are already any companies with names similar to the one you want. If in doubt, call on 0870 3333636 or search the website company index at http://www.companieshouse.gov.uk/info