Choosing a name for your company will not only reflect your brand but also must comply with legal standards. Here’s a comprehensive guide on company name availability rules in the UK to help you navigate this crucial step.
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General Guidelines
- Uniqueness: Your chosen business name must be unique. Companies House maintains a register where all company names are listed. You can check the availability of a company name through our online search tool.
- Misleading Names: Avoid names that might suggest a connection with government bodies, such as words like “Royal,” “Government,” or “Authority,” unless you have permission. Similarly, names that could deceive the public about the nature of your business activities are prohibited.
- Offensive Names: Names that are offensive or suggest criminal activity are not allowed.
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Sensitive Words and Expressions
Certain words or expressions require approval from government authorities or specific bodies
- Sensitive Words: Words like “Association,” “Federation,” “Institute,” or “Society” might need consent from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
- Public Authority Words: Using words that imply a connection with public authorities requires approval. For instance, using “National,” “International,” or names of countries like “British” or “English” might need authorisation.
- Professional Titles: If your business name includes professional titles like “Engineer,” “Doctor,” or “Solicitor,” you must prove you or your business has the right to use such titles.
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Similar Names
- Close Similarity: Even if a name isn’t identical, if it’s too similar to an existing company name, it might be rejected. This is to prevent confusion in the marketplace.
- Trademark Considerations: While Companies House checks for company name uniqueness, they don’t verify if the name infringes on existing trademarks. It’s wise to check the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) for trademark issues.
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Legal Structure Indications
- Business Structure: If you’re setting up as a limited company, your name must end with “Limited” or “Ltd,” unless you’re a community interest company or have a different suffix approved. For a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), “LLP” is required.
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How to Check and Register
- Online Tools: Use the Companies House Availability Checker to search for existing company names.
- Registration: If your chosen name is available, you can register your company online through Companies House or via a formation agent. Remember, registration at Companies House does not grant you trademark rights over the name.
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Post-Registration Considerations
- Trademark Protection: After registration, consider trademarking your business name to protect your brand identity further. This isn’t mandatory but provides legal protection against misuse by others.
- Domain Names: Secure your business’s domain name as soon as possible to match your company name. This step is crucial for online presence and branding.
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Changing Your Company Name
- Name Change: If later you find a need to change your company name, this requires a special resolution and filing with Companies House. There’s a fee for this process, and you’ll need to update all your business materials accordingly.
Conclusion
Choosing a company name involves more than just creativity; it requires adherence to legal frameworks designed to ensure clarity and integrity in the business environment. By understanding these rules, you can confidently select a name that not only represents your brand but also stands legally sound. Remember, while these steps might seem daunting, they are foundational in setting up your business for success in the UK market.
Before finalising, always double-check the availability and consider consulting with a legal advisor if you’re unsure about any aspect, especially regarding sensitive words or trademark issues. Good luck with your new business venture!