Learn how to secure your company name in the UK with this step-by-step guide. Use CG Incorporations' free name checker and expert formation services for UK and overseas residents.

Protect your brand and ensure legal compliance with our expert UK company formation services and free company name checker.

Why Securing Your Company Name is Essential

Registering your company name protects your business identity, prevents others from using a similar name, and ensures you comply with UK company law. Companies House—the UK’s registrar of companies—enforces specific rules to ensure all company names are unique and appropriate.

Step 1: Check If Your Company Name Is Available

Before registering your business, you must check that your chosen name isn’t already in use or too similar to an existing name. Using a name that is too similar to another company or contains sensitive or restricted words could result in your application being rejected by Companies House.

Use the CG Incorporations UK Company Name Availability Checker

Our free company name availability checker is a simple way to instantly see if your preferred name can be registered. It checks your desired name against the Companies House database and provides immediate feedback, helping you avoid unnecessary delays or rejected applications.

Step 2: Follow UK Company Name Rules and Legal Requirements

When choosing your company name, it must comply with the Companies Act 2006 and Companies House guidelines. Key requirements include:

• Uniqueness: Your company name must be unique and not ‘too similar’ to an existing company name.
• No Offensive Words: Company names must not be offensive or misleading.
• Sensitive Words: Some words (like “Bank”, “Royal”, “British”, etc.) are restricted or require special permission from relevant authorities.
• Legal Ending: Most UK limited company names must end with “Limited” or “Ltd”.

If you are unsure about any part of this, our experienced team at CG Incorporations can guide you through the rules and help you choose a compliant company name.

Step 3: Secure Your Company Name by Registering Your Company

Once you’ve confirmed your name is available and compliant, the only way to secure your company name is by registering your company with Companies House. Simply checking availability does not “reserve” your name. Registration gives you the exclusive right to use the name for your company.

How CG Incorporations Can Help:

• Register your company quickly and legally with Companies House
• Provide official company address and mail forwarding services
• Offer VAT registration, tax, and accounting support
• Assist with apostille and document legalisation for overseas clients

We offer a complete UK company formation service to ensure your business is set up properly and legally from the start.

Step 4: Protect Your Brand Beyond Registration

After your company is registered, consider additional steps to further protect your business identity:

• Register domain names matching your company for your website and email.
• Apply for a UK trade mark if you want extra legal protection for your business name and logo.