A company name is one of the first decisions you'll make when forming a business — and it's worth spending a bit of time on, since changing it later means extra paperwork.
1. Check Companies House Availability
Your name can't be the same as, or too similar to, an existing registered company. A quick search of the Companies House register is the first check to make.
2. Avoid Restricted or Sensitive Words
Some words — implying a government connection, or regulated terms like "bank" — require special permission before they can be used in a company name.
3. Check Trademark Availability Separately
Being available at Companies House doesn't mean the name is free of trademark conflicts. A separate search of the UK trademark register is worth doing before you commit.
4. Consider the Full Registered Form
Most private limited companies must end their registered name with "Limited" or "Ltd" — worth factoring into how the name reads in full.
This guide provides general information only. Requirements can change and may vary depending on your circumstances — where in doubt, it's worth confirming current requirements before proceeding.