Do I need to register my business name?

If you are starting a business, one of the first decisions you will make is choosing a name. But do you need to register it? The answer depends on how your business is structured and whether you want to protect your name from being used by others.

In the UK, you can trade under almost any name you choose, but the process of registering or protecting that name varies for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies. This article explains when registration is required, what rules apply, and how to safeguard your business name.

When you do not have to register your business name

If you are a sole trader or part of a partnership, you do not have to register your business name with Companies House. You can simply start trading under your own name or a trading name of your choice.

However, you must include your name and business details on all invoices, letters, and official documents. For example:

• Sole traders must display their personal name and business address.

• Partnerships must list the names of all partners and the business address.

Even though registration is not compulsory, you should check that your chosen name is not already being used by another business to avoid confusion or disputes.

When you must register your business name

If you decide to set up a limited company or limited liability partnership (LLP), you must register your business name with Companies House. This process formally incorporates your business and makes it a separate legal entity.

Registering with Companies House gives you:

• Exclusive rights to use your company name.

• Legal protection from others trading under the same or a very similar name.

• A professional image that can help with contracts and client confidence.

Once approved, your company name appears on the public register, and no other company can register an identical name.

Rules for choosing a business name

Whether you are a sole trader or running a limited company, there are specific rules for naming your business. Your name must not:

• Be offensive or misleading.

• Imply a connection with the government or local authority.

• Include sensitive words or expressions without permission (for example, “chartered,” “British,” or “association”).

• Copy or closely resemble an existing company name or registered trademark.

You can check for existing business names using the Companies House register and search for trademarks through the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) website.

Registering a trading name

Even if you do not form a company, you can still use a trading name. A trading name is the name you operate under that is different from your legal name.

For example:

• Jane Smith may trade as “JS Plumbing Services.”

• Green & Co Accountants Ltd may trade as “Green Finance.”

Trading names do not need to be registered with Companies House, but they still must follow naming rules and not infringe on another business’s trademark.

It is also important to note that registering a domain name or social media handle does not give you legal ownership of a business name.

Protecting your business name

Registering your name with Companies House prevents others from forming a company using the same name, but it does not automatically stop them from trading under a similar name.

To gain stronger protection, you can register your name or logo as a trademark through the Intellectual Property Office. This gives you exclusive rights to use the name in your sector and take legal action against anyone who copies it.

Trademarks are especially valuable if you plan to build a recognisable brand or expand nationally.

What happens if you use a name already taken

Using a name that is already in use can lead to serious problems, including:

• Legal action for trademark infringement.

• Being forced to change your business name.

• Damage to your reputation if customers confuse your business with another.

Before finalising your name, carry out checks on:

• The Companies House register.

• The IPO trademark database.

• Business directories and online listings.

• Domain name availability.

This research ensures your chosen name is unique and legally safe to use.

Displaying your business name correctly

Once you start trading, you must display your business name clearly on:

• Business signage and vehicles.

• Invoices and estimates.

• Letters, emails, and contracts.

• Your website and social media profiles.

If you are a limited company, you must also display your company registration number, registered office address, and place of registration on all official communications.

Benefits of registering a business name

Even if it is not legally required, registering your business name offers several advantages:

• Builds credibility and trust with clients.

• Protects your name from competitors.

• Makes it easier to open a business bank account.

• Enhances your brand’s visibility and professionalism.

• Helps attract investment or partnership opportunities.

How an accountant can help when registering your business

An accountant can support you through the registration process by:

• Advising whether to trade as a sole trader or limited company.

• Helping you register with Companies House and HMRC.

• Ensuring your name complies with legal and tax regulations.

• Assisting with trademark applications and record keeping.

Professional advice ensures you start your business correctly and avoid issues with compliance or name disputes later on.

The bottom line

Whether you need to register your business name depends on how you operate. Sole traders and partnerships can trade under any name they choose, but limited companies must register their name with Companies House.

Even if registration is not compulsory, checking that your name is unique and protecting it with a trademark can prevent costly disputes and strengthen your brand.

A well-chosen and properly registered business name not only establishes credibility but also provides the foundation for long-term growth and success.