How Do I Choose a Name That Isn’t Already Taken

Introduction

A good business name can set the tone for your entire brand. It helps customers remember you, reflects your values, and distinguishes you from competitors. However, if the name is already taken or too similar to another business, you could face legal issues or be forced to rebrand later.

Before printing business cards or launching your website, it’s vital to make sure your chosen name is legally available and unique. Here’s how to check, step by step, and what to do if your first choice is already in use.

Step 1: Understand what makes a name unique

A business name needs to stand out while following UK naming rules. It should not be too similar to an existing registered company or trademark, and it cannot include restricted words without permission.

The name must also be easy to spell, pronounce, and remember. Avoid special characters, overly long names, or ones that could confuse customers. A clear, distinctive name builds credibility and prevents confusion in the marketplace.

Step 2: Check availability on Companies House

If you plan to set up a limited company, your business name must be registered with Companies House. Before choosing, use the free Companies House name search tool to check whether your proposed name is already taken or too similar to an existing company.

For example, if “Blue Horizon Consulting Ltd” already exists, you won’t be able to register “Blue Horizons Consulting Ltd” because the difference is too minor. The system will flag similar names that could cause confusion.

If the name is available, you can reserve it by registering your company immediately. If not, try adjusting it by adding a distinctive word or changing the structure while keeping it relevant to your brand.

Step 3: Check for registered trademarks

Even if a name isn’t taken on Companies House, it may still be protected as a trademark. Trademarks give legal rights over names, logos, or phrases associated with products and services.

Use the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) search tool to check whether your chosen name is trademarked. If another company holds a trademark in a similar industry or product area, using that name could lead to legal action.

For example, if a company has registered “Blue Horizon” as a trademark for financial services, you may not be able to use it for your own consultancy. However, the same name might be available for a different sector, such as catering or design, if there’s no conflict.

If your name is available, consider registering your own trademark once you start trading. It gives you exclusive rights to use the name and prevents others from copying it.

Step 4: Check domain name availability

In today’s digital world, a matching domain name is almost as important as the business name itself. Before you finalise your name, check whether a suitable domain (such as .co.uk or .com) is available.

Use domain search tools like 123 Reg, IONOS, or GoDaddy to see what’s free. If your exact domain is taken, consider small variations that still align with your brand. For instance, if “bluehorizon.co.uk” is taken, you could choose “bluehorizonconsulting.co.uk”.

Avoid names that are too close to existing websites, as customers might end up visiting a competitor by mistake. Securing your domain early helps protect your brand online.

Step 5: Search on social media

Many startups overlook social media availability, but it’s crucial for consistency. Check whether your chosen name or handle is free on major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter).

Using the same handle across all platforms helps customers find you easily and strengthens your brand identity. If your exact name isn’t available, look for a close match rather than creating a completely different handle.

Step 6: Check for local and online businesses

Before you decide, search Google and online business directories for similar names in your area or industry. Even if they aren’t registered companies or trademarks, operating under a nearly identical name could confuse customers and affect search engine rankings.

For example, if you plan to open a cafe called “Brew & Bloom” and another cafe nearby uses “Brew and Blossom”, customers could mix you up. A quick search helps you avoid such overlaps.

Step 7: Avoid restricted and sensitive words

Certain words require permission before you can use them in a company name. Terms like “Royal”, “Chartered”, “Association”, or anything suggesting a government connection fall under restricted categories.

You’ll need approval from the relevant authority before using them. For example, you cannot call your business “UK Government Advisors Ltd” without formal permission, as it could mislead the public.

Companies House lists all restricted and sensitive words, so check the guidance before finalising your name.

Step 8: Think long term

Your business name should be flexible enough to grow with you. Avoid names that limit you to a single product, service, or location if you plan to expand in the future.

For instance, “Bedford Plumbers” works well locally but might feel restrictive if you later expand nationwide. Choosing a name that reflects your values or expertise, rather than a specific geography, gives more room for growth.

Also consider how your name might sound in other regions or languages if you plan to sell internationally.

Step 9: Get feedback

Once you’ve shortlisted a few names, ask for feedback from people outside your business. Friends, family, and potential customers can give fresh perspectives on how the name sounds, how easy it is to remember, and what impression it gives.

Sometimes a name that looks great on paper may be hard to pronounce or carries unintended meanings. Getting honest feedback helps avoid these mistakes before launch.

Step 10: Register and protect your name

After confirming that your name is available, secure it as soon as possible. Register your company with Companies House, buy the matching domain, and set up your social media accounts.

If you’re serious about building a long-term brand, consider applying for a trademark once you start trading. It protects your name legally and adds value to your business over time.

Common mistakes to avoid

Choosing a name too similar to another business

Forgetting to check trademarks before launch

Overlooking domain and social media availability

Using restricted or misleading terms

Failing to register your name quickly and losing it to someone else

Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and stress in the long run.

Conclusion

Choosing a business name that isn’t already taken requires research, patience, and foresight. Start by checking Companies House and the UK Intellectual Property Office for existing names and trademarks. Then secure your domain and social media handles to protect your online identity.

A unique, memorable name sets the foundation for a strong brand. Take your time, test ideas, and protect your name early—because once you start trading, your business identity becomes one of your most valuable assets.