When you start a new company, it is important to decide what you will call yourself. If your company name is not already taken, it’s time to register a name for your new business. This article covers registering a business name in the UK and provides a step-by-step guide on how to do so.
How to Register a Name for Your Business – A Step-by-Step Guide
What is a business name?
A business name is a name you choose to identify your business with. It is the name you will use on all legal documents, including contracts and tax returns. A business name can be any word or phrase, as long as it is not confusingly similar to another business name already in use.
The best way to choose a business name is to brainstorm a list of possible names and then select one that you like. Once you have chosen a business name, you need to register it with the state government.
To register your business name in most states, follow these steps:
- Find the department responsible for registering businesses in your state:
- Check the website for your state’s Business Registry office:
- Complete and submit the online form or paper form required by the office:
Once your registration process is complete, use your registered business name when conducting business activities in your state.
Types of Business Names Available
There are a variety of business names available for businesses, depending on what type of business you are starting. Below are some examples:
- Sole Proprietor
- Limited Liability Company
- General Partnership
- Limited Liability Partnership
- C-Corp corporation
There are many other types of business entities that exist, so be sure to get a legal opinion if you are not sure which type of entity is best for your business.
Generally speaking, the most common types of business names are limited liability company (LLC), general partnership (GP), and C-Corp. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to research which one is right for your business before registering.
LLC Pros:
LLCs offer the most flexibility in terms of name selection. You can use any name you want as long as it is not already in use by another LLC.
Additionally, LLCs are treated as separate legal entities from their owners, which means that creditors cannot take assets away from the LLC if there is financial trouble with the owner.
How to Register a Business Name in the UK?
If you are starting a business in the UK, one of the first things you’ll need to do is register your business name with the relevant government body.
There are a number of ways to go about this, but we’ve outlined the process below, based on information from the Business Register Office.
There are two main ways to register a business name with the Business Register Office – through the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) route or by using a company name. Here’s what you need to know about each:
1. The LLP Route
If you’re setting up an LLP, you’ll need to fill out Form 8-86A and submit it along with any other required documentation to the Business Register Office. The LLC must have at least one registered office, which can be anywhere in the UK.
All members of the LLP must be registered and must be named on Form 8-86A. You can also use Form 8-86A to change your registered office or dissolve your LLC.
2. The Company Name Route
If you’re using a company name, you’ll need to apply for a Certificate of Incorporation (COI) from the Business Register Office. You’ll also need to complete Form 8-86A and submit it to the Business Register Office. You’ll then need to change your company name or dissolve your LLC through the Companies House website.
How to Register a Trade Name?
If you’re starting a business, you’ll need a trading name – the name by which you will be known in the marketplace. You can register a trading name with the government or with a trademark registrar. Here’s how to go about each:
1. Registering a Trade Name with the Government
To register a trading name with the government, you’ll need to submit an application to the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
The application process is relatively straightforward, but you’ll need to provide evidence that you are using the trade name in commerce.
You can find more information about registering a sole trader name with the USPTO on their website.
2. Registering a Trade Name with a Trademark Registrar
If you already have a registered trademark or service mark, you can register your trade name with a trademark registrar. A trademark registrar is an organization that assists businesses in registering and managing their trademarks and service marks.
There are several reputable trademark registrars available, including the International Trademark Association (INTA) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
To find out more about registering your trade name with a trademark registrar, visit their websites or contact them directly.
How to Register a Company?
If you’re thinking about starting your own business, one of the first things you’ll need to do is register a company name with the government. There are a few different ways to go about it, and this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
First, you’ll need to gather some information about your business. This includes the company’s name, its address, and the contact information for all of its directors. You can find all of this information on government websites or by contacting your local registry office.
Next, you’ll need to fill out a registration form. This will require information such as your company’s name, its registered office address, and the number of directors. You’ll also be required to provide proof of ownership, such as a copy of your company’s incorporation documents or a letter from your local registry office confirming that the company has been registered.
Finally, you’ll need to pay fees in order to register your company with the government. The total cost of registering a company can vary depending on the jurisdiction in which you’re located, but it’s usually between $50 and $200. Once you’ve completed all of these steps, your business is officially registered.
Conclusion
When you are starting a business, the last thing you want to worry about is registering your name with the government. In this guide, we will outline the steps that you need to take in order to register your business name with the appropriate authorities.
We will also discuss some of the potential pitfalls that can occur when registering your business name, and offer some solutions for avoiding them. Finally, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to register your business name using our recommended services.