Coming up with the perfect business name is a fantastic feeling. You can already envision the logo, the domain name is available, and it seems like everything is falling into place. You register the name, and your business is off to a great start.
However, after some reflection, you may realise that you need to consider registering a new company name because the one you chose is unclear about what your business does, contains a misspelling, or sounds too similar to a competitor’s name.
Don’t worry; changing a limited company name is entirely possible. Below, we have outlined the steps for you to follow.
Key takeaways
- You can easily change your company name before submitting your application to Companies House at no extra cost.
- After forming your company, use the NM01 document to officially change your company name within two days.
- Your previous company name will still appear on the Companies House register even after a name change.
Changing the name if you haven’t completed the company formation process
At 1st Formations you can set your company up in 4 simple steps:
- Choose your limited company name
- Pick your package
- Make payment
- Enter your company formation details
If you have worked your way through the steps but have not submitted your company application to Companies House, good news – you can easily change your company name at no extra cost.
There are two stages during company formation when you can edit your company name. The ‘Particulars’ section and the ‘Review’ section.
Simply type over your existing company name with the new one, not forgetting to add ‘Ltd’ or ‘Limited’ – then click ‘Check another name’. We’ll let you know immediately if your new name is available. When you’re happy, repeat the process, making sure to double-check the company name on the ‘Review’ page.
Changing the name if you’ve already formed your limited company
If you have completed the company formation process with a name you no longer want, we can help you change it with our change of company name service. This service includes the:
- Preparation and filing of the NM01 document
- Minutes required to register a new company name
- Resolution required to register a new company name
- Digital copy of the name change certificate
Once the documents have been sent on your behalf, the name change is normally live within 2 days.
A few things to consider if you’re changing the name of an existing company
- When you change a company name, you do not get a new certificate of incorporation; instead, you receive a certificate of incorporation on change of name
- Your old name will remain on the Companies House register under the ‘Previous company names’ field
Thank you for taking the time to read this post. Please get in touch if you have any questions.
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