Company name availability checker

Are you starting a new business in the UK? Choosing the right company name is crucial for success. Our interactive business name checker makes it easy to find an available, memorable name that resonates with your customers.

Why your business name matters

In the crowded market, your company name is often the first impression potential customers will have of your brand. A strong, memorable name can help you stand out, build trust, and attract the right clients. On the other hand, a forgettable or confusing name can make it difficult for UK consumers to find and remember your business.

Check the availability of business names

Use our free business name checker tool to see if your ideal company name is available to register in the UK. Simply enter your proposed name, and we’ll instantly search UK business databases to confirm it’s not already taken.

UK Company Name Requirements

When choosing a name for your new UK business, there are several legal and regulatory requirements you must follow:

• Uniqueness – Your company name must be unique and not too similar to an existing registered business name. You can use our free name checker tool to ensure your desired name is available.
• Appropriate wording – Your name cannot contain sensitive words or expressions that could be seen as offensive or misleading. It also cannot imply a connection to government or royal institutions without permission.
• Limited restricted words – Certain words and expressions, such as “limited”, “LLP”, or “PLC”, are restricted and can only be used if your company meets the relevant legal criteria.
• No offensive content – Your company name must not contain anything that could be considered obscene, offensive, or in bad taste.
• Registered trade marks – You cannot use a name that is too similar to an existing registered trademark, as this could infringe on intellectual property rights.

Registering Your Name

Once you’ve chosen a compliant name, you’ll need to register it with Companies House as part of the process of setting up your new UK business.

Register your chosen business name

Once you’ve found the ideal name, we’ll guide you through the process of registering it with Companies House. Our team of UK business experts can also provide advice on naming conventions, legal requirements, and protecting your intellectual property.

Omitting “Limited” or “Ltd” from your company name

In the UK, companies are typically required to include the word “limited” or the abbreviation “Ltd” at the end of their registered name. However, there are some exceptions where you may be able to exclude this term:

Exempt Company Status

If your company qualifies for “exempt company” status, you can register a name without “limited” or “Ltd”. To qualify, your company must be a non-profit organisation, a charity, or meet other specific criteria set out by Companies House.

Royal Charters and Associations

Companies granted a Royal Charter or formed by certain associations, such as professional bodies, may also be able to register a name without the “limited” or “Ltd” suffix.

Community Interest Companies

Community Interest Companies (CICs) are a special type of limited company in the UK. These organisations can choose to exclude “limited” or “Ltd” from their name.

If your company does not fall into one of these exempt categories, you will generally need to include “limited” or “Ltd” at the end of your registered name.

Start your business on the right foot

Don’t leave your company’s success to chance. Use our business name checker to find the perfect identity for your new enterprise. Get started today and take the first step towards building a thriving, unforgettable brand.