How to Change Your Business Name After Registration

by/16th April 2025/inRunning a business
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Changing your company name in the UK is a straightforward process, but it requires following the correct legal steps to ensure compliance with Companies House regulations. Whether you’re rebranding, expanding, or simply want a fresh identity, this guide will take you through how choose the right company name and how to change your company name in the UK, including the required documentation, fees, and potential challenges.

Why Change Your Company Name?

Businesses may choose to change their name for several reasons, including:

  • Rebranding – Updating the company’s image to align with new goals.
  • Mergers or Acquisitions – Combining business entities often requires a new name.
  • Legal Issues – Avoiding trademark conflicts or disputes.
  • Market Expansion – A name that better reflects new markets or services.
  • Corrections – Fixing spelling errors or improving name clarity.

Steps to Change Your Company Name in the UK

1. Decide on the New Name

Before making any official changes, ensure your desired company name is:

2. Choose the Right Method to Change Your Company Name

There are two ways to change a company name in the UK:

a) Passing a Special Resolution

Most companies follow this method, which requires approval from shareholders. To do this:

  1. Hold a board meeting to propose the name change.
  2. Pass a special resolution with at least 75% shareholder approval.
  3. Prepare and submit Form NM01 to Companies House, along with the required fee.

b) Changing the Name via Articles of Association

If your company’s Articles of Association allow directors to change the name without shareholder approval, you can proceed directly without a resolution. However, this is less common and depends on your company’s legal structure.

3. Submit the Name Change Application to Companies House

Once the resolution is approved, submit the NM01 form (or NM04 for LLPs) to Companies House. You can do this:

Fees:

  • £20 (online filing)
  • £30 (postal filing)
  • £83 (same-day processing, if filed before 3 pm)

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4. Receive Your Certificate of Name Change

If Companies House approves your request, they will issue a Certificate of Incorporation on Change of Name. This document confirms the legal change and should be kept for your records.

5. Update Relevant Authorities and Business Documents

After receiving the name change approval, ensure all necessary updates are made:

  • HMRC – Update tax and VAT registrations.
  • Bank Accounts – Notify your bank to avoid transaction issues.
  • Suppliers and Clients – Inform stakeholders of the change.
  • Website and Marketing Materials – Reflect the new name in branding and advertising.
  • Contracts and Licenses – Amend any legal agreements and licenses.

How Long Does It Take to Change a Company Name?

The time it takes to change your company name depends on the method you choose when submitting your request to Companies House.

1. Standard Processing Time (3-5 Working Days)

If you submit your name change application using the standard service, it typically takes 3-5 working days for Companies House to process and update the records. This applies to both online and paper submissions, but online filings are generally processed faster.

Tip: Ensure all required documents, including the NM01 form and special resolution, are correctly completed to prevent delays.

2. Same-Day Processing for Urgent Name Changes

If you need a faster turnaround, Companies House offers a same-day name change service for an additional fee. To qualify for same-day processing, you must:

  • Submit the application before 3 PM on a working day.
  • Ensure the new name complies with naming regulations to avoid rejection.

If approved, your company name will be updated on the same day.

Tip: If rebranding or launching a new website, consider the processing time when planning your announcements and marketing updates.

Potential Challenges When Changing a Company Name

While changing your company name can be a strategic move, it’s important to be aware of potential challenges that may arise during the process. Here are some key obstacles to consider:

1. Name Rejection – Ensure Compliance with Naming Regulations

Not all names are accepted by Companies House, so it’s crucial to check the naming rules before submitting your request. Your new company name must:

  • Be unique and not too similar to an existing company.
  • Avoid offensive or sensitive words unless you have special approval.
  • Include the required suffix (e.g., “Limited” or “Ltd.”) if applicable.

Tip: Use the Companies House name availability checker before finalizing your choice to avoid delays.

2. Brand Confusion – Notify Existing Customers to Maintain Recognition

A name change can impact your brand identity, especially if your business has built a strong reputation under the old name. Without proper communication, you risk losing customer trust and recognition.

To avoid confusion:

  • Announce the name change on your website, social media, and email newsletters.
  • Update business materials, including invoices, contracts, and packaging.
  • Inform suppliers, partners, and clients in advance to ensure a smooth transition.

Tip: Consider a rebranding campaign to reinforce your new name and reassure customers that your services remain the same.

3. Legal Implications – Verify Trademarks to Prevent Disputes

Even if Companies House accepts your new company name, that doesn’t guarantee trademark protection. If your new name is too similar to an existing registered trademark, you could face legal action.

To protect your business:

  • Check the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) database for existing trademarks.
  • Consider registering your new company name as a trademark to secure legal rights.
  • Consult a legal professional if you’re unsure about potential conflicts.

Tip: If you operate internationally, check trademark databases in other key markets to avoid future issues.

By addressing these potential challenges early, you can ensure a smooth and legally compliant transition to your new company name.

Final Thoughts

Changing your company name in the UK is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps. Whether you’re rebranding or restructuring, ensuring compliance with Companies House regulations is crucial. By updating all relevant stakeholders and business records, your transition to a new company name will be smooth and hassle-free.

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