Company Name Checker
Check if your company name is available on the Companies House register in seconds. The checker looks for identical and “same as” names, similar names and words that need approval, using live register data.
Next steps: choose your business activity with the SIC code finder, then register your company.
Company Name Questions
How do I check if a company name is available in the UK?
Search the name above. The checker looks it up on the Companies House register and flags names that are the same as an existing company, similar names, and words that need approval. Companies House makes the final decision when the company is registered.
What does “same as” mean for company names?
Companies House treats names as the same if they differ only by things like punctuation, “the” at the start, “and” or “&”, plurals or endings such as Ltd, Limited, Company or UK. “Northbridge Digital Ltd” and “The Northbridge-Digital Limited” count as the same name.
Which words need approval in a company name?
Words that suggest a connection with government, a public authority or a regulated profession, such as Royal, King, Bank, Charity, Chartered, Institute, Police, University, England or Wales. Some need a letter of support from the relevant body before Companies House accepts them.
Can I reserve a company name?
No. UK company names cannot be reserved. A name is only yours once the company is registered, so if you have found an available name, register the company before someone else does.
Does an available company name mean I can trade under it?
Not always. A registered trade mark can stop you using a name even if Companies House accepts it. Search the UK trade mark register (GOV.UK) as well, especially for a brand you plan to build.