Guidance Note: Change of Company Name

This guidance note provides a broad overview of the legal regime relating to company names and the process for changing a private limited company’s registered name.

It includes updates to reflect restrictions introduced by the Economic Crime & Corporate Transparency Act 2023.

What this guidance note helps you understand

• Restrictions on company name choice on incorporation and on a subsequent name change (including the updated restrictions under the Economic Crime & Corporate Transparency Act 2023).
• Bringing proceedings in the Company Names Tribunal.
• The procedure for changing a company’s name under the Companies Act 2006.
• When a name change becomes effective and what a company typically needs to do afterwards (for example, updating stationery and its website).

When this guidance note is most useful

• If you are choosing a company name and want to understand the main restrictions that apply.
• If you are planning to change a company’s registered name and want an overview of the legal process and timing.
• If you need a high-level explanation of the Company Names Tribunal and when proceedings may be relevant.

Which companies does this cover?

This guidance only relates to the law as it applies to private limited companies.

Further information can be found on the Companies House website.

Guidance Note: Change of Company Name is part of Corporate. Just £38.50 + VAT provides unlimited downloads from Corporate for 1 year.