A brilliant business idea is never enough. If you want your brand to be official in Nigeria, the first step is to register a business name with CAC.
As growth partners for startups and a leading digital marketing agency in Nigeria, we believe a strong foundation begins with establishing your legal and digital presence from day one.
This guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you’re not only official but also ready for what comes next.
What You Need to Prepare Before Your CAC Registration
Jumping into the portal unprepared is a common mistake many individuals make. It’s also a good way to end up frustrated. Instead, take 30 minutes to prepare everything you will need. We have included a comprehensive list below to help you get started
Choosing Your Business Name
The name is the most important part of your application for CAC registration. The CAC will reject names that are already taken or are too similar to existing ones.
While choosing a business name may seem like a simple step to meet a legal standard, it’s actually your first marketing decision.
The name you choose will be your future domain name and social media handle. A great name is memorable and helps in positioning you in the market from the very beginning.
To be safe, you must come up with at least two unique name options for your application. This gives you a backup if your first choice is unavailable during your CAC registration.
Gathering Your Personal Information
You will need the following details for the proprietor or partners of the business. Make sure they are exactly as they appear on your official ID documents to avoid any issues.
You’ll need
- Your full name,
- Date of birth,
- Gender, and
- Current phone number
- Email address.
- Scan of a valid government-issued ID, like your NIN slip, Driver’s Licence, or International Passport.
- A recent, clear passport-sized photograph.
How to Register a Business Name with CAC: A Detailed Walkthrough
As a growth partner for startups, we see this not just as paperwork, but as laying the foundation for a profitable business. Here’s a look at the process, ensuring you’re building a solid base with each step.
Step 1: Create an Account on the CAC Portal
Your journey begins on the Corporate Affairs Commission’s official website. Before you can start any registration, you will need to create a user account with your personal details.
This is a straightforward process. Just follow the on-screen instructions to get your user profile set up.
Step 2: Conduct a Public Name Search
Once your account is set up, use the “Public Search” feature on the portal. This tool allows you to search the entire CAC database for existing business names before your CAC registration.
This is a preliminary check to see if your desired names are obviously taken. Even if a name doesn’t appear here, it could still be rejected, so having backups is key.
Step 3: Reserve Your Business Name
This is your first formal action. In this step, you will submit your two preferred business names for an official availability check and reservation.
You’ll pay a small fee for this service. The CAC will then review your options and, if one is approved, they will reserve it exclusively for you for 60 days.
Step 4: Complete the Pre-Incorporation Forms
Once your name is approved and reserved, you can move on to filling out the main registration form. This form will ask for the specific details about your business and its owners.
You will need to provide the nature of your business, the official business address, and the personal details you gathered earlier. Be meticulous and double-check every entry here, as any errors can cause delays.
Step 5: Make Payment and Submit
After you’ve completed the form, you will be directed to make the final payment for the registration itself. This is typically done through the Remita payment gateway.
Once your payment is confirmed, you can formally submit your application for final review.
Step 6: Awaiting Approval and Downloading Your Documents
The CAC will now review your full application. If everything is in order and all information is correct, they will approve it.
Your business name is now officially registered! You will receive an email notification and can then log back into your CAC portal to download your official Certificate of Registration and other important documents.
The Smart Alternative
For a busy entrepreneur, time spent on paperwork is time not spent finding customers. But more importantly, just getting the certificate is a missed opportunity to launch with momentum.
As a leading digital marketing agency in Nigeria, we ensure our partners are well-positioned in the market to make maximum profit. Our all-in-one launch packages handle everything you need to register a business name with CAC and combine it with the professional branding and web design you need to win.
We handle the paperwork and build your digital foundation, so you can start your business journey ahead of the competition.
