How to Register a Business Name with CAC in Nigeria ( Step by Step )
If you want to register your business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about CAC registration—step by step.
Benefits To Register Your Business Name In CAC
The benefit is that your business will appear legit, and you will able to open a business bank account, and protects your brand from being stolen from you.
Steps To Register Your Business Name In CAC
Step 1: Choose a Unique Business Name
Before registering with CAC, you need to pick a unique and available business name.
Tips for Choosing a Business Name:
- Keep it simple and memorable (e.g., “Amaka Beauty Empire”). If the name is hard to spell and pronounce customer will find it hard to recommend your business to other people. Imagine, a business name is “thridjdkklll”can you beat your chest and say it correctly. The answer is No. Now you can see the problem of using difficult name for a business.
- Avoid generic names like “Best Store” or “Online Shop Nigeria. This kind of name are not unique, they focus on one particular angle. For example, Online store people will think it only meant for online business not physical business. Such will affect your business and if you decide to change it, it’ll cause more demands due to customer only remember the former name.
- Make sure it reflects your industry (e.g., “Swift Logistics” for a delivery company).
Example Business Name Ideas:
1. Fashion Business – “Bella Trends Nigeria”
2. Hair Business – “Luxe Hair by Amaka”
3. Food Business – “Tasty Bites Kitchen”
So.
How to Check If a Business Name is Available?
- Go to the CAC website → https://pre.cac.gov.ng
- Click “Public Search”
- Enter your desired business name
- If the name is available, you can proceed with registration
Pro Tip: Have two backup names in case your first choice is taken.
Step 2: Reserve Your Business Name Online
Once you find an available name, the next step is to reserve it with CAC.
How to Reserve Your Business Name:
- Visit https://pre.cac.gov.ng
- Create an account (use your email & phone number)
- Click “Name Reservation”
- Fill in your preferred business name & backup name
- Choose your business type (Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability, etc.)
- Pay ₦500 for name reservation
Approval Time: 24-48 hours
If approved, you’ll get a Name Reservation Certificate
Pro Tip: You must register your business within 60 days after name approval.
Step 3: Fill the Business Registration Form (BN1 Form)
Now that your name is reserved, you need to fill out the BN1 form with your business details.
Information You’ll Need:
- Business Name (Approved from CAC)
Business Address - Nature of Business (What your business does)
- Owner’s Full Name & Address
- Date of Business Commencemen
- Identification prove (NIN, Passport, Driver’s License, or Voter’s Card)
Step 4: Pay registration fee
After filling out the form, the next step is to pay for your business registration.
CAC Business Name Registration Fees:
- Sole Proprietorship – ₦10,000
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – ₦15,000 – ₦50,000 (depending on capital)
- Non-Profit/NGO – ₦20,000
Payment Methods:
- Online payment via CAC portal
Bank transfer (with Remita RRR code)
Step 5: Upload Your Documents
After payment, you’ll need to upload the required documents to complete your registration.
Documents Needed for CAC Business Registration:
- Name Reservation Approval Printout
- BN1 Form (Filled Out)
- Valid ID Card (NIN, Voter’s Card, Passport)
- Receipt of Payment
Pro Tip: Make sure your scanned documents are clear and readable to avoid delays.
Step 6: Submit & Wait for CAC Approval
Once you upload all documents, submit your application and wait for CAC approval.
Processing Time: 5-10 working days
If approved, you’ll receive your Business Name Registration Certificate via email
Pro Tip: If there’s a delay, check your CAC dashboard or visit a CAC office for an update.
Step 7: Get Your CAC Certificate & Open a Business Bank Account
Once your registration is complete, download your CAC Certificate from your email.
Next Steps After CAC Registration:
- Print your CAC Certificate & keep a copy
- Get a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from FIRS
- Open a Business Bank Account (Banks will require your CAC Certificate & TIN)
Example of Nigerian Banks that Accept CAC Business Registration:
1. Access Bank
2. GTBank
3. First Bank
4. Zenith Bank
So that it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does it cost to register a business name in Nigeria?
- ₦500 for name reservation
- ₦10,000 – ₦50,000 for registration (depends on business type)
2. How long does CAC business name registration take?
- Name reservation: 24-48 hours
- Full registration: 5-10 working days
3. Can I register my business name without a lawyer?
- Yes! The process is simple, and you can do it online without a lawyer.
4. Do I need a TIN for my business?
- Yes, if you plan to open a business bank account or pay taxes.
Final Thoughts
Registering your business with CAC is one of the smartest decisions you can make. It helps you build a legit brand, access funding, and open a business bank account.
If you follow these steps, your business will be officially registered in Nigeria!
Got questions? Drop a comment below!
Source: https://www.cac.gov.ng/
