Last updated Jul 27, 2026 and written by Menaka Gujral

So What Can I Call My Company?

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Last month we told you about the new rules in regards to new Company Names Here we’re going to go into more detail so you know exactly what you can and can’t call your company.

Key Takeaways

  • Always check name availability on the Companies House Web Check before settling on a name.
  • A name can get rejected even if it looks available, if it's too close to an existing company name.
  • Words like "Group," "Holdings," or "Company" tacked onto an otherwise available name can still cause a clash.
  • Certain words are "reserved" and need permission or specific conditions to use, such as "Group," "British," or "Royal."
  • Checking these three things properly upfront saves you the hassle of a rejected formation later.

What Can I Call My Company?

The first thing to do is check the name availability using the Companies House Web Check. You can find that here.

This is a vital step, if the name you want appears on the search then the name is already taken; it’s time to come up with another name.

The next thing to consider is “are there any similar names out there?” Using the Web Check again take a look and see if there are any names remotely similar. For example Mynewcompany Ltd may appear to be available but if there’s already a Mynewcompany Services Ltd the new formation will be rejected. The same goes for any other words that may succeed the main name such as Group, Holdings, Company etc.

The final step to be considered is, does the company name contain a reserved word? Reserved words are words that require you to meet a specific need in order to use them. For example, you can’t form a company with the word “Group” in it unless the company being formed will have a parent or subsidiary relationship with at least two other companies.

Reserved words can range from anything such as the above to the loftier “British” or even “Royal”. For more information on reserved words and what you need to do or who you need to contact to use the word click here.

As long as you stick to these guidelines you shouldn’t have any problems coming up with a unique name that suits you and your business needs. Good Luck!

FAQs

How do I check if a company name is available in the UK?

Use the Companies House Web Check tool. If your chosen name shows up in the search, it's already taken and you'll need to pick another one.

Can Companies House reject a name that isn't already taken?

Yes. If your name is too similar to an existing one, including with a different suffix like "Services" or "Group," the formation can still be rejected.

What is a "reserved word" in a company name?

It's a word that comes with extra conditions before you can use it, ranging from structural words like "Group" to sensitive ones like "British" or "Royal."

Can I use the word "Group" in my company name?

Only if your company has a parent or subsidiary relationship with at least two other companies. Otherwise, it counts as a reserved word and won't be approved.

What happens if my chosen name uses a reserved word without meeting the conditions?

Companies House will reject the registration, or you'll need to get separate approval to use it, depending on the word in question.

Do I need permission to use words like "British" or "Royal" in my company name?

Yes. These are sensitive words that need specific approval before Companies House will register them.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Company naming rules can change and individual cases can vary, so it's worth checking the latest guidance on GOV.UK or Companies House, or speaking to a qualified professional, before registering your company name.