How to Conduct a CAC.gov.ng Name Search on the CAC Portal

Are you interested in conducting a CAC name search on the CAC portal? Are you having difficulties with the process?

Many people find it challenging to conduct a name search on the CAC’s portal. While legal advisors and counsels are familiar with this process, it’s important for every layman to know the basics of conducting a name search.

This article will give detailed explanations of what a business name search is, what the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)’s role is, the purpose of a business name search, how to conduct a business name search, and provide a step-by-step guide, additional tips, and alternatives to using the CAC online portal.

What is a Business Name?

In Nigeria, a business name search refers to checking the availability of a business or company name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). This process is crucial for businesses before they can be officially registered. The CAC provides a public search portal where individuals can verify if a desired name is already in use or available for registration.

To register a business with the government, you must come up with a name and check if that name has been used by another business.

How does CAC Register Business Name?

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the government body responsible for registering businesses and companies in Nigeria. It ensures that businesses are legally recognized and their names are unique and available for use.

Purpose of Business Name Search

The primary goal of a name search is to ensure that a business name is unique and not already registered with the CAC. Without conducting a proper name search, you risk using a name that already exists, which can delay the registration process.

How to Conduct Business Name Search on CAC Portal

To conduct a name search on the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) portal, visit the official website and navigate to the “Public Search” or “Entity Search” section. Enter the business name or RC/BN number in the search box and click search. The results will display registered entities matching your search criteria, including the name, registration number, and other details.

Step-by-Step Guide on how to search a business on CAC.gov.ng

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to perform a business name search:

1. Access the CAC Portal: Go to the official CAC website: https://www.cac.gov.ng.
2. Locate the Public Search: Find the “Public Search” or “Entity Search” feature, usually on the homepage or within the company registration portal: https://pre.cac.gov.ng/login.
3. Enter the Name or Number: Type the business name or the Registration Certificate (RC) or Business Name (BN) number in the designated search box.
4. Initiate the Search: Click the search button to start the search process.
5. Review the Results: The system will display a list of registered entities that match the entered information.
6. Verify Availability: If the name is not found, it may be available for registration. If a similar name exists, consider variations or other options.
7. Proceed with Name Reservation (if available): If the name is available, you can proceed with the name reservation process on the portal.

Additional Tips

• Be Specific: Ensure accurate spelling and use relevant keywords for a more precise search.
• Consider Alternatives: If your desired name is unavailable, explore alternative names or variations.
• Agent Access: If you are a registered agent, you can also conduct searches through your agent account.
• Check for Similar Names: The search results may include similar names, so carefully review the details to ensure your chosen name is distinct.
• Multiple Options: It’s recommended to prepare multiple name options in case your first choice is unavailable.

Alternative to Using the CAC Online Portal

While the CAC online portal is the most convenient option, there are alternative methods for checking business name availability:

1. Engage a CAC Accredited Agent
   If you’re unfamiliar with the process or prefer professional assistance, you can hire an accredited agent to handle the search and reservation on your behalf. TCorporate Legal Advisory can help you with this process. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
2. Visit a CAC Office
   You can also visit a CAC office in person to perform the search and reserve your business name. However, this method may take longer than the online option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, conducting a name search is a crucial first step in the business registration process, helping to avoid potential legal issues and ensuring a smooth registration process. Hence, it’s important to seek the advice of legal counsel from the start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Work with TCorporate Legal Advisory

At TCorporate Legal Advisory, we help Nigerian entrepreneurs register the right business structure. Our services include:

• CAC Registration (Business Name & Ltd)
• Legal Drafting
• Tax Advisory
• Regulatory Licensing
• Post-Incorporation Compliance

Book a consultation today and register your business the right way.
Visit: CAC BUSINESS REGISTRATION
Email: info@tcorporatelegaladvisory.com
Tel: 08062348867, 09080119975, 09080119980
There is a WhatsApp button at the bottom right of our website. Chat with us instantly.

Disclaimer

This publication has been prepared for general guidance on matters of interest only and does not constitute professional advice. You should not act upon the information contained herein without obtaining specific professional advice. For tailored advice, kindly contact us.

WRITTEN BY:
OKOLIE VICTORY N
LL.B, B.L
LEGAL ASSOCIATE
TCorporate Legal Advisory