WhatBiz ToolsCAC Business Name Availability Check
Step-by-step guide to checking and registering your business name in Nigeria
Opens the official CAC portal in a new tab and scrolls to the guide below.
CAC name rules checklist
How to check name availability on CAC
Open the CAC pre-registration portal
Go to pre.cac.gov.ng in your web browser. This is the official CAC portal for all new registrations and name checks. Avoid third-party sites that may charge extra fees.
Click "Check Name Availability"
On the homepage, you will see options for different registration types. Look for "Name Availability" or "Check Name" — it is usually on the main menu or dashboard. Click it.
Type your proposed business name
Enter the full business name you want to register. The system will search for exact matches and similar names. Try different variations if your first choice is taken — adding a distinctive word, your city, or a unique word often resolves conflicts.
Check the result
If the name shows as available, note it down. Available names are not reserved until you complete and pay for registration. If taken, try a variation. Names that are similar to registered names will also be rejected even if not exact matches.
Proceed to registration
Once you confirm availability, fill in the full registration form on the same portal. You will need personal ID (NIN or passport), your business address, nature of business, and payment details. Pay online using your debit card or Paystack.
CAC registration fees (approximate 2026)
| Registration Type | Approximate Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Business Name (Sole Proprietor or Partnership) | NGN 10,000 – 15,000 | Most common for SMBs |
| Private Limited Company (Ltd) | NGN 15,000 – 30,000 | Depends on share capital |
| Public Limited Company (Plc) | NGN 30,000+ | For larger companies |
| Annual Return (existing companies) | NGN 3,000 – 5,000 | Filed every year |
Fees are approximate and subject to change. Check the official CAC portal for current rates.
Need a business name idea first?
Use our free AI-powered Business Name Generator to get 10 unique name ideas for your Nigerian business before checking availability on CAC.
CAC business name registration in Nigeria
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the government body responsible for registering businesses in Nigeria. Whether you are registering a Business Name (sole proprietorship or partnership) or a Private Limited Company, all registrations go through the CAC portal at pre.cac.gov.ng.
Why you should register your business name
A registered business name gives you legal protection. No one else can use the same name once it is registered to you. It also makes your business look professional when you open a business bank account, apply for loans from institutions like the Bank of Industry or NIRSAL, or bid for contracts. Many marketplaces and platforms in Nigeria require CAC registration before you can open a merchant account.
Business Name vs Limited Liability Company
Most Nigerian small businesses start as a Business Name (sole proprietorship). This is cheaper and faster to register — usually 1 to 3 working days after payment. A Limited Liability Company (Ltd) offers more protection since the company is a separate legal entity from you personally, but it has more compliance requirements including annual returns filing. If you plan to raise investment or take on partners formally, a company structure is recommended.
How long does CAC registration take?
Online Business Name registration on the CAC portal typically takes 1 to 5 working days after all documents are submitted and payment is confirmed. You will receive a Certificate of Registration (or Business Name Certificate) electronically. Company registration can take 5 to 14 working days.
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