Oga and madam entrepreneur, so you just started another business? And It seems like you have all the financials and strategies in place to ensure that your business goes smoothly. In fact you have already set up quality content to bombard on social media. Your content is in our faces and I must say it is doing well. But, do you know whether your business name is already taken by someone else?  Have you registered your business name with CAC? Do not respond with a “yes” if your reason is; “you think your name is unique and spectacular”.

There are a lot of businesses out there, and certainly no way to tell for sure until you check. But just checking is not enough, you have to also ensure you get hold of the name by registering it. And if you are wondering how to go about it, this article is for you. We will run you through the price, benefits and steps on how to register your business name with CAC. 

_{What are the Benefits of Registering my Business with CAC?}

There are certain essential benefits that come with CAC business registration; these benefits are largely tied to the proof of not just business existence, but also of the authenticity of ownership, especially of local ownership. Below are some of the benefits that come with business name registration. 

1. Business registration opens up your business to opportunities both locally and abroad, this means that you will be able to access loans from banks and the government as well as other forms of financial support. 
2. Business registration keeps your business up to date in the CAC portal, this shows that your business is a recognized and existing entity. 
3. Business registration gives your business that proof of credibility it deserves and boosts customers’ trust in your business. 
4. You are able to own your business name and have the right to it, by the protection of your trademark, not only does your business retain that touch of uniqueness and make your business standout. 

_{How to Register your Business Name with CAC}

Business registration with CAC is done online, and the cost of registration differs, depending on the specific type of business. However, We will focus only on sole proprietorship businesses. In Nigeria, the cost of registering a sole proprietorship is N12,000, this includes bank charges. Here is a run down of all the steps needed to register your business name with CAC:

• Step 1: access the CAC portal through this link, https://pre.cac.gov.ng/home.

• Step 2: click on public search

• Step 3: Type the name of the business to check for availability. If it has not been taken proceed to the next step.

• Step 4:  Log in but since you are new here you sign in. 

• Step 5: fill in the pre-registration form, 

• Step 6: fill in the remaining information required for you and upload the relevant documents needed.

• Step 6: Pay the filing fee. and go on to register.

Conclusion                  

Congratulations!! You have successfully registered your business name, rest assured that your name and brand belongs to you!! You will also be able to access all the benefits listed above. Registering your business name is a great step for your overall business growth. However, this is not enough, you need all the guidance and help that you can get, and we have something for you. Take a glance at our article on “why small businesses need strategy consultants”. You are a growing business and certainly need the right strategies to boost your business and we are here to guide you through.. Don’t hesitate, check it out.