Registering business name

[RubySlippers]

Good evening ladies and gents,

I've found quite a bit of conflicting information regarding registering a business name. I'm self-employed and working as a sole trader rather than a limited company.

If I want to use a business name rather than just work as my name, do I need to register it or can I just crack on and use it without doing anything official? Also where do I stand if someone else then registers it or starts using it without registering it?

If I want to use it as a domain name for a website, does this change anything regarding the need to register the name?

Thanks all!

RubyS

 

[lei-m]

Im nt 100% sure bt i think u have to register if u are registered for tax bt for best advice go see an accountant they will explain n tell u if u need to. Gud luck x

 

[xxhaylzxx]

You dont have to register the name if you are a sole trader but you must register as self employed within three months of trading otherwise you will be fined.



Regarding the domain name if it hasnt been taken.......buy it!!! You dont have to register your business name for this either.



HTH x

 

[Princess_emily1]

i thought u had to register your business name... you can check on business link website if it is being use but the lady running my business course told me to check if the name you are using is being usd within the area you work just to save hassel etc...

i would call business link though for the correct advice

good luck x

 

[trulyscrump]

You can trade as any name you want (trademarks allowing) as it is still technically you trading as the business.

Other posts on this forum have highlighted issues with salons with similar names in close proximity. If neither are trademarked, there isn't much can be done although it may be confusing when it comes to marketing yourself.

This article may help: How to register as self employed

 

[RubySlippers]

Thanks all!

Gave Business Link a call and they said that a sole trader can use any name, provided that it isn't already used by a limited company or trademarked.

Off I trot to do some websitey things then

Thanks again for the help.

RubyS x