How to Change Business Name on CAC: The 2026 Rebranding Guide

Markets evolve, and sometimes your original business name no longer reflects your vision. Whether you are shifting from a generic name to a premium brand or resolving a trademark conflict, knowing how to change a business name on CAC is a vital part of corporate evolution. In 2026, the Corporate Affairs Commission has made this modification process entirely digital.

Changing your name is more than just a "rebranding" exercise; it is a formal legal amendment that requires specific steps.

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🏗️ 1. The Pre-Change Checklist

Before you begin the how to change business name on CAC process, ensure you have:

1. A New Name: You must first reserve the new name via the standard ₦750 reservation process.
2. Up-to-Date Annual Returns: The CAC will NOT approve a name change if your business is "Inactive." You must be compliant with all previous filings.
3. Special Resolution: For companies, a formal board resolution stating the reasons for the name change is mandatory.

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⚡ 2. The Step-by-Step Change Workflow

Step A: Name Reservation

Ensure your new name is available and approved. Once approved, you have 60 days to complete the change.

Step B: Post-Incorporation Filing

Log into the CAC portal and select the "Change of Name" option under the Post-Incorporation services.

• Upload Documents: You will need to upload the Special Resolution and the original Certificate of Registration.
• Surrender the Old Name: You are essentially notifying the database that your old identity is being retired.

Step C: Payment

The fee for a name change is higher than the original registration. In 2026, for a Limited Company, budget between ₦20,000 and ₦20,000 for the filing fee. For a Business Name, the fee is typically ₦5,000 - ₦20,000.

Step D: New Certificate Issuance

Once approved, the CAC will issue a new Certificate of Incorporation (or Registration) which reflects the change. It will also state the company's "Former Name" to maintain a paper trail.

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📋 3. Post-Change Compliance

Changing your name on the CAC portal is only the first step. You must also:

• Update the FIRS: Your TIN records must be synchronized with the new name.
• Notify the Bank: Your corporate bank account must be updated to avoid payment rejections.
• Update Legal Documents: Contracts, leases, and licenses must all be amended to reflect the new name.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does my RC Number change?

No. Your Registration Company (RC) number remains the same. It is the permanent anchor for your business identity.

2. Can I keep the old name as well?

No. Once the change is approved, the old name is released back into the public pool and can be reserved by anyone else.

3. How long does the name change process take?

Typically 5 to 10 working days, assuming your annual returns are up-to-date.

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Rebrand Your Business with Precision

Rebranding is a major milestone. Don't let paperwork hold you back. Our experts specialize in how to change a business name on CAC, ensuring your new identity is legally secure and ready for the market.

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