At Direct Assist Accountants, a trusted firm of accountants in Slough, we often get asked about the difference between a company’s registered name and its trading name. If you’ve seen businesses use names different from what’s listed at Companies House, or spotted “T/A” (trading as) before a business name, you’re not alone in wondering what it all means.
To help you stay compliant and confident, we’ve put together this clear and concise guide.
What Is a Registered Company Name?
A registered company name is the official name of your business as recorded at Companies House, the UK’s registrar of companies. This name appears on all legal documents related to your business, including contracts, invoices, and registration with HMRC.
Key Rules for Company Names in the UK:
- Must be unique: Your company name cannot be the same as or too similar to another registered company.
- Cannot mislead: Avoid names that suggest government backing or professional accreditations (e.g., “The Government News Company”).
- Must comply with legal restrictions: Certain words and phrases require permission before use.
💡 Example: You can’t register “Media Marketing Eight” if “Media Marketing 8” already exists.
What Is a Trading Name?
A trading name is an alternative name that a business may choose to use publicly. Unlike your registered company name, a trading name does not need to be registered with Companies House.
Why Use a Trading Name?
- You’ve acquired another business and want to maintain brand loyalty by using its name.
- You operate different departments or services under separate identities.
- You want a more consumer-friendly or marketable brand name.
💡 Example: “ABC Company Ltd T/A Media Marketing Eight”
Do I Need a Trading Name?
Not necessarily. Many businesses in Slough and across the UK simply use their registered company name for trading. However, using a trading name can help build a unique brand identity, especially if your registered name doesn’t reflect your services clearly.
Legal Requirements: Where to Display Your Company Name
Even if you use a trading name, your official company name must still appear on certain documents, including:
- Company website
- Business letters and contracts
- Invoices and credit notes
- Legal notices
- Receipts and payment demands
- Cheques and financial instruments
- Registrations with HMRC and other government bodies
Failing to do so could lead to legal complications or fines, so it’s essential to stay compliant.
Protecting Your Business Name and Brand
While Companies House ensures your registered company name is unique, this doesn’t protect your trading name from being copied. To legally protect your brand and trading identity, you should consider registering a UK trademark.
A trademark can include:
- Your business name or trading name
- A logo or graphic mark
- Distinctive colours or design elements
Registering a trademark helps prevent others from “passing off” their business as yours.
Should You Use a Company Name or a Trading Name?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Factor | Company Name | Trading Name |
|---|---|---|
| Legal requirement | Must register with Companies House | Optional |
| Can be trademarked | Yes | Yes (separately) |
| Flexibility | Limited – official changes required | High – can use multiple names |
| Used for branding | Sometimes less consumer-friendly | Ideal for branding |
Using a trading name is a simple, flexible solution for businesses looking to evolve their brand without the complexity of changing their legal name.
Need Help with Company Naming or Trading Setup?
At Direct Assist Accountants in Slough, we offer expert guidance on:
- Company formations
- Trading name advice
- Trademark registration
- Legal compliance for SMEs and startups
Contact us today for a free consultation and ensure your business is both legally protected and market-ready.
