Changing your company name can be a significant step for your Irish limited company, potentially affecting branding. Here’s a guide to follow to ensure compliance and a smooth transition:
Step 1: Conduct a Name Availability Search
CRO: Before proceeding with a name change, it’s crucial to ensure that your desired company name is available and compliant with the naming guidelines set forth by the Companies Registration Office (CRO). Conducting a thorough name availability search will help you avoid potential conflicts and rejections.
Choose Wisely: Pick a unique name that’s different from existing businesses to minimise potential conflicts and trademark infringement issues.
Step 2: Obtain Shareholder Approval
Follow Company Rules: Shareholders must approve the name change by way of a Special Resolution (75%)). A written resolution or minutes of the general meeting will be required.
Step 3: Amend Your Company’s Constitution
Update Official Documents: Modify your company’s Constitution to reflect the new name. Where your company is a Designated Activity Company (DAC) / Unlimited Company (ULC) / Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) then this will involve amending both the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Step 4: Notify the Companies Registration Office (CRO)
Submit Form G1Q: Send the CRO a Form G1Q within 15 days of passing the resolution. The Form G1Q will include details of the Special Resolution, updated Constitution, and filing fees.
Important for Taxes: Notify the Revenue Commissioners of the change.
Step 5: Update All Documentation
Be Thorough: Update legal documents, contracts, business licenses, permits, tax registrations, agreements, and all official correspondence to reflect the new company name.
Important Considerations
Name Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with the CRO’s guidelines on acceptable company names to avoid issues. The guidelines can be found here – https://cro.ie/Registration/Company/Incidental-Obligations/Company-Name/
Branding Impact: Ensure your new name aligns with your company’s brand, market positioning, and values.
Inform Stakeholders: Clearly communicate the change to customers, suppliers, partners, employees, and any relevant regulatory bodies.
Processing Time: The name change process can up to a week to complete.
Liability Changing your company name does not affect your existing financial or legal obligations.
Need Assistance with changing your company name?
At Crowley Corporate Services, we specialise in assisting businesses like yours with the process of changing company names in Ireland. With our expertise and dedicated support, we ensure that every step of the name change process is executed smoothly and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
Don’t let the complexities of changing your company name overwhelm you. Get in touch with us today to discover how we can streamline the company name change process for your business and help you achieve your strategic objectives. Reach out now and take the first step towards a successful transition.
Disclaimer: Specific advice should be obtained in relation your company / query as the above advice is general in form. All our blogs are provided for educational and practical purposes and should not be treated as professional / legal advice. For any specific queries you may have please contact our office.