How to choose a name for your UK sole trader business

Choosing a name is one of the first tasks you face when you decide to start your own business.

Although it isn’t the end of the world if you decide to change your name later on, it makes things a lot easier if you get it right from the start.

Here are some business naming tips from the Bytestart team based on our twenty years of experience working with small firms.

1. Think about the long term

Ideally, your business will grow and evolve, so avoid picking a name that’s too narrow or specific. This gives you room to expand later.

For example, instead of ‘London Replacement Car Batteries Ltd,’ you might go for ‘London Replacement Car Parts Ltd,’ which allows for future diversification.

A name that is too specific could limit your potential to explore new markets or products, which is crucial for long-term growth.

2. What about a self-explanatory name?

Decide whether you want your business name to clearly describe what you do (e.g. ‘Shopfitter’, ‘Graphic Designer’) or if you’d prefer a more creative or abstract name. This is largely a personal choice and may depend on your industry.

3. Choose a domain name at the same time

Check the availability of domain names that match your preferred business name. Ideally, your domain should match your business name or be very close to it.

We recommend securing the .co.uk and .com versions if you’re based in the UK. Also consider buying common misspellings or variations to protect your brand. We use GoDaddy ourselves – it’s simple to use and well established.

4. Don’t infringe any trademarks

Make sure your name doesn’t breach anyone else’s trademark. Using another business’s protected name – even unknowingly – could lead to costly legal problems.

Check existing trademarks via the UK Intellectual Property Office.

5. Restrictions for limited company names

Limited companies are subject to rules enforced by Companies House. For example, you can’t use ‘Limited’ or ‘Ltd’ in your business name unless you’re running a limited company. Certain sensitive words or misleading terms are also restricted.

For more information, please read our limited company naming guide.

6. Sole trader naming rules

As a sole trader, you can trade under your own name or a chosen business name. There’s no formal register of sole trader names – but you still need to follow certain rules.

You must not include ‘limited’, ‘Ltd’, ‘plc’ or similar, and your name must not be misleading or too similar to an existing brand. The official guidance is on GOV.UK.

For extra protection, some sole traders choose to register a limited company in the same name (even if it remains dormant) to reserve their rights. See our guide on dormant limited companies.

7. Avoid using misleading words

Your name shouldn’t suggest a connection to a government body, a regulated profession or another business unless that’s genuinely the case.

This applies equally to sole traders and limited companies. Stick to honest, straightforward naming to build trust.

8. Stay away from trendy or awkward names

Trendy names can date quickly. Aim for something timeless, practical and easy to remember. While there are exceptions, flashy or cryptic names often age poorly and confuse potential customers.

9. Keep it simple

Short, easy-to-pronounce names tend to work best. They’re easier to remember, type and share – and less likely to be misspelt. This matters a lot in a digital world where people will be Googling you.

10. Test it out first

Before settling on a name, test it on friends, family or contacts. Say it out loud. Does it sound right? Is it easy to spell? Does it convey the right tone?

Also consider how it might come across internationally or on social media handles.

Can I change my sole trader name later?

Yes, you can change your business name at any time as a sole trader. There’s no need to re-register with HMRC – just start using the new name and update your clients, invoices, website, and any promotional material.

However, if you’re using a trading name that’s different from your own, you must still include your full name on official paperwork like invoices and contracts.

What about a name for a business partnership?

If you’re setting up a partnership, your business name can’t just be one person’s name. You’ll need to use both surnames or choose a name that reflects the joint nature of the business.

As with sole traders, you can’t use ‘Ltd’ unless you’re registering as an LLP or limited company.

You must also include the names of all partners and the business name (if you have one) on official documents like invoices, letters, and contracts.