UK guide · updated October 2, 2026

How to name a side hustle or business in the UK

The rules depend on whether you trade as a sole trader or set up a limited company. Here they are in plain English, with the free checks to run and the one tax number every UK side hustler should know. Every rule links to GOV.UK.

If you are a sole trader

You can trade under your own name or a business name. GOV.UK says the name must not:

• include “limited”, “Ltd”, “limited liability partnership”, “LLP”, “public limited company” or “plc”
• be offensive
• be too similar to another company’s trade mark, because you may have to change it if someone complains

You also need to show your own name and your business name (if different) on documents such as invoices.

If you set up a limited company

From GOV.UK’s company name rules:

• It can’t be the same as a company already on the register. Names that differ only by punctuation or similar-meaning words count as the same.
• It usually ends in “Limited” or “Ltd” (“Cyfyngedig” or “Cyf” for companies registered in Wales).
• “Too like” names can be challenged. GOV.UK’s example: “Easy Electrics For You Ltd” and “EZ Electrix 4U Ltd”.
• Sensitive words need permission, as do words suggesting a link to government. The full lists are in Companies House’s guidance on incorporation and names (annexes A to C).

Four free checks before you commit

1. 1. Companies House

   The company name availability checker shows whether the name, or one too close to it, is already registered.

2. 2. UK trade marks

   Search the UK trade mark register for the same or similar names selling similar things.

3. 3. Domain

   Check the .co.uk and the .com. Spark’s free name check looks up the .com live.

4. 4. Social handles

   Look for the name on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, and grab the same handle everywhere if you can.

The tax number every UK side hustler should know

GOV.UK’s trading allowance lets you earn up to £1,000 a year from trading tax-free. If your gross trading income is more than that, you must register for Self Assessment by 5 October after the end of the tax year.

Protecting the name

A company name is not a trade mark. To protect your brand, you can register a trade mark with the Intellectual Property Office. GOV.UK says an online application starts at £205 and usually takes 3 to 4 months if there are no problems.

Questions people ask

Keep going

how to check if a name is taken · side hustle statistics by country · free name generator · naming guides by industry