02 Jun Rules, rules rules, what to consider when naming your corporation in BC

Selecting a business name for your corporation isn’t always as simple as one would think. There are several items to consider when registering your business name. In British Columbia, corporations can be registered online through the BC Registries Corporate Online Names Reservation System. When registering a corporation, the name must meet certain requirements, including:

1. Distinctiveness: The name must be distinctive and not too similar to the name of an existing corporation or trademark. This is to avoid confusion among customers and the public.
2. Descriptiveness: The name must not be misleading or deceptive in any way. It should accurately reflect the nature of the business and the products or services offered.
3. Endings: The name must end with one of the following legal endings: “Limited”, “Ltd.”, “Incorporated”, “Inc.”, “Corporation”, or “Corp.”.
4. Language: The name can be in English or French, or a combination of the two. However, if the name is in a language other than English or French, an English or French translation must also be provided.
5. Approval: The name must be approved by the Registrar of Companies before it can be used. The approval process can vary in time, up to 30 days, but can be expedited to one or two days by paying a fee of $100.00 to the Registrar. The Registrar may request changes to the name if it does not meet the requirements. More information is available on the BC Registry Names Request website.

It’s important to note that the name of a corporation is a critical part of its brand and marketing efforts. Business owners should carefully consider their options and seek the advice of a lawyer or trademark specialist to ensure that their chosen name is legally and commercially viable. If you are thinking of incorporating and want more information or assistance with the incorporation process, reach out to Sitka Law Group for a free initial consultation.