This article is for Irish business owners and company directors who are considering changing their company's registered name.If you're wondering whether you can legally rebrand your business, what the CRO requirements are, or how to actually complete the name change process, this guide covers the legal framework, step-by-step filing procedures, and practical considerations like updating bank accounts and maintaining continuity with creditors.
Key Takeaways
• Irish companies can change their registered name for just €30 through a special resolution requiring 75% shareholder approval.
• You must file Form B10 with the CRO within 28 days of passing the resolution to comply with statutory deadlines.
• Check name availability on cro.ie before starting, as names cannot be identical or too similar to existing companies.
• The complete name change process takes 2-3 weeks from resolution to receiving your new certificate of incorporation.
• Your company registration number never changes, ensuring all debts and obligations continue under the new name.
Can I change my Irish company name after incorporation?
Yes, Irish companies can change their registered names at any time after incorporation through a straightforward legal process under Section 27 of the Companies Act 2014. The company remains the same legal entity with the same registration number - only the name changes on public records.
How much does it cost to change a company name in Ireland?
The name change process costs just €30 and is filed through the CRO's CORE system. This fee covers the filing of Form B10 and all necessary documentation with the Companies Registration Office.
How long does the company name change process take?
The complete name change process typically takes 2-3 weeks from passing the resolution to receiving your new certificate. Standard CRO processing takes 5-10 working days once you file Form B10, and urgent processing isn't available for name changes.
What shareholder approval do I need to change the company name?
You need a special resolution passed by at least 75% of shareholder votes under Section 191. Most small companies use written resolutions because they're faster than coordinating meetings - you simply circulate the resolution to all shareholders and collect signed approvals from 75%+ of voting shares.
Can I choose any name I want for my company?
No, the new name must comply with CRO naming rules and cannot be identical or too similar to existing company names on the register. Certain words like "bank," "insurance," "university," and "chartered" require authorization, and the name must end with "Limited," "Ltd," or appropriate abbreviations for your company type.
What happens to my company registration number when I change names?
Your company registration number never changes regardless of name changes, ensuring continuity in official records. This permanent identifier means anyone researching the company can trace its complete history despite name changes, and it must continue to appear on all business letters and order forms.
Do I need to update my bank account after changing the company name?
Yes, bank accounts must be updated to reflect the new company name through written notification and providing a copy of the new certificate of incorporation. The account number remains unchanged - only the account name updates - and processing typically takes 1-2 weeks.
When does the name change legally take effect?
The name change takes legal effect from the date shown on the new certificate of incorporation issued by the CRO. Until that date, you must continue using the old name on all official documents, but contracts signed before the change date remain valid under the old name.
Can creditors object to my company name change?
No, creditors cannot formally object to name changes, but the company remains fully liable for all debts and obligations incurred under the old name. Legal proceedings commenced against the old name continue validly despite the change, so you cannot use name changes to avoid debts or confuse creditors.
What's the difference between a registered name and a trading name?
Your registered name is the legal name filed with the CRO and used on official documents, while a trading name is the brand name used in marketing and customer-facing materials. Trading names must be registered separately with the CRO under Section 32 if different from the registered name, allowing you to maintain brand continuity while updating legal structures.
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