What is a sole trader business name?
The Companies Registry explains that a business name is the name or style under which a business is carried on by an individual or by a firm. The business name itself is what the Registration of Business Names Act requires to be registered.
What does the current registration process require?
1. Create a Companies Registry Account
You need a Companies Registry Account to use the Companies Registry Online System, known as CROS.
2. Choose and reserve the business name
The proposed name cannot be the same as or too similar to an existing business name, corporation name or trademark. The Registry recommends a preliminary CROS search before applying for the reservation.
3. Complete the registration before the reservation expires
Once approved, the business name reservation is currently valid for 45 days.
4. File the application and pay the government fee
The Registry currently lists a TT$220 filing fee for registering an individual business name through CROS.
5. Complete certificate collection
The current Registry instructions say the completed application must be printed, signed and delivered to the Companies Online Counter for collection of the Certificate of Registration.
Why people use BizReg Consulting
The administrative burden is rarely one form. It is knowing what to prepare, what sequence to follow, what the official portal expects and what to do when a name is queried or rejected. BizReg helps you approach the filing with a clearer plan.